The Reach, Westeros
It has been almost a fortnight since the wedding between the Lion and the Rose, and now it was time for the second one. As it had been arranged, Cersei would marry Loras; much to the dismay of both.
With only a few days before the wedding, the future bride had to be moved to her new home at The Reach. With her went Trystan and along with some loyal Lannister soldiers. Due to the long trip that would take around 20 days, not everyone could attend.
Tommen and Margaery would join them but Olenna had to remain back, her position too important to be missing for more than a full moon rotation. She still had to earn the trust of all of Varys' spies but surprisingly, Qyburn was willing to help her and the two of them made an odd but effective pair.
With the King gone, it was up to Tywin to take over with the Small Council. He had also ordered Jaime to remain back and take Lord Mace's place in the Small Council as well, while the majority of the Kingsguard would have left with the royal couple.
The trip was long and Cersei was riding in the royal carriage along with her son and her good-daughter, trying her hardest not to snarl at the couple. She was in a bad mood ever since they left King's Landing and everyone could see it.
Margaery, on the other hand, was very happy to return home and spent her time talking to Tommen and Visenya about the places they would visit and what was worth seeing there.
Visenya, Trystan and Loras had all chosen to go on horseback and simply ride next to the carriage; allowing the young Rose to talk to them through the window. Lord Mace rode his own horse, only to prove to the others that he was a worthy Lord. One could see that he was not enjoying it but said nothing as he led the group from the very front. At least he was away from his mother's scolding, and that did help alleviate his mood.
"Are you sure you do not wish to join us, Lady Lannister? We have plenty of space in here," Margaery said, a smile on her lips as she peeked through the barred window of the carriage.
She had started to enjoy the presence of the Dragoness and trusted her more with small secrets, much to her grandmother's dismay. She did not see her as a threat anymore, rather than a welcoming new member to her family.
A new member of her family with a lot of power, fame, titles and experience when it came to ruling.
The Dragoness smiled, her black mare easily walking side by side with the horse-drawn carriage.
"I am certain, Your Grace. I do find it more comfortable riding on a saddle," she explained.
Her white hair had been braided back and she had exchanged her dresses for more comfortable clothes for the long duration of the trip, which she would spend on top of the saddle. She was used to it, so she did not mind and she always found certain joy in not having constricted or fancy but annoying dresses around her.
A short red long-sleeved dress, which stopped by her knees and black leather pants beneath, with her sword strapped to her side and the Lannister symbol sewn on her red cloak. Of course, if any troubles were to arise, Tywin had made it clear that she would not fight unless she had no choice. He had repeated that a few times by the time she had gotten on her horse because he knew of her more reckless nature when it came to protecting her loved ones.
She was certain he had given instructions to Trystan as well, to ensure she would remain safe. She had not asked him but she suspected and would not be surprised if that were indeed true.
Her wound might have healed and she had already returned to her training but he still did not wish for any harm to come to her. It was a rather sweet move, although based on the strict way he ordered it when they were with a crowd; most would not see it that way, which was also kind of the plan.
"Oh, you sound like my brother. I do remember my Grandfather being of a similar mindset as well. It was always something that did displease my Grandmother," Margaery confessed and somehow Visenya could see Olenna just frowning as her husband chose hunting over her, a sight that amused her but she hid it well. "Doesn't Lord Tywin have any arguments about it?" she asked, curious while trying to get more information from her about her marriage.
Her Grandmother had made it clear that she should try to befriend Visenya more and get to know her better. Most specifically, to learn more about her relationship and marriage to Tywin; since the Queen of Thorns had started to suspect things. Olenna knew that Visenya was not going to tell her anything but Margaery was equally sneaky and above all; innocent.
Perhaps she could get some additional information for her grandmother, about this very mysterious relationship between Visenya and Tywin. The Old Woman knew now that there was more behind this "political" marriage. More than just a common understanding and middle ground between two different people, that could explain the battles and their past ruling behind Aerys' back.
Visenya picked up the scoffing sound from within the carriage, coming from Cersei who was busy listening to them but did not make any comment; at least not out loud.
"He understands it is a common agreement," Visenya explained, deciding to shed the faintest of light but knowing not to give away anything of importance. "He has his hobbies when it comes to hunting and skinning games and I have mine that has to do with horses." She patted and rubbed gently the neck of her black mare.
The horse was very calm, walking with ease and its rider did not even have to keep the reins tight or close to her. Instead, the reins were rather loose and all it took was a gentle nudge of the rider's heel to guide the horse more left or more right; depending on the path.
Suddenly, Loras, who had been riding ahead of the group started to stay back until he could be close to them.
