Northwest of Highgarden the stone walls of Carsley Keep stood unashamedly. The pride of the residents was evident from the many banners that graced the wall. A relaxed, golden peacock against a teal background. The brightness of the cloth stood out against the typical grey drab of the castle walls and was indicative of House Tilden who resided within. The Tilden’s were still a fairly new family, being only a few generations old. They earned their rank when the previous holder of Carsley Keep died without an heir, leaving his workhands to take over the castle. Despite their shaky origins House Tilden was quick to prove itself valuable to The Reach, and subsequently The Seven Kingdoms. 

Each generation seemed to stumble on something new to bolster their standing, cementing themselves further as a proper noble house. Now in its fifth generation, with Lord Warreck and his brood, that the house goals began to shift. Four generations before him spent their lives building both resource and knowledge, and with that to stand Warreck put his efforts instead into trade. Lining the family coffers with gold and amassing a large fortune. While they still couldn’t shake a stick at the Tyrells, House Tilden had become a point of envy amongst the small families of The Reach.

The lush gardens that took up the majority of the courtyard were oddly quiet. With the five children of the lord and lady, three of whom were still toddlers, it was a rare time to not hear the sounds of play. Instead only Lord Warreck and his eldest daughter Naeva were walking the path, chatting quietly. It was that short time of day when the adults were awake while the little ones still snored in the nursery. It therefore came as a shock when they heard the telltale sound of the castle gates opening. 

“Are you expecting someone, Father?” Naeva asked politely, hearing the footsteps making its way towards them. Lord Warreck only shook his head in response and continued with their previous conversation of suitors for the young lady. Whoever it was he was certain they were no threat as no alarm had sounded. It was a few moments later that the man owning the footsteps found them caught up. He bent to one knee, rising again immediately. 

“M’lord,” He stopped, clearly out of breath. The Tilden gardens never were difficult to get lost in, especially to those unfamiliar with them. “I have word from Lord Tyrell,” He pulled a scroll from his bag, holding it out for Lord Warreck. Rolling out the scroll only a few inches from his face, Lord Warreck strained his eyes to read. His old age was creeping up on him rather quickly he found. Naeva stood on her toes and attempted to read over his shoulder. 

“It says that King Baratheon is dead, father,” She spoke boredly. 

Lord Warreck had to stop himself from shaking his head at her indignation, “I saw that. It also says that Lord Tyrell wants us to back him in Renly’s claim…” He read further down, “It would appear that Joffrey is not Robert’s son.” The possibilities raced through his mind and how his family could benefit, regardless of the outcome. Turning back to his daughter to continue their ritual morning walk. Naeva wore dark smirk on her delicate features, only scarcely hidden by the vibrant red of her hair.