He closed the door softly behind him as he entered the room that Lord Blackwood has afforded him the previous night. Dawn has just broken, and light was beginning to stream through the window. He walked slowly over to the bed, sitting the small plate of food he had brought with him on the table as he went. The figure on the bed had not stirred since he left, a faint purr from her steady breathing filling the small space. He sat down on the edge of the bed, his hand reaching up and trailing softy down her exposed cheek. The touch was light, but enough to stir the figure from her slumber. Her eyes scrunched at the light, but then opened and looked up at Robb's lingering form.
"Good morning," Margaery smiled up at him.
"Good morning," Robb returned. "I've brought food. I'm afraid we don't have time for a proper meal. We need to get on the road as soon as we're able."
Margeary grabbed onto Robb's arm and used it to pull herself up in the bed. "Has there been anymore news?"
"No," Robb began, before scooping her up in his arms and sitting her sideways in his lap. She startled at first, but calmed and laid her head against his shoulder once she was properly situated. "Lord Blackwood sent ravens out to Pinkmaiden to alert Lord Piper and to Wayfarer's Rest to alert Lord Vance. The western castles of the Riverlands need to be prepared for siege."
"They will be here soon enough."
"Aye, they will," Robb agreed. "Which means we need to be ready to go. You eat, and I'll make sure the horses are ready."
Margaery reached up and placed her lips against Robb's. "I won't be long. I asked one of the maids for a pair of men's breeches, so I would not have to try and ride again in a dress. Your family won't think me a savage if I show up in men's clothing, will they?"
Robb laughed. "No...well Sansa and my Mother, maybe. They have enough trouble getting Arya to dress as a lady. Though, I doubt we will see them in Riverrun, so you should have time in between to make yourself a proper lady once again."
"Have you eaten?"
"I have no appetite," Robb answered dismissively. "I will eat when we are safely to Riverrun."
"Here," Margaery insisted, breaking off a piece of the bread that Robb had brought with him. She smeared a healthy portion of the accompanying butter on it, and then forced it into Robb's hand. "You will need your strength. Don't forget you lost a good amount of blood yesterday. I won't have you a haggard mess when you see your family again."
"Is that so?" Robb asked, reluctantly receiving the offered portion.
"It is. I don't want anyone to think I will not be able to take care of you properly when we are married."
Robb pressed his body against hers, reaching his arm around so that it circled her back. "I want you to be my wife, not my maid," Robb protested. "We'll take care of each other, aye?"
Margaery smiled up at him. "I suppose I could agree to that arrangement."
"Good," Robb replied, kissing her lightly, then reluctantly pulling away from the warmth of her body. "I will see you soon."
The courtyard outside of the keep was awash with activity when Robb arrived. Lord Blackwood was directing things with expert precision, seeing to the defenses of his home. The amount of archers and crossbowmen on the walls had clearly been increased, as a man stood practically every meter. Builders were busy reinforcing the walls, while the clank of hammer on anvil echoed from the blacksmiths.
The morning was cool, and Robb almost regretted forgoing his full plate for a borrowed leather jerkin. The winter winds were truly stirring down from the North. Jon and Theon were finishing with saddling their horses, while an overwhelmed looking Gendry and stoic Loras were already mounted, ready to ride.
"Sleep well?" Robb asked his brother as he saw to his and Margaery's horses.
"Best night I've had since the night we left Winterfell," Jon responded. "Which is saying something, considering we are now wanted for treason, and places are likely reserved for our heads on the gates of King's Landing."
"Always so dramatic. A simple yes or no would have been fine," Robb muttered.
"We'll see who's being dramatic when the Lannisters are nipping at our heels," Jon countered.
"Hopefully we'll be to Riverrun before the Lannisters show their faces," Lord Blackwood interrupted, finished divvying out commands. "Better to meet them from a position of strength." Unlike Robb, the Lord of Raventree Hall was wearing a full set of armor underneath his dark cloak, scarlet steel with lines of silver giving life to his house's sigil. "I've instructed my eldest son Brynden to hold the walls here as long as he can."