"Oh, let her be, sister. You can interrogate her once we arrive," he commented, amusing the older woman.
"That is alright, Ser Loras. Discussion helps with the passage of time," she said and glanced at Trystan, who as always, was quiet and simply hearing what was being discussed around him.
Anything he wished to discuss, they did when they would set camp at night but he was generally a quiet kid; at least after Tywin's training and tutoring. Yet, he could still make conversation and engage, when it was something he was interested in or felt comfortable. During that moment though, he found it better to just listen while a part of him had to deal with the fact that one, his sister was going to be married off again and then left behind; and two, the whereabouts of Sansa because a month had passed since her mysterious disappearance.
Highgarden, Reach, Westeros - Early Noon
The trip was worth it because the beauty of Highgarden could hardly be matched by many.
There was the castle Sept, which had rows of stained-glass windows honouring Garth Greenhand and the Seven. There was the palatial keep that was decorated with statues and colonnades. One would be blind not to notice how the castle walls hide behind groves, fountains, and courtyards on the inside while from outside they were covered in ivy, grapes, and climbing roses.
The most outstanding piece for many, who chose to visit it was fields of golden roses that stretched as far as the eye could see. Fruits were also grown nearby including melons, peaches, and fireplums; something that only a few lands could truly do.
Upon arriving, they were greeted by Willas Tyrell.
The heir to Highgarden was expecting them, leaning on his walking cane while one of his most loyal hawks was sitting on his shoulder.
He was a young man with dark brown hair and eyes, bearing similar characteristics to both Loras but also Margaery. One could see the intelligence in his eyes and there was this welcoming smile on his face, already setting a welcoming mood and showing his warmer character.
Margaery climbed off the carriage, picked up her dress and speed walked towards her older brother before the two of them embraced.
"Willas," she said with a smile before pulling back. Then she turned to the hawk on the man's shoulder. "Hello Axel," she greeted the prideful animal.
"Welcome all. It is an honour to have you as our guests," Willas said and gave a small bow, formally greeting the Lions that had come for the wedding. "Your Grace," he said and gave a formal bow to young Tommen.
The boy offered a small smile and kept his chin up, as he was taught to do.
"Thank you for hosting us," he said, choosing not to address the older man with a title because he was not sure which one.
He was not the head of the house since his father was still alive but he could not exactly be called Lord Tyrell since Loras was present. He was also not a knight, thus, he could not call him Ser.
Thankfully for him, Visenya picked up what was going on and joined his side.
"Lord Willas," she greeted with the faintest of head bows, passively hinting at Tommen what title to use next time. "It is a pleasure to officially meet. Lady Olenna has talked about you during her stay in King's Landing," she said, offering a small smile.
"Lady Lannister, the pleasure is mine," he said with a smile. "Has she? I do hope it has been good things," he confessed.
"Only the very best, my lord."
"Willas," Lord Mace said, drawing the attention of his eldest. "We had a long trip. I do believe there is no need to stand here. Show our guests to their chambers."
"Of course, Father."
Stables of Highgarden, Highgarden - The Reach, Westeros - Evening
After everyone had settled, they all had supper since they were a big family and were to become again; with the second wedding that would take place in a few days' time. All the preparations had been done and only a few things remained, mostly having to do with the banquet after the wedding.
With free time to spare, Visenya headed for the famous stables that both Loras and Margaery had told her about. It was known that Lord Willas was interested in horses and bred quite the champions, along with focusing on training hawks and eagles for his hunts.
The Dragoness knew that her mare could be a little bit... challenging, especially in foreign stables and thus had chosen to visit her and ensure she did not eat any unfortunate stable boy.
Servants gave her instructions on how to reach the famous stables and from afar she could see the well-made structures, accommodations for the animals and of course, the sizes; putting many other stables to shame. To her surprise, when she was approaching the stall where her mare was placed; she found someone else already there and they were feeding her a carrot.
"Lord Willas," she greeted as she approached, announcing her presence at the same time.
The older of the Tyrell siblings heard her and turned his body halfway to face her.
"Lady Lannister," he greeted and gave a small head bow, showing respect to the woman of the most powerful man across Westeros. "I do welcome you to my stables," he continued, extending one hand to emphasize his point and a warm smile to accompany it all.
She offered a small smile as she came to a halt next to him.
"Thank you, my Lord. Their fame precedes them, I will not lie," she said, stealing a quick glance around her, taking an even better look at the fancy and rich structures.
"What brings you here, my Lady? I thought my sister would show you around the castle."
