Chapter 5: Finding the Blackfish

"Where the hell is my uncle going?"

Robb and Richard stepped into a clearing, following the signs of a massive march they believed to be the garrison of Riverrun led by the Blackfish.

"I'll be damned if I know, Your Grace, but one thing's for certain, he sure must have a good reason for leading us on this wild chase"

Robb laughed, breaking up his usual stoic demeanor at Richard's jest.

"He had better, Richard. He's taken us past Pennytree, past Mudgrave, and even past what's left of Fairmarket, thank the old ones there was a ford there we could cross. He seems to be heading straight for the green fork even though there are no options save for the Twins to his left or the Ruby ford almost a fortnight's march to his right. Has he gone mad?"

"Wherever he's going, Lord, he's moving at a rapid pace and isn't leaving many signs behind for us or anyone else to follow."

They made their way through the dense forest, following the recent large-scale march. The forest floor was littered with trampled leaves and broken branches, evidence of the army's passage. They moved quietly, their senses heightened, and their weapons at the ready. As they pressed deeper into the forest, the sounds of nature surrounded them—birds chirping, leaves rustling in the wind, and the distant trickle of a nearby stream. The atmosphere was serene, and in that moment, Robb forgot the predicament that laid before him, content to savor his surroundings rather than look ahead. After a couple hours trek, the forest eventually gave way to a small meadow bathed in golden sunlight.

The meadow stretched out before them, its vibrant green grass swaying gently in the breeze. The air carried the scent of wildflowers, adding a touch of sweetness to the atmosphere. Tranquility enveloped the meadow, but the pair remained vigilant and focused, their eyes tracing the winding path that led them deeper into the heart of the forest. Robb's mind raced with thoughts of his uncle's intentions. The Blackfish was renowned for his tactical brilliance, and Robb trusted his judgment implicitly. But the mystery of their journey remained, and it gnawed at him. What could drive his uncle to deviate from the expected path, leading them on this winding course through unfamiliar territory?

Richard broke the silence, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "Your Grace, don't doubt your uncle's strategy, he was the most brilliant strategic mind I ever had the privilege of witnessing and judging by the decisiveness he took in leaving Riverrun, he hasn't lost his touch. After all, if he had stayed and waited for the Freys and Lannisters to converge upon him, that castle would've been his tomb?" Robb paused for a moment before responding. "It's not that I doubt him Richard as much as I am frustrated that I cannot gauge his intentions." Richard nodded, his gaze fixed on the distant tree line. "Whatever the reason, we must trust in his wisdom. He has fought valiantly for House Stark and the North. If anyone can guide us to victory, it is him." Robb agreed, his determination unwavering. "You're right, Richard. We have come too far to doubt him now. Our only choice is to press on and discover the truth behind his unconventional path."

Then Robb continued on a different tangent, "Speaking of my Tully uncle, you speak of him as if you knew him well."

Richard shot him a quick glance then let out a chuckle, "I should have known that question would come, my lord. As you know from what those Frey's said, I served as the head of the Tully household guard for over 20 years. During this time, I fought alongside your uncle and your grandfather as well as your father in both Robert's Rebellion as well as that failed war that Balon Greyjoy foolishly started. Your uncle was a great warrior but his true abilities were in his uncanny capability to command the forces under his command to victory."

Robbs eyes shone full of interest in what Richard was saying and as the Bracken noticed this, he continued.

"During Robert's Rebellion, Lord Hoster decided that I would be of more use protecting Brynden as he was more likely to be in combat so I joined him at the front near to the end of the war when Robert was preparing to push south to engage Rhaegar."

"This was after the Battle of the Bells?"

"Yes, your Grace. After I joined your uncle, we were given orders to scout ahead and come back with reports of both the size and composition of Rhaegar's forces. We set out about 30 men strong, intending just to ride past the Trident, scout, and return in about a week. We found Rhaegar's army about three days later, massive, but comparable to the size of our own. After we collected a rough headcount, we prepared to return but Brynden had other ideas. He told us that he had noticed that Rhaegar had a habit of disengaging from the main army with his personal guard to survey locations ahead. Brynden told us that it was up to us whether or not we wanted to try an ambush and said we would be up against his guard numbering around 50 if we agreed. We unanimously did as to all of us, the potential glory and fame from ending the war right there trumped the death we faced.