"I don't want your family risking themselves needlessly," Robb frowned. "The Lannisters don't know you've given us aide. You could let them pass through without suffering any consequence."
"Our walls are strong, Robb," Lord Blackwood advised. "We can stave off a siege for months, and there's no chance the Lannisters will be able to mount a proper one in this short of time. Plenty of time for our forces to ride back and clear these lands."
"You have my word," Robb assured.
"And the word of a Stark is good enough for me," Lord Blackwood smiled, before gesturing behind him, to where a young man, slightly older than Robb stood. "This is my son Lucas. He'll be riding with us. I've also readied another twenty-five of my guard to escort us to Riverrun." Robb nodded his head in acknowledgment to Lord Blackwood's son.
"My Father has always spoken highly of yours, Lord Stark," Lucas added, moving to stand beside his own.
"Robb will do," he stated, "and we are indebted to your family for your assistance. It will not be forgotten."
Just then, the men's attention was distracted by the arrival of Margaery, clad in dark brown men's breeches and a tan tunic as she had promised. She stopped next to Robb, placing her hands on her hips. "Well, do I look particularly manly now?" For added, although completely futile, effect, she puffed out her chest, which only caused Robb to stare at her now prominent breasts.
Noting that the rest of his companions were staring as well, Robb gently pulled her arms down to her side. "I'm not sure you could truly ever look manly, but you are much better suited to ride now."
"She sure is oof-" Theon began lecherously before Jon planted the tip of his elbow into the heir of the Iron Island's stomach. Theon hunched over, looking as if he would be sick.
"Watch yourself Theon," Robb warned, bitingly. "I won't stand for comments like that anymore about my future wife. Thank you, Jon."
"I enjoyed it thoroughly," Jon admitted, slapping Theon on the back for good measure.
"Now that we've settled that, probably best we begin our journey," Lord Blackwood suggested sternly, though still with a hint of amusement.
"Of course," Robb agreed. He helped Margaery onto her horse before swiftly mounting his own. Lord Blackwood and his son led them through the raised gate to where his other mounted entourage was waiting. Lord Blackwood and his son charged ahead, with Robb, Margaery, Jon, Theon, Gendry, and Loras directly behind them. The rest of the soldiers formed a loose wedge formation around them, protecting their rear and flanks. They rode at a comfortable pace, passing through several small villages that belonged to House Blackwood. The common folk came out to greet their Lord as he moved quickly through, though Lord Blackwood made sure to acknowledge them.
They rode unmolested for an a few hours before another castle and surrounding town appeared in the distance. Lord Blackwood brought them to a slow stop, and Robb brought his horse next to him.
"That's Stone Hedge," Lord Blackwood noted with disdain. "The Brackens and my house have a troublesome history and I'd avoid a confrontation if I could. Do you have any objection to turning north now and following the River Road? I could deal without the headache of Jonos Bracken today."
"The Riverlands are your home, Lord Tytos," Robb responded. "I'll trust you to know what's best."
"North it is then," Lord Blackwood decided without hesitation.
They reached the River Road in another hour. The Road ran parallel with the Red Fork, and would lead them straight to Riverrun. Eventually they reached an Inn where they rested their horses and practically bought out the innkeeper of his food and ale. It wasn't a regal feast, but the thick stew was hearty and renewed everyone's vigor to continue the journey. They continued on after the short break, until finally they reached the point where the Red Fork met the Tumblestone. Practically rising out of the waters were the sandstone walls of Riverrun.
Robb finally breathed a sigh of relief. His family was within those walls. He was truly out of the jaws of the Lannisters. As they got closer to the castle, Robb could see a group of riders emerge from the gates and make their way towards them. The silver trout of House Tully was prominent on the banner held by one of the riders. The two parties slowed as they finally met just outside the walls of Riverrun.
Robb had just been a child the last time he had seen his Uncle Edmure, but from the family resemblance it was clear who he was. Edmure's auburn shoulder-length hair and beard were not as dark as Robb's, but the man's face clearly favored his sister Catelyn's. Robb rode ahead of the rest of his group to greet his kin.
