Chapter 20

Robb stared at the letter in his hand, reading it again and again. He had trouble believing his own eyes.

"The Lannisters want to negotiate," he finally said and look up, meeting his brother's gaze.

Jon's expression was serious as he nodded cautiously.

"Does it say why?"

"Joffrey is dead," Robb murmured. "Tommen is the king now."

Jon's eyes widened in surprise. "Joffrey is dead?" he repeated, trying to absorb the shock. "How did it happen?"

Robb shook his head. "The letter doesn't say."

Jon nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "What are they offering?"

Robb looked at the letter again, as if to make sure he hadn't missed anything. "They offer Sansa's safe return along with independence for the North."

Jon frowned, trying to gauge Robb's reaction. "It sounds almost too good to be true. What do they want in return?"

"Our immediate withdrawal back to the North and a guarantee that we keep our groups there. Also, the safe return of all our hostages."

"Anything else?"

Robb pressed his lips together.

"They want to seal the alliance between our houses with marriage agreement."

"What kind of marriage agreement?" Jon asked cautiously.

"It doesn't say. But as a gesture of good will, Tywin Lannister offers to negotiate with me personally. Face to face."

Jon's expression grew even more serious. "Tywin Lannister, coming to negotiate in person? That's significant. It could be a sign of how desperate they are."

Robb nodded, the weight of the decision pressing heavily on him. "It could also be a trap. We need to consider this carefully."

Jon stepped closer, lowering his voice. "We should prepare for the possibility of betrayal. If we agree to meet Tywin, we need to ensure our safety. And we must make sure he's genuine about Sansa and our independence."

Robb sighed, glancing around the tent at the maps and battle plans. "You're right. We'll have to bring our best advisors into this. Mother, the Greatjon, and the others need to hear this and provide their input."

Jon nodded in agreement. "I'll gather them. In the meantime, think about what you want from this negotiation. We need to be clear and unwavering in our demands."

Robb appreciated Jon's steadiness. "Thank you, Jon. I'll think it through. I don't trust Tywin Lannister, but this could end the war and save countless lives. It would give us what we've been fighting for."

As Jon left to summon the advisors, Robb stared at the letter once more. The possibility of ending the war, bringing Sansa home, and securing the North's independence was almost too much to hope for. Yet, Tywin Lannister's cunning was legendary. This offer could be a strategic move to weaken their resolve. Robb's mind raced as he also considered the implications of the marriage agreement. His thoughts inevitably returned to Serafina. She was Tywin Lannister's daughter.

Soon, the tent was filled with the key figures of the Stark army: Catelyn, the Greatjon, Jon, and others who had proven their loyalty and wisdom. Robb addressed them, reading the letter aloud and explaining the situation. As he finished, a tense silence filled the room.

Catelyn spoke first, her voice calm but firm. "This offer could bring us everything we've been fighting for, but we must be cautious. Tywin Lannister is not known for his generosity."

The Greatjon grumbled, his deep voice resonating in the tent. "Aye, we can't trust them. We need guarantees. If we agree to meet, we should do it on our terms, with safeguards in place."

Jon nodded in agreement. "We should propose neutral ground for the meeting. Somewhere neither side has the advantage. And we need to prepare for any possible betrayal."

Robb considered their words. "I agree. We'll demand a neutral meeting place and set strict conditions for the negotiation. We'll also ensure our forces are ready to respond to any treachery."

Catelyn looked at her son, her eyes filled with a mix of hope and concern. "This could be our best chance to end the war and bring Sansa home. But we must be vigilant."

Robb nodded, his resolve hardening. "We'll proceed with caution. Jon, draft a reply to Tywin. Outline our terms: a neutral meeting place, assurances for Sansa's safe return, and guarantees for our independence. We'll make it clear that any deceit will be met with swift retribution."

Jon nodded, already formulating the letter in his mind. "I'll get started on it right away."

As the group dispersed, Robb felt a mix of hope and trepidation. This could be the turning point they needed, but it would require careful navigation and unwavering resolve. The stakes had never been higher.


"I am so sorry, Jaime," Serafina said compassionately. Perhaps she hadn't liked Joffrey, but she was still sorry for her brother.

Jaime was quiet for a moment before replying.

"Do you know how it happened?"

She shook her head.

"No, I'm sorry. Robb Stark only told me that he is dead, and Tommen is the king now." She hesitated for a moment before continuing. "I think something big is happening, Jaime. They are preparing for negotiations. I heard that father will be there himself."

Jaime's eyes widened in surprise. "Father himself? That is big."

Serafina saw Jaime's mind racing. He was concerned as well as distressed.

"Perhaps that only means they're taking this very seriously," she tried, although she didn't really believe her own words.

Jaime gave a small, humorless laugh. "Father doesn't do anything halfway. If he's coming personally, it means there's more at stake than we know."

Serafina nodded, feeling a chill run down her spine. "Do you think it's a trap?"

Jaime shook his head, but his expression remained troubled. "It's hard to say. Father is ruthless, but he's