GOT: House Redwyne

The weeks following the grand feast at the Arbor passed quickly, with House Redwyne focusing on consolidating their newfound power and strengthening their alliances. Paxter Redwyne, now more aware than ever of the delicate balance of power in the Reach, kept a close eye on the shifting dynamics among the great houses. His thoughts often returned to the Tyrells, particularly to Lady Olenna, the indomitable matriarch who had long held the Reach together with her sharp wit and iron will.

The day a raven arrived from Highgarden, bearing an invitation for Paxter to visit, his suspicions deepened. Highgarden was the heart of the Reach, and an invitation from the Tyrells was not to be taken lightly. As he unrolled the parchment, he could practically feel the weight of expectation in the carefully worded message. The Tyrells wanted to discuss the future of their alliance, especially in light of House Redwyne's new ties to the Iron Bank.

Paxter knew he had to tread carefully. His loyalty to the Tyrells was genuine, but he was also keenly aware that alliances could shift with the tides. He had to ensure that House Redwyne remained indispensable to the Tyrells while also safeguarding his family's growing influence.

The journey to Highgarden was swift, the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the Reach passing by in a blur of green and gold. As Paxter's carriage approached the great castle, he took in the grandeur of Highgarden—the towering walls, the expansive gardens, and the bustling activity within its gates. It was a place of beauty, wealth, and power, a stark reminder of the Tyrells' dominance in the region.

Upon his arrival, Paxter was greeted by Garreth Tyrell, the same lord who had attended the feast at the Arbor. Garreth was all smiles and courtesy, but Paxter could see the calculating glint in his eyes.

"Lord Redwyne," Garreth said warmly, offering a bow. "Welcome to Highgarden. We've been eagerly awaiting your visit."

"Thank you, Lord Garreth," Paxter replied with a polite nod. "It's always a pleasure to visit Highgarden."

Garreth led Paxter through the castle, past fragrant gardens and opulent halls adorned with tapestries depicting the history of House Tyrell. It wasn't long before they arrived at a private solar, where Lady Olenna Tyrell awaited them.

The Queen of Thorns was seated by a large window overlooking the gardens, a small smile on her lips as she watched the bees flitting among the flowers. Her sharp eyes flicked to Paxter as he entered, and he could feel the weight of her gaze.

"Lord Paxter," Olenna greeted him, her voice carrying the authority of someone who had seen and survived countless political storms. "It's been too long since we last spoke. Come, sit with me. We have much to discuss."

Paxter took a seat across from her, feeling the tension in the air. Olenna Tyrell was a master of the game, and Paxter knew that this meeting would be as much a test as it was a conversation.

"Thank you for inviting me, Lady Olenna," Paxter said, choosing his words carefully. "I'm honored to be here."

Olenna studied him for a moment before speaking. "I've heard many things about your recent activities, Lord Paxter. The alliance with the Iron Bank, the victory over the Gold Bank… House Redwyne is making quite a name for itself."

Paxter inclined his head, acknowledging her words. "We've had some success, yes. But it's all been in service of the Reach, and of House Tyrell. Our loyalty remains unchanged."

Olenna's eyes narrowed slightly, as if weighing the truth of his words. "Loyalty is a rare commodity these days. The War of the Five Kings has turned brother against brother, and alliances that once seemed unbreakable are now crumbling. It's good to know that we can still count on House Redwyne."

"You always have, and you always will," Paxter replied, meeting her gaze steadily.

Olenna leaned back in her chair, a thoughtful expression on her face. "You're a smart man, Paxter. You've built a strong position for your house, and you've done it without drawing too much attention—until now. The Iron Bank is a formidable ally, but they're also demanding. They'll expect you to deliver results, and that could put you in a difficult position."

Paxter understood the implication. The Iron Bank's interests might not always align with those of House Tyrell, and if forced to choose, Paxter knew that his loyalty would be tested.

"The Iron Bank values stability and profit," Paxter said carefully. "As do we. Our alliance with them is designed to strengthen the Reach, not weaken it. We're all working toward the same goal."

Olenna gave a slight nod, her expression inscrutable. "I hope so, for all our sakes. The Reach is a fertile land, rich in resources, but it's also a land of deep-rooted traditions. The Tyrells have always been its stewards, and we intend to remain so."

Paxter knew that this was more than just a statement of fact—it was a reminder of where the true power in the Reach lay. But he also sensed that Olenna was giving him a warning, a subtle hint that while the Tyrells valued House Redwyne's loyalty, they would not tolerate any challenge to their authority.

"House Redwyne has always respected the Tyrells' leadership," Paxter replied. "We're proud to serve the Reach, and we're committed to ensuring its prosperity."

Olenna's smile returned, though it didn't reach her eyes. "I'm glad to hear it, Lord Paxter. Now, let's talk about the future. The War of the Five Kings has left much of the realm in chaos, and the Reach will need to be strong to withstand the challenges ahead. House Tyrell is working to secure its position, but we'll need the support of our allies—especially those as resourceful as House Redwyne."

Paxter nodded, understanding the subtext of her words. The Tyrells were preparing for the next phase of the conflict, and they needed to know that they could count on House Redwyne to stand by their side.

"You have our full support, Lady Olenna," Paxter assured her. "Whatever challenges come our way, we'll face them together."

Olenna seemed satisfied with his response, but Paxter couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this meeting than met the eye. The Tyrells were clearly keeping a close watch on House Redwyne, and while they valued their loyalty, they were also wary of their growing power.

As the conversation continued, they discussed plans for the future—expanding trade routes, strengthening the fleet, and securing key positions in the Reach. Olenna offered her insights and advice, and Paxter listened carefully, taking note of her strategic mind.

When the meeting finally came to an end, Paxter rose to leave, feeling both relieved and cautious. The Tyrells had reaffirmed their alliance with House Redwyne, but Paxter knew that this was just one step in a much larger game. The shadows of the past still loomed large, and the future was far from certain.

As he made his way out of Highgarden, Paxter couldn't help but think about the legacy of his house. The Redwynes had always been loyal to the Tyrells, and that loyalty had served them well. But Paxter also knew that there would come a time when House Redwyne would need to forge its own path—a path that might lead them to greater heights, but also to greater risks.

For now, House Redwyne would remain loyal, but Paxter would continue to prepare for the future. The game of thrones was far from over, and Paxter Redwyne was determined to ensure that his house would not only survive but thrive.

As he left Highgarden behind and returned to the Arbor, Paxter knew that the seeds of power had been planted. It would take time for them to grow, but when they did, House Redwyne would be ready to reap the rewards.

And when the time came, they would be ready to claim their place in the sun—no matter the cost.