"Greetings Uncle," Robb offered, his horse almost face to face with Edmure's.
"Robb?" Edmure squinted. "It has been a long time. You've certainly grown. You look very much like Cat."
"I trust you received the raven from Lord Blackwood?" Robb asked.
"We did," Edmure affirmed. "Along with a slew of others from King's Landing. Tis true the King has died?"
"It is," Robb nodded. "Murdered by the Lannisters."
"Unsurprisingly they seem to deny that, Nephew. It seems they believe you were plotting against the crown."
"And what do you believe, Uncle?"
Edmure smiled. "The fact that I've just called House Tully's bannerman to come to your aid should be proof enough."
"Thank you, Uncle," Robb nodded.
"Come, you all must be tired. We've rooms prepared for your use." Edmure and his men circled their horses back towards Riverrun. Robb pushed his own mount forward so that he was riding next to his Uncle.
"Not that I am displeased to see you Uncle, but I had expected to see my Grandfather. Is he waiting to greet us?" Robb inquired.
"My Father has taken ill," Edmure revealed solemnly. "Most days he is bedridden and in a constant state of delirium. I fear he is not long for the world."
"I am sorry to hear that Uncle," Robb consoled. "My mother has always talked fondly of him.
Edmure nodded. "He is a good man. Now with the events happening in King's Landing, I wish even more that he were able to provide his wisdom. Following in his footsteps is no easy thing. I'm sure you know the feeling as heir to Winterfell. Your Father's renown is even greater than mine own."
"Aye, I don't envy having to live up to my Father's legacy," Robb agreed. His Father would always be remembered in the histories of Westeros as one of the men who helped to bring down a ruling Targaryen dynasty. Robb had never sought any such notoriety, only to be a respected leader of his people when he became the Lord of Winterfell. Now though, his name would be linked with the death of Robert Baratheon until the end of time. Robb only hoped that he could control how that story ended.
The drawbridge was down, allowing them passage over Riverrun's imposing moat. Any army seeking to lay siege to the castle would certainly not have an easy time of it. The gate was raised as they approached and entered into what had been his Mother's home. Soldiers and stewards moved frantically around the courtyard, but many stopped to get a glance of the newcomers and the two large direwolves that had just arrived.
Edmure was off his horse quickly, handing it over to a young steward. Robb followed his lead, as did the others. Edmure looked down at the two direwolves in uncertainty. "I cannot speak to the preference of northern wolves, but they may be more comfortable in the Godswood rather then a stuffy keep. It's just that way," Edmure directed.
Robb was not sure whether it would make any difference to the wolves, but he was sure it would likely put his Uncle and his Uncle's men at ease. He knelt down in front of Grey Wind and ran his hand over the beast's head gently. "Go to the Godswood, boy," Robb requested. "I'll come see you after we're settled." The wolf took off, followed quickly by Ghost in the direction that Edmure had shown. Robb was sure he heard several shrieks in the distance as the wolves became familiar with their new surroundings.
As they walked into the keep's Great Hall, Robb was surprised to see Jason Mallister seated at a table reviewing what looked to be several maps. The Lord of Seagard looked up and was swiftly to his feet. "Robb," the man greeted. "I'm pleased to see that you made it out of King's Landing."
"Thank you, Lord Mallister," Robb answered.
"I do wish you would have said something while we were still in the Capital," Lord Mallister fretted. "We could've been of assistance to you."
"I have little doubt you would have," Robb assured, "but the risk was already too great. We were remarkably fortunate to escape with our own lives."
"But you did survive," Edmure said, taking a seat at the table, and not in the Lord's seat. "And brought with you the truth of Lannister deceit and treason. The question now is where do we go from here."
"Have you had word from my Father?" Robb questioned, eager for his Father's guidance.
"We received a raven yesterday," Edmure responded. "Lord Stark has gathered a host of his bannerman and marched to the Neck. He was camped at Greywater Watch. Maester Vyman sent an owl to Lord Reed as soon as we saw you approach."