That morning, we laid a trap for Rhaegar and his men ahead in a shallow creek in front of the army, laying caltrops in the water disguised by sand and mud and setting up crossbows facing the location. Brynden positioned us to attack from three sides and even though we faced nearly 2 to 1 odds, we felt confident with the element of surprise on our side. Rhaegar fell exactly into our trap, lulled into a false sense of security by his reports that Robert was so distant, and our ambush commenced.

We tried desperately to cut through his guard and nearly accomplished so, killing many of his guards. I was fighting one of Rheagar's bodyguards when I slipped in the creek, exposing myself to my enemy. Your uncle came riding through and had the opportunity to attack Rhaegar who was exposed, having fell of his horse and only one man protecting him, however instead of going after him, he rode right to me, cutting the soldier down before he could drive his sword into me. By the time, I had gotten to my feet and Brynden had wheeled his horse around, Rhaegar and the remnants of his guard were gone. I still think about that moment to this day, how your uncle could have had eternal glory and his name in the history books but chose one of his soldiers instead. He is a great warrior and even better tactician, but the trait that I admire most about Brynden is that even through all the peril we faced, we set out on that scouting mission 30 men strong and we returned 30 men strong."

Robb said nothing for more than a few seconds, his mind racing from the story Richard had just told him, he had so many remarks about what he had heard, so many questions, instead Robb asked one.

"Richard, I don't mean to sound insensitive to you, but wouldn't it had saved more lives for my uncle to go after Rhaegar instead of the man you were fighting, I mean think of all the men that died at the Trident fighting in that battle."

"No offense taken, your grace. Truth be told, that question has haunted and caused quite a few sleepless nights for me as well. The way I justified it to myself is that who would have known if Brynden would have succeeded in killing Rhaegar. I asked him about it much later and he told me that he didn't make a decision, he saw one of his men in distress and reacted. To him, there was no choice to be had."

"If only all men were as noble, Richard."

Then Robb was reminded of the 2,000 men he had put under Lord Bolton's command to fight a battle he knew they had no chance of winning, a sacrifice for the relief of Riverrun. His mind drifted to a dark place and Robb questioned if he was even half the man his uncle was. Perhaps, Robb's father, Ned would have been ashamed of his son for leaving men to die like he did. Richard noticed Robb's shift in demeanor and he spoke no further and the two men walked in silence and a dark mood hung over them as Robb questioned himself.

As they ventured deeper into the meadow, the sounds of nature accompanied them—a chorus of chirping birds, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the distant babbling of a nearby brook. The journey took on a dreamlike quality, with time appearing to slow and the weight of their purpose settling upon their shoulders. Hours turned into days as they navigated the forest, carefully avoiding any signs of civilization. The absence of human presence weighed heavily on them, fueling their curiosity about the Blackfish's motives.

Each night, they made camp under a starry sky, engaging in lengthy discussions about strategy, loyalty, and the future of the North. Evening after evening, Robb seemed content with the silence as he battled himself internally, heavily in doubt with his abilities. Days turned into weeks as they persisted on their journey, their faith in where the Blackfish was leading them driving them forward. Along the way, they encountered remnants of war—burned-out campsites, abandoned wagons, and signs of skirmishes. Finally, after what felt like an eternity of tracking, they found themselves standing at the edge of the Green Fork. The wide river flowed swiftly before them, presenting a formidable barrier to their progress. But as Robb's eyes scanned the surroundings, they caught a glint of something unusual—a faint shimmer in the distance.

