A Game of Thrones, Chapter 69, Tyrion
Summary
Messenger reaches the Lannister host. He brings news of Robb’s victory in Whispering Wood and Riverrun. Tywin learns that Jaime is taken prisoner. Lannisters gather to decide what to do with the war they’re losing. Finally Lord Tywin decides to move with his army to Harrenhal and send Tyrion to Kings Landing to serve as the Hand of the King.
Quotes
“Peace?” Tyrion swirled his wine thoughtfully, took a deep draft, and hurled his empty cup to the floor, where it shattered into a thousand pieces. “There’s your peace, Ser Harys. My sweet nephew broke it for good and all when he decided to ornament the Red Keep with Lord Eddard’s head. You’ll have an easier time drinking wine from that cup than you will convincing Robb Stark to make peace now. He’s winning… or hadn’t you noticed?”
Lord Tywin looked down at his son. “I had thought you were the one made for motley, Tyrion, but it would appear that I was wrong.”
“Why, Father,” said Tyrion, “that almost sounds like praise.” He leaned forward intently.
A part of him was more pleased than he cared to admit. Another part was remembering the battle upriver, and wondering if he was being sent to hold the left again. “Why me?” he asked, cocking his head to one side. “Why not my uncle? Why not Ser Addam or Ser Flement or Lord Serrett? Why not a… bigger man?”
Lord Tywin rose abruptly. “You are my son.”
That was when he knew. You have given him up for lost, he thought. You bloody bastard, you think Jaime’s good as dead, so I’m all you have left.
Commentary
This chapter comes like a breath of fresh air after the stink of death surrounding last few.
This does not make up for death of Robert, Ned and Drogo, but it’s nice to see Lannisters on the run for a change. There are some who want to make peace with Robb, but Tyrion points out that this option was forfeit when Ned was killed. There is only one way to end this war now.
It’s interesting to see how detached Tyrion is from this whole business. Even the thought of his brother in being held in captivity doesn’t seem to move him much. It’s only after Lord Tywin sends him to Kings Landing to rule as the Hand of the King his emotions surface. But instead of being happy that father finally acknowledges his value he gets mad. He’s certain that Lord Tywin only turned to him because he thought he’s everything he has left, that with Ned’s death there is no chance that Jaime will be freed.
I can’t begin to imagine what Tyrion had to feel right there and then. Being an imp was tough enough in itself, but the rejection he had to deal with every day could turn the best man into a bitter bastard.
The topic of “good” and “bad” characters in SOIAF was discussed many times. I’m very tough in my judgment. No matter how many maidens Jaime rescues I will still consider him an evil man. Tyrion though… He’s a bastard, he has a foul mouth, he can be cruel at times, but all in all I consider him to be “good”. Even though he’s a Lannister.
Tags: Tyrion