"Greywater Watch," Jon repeated. "By the time he receives the raven, packs camp, it will likely take him two or three days at the least to make it here."
"That's without taking into consideration he has to cross the Twins," Lord Blackwood remarked. "Walder Frey never makes anything easy."
"I'll send him another raven," Edmure sighed. "Though I doubt Ned Stark will have any patience to suffer that old fool's stubbornness."
Just then a large man with long white hair and beard entered the room. His cloak was striped in red and blue, and he wore a chest plate that did little to hide his considerable belly. It was clear from his expression that something was amiss.
"Lord Edmure," the man exclaimed as he came further into the hall, "Maester Vyman has received ravens from Lord Vance and Lady Whent. The Lannisters are on the march." The man handed two pieces of rolled parchment to Edmure.
"This is Ser Desmond Grell," Edmure introduced the new visitor to Robb and the rest of the group. "He's been my Father's castellan for many years." Edmure then began to read through the messages from Wayfarer's Rest and Harrenhall.
"Well?" Robb implored after his Uncle had taken a good time to read each of the notes.
"Lannister forces are gathering at the Golden Tooth," Edmure relayed. "Lord Vance saw banners from Ashemark and Sarsfield as well. His best estimate was that they had a force of six to eight thousand strong, but he could not be certain."
"And what of Lady Whent?" Lord Mallister pressed.
"She says a force led by the Kingslayer has gathered just south of Harrenhall. She will not be able to hold the castle."
"We won't be able to do anything about Harrenhall," Ser Desmond concluded. "We should consider it already lost."
"True," Edmure grimaced. "The more concerning fact is that apparently Jamie Lannister has Baratheon and Tyrell men in his host as well. She says it is a considerable force."
Robb looked back to Margaery and Loras who were obviously disheartened that their Father was continuing to back the Lannisters. "What of your brothers and grandmother?" Robb inquired. "Do you believe they would stand behind the Lannisters?"
"No," Margaery declared. "Not if they knew the truth."
"And the only word they have likely had came from our Father or from the Lannisters," Loras added. "He's probably convinced his bannerman that Margaery has been abducted."
"We cannot risk sending a raven, though," Margaery stated. "There is no way of knowing whether it would ever reach Grandmother, Willas or Garlan. Not everyone in Highgarden is loyal."
"I will go to Highgarden then, and tell them myself," Loras pledged.
"Trying to ride through the Riverlands or Stormlands would likely be suicide right now," Lord Blackwood advised.
"I believe my house could be of assistance," Lord Mallister offered. "We could put you on a ship out of Seagard that would have you to Highgarden faster than riding. I've just sent my son back to prepare our forces, so he will see that you are taken care of."
"I will go prepare my horse now. Thank you Lord Mallister," Loras finished, heading for the exit to the hall without pause.
Margaery walked up behind Robb and spoke softly in his ear. "I am going to see my brother off," she explained. "I do not know how long it will be until I see him again."
"Of course," Robb agreed, caressing her arm. "I will see you later."
Once the two Tyrells had left the hall, the talk turned back to the impending Lannister threats.
"I think it would be advisable to have Lord Piper and Lord Vance strike quickly against the western force," Edmure stated, though Robb could tell the man was anything but confident in his assessment.
"Forgive me Uncle," Robb began, "I won't pretend to know more about these lands than you, but if Lord Vance and Lord Piper were to attack now they would be at a complete disadvantage." Robb walked over and pointed down one of the maps laid out on the table. "Right now, the Lannister army is at the Tooth, surrounded on both sides by mountains we cannot transgress. Attacking them there would force us to funnel our soldiers into the pass. There would be no room to maneuver and we would be picked off one by one. Not to mention, while our men are in the pass, the Lannisters could send men down from the Hornvale to surround us. That would be a massacre."
"What would you suggest, Nephew?" Edmure asked.
"I know it may not seem ideal, but we need to draw them away from the Tooth. Instead of having Lord Piper and Lord Vance advance their men, have them withdraw back towards Riverrun."
"Retreat?" Ser Desmond asked, confused.