Curiosity piqued, Robb led Richard towards the source of the glimmer. As they approached, their pace quickened, their hearts pounding with anticipation. And there, hidden amidst the lush foliage, they discovered a weathered stone tower that stood at the river's edge, strange chains jutting into the river. As they ventured closer, Robb noticed a mechanism tucked away within the tower's walls, massive wheels with chains coiled around them. Covered in moss and rust, it appeared as though time itself had kept its secrets locked away. Eager to uncover the mysteries of the tower, Robb and Richard cautiously approached it. A ladder jutted up the side of the tower to the top where there was an opening.

Robb looked at Richard, "Let's get to it, finally time for answers."

Richard nodded and started up the ladder, Robb right under him. The ladder creaked and swayed as they scaled up the tower, causing adrenaline to course through Robb's veins as he got higher and higher. Thankfully however, there was no collapse and they made it to the safely. They stepped into a small room with a massive winch hulking over the furniture inside.

"This is exactly what my uncle was marching towards, this is how he crossed the fork without needing the Twins."

"I told you, Your Grace. He's always a step ahead."

"Indeed, he is"

Robb looked more closely at the chains receding into the river. He then stared across the river, seeing the glint of chains hidden in a thicket of trees and bushes, the location of the other tower supporting the bridge.

"They must have set up this bridge with opposing towers, both of which would pull up a hidden bridge, that's why the towers are so concealed, so only a select few can use it"

Richard nodded his head in agreement.

"Seems about right"

"It would be impossible for us to cross them because there is no one on the other side to help raise the bridge"

The Bracken hermit looked at him with a humorous glint in his eyes.

"I realized as such a while ago, my Lord, I have an alternative idea but I'm afraid you won't be too fond of it"

"Whatever it is, seems we're out of options anyways if we want to continue after my uncle"

"Very well then, I think we should raise the chains on our side as high as possible to where they are only a couple feet from the surface of the water, jam the winch, and use the chains as a hold to pull our way across the water."

"That's suicide, Richard"

"Not as dangerous as being caught by the force that is likely a day behind us, pursuing your uncle"

"What about Greywind, it's not like he can grab onto the chains."

"Send him to find a suitable ford of his own to cross and then find us. He found you on his own, he'll do it again."

"I'm not sure about this Richard, is there no other way?"

"Robb, I understand your reservations, this is a difficult decision, but you will have to make far more difficult choices in the future if you want victory."

"You're right as usual Richaed, give me a couple minutes with Grey Wind before we start"

"Meet me down at the bank, your Grace, make sure you've steeled yourself mentally for what we're about to go through."

Robb nodded and Richard took his leave, heading down to the river.

Then Robb turned to Grey Wind, kneeling down to rub his ears and pet him. Robb enjoyed the feel of Grey Wind's fur running through his hands for a long, extended moment, grateful for the companionship that his direwolf had constantly provided him.

"Oh, i'm sorry to be leaving you again so soon Grey Wind. If all goes to plan, we should be back together within the week."

The overgrown wolf stared at him with wide, sad eyes, seeming to understand Robb's words. Grey Wind rubbed up against Robb one more time and then bound off into the forest as Robb watched him disappear into a thicket. Robb sighed and turned towards the river. The real challenge awaited him.

"That's a long way we have to go, submerged in those rapids"

"It won't be easy, my Lord, but your uncle awaits close on the other side."

Robb stepped forward. "Let's get to it, then"

"Let me be the one to go first, I need to test the waters for you"

"Very well"

Richard stepped forward, his eyes fixed on the churning waters of the Green Fork. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the daunting task ahead. With a determined look, he grasped the chains that hung just above the surface of the water and braced himself. Slowly, he began to make his way across, using the chains as a lifeline. The force of the rushing river tugged at him, trying to pull him off balance, but he pressed on, one careful step at a time. Each step was a battle against the current, the water splashing around him as he fought to maintain his grip. Robb watched anxiously from the riverbank, his heart pounding in his chest. He felt a mix of fear and admiration for Richard's bravery.