"She did but I excused myself after a while. I did wish to check on my horse. She can be a little... troublesome when she is placed in new stables, I am afraid," she explained and glanced at the black beauty that was still chewing on the carrot.
The horse turned to look at its rider and pulled her ears back, a clear response that she understood everything and she was not happy with how she was characterized. It was a sign of how emotionally intelligent but also expressive her horse was, a sign of strong character.
However, this seemed to amuse the heir of Highgarden.
"She was causing a little bit of trouble, which is why I chose to pay her a visit to see for myself," Willas explained and petted gently the black mare by the side of her neck.
Visenya took notice and arched an eyebrow at how easily the horse accepted his touch when she usually bit people, who tried to pet her. Yet again, Willas most likely had fed her a few carrots before her arrival and had managed to earn her favour, for now. Food was a good way to get her on her good side, temporarily. The moment you stopped having food, it was the moment you were no longer welcomed or liked.
"I can see that. You seemed to have calmed her down," she pointed out and the horse just let out a small neigh before pulling her head up, a sign that she grew bored of him already; which was kind of her thing and Visenya was not surprised to witness it.
This made the two adults chuckle at the drama and Willas withdrew his hand.
"I do have a certain fascination for horses. Or as my grandmother likes to call it, an obsession," he said, amusing her. "I will admit, your mare is a real beauty. Chargers are hard to find in our days and it is even harder to tame them with their very strong characters and tempers."
Visenya was surprised by his knowledge since not a lot truly knew their horse breeds; let alone what made each one of them unique. She glanced at her horse, seeing those dark brown big eyes looking at them.
"She was not easy, I will not lie. I had her since she was a foal and only recently she stopped being a filly. The trick is to spend a lot of hours with them and let no one else touch, groom or feed them to establish a good bond," she explained and extended her palm, the horse moving to place her snout on it almost right away. She smiled faintly at the gesture. "It does require lots of patience but the results are worth it in the end."
Willas observed her silently, hearing how easily she talked and he could notice the experience behind her words. He remained silent, not wishing to interrupt her and merely observed how calm and obedient the horse was with her.
"I cannot say I have tried my luck with a horse like yours before but I will heed your advice if I ever get my hands on a foal," he said, a small smile on his lips. "You seem quite experienced with horses, my Lady," he pointed out.
Visenya kept petting her mare but had turned her head to look at her companion since it would be rude not to look at them while talking. She often had been told those exact words, since many women did not have a lot of fascination for horse riding; let alone horses.
"I do have spent my time around them, my Lord. My previous horse was a non-castrated Destrier stallion. Very energetic, tempered but a good friend to ride in battle," she said, giving a small sad smile as she remembered Syrax.
"I have been riding Coursers most of my life, only once had the privilege of riding a Destrier. My preference remains with the Coursers, I am afraid. They are very gentle characters, excellent horses for hunting and intelligent as well. What happened to your stallion, if I may be bold enough to ask?"
"Lost him during the battle in the Trident," she confessed, leaving a small silent sigh. "Eddard Stark cut him with his sword to bring me down during combat."
His expression changed and he did not hide his sympathy for her upon hearing the story.
"My condolences, my lady. I did not mean to bring back such memories," he confessed.
Everyone in Westeros knew that the Battle of the Trident was a black mark on Visenya's history. It was an event that had shocked the Tyrell troops that were sieging Storm's End since they learnt the events that Crown Prince Rhaegar had perished and that Princess Visenya had been taken prisoner; signalling Robert as the victor.
"It is quite alright, my Lord. I was the one willing to give the full answer," she said and handed a sugar cube to her mare. "This is Meraxes, in case you were wondering."
He smiled and studied the black mare by taking a few steps more to the side, having a full view of the horse's strong body and posture.
"A very fine horse, my Lady. Strong and healthy. Have you thought of breeding?"
Visenya looked back at him and shook her head faintly.
"I have not, not yet at least. She is not the most social with other horses, especially stallions. I have also needed her in combat and pregnancy can affect her performance afterwards."
More than once had the idea been suggested to Visenya by her horse master but she had refused each time. If Meraxes were to breed and become pregnant, Visenya would not be able to ride her for quite some time; until her foal would be of certain age again as well. In addition, it could affect her performance in riding and she did not wish to risk it with how unpredictable the battles could be.
Willas nodded his head.
"I understand, my lady," he said offering a smile at her. "However, if you ever wish to find a suitable stallion; I do have some very fine ones that could help bring a powerful and good foal into this world."
"I appreciate your offer, my lord but I am afraid I will have to refuse." She turned to Meraxes. "If she is eventually to be bred, my Lord Husband has suggested his Destrier stallion. It is a loyal and disciplined horse and so far it is from the few my mare allows nearby."
