Tywin Lannister had not been this speechless in quite some time.
When his grandson Lancel took it upon himself to escort Joffrey back to Casterly Rock, the usually composed Tywin should have realized the boy was no trivial matter. Yet, he had remained naively optimistic, believing Joffrey was merely a spoiled child who might, at worst, bring a peasant girl into the fold.
That illusion was shattered with the third servant's report of Joffrey's cruelty. Not only had the boy skinned a mother cat, but he had also mercilessly whipped a young maid within the Rock, leaving her battered and bruised. The servant who discovered him found Joffrey wearing a makeshift crown, his face twisted with malevolence as he vented his fury over Cersei's refusal to send him gold.
Tywin summoned his son to his study, his emerald eyes ablaze. "What manner of education is Cersei providing for the child?"
Jaime stood before him, helmet in hand, his gaze lowered. "She… indulges him. But what of it?"
"Indulgence?" Tywin struck the table, the sound cracking like a whip. "Indulgence that teaches a child to inflict such cruelty? If you mean to defend her, at least provide a compelling rationale." He took a measured breath, his expression darkening. "Did the girl consume the moon tea?"
Jaime was taken aback. "No."
Tywin did not display overt astonishment, but a cold fury settled in his eyes. "Jaime Lannister, have you lost your senses? The servant reported that the girl was covered in bruises. Do you require a detailed explanation of what that implies? Administer the moon tea to her. As it stands, the boy has developed a penchant for cruelty." This situation bore an unsettling resemblance to the past misdeeds of Aerys. "This child cannot become the future Lord of Casterly Rock."
"No, Father, you misunderstand," Jaime said helplessly. "In truth, although Joffrey undressed the girl, he swears he did not engage in any further transgression."
"Lies," Tywin asserted, his voice like ice. "Even if the boy lacked such intentions, a girl of her station would strive to entice him. Attend to her. I do not wish for this matter to be made public." He instructed the captain of his guard, who bowed and withdrew, closing the door behind him.
Jaime stood in stubborn silence for a moment. "Father, do you intend to treat Joffrey as you did Tyrion?"
"What difference does it make? Siring bastards leads only to complications. They are not half as clever as your sister."
"Very well. I understand." Jaime stiffly saluted, preparing to take his leave.
"Wait," Tywin's voice halted him. "You are not suggesting I should lie for the boy as well?"
"It is not yet that grave. But unless you are a fool, you must recognize that such a child could never inherit Casterly Rock. Even the Fingers would be a generous offer."
Jaime was taken aback. "What do you mean?"
Duke Tywin intertwined his fingers, his presence filling the room. "You have already forsaken your Kingsguard vows in spirit. Why not simply resign? I am certain many young knights would eagerly take your place."
"The Kingsguard is a lifetime appointment!" Jaime exclaimed, feeling like a fool in his father's presence, a feeling he despised.
"I am the Hand of the King," Tywin stated calmly. "Renly sent you back here, and regardless of his intentions, he has afforded me an opportunity. Provided you consent, I shall compose a letter to Robert. You may marry any noblewoman you choose. Just do not bring home a peasant, as Tyrion did."
In that moment, Jaime genuinely sympathized with his brother. The thought of escaping the drunken king who hurled insults at Cersei was tempting. Yet, Jaime Lannister would never betray his other half. They were bound as one from birth.
"I shall not withdraw from the Kingsguard," Jaime resolutely declared. "I will serve until death."
"Since you took the life of Aerys, your honor has been forfeit," Tywin countered, his gaze turning frigid. "But fulfill your duty if you must. Do you know Renly once wrote to me? He revealed that your youthful… escapades with Cersei persist to this day. If your allegiance lies with her, it would be wise for you to resign forthwith. Otherwise, you may discover that Ser Barristan and the Moon Boy have both shared her bed."
"Enough!" Jaime's complexion drained of color. He disregarded all decorum and stormed out.
Tywin's final words chased him into the hall. "Then you will find yourself akin to the Moon Boy."
Only Tywin remained. Had Tyrion been present, he would have marveled at how his seemingly invulnerable father appeared to have aged a decade in that moment. After a lengthy silence, Tywin finally relaxed, staring blankly at the walls of his study. For the first time in decades, he found himself longing for Joanna.