The cold morning air seeped through the trees of the Wolfswood as the Hornwood caravan prepared to continue its long journey southward. The apparent calm of the morning contrasted with Halys Hornwood's inner turmoil, as he repeatedly pondered Walder Frey's words.
Before their departure, the old lord of the Twins had made an unexpected offer to Halys.
"Lord Hornwood," Walder had said in his raspy voice, "to ensure your caravans cross my lands without trouble and arrive safely, I will provide you with one hundred light cavalrymen. Trained, swift, and loyal men who will bolster your security along the way."
Halys had carefully considered the offer. A hundred riders were no small gift: they represented strength, mobility, and protection against the perils of the road, especially in the ever-changing and dangerous lands of the North and Frey territory.
"I appreciate your generosity, Lord Frey," Halys had responded respectfully. "These men will be key to the caravan's success and everyone's safety. I trust this alliance will benefit us both."
The news of the riders reinforcing the escort was met with relief and enthusiasm among the Hornwood captains and soldiers. Barbas Blanca, the seasoned veteran in charge of security, assessed the combined force with respect.
"A hundred light cavalrymen are a rare luxury, Lord Halys," he remarked. "With them, we'll have the speed to anticipate any threat and the muscle to face any band of brigands or enemy soldiers."
Halys nodded as he observed the final preparations. The wagons loaded with fine furs, weapons, and provisions; the horses neighing; and the men adjusting armor and chains. Everything was ready for the caravan to head south.
But Halys knew this was just the beginning. The deal with Walder Frey had not only brought riders but also a significant investment: five thousand dragons that would strengthen House Hornwood's capacity to expand its trade and increase its power.DeepL+3Hielo y Fuego+3Reverso+3
As the caravan advanced, Halys allowed himself a moment to reflect on the magnitude of the plan he had devised. The stakes were high, but with strategy and caution, Hornwood could transition from a minor house in the North to a key player in Westeros's trade routes.
The Hornwood caravan progressed steadily. The hundred light cavalrymen sent by Walder Frey patrolled the roads and side paths with agility, keeping bandits and wild animals at bay. The escort, combined with the experience of Barbas Blanca and his veteran men, made the journey safe, though no less tense.
Each day, Halys inspected the cargo: wolf, deer, and bear pelts, carefully selected and prepared over weeks in Hornwood's workshops. It was valuable merchandise, coveted in Westeros's markets by nobles and merchants seeking sturdy winter garments.
The first strategic stop was in the lands of House Stokeworth, a solid settlement in the southern Crownlands. The Stokeworths were known for their conservative tastes but also for appreciating high-quality products.
Halys, accompanied by his elder brother Eddard and the veteran Barbas Blanca, presented the goods to Lord Stokeworth. The conversation revolved around the quality of the furs, their origin, and the promise of a steady supply.
"These are the finest pelts I've seen in years," Lord Stokeworth remarked with a satisfied expression. "I can offer you double the usual price if you ensure this quality remains consistent."
"I can guarantee that, my lord," Halys replied confidently. "House Hornwood knows hunting and fur handling like few others in the North. And this is just the beginning."
The negotiation concluded with a favorable agreement for both parties. The caravan sold a large portion of its furs, obtaining a considerable profit that already approached 150% of the initial investment. Halys knew that each step taken had to consolidate not only wealth but also lasting alliances.
From there, the caravan proceeded to the lands of House Rosby, in the former domain of the Riverlands. The Rosby family was known for its pragmatism and common sense, but also for the severity with which they defended their interests.
The presentation was more tense. The Rosby representatives demanded proof of quality and commercial references, as competition was fierce and they didn't want to be trapped in disadvantageous agreements.
However, Halys's patience and skill, along with the reputation he was beginning to build on his journey, were enough to convince the Rosbys. A considerable sale was achieved, though with a smaller profit margin than in Stokeworth.
Finally, the caravan reached the lands of House Rykker, located in the Stormlands. The Rykker family was less known but had a good strategic position for maritime and river trade.
Halys took the opportunity to offer a deal that included not only furs but the promise of future caravans with diverse merchandise, fostering a more comprehensive commercial relationship.
"The world is changing, Lord Rykker," Halys explained persuasively. "We don't just trade in furs, but in opportunities. A constant exchange strengthens us both."
Lord Rykker accepted with a smile, signing an agreement that ensured regular sales and Hornwood's entry into markets that had previously been inaccessible to them.
With the final sale completed, the caravan prepared to return north. The profits, far exceeding expectations, marked the beginning of a new era for House Hornwood. Halys looked at his brothers and men, feeling a restrained pride and a profound sense of responsibility.
He knew that this success was only the first battle in a long game of power, commerce, and alliances.