He nodded his head again, remaining silent for about half a minute.
"My Lady," he said, clearing his throat. "Morrow morning I am to go for some hawking. Would you like to join me for company?" he asked her.
"I am afraid hunting has never been much of an interest to me, my lord."
"Have you tried hawking, though? I assure you it is far different than common hunting. You can use it as a chance to ride the plains of the Reach, a magnificent place to ride freely a horse."
Visenya thought about it for a moment, the offer too tempting. She looked at her mare, who seemed eager with the idea as if she had understood exactly what they would do. In the end, the Dragoness gave up and offered a small smile.
"I will take up your offer, my Lord," she said, making his smile grow bigger.
Gardens, Highgarden - The Reach, Westeros - Around the Same Time
After Visenya had excused herself, Margaery had taken Tommen and Cersei to continue with the tour and allowed Loras to stay with Trystan; much to the dismay of the grumpy Lioness. The two young men, barely having a year difference in their ages, walked through the rest of the Gardens at a much slower pace with Loras guiding Trystan out of the never-ending greenery.
The two of them talked, having some similarities in hobbies but the young Lion was too reserved around the young Rose and after one point; Loras understood that Trystan was more similar in hobbies to his brother Willas.
"What do you think of Highgarden so far?" Loras asked as the two of them walked side by side.
He was a little bit more relaxed, his hands laying by his side and swaying faintly while he walked. His curled brown locks were let loose and he would offer a charming smile to any male servant, who passed, including those that helped maintain the garden.
"It is rather peaceful," Trystan answered, walking with his back straight and his hands behind his back. "And I can see it is rather... linear? I am not sure how to describe it exactly," he confessed, clearing his throat in faint embarrassment.
Loras chuckled.
"If you mean there are no high stick-up rules here like back in King's Landing, you are right. My Father never truly bothered to correct anything and my brother, Willas, he just let it all happen," he waved his hand dismissively to emphasize his point. "I can see this feels odd to you."
Trystan offered a small smile, earning more of Loras' attention on him.
"It does but I will get used to it, I know. It is just different from what I was raised into," he confessed, trying to make himself be more relaxed like Loras. "At least I know this place is peaceful enough for my sister, although I am not sure how much it will remain peaceful with her around."
This made his walking companion laugh and gently clap his hand on the Lion's back, like a very friendly brother.
"You tell me that? I do pity most people in the castle but she might end up finding one to truly keep her company, you know," he withdrew his hand.
The Half-Lion looked at him as they finally left the gardens and headed for the training grounds.
"I would like to hope so but what matters to me is for her to be happy. I am not sure how happy she will be here but I am not one to look at things in a pessimistic way."
Loras nodded his head.
"Speaking of looking at things," he started and tried to wrap a hand around Trystan's shoulders but failed slightly due to the height difference. "You are not into men, aren't you?" he asked out of the blue.
The mere idea shocked the Half-Lion, who did not hide his expression from his companion. After a moment that he needed to compose himself, he cleared his throat once again.
"I am afraid I have never been interested in the same gender."
The Rose smirked.
"Relax, green-boy. I am teasing you. Honestly, it was quite obvious already," he confessed.
"It was?" Trystan asked, arching one eyebrow and turning his head to look at him.
"Come on, Trystan. We passed some really nice faces as we walked and you looked at none of them. So, that means you either are a regular boring green-boy or you already have your eyes on someone."
"Well... there might be a certain girl that has gotten my attention if I were to be honest with you."
Loras smirked.
"Is it Sansa?" he asked and took notice of the shocked and embarrassed face of Trystan, getting his answer even when the Half-Lion was too flustered to speak. "I have eyes, Trystan and I can see it clearly. You kept stealing glances at one another whenever you were in the same room."
The Lannister could not help but smile, realizing that he could not deny it. They had been stealing glances and having walks, although he was not sure how much of this Loras knew. However, he took notice of his tone and the relaxed attitude of the young Tyrell and realized that Loras was not mocking him.
"Well, she is gone now. Hopefully somewhere safe or at least safer than she was while being in King's Landing with my family," he confessed.
Loras, indeed, did not judge nor did he mock. He could see that Trystan genuinely had started to develop feelings for Sansa and he could not help but be reminded of when he had first laid his eyes upon Renly, having a similar reaction although Loras was far bolder than the sheltered Trystan.
"Either way, I do hope one day you might meet again; might even get together," he said genuinely and offered a charming smile. "Now, let us go do some training. The boys at King's Landing kept talking about how good you are with a sword and I need to personally test that," he continued and guided him towards the training grounds.