"A strategic retreat," Robb explained. "Leave just enough men in Wayfarer's Rest to repel a siege for a short time. Hopefully, the open path will entice the Lannister forces to seek a prize. At the same time, the Tully army will combine with the Vance and Piper forces and swing around between the two castles. Their forces will be mid-siege when we strike at them."
"It's a solid plan," Lord Mallister confirmed, "though it does hinge on the Lannisters laying siege to Wayfarer's Rest."
"True, that would be the ideal outcome," Robb nodded. "However, we would not be at any disadvantage if they marched passed it. We would just have to meet them in an open field if that were the case."
"My guess is that Adam Marabrand will be leading them," Edmure noted. "My knowledge of him says he will try to take the castle. I think it is a good plan Nephew. Ser Desmond, please start preparing the men. I will send ravens to Lord Vance and Lord Piper."
"If I may?" Robb looked beside him to where Jon was standing. His brother had stepped towards the table and was looking down at the map as well.
"Of course, what do you see Brother?" Robb encouraged.
"An opportunity," Jon teased. "If the Lannisters fall for the lure, then we will be attacking from the south, and will be drawing their attention south as well. Which means that there would be a chance to hit them from both sides, well three sides really if you include the defenders in the castle."
"How so?" Edmure asked.
"Send a force of cavalry along the Red Fork," Jon demonstrated on the map. "Then have them execute a delayed attack until the Lannsiters are engaged with our combined force. It could be a devastating strike to the rear of their line."
Robb looked down at the map, considering the plan and agreed with Jon's assessment. "I think it would work. Uncle, if you would provide the men, I would volunteer to lead the rear assault."
Edmure instantly looked uncomfortable. "Robb, not that I don't have faith in you, but I think it would be more prudent for you to remain here and wait for your Father's arrival. I would have a hard time explaining that I sent his son into battle if you were to fall."
Robb would not be deterred. "Uncle, these men, your men are defending me and my honor as much as they are the Seven Kingdoms. It would not be right for me to hide behind these walls while they went off to die. I will fight."
Edmure looked like he would continue his objection, but shook his head and relented. "Fine. Your Mother will ride me down for this, but fine."
"The question remains, what to do about the force at Harrenhall," Lord Mallister reminded.
Lord Blackwood stepped forward. "We may not be able to defeat them, but we can delay them at least, hopefully until Ned has brought his men to reinforce us. Though I take no pleasure in it, I will ride to Stone Hedge now and meet with Lord Bracken."
"I will send ravens to Darry and Maidenpool instructing them to send their forces north to combine with your own," Edmure promised. "Good luck."
Later that night, Robb found himself in the comfortable room that his Uncle had provided. Jon, Theon, and Gendry sat with him at a table, working hard at finishing a jug of wine. They sat in relaxed silence before Robb could no longer hold his tongue.
"I know I may be wasting words, but none of you have to ride out tomorrow. This is my fight."
"Fuck that," Jon growled, finishing off his cup. "You're my brother, and I'll be damned if I let you ride off on your own. Anyway, you dragged my arse all the way to King's Landing to live with those fuckers, and now you want to deny me a chance for some revenge? I don't think so."
"Lord Stark sent me down here to protect you, I can't rightly stay behind," Theon muttered. "Plus, anything that pisses off that little blonde fuck Joffrey is an opportunity I would not miss."
They all turned to look at Gendry, who still looked as though he had no idea what he was doing in luxurious chambers in Riverrun. Robb, deciding that the young man needed some answers, looked at his other two drinking companions. "Jon, Theon, why don't you head to your chambers. You'll need proper rest before we leave tomorrow. I need to have a talk with Gendry." The other two nodded, standing up, but not before Theon grabbed the remaining wine. Robb turned back to Gendry when the door closed.
"Gendry, I know what I'm going to tell you will be hard to believe, but you must know that it is the truth."
Gendry still looked uncertain, but nodded. "Alright, I'm listening."
"You are the son of Robert Baratheon," Robb disclosed, bluntly.
"What?" Gendry gawked, leaning back in his chair. "I'm just a bastard from flea bottom."
