Chapter 12
"Call the Genrals and advisor?"Garth's voice echoed with authority as he addressed his son. Garm, fueled by a mix of determination and concern, acknowledged his father's command and quickly set about mobilizing their forces. Messengers were dispatched throughout the kingdom to assemble the army, and preparations for potential conflict were made.
As predicted, stories and rumors about a magical tree in the Reach began to spread across Westeros. Tales circulated of its enchanted golden fruits that granted great strength and immortality.
Meanwhile, Garth himself contemplated the situation, the weight of responsibility heavy on his shoulders. He knew that defending Yggdrasil and its golden apples was of paramount importance. The fruits held immense power and were coveted by many, including the ambitious House Hightower and, potentially, Lyon Lannister.
As they made their preparations, Garth realized that their approach had to be twofold. While they needed to fortify their defenses and be ready for a possible confrontation, they also had to explore diplomatic avenues. Avoiding unnecessary bloodshed and forging alliances could potentially safeguard Yggdrasil without resorting to full-scale conflict.
Garth and his son Garm successfully established contact with Stoick Stark, the King of the North and son of Bran the Builder, as well as King Elden Dayne of Dorne. Together, they forged an alliance in preparation for the impending war.After all three are bonded over there vision of Lord Eru.
Garth summoned his advisors, wise men and women who had served his family for generations, to discuss their next steps. They delved into potential strategies to ensure the safety of Yggdrasil and the Reach. Ideas such as strengthening existing alliances, seeking support from neighboring kingdoms, and exploring alternative paths to reach a peaceful resolution were considered.
Among these fellow Lords and Ladys were Lord Hightower raised a question, breaking the silence. "My King, I am curious to know where you acquired such magical seeds and the beast."
Garth and Garm anticipated this inquiry, knowing that all the Lords had witnessed Ladon and Yggdrasil.
Garm, his face stoic, replied, "It was a gift from Lord Eru."
Garm revealed his mark and continued, "Lady Yavanna personally selects one from our family. Only that chosen individual can approach the tree, pluck the fruits without hindrance from the barrier, or face the wrath of the guardian."
The revelation brought shock and envy to many of the Lords. Garth added, "Lord Eru was pleased with how House of Gardner provided sustenance to the defenseless and healed them during the Long Night."
As a result, House Gardner established a tradition of donating food to the poor and offering healing services.
Though greedy, Lord Hightower was not foolish. He had heard about the tree's formidable defenses from his daughter, realizing that only the main family could breach the barrier. Moreover, the fearsome beast Ladon stood guard, presenting an additional obstacle.
Lymond harbored hopes that his daughter would bear a child who would be chosen by Lady Yavanna. However, those dreams were soon shattered when Lady Yavanna selected Garm's daughter. Only one individual is chosen every generation, and rumors began to circulate that harming Lady Yavanna's chosen one would bring a terrible curse. Lymond gritted his teeth and turned his thoughts to other matters.
Meanwhile, William Lannister son of Lan the Cunning, became consumed by greed upon hearing about the magical fruit. He orchestrated an army to launch an attack on the Reach.