Paxter Redwyne
Paxter Redwyne is the Lord of the Arbor, the wealthy island realm known for its formidable fleet and its renowned wines. As a principal bannerman to Mace Tyrell, Lord of Highgarden, he commands significant naval power and economic resources, making him a key figure in the power dynamics of the Reach and the wider Seven Kingdoms. His influence is exercised through his family connections, most notably his marriage to Mace Tyrell's sister, Mina, which binds his house closely to the ambitions of Highgarden.
Family and Alliances
Lord Paxter is married to Lady Mina of House Tyrell, the sister of Lord Mace Tyrell. This union has produced twin sons, Ser Horas and Ser Hobber Redwyne, who are often mocked at court as "Horror" and "Slobber," and a daughter, Desmera. The twins serve as knights and are present at the royal court in King's Landing, where they participate in tournaments and are part of the retinue of high lords. The Redwyne sigil, a burgundy grape cluster on a blue field, is a common sight at such events, representing the Arbor's primary export. Lord Paxter's own father, a previous Lord Redwyne, is mentioned in the context of the siege of Storm's End during Robert's Rebellion, where he and Lord Tyrell besieged the castle, a fact that would later make them wary of Stannis Baratheon's unforgiving nature.
Role in the Realm
Lord Paxter's primary power lies in the Redwyne fleet, the largest naval force in the Seven Kingdoms after the royal fleet. This gives him immense strategic importance, particularly in times of war. His allegiance to Highgarden is a cornerstone of Tyrell power, ensuring they have both a strong navy and a wealthy trading partner. During the events following King Robert's death, Lord Paxter's son, Ser Horas, is among the knights who join Renly Baratheon's cause, signaling the Arbor's support for Renly's claim to the throne. The Redwyne twins are also present at the Hand's tourney, where they participate in the jousting, further demonstrating the family's active role in the chivalric and political life of the realm.
Narrative Significance
While Lord Paxter himself does not appear directly in the narrative of A Game of Thrones, his presence is felt through his sons and the reputation of his house. The Redwyne fleet is a latent but crucial factor in the coming conflicts, a resource that any claimant to the Iron Throne would seek to secure. The marriage of Lord Paxter to Mina Tyrell exemplifies the web of alliances that define the great houses, and the presence of his sons at court provides a lens through which the reader can observe the political maneuvering in King's Landing. The Arbor's wealth and naval strength make Lord Paxter a silent but significant power broker, whose eventual choices will help shape the war to come.