"Aye, you're a bastard, Gendry, I cannot deny that. But you are the son of the late King."
"How can that be?" Gendry begged.
Robb shifted uncomfortably in his chair. "It is well known that Robert was not a faithful husband, Gendry. There is no delicate way to say that he laid with many women. I can't speak to the circumstances of how he met your Mother, but there is little doubt that you are almost the exact image of him. Jon Arryn found you, and he did his best to look out for you because Robert would not."
"And it cost the Hand his life?"
"It did," Robb sighed. "You are a threat to the Lannisters. You are the son of the King, while Joffrey and Tommen are not."
"You saved me by taking me from the Capital," Gendry realized.
"Yes. Robert Baratheon was my Father's friend, and Jon Arryn was like a Father to both. My Father would have done the same for you. You will have a place in Winterfell if that is what you desire, whether you fight with us tomorrow or not."
"I appreciate that m'lord," Gendry responded. "I have no where else to go, so I suppose it would not hurt to see the North."
Robb smiled. "I won't lie, it's bloody cold, but to a Northmen, it's the most beautiful place in Westeros."
There was a knock at the door then. The door pushed open, revealing Margaery, adorned in a long blue cloak. Gendry stood suddenly, seeing that Robb's attention had shifted.
"I'll just excuse myself," Gendry noted. "Goodnight, m'lord, m'lady." The blacksmith exited the chambers quickly without another word or waiting for a response. As soon as he was gone, Margaery shut the door and put the lock in place.
"Loras is on his way to Seagard," Margaery advised, walking further into the room and leaning against Robb's table.
"He will be fine," Robb comforted. "Loras is a great fighter. He will make it to Highgarden and speak sense to your family."
"I know," Margaery agreed, her look intense. "My Grandmother will not let our House become a shield for the Lannisters." She moved closer so that she stood directly in front of him. "You are leaving me to go off to war tomorrow?"
"Aye," Robb said, his eyes set directly on her own.
"You could die tomorrow?"
"Aye."
"Then I best give you an incentive to return to me whole, Robb Stark." As soon as her words trailed off, she reached for the tie around her neck. She pulled slowly and the string unraveled. Then the cloak fell away to reveal nothing but expanses of beautiful pale skin. Robb looked on in pure amazement, as Margaery stood completely bare before him. Her breasts were utterly perfect, her stomach taught and leading down to the tuft of brown hair between her legs.
Any sense of propriety or honor that Robb had in him melted away when Margaery's cloak hit the ground. He stood from his chair and crashed his lips to hers, Margaery eagerly responding. Robb's hands traveled up her sides until they each caressed one of her firm breasts. Margaery moaned at his touch, prompting his hands to travel down to the soft skin of her backside. He cupped her bottom, lifting her up easily so that her legs locked around his waist. They struggled over to the large bed, Robb laying her down onto her back. She looked a complete vision lying naked in the middle of the great feather bed.
Robb practically ripped his shirt off, then his pants, and then he was suddenly as nude as her. He lingered over her, kissing down her stomach while his hand explored her center, feeling her excitement. Unable to wait any longer, he settled between her legs. They stared deeply into each other's eyes as Robb pushed forward and entered her for the first time. Each whispered the other's name as they became one, wolf and rose.
Minutes, maybe hours later, Robb was not sure, he lay behind her, the most content he had ever been in his life. She was curled into his body, and he could feel the entire length of her. Her breathing was soft and steady but he could tell that she was still awake.
"Promise me you will come back to me?" She breathed.
Reaching up, he pulled her long hair to the side and traced his lips along her neck. "I promise," he answered. "No one could stop me from coming back to this exact spot again."
"Good, then my incentive worked."
Robb laughed. "I have a confession. The incentive wasn't necessary. I was going to come back for you no matter what."
Margaery turned around so that they were facing each other. "So you mean we don't need to do this anymore?" she asked mischievously.
Robb growled and flipped her onto her back suddenly, pinning her to the bed with his weight. "So maybe a little more incentive is necessary."