The minutes stretched on, feeling like an eternity as Richard inched his way across the treacherous river. Finally, after what felt like hours, Richard reached the other side, his clothes soaked and his face flushed with exertion. He turned back to Robb, a reassuring smile on his face. "It's possible, Your Grace," Richard called out. "Difficult, but possible." Robb felt a surge of determination as he prepared himself to follow in Richard's footsteps. He tightened his grip on the chains and stepped into the water, feeling its icy grip against his legs. The current tugged at him relentlessly, but he pushed forward, focusing on the distant tower on the other side. The water roared around him, threatening to engulf him at any moment. He struggled to maintain his balance, his muscles straining with the effort. The adrenaline coursed through his veins, heightening his senses and sharpening his focus.

With every step, the distance between Robb and the tower closed. He could see Richard waiting for him, his outstretched hand ready to pull him to safety. At long last, Robb's feet touched solid ground on the opposite bank. He stumbled forward, gasping for breath, his entire body drenched and shivering. Richard was there, clasping his arm and steadying him. "You did it, Your Grace," Richard said, his voice filled with admiration. "We've crossed the Green Fork." Robb looked back at the raging river they had conquered, a mix of relief and triumph coursing through him. He knew that their journey was far from over, but in that moment, he felt a glimmer of hope.

"We should press on before we lose the daylight"

"Not so fast, my Lord, we need to start a fire to get warm and dry our clothes."

"Alright, on one condition Richard."

"Which is, Your Grace."

"No more my Lord, Your Grace, or My King. Please call me Robb, just Robb."

A smile came across Richard's face as if the Bracken had heard a great jest.

"Very well Robb"

Robb smiled.

"Thank you, now let's get warm before we freeze to death."

The two began making preparations for a fire, digging a pit, collecting wood and a couple choice flints to create sparks with. Within no time, they had a large fire roaring and the two companions warmed up quickly.

As the crackling flames enveloped them in their warmth, Robb and Richard took solace in the comforting heat. They knew they couldn't afford to stay idle for long, but the respite allowed their bodies to recover from the arduous crossing of the Green Fork. Just as they were about to discuss their next move, the sound of rustling bushes and approaching footsteps disrupted the tranquility of the night.

Robb and Richard drew their swords but not before exchanging worried glances, their eyes shifting back in forth, searching for the disturbances. Suddenly, a group of heavily armed men emerged from the darkness, their faces angry and their weapons at the ready. Robb and Richard prepared to fight even if hopelessly outnumbered. Then, Robb noticed the Tully trout sigil adorning their ambushers' shields.

"Richard, these are my uncles men."

"I noticed, Robb, but it won't matter if they kill us before we can even see him"

"I can tell them I'm the King"

"They'll likely just brand you crazy or a trickster and slit your throat."

"You got a better idea, Richard?"

"Of course I do, Robb. Drop your sword, we're going to surrender"

Robb shot him an annoyed but trusting glance.

"Fine"

Richard nodded to Robb and then turned to the soldiers getting closer and closer.

"Please, we surrender, we bear urgent information for the Blackfish himself."

The men quickly surrounded Robb and Richard, overpowering them with their numbers. "Bind their hands and blindfold them," a gruff voice commanded. Strong hands seized Robb and Richard, swiftly tying their hands behind their backs and covering their heads completely with rough cloth. The world turned dark as they were led forward, stumbling and struggling to maintain their balance. After what felt like an eternity, the group came to a halt.

"He says he has urgent information for the Blackfish."

"Alright then, bring him in."

Robb heard the sound of a tent opening swooshing open and a few moments later, he was pressed onto his knees and the blindfolds were roughly removed. Robb blinked, his eyes adjusting to the sudden flood of light. Before him stood the imposing figure of Brynden Tully, the Blackfish. Bryndens face was stern, awaiting whatever information the captives had to tell, and then he noticed the face of his nephew and his face melted into a medley of confusion, shock and most notably sheer and utter joy. Seconds later, Robb was pulled into an embrace with his uncle as the courtiers in the tent bore looks of confusion. Brynden pulled out of the embrace of his nephew just long enough to say the words,

"The King has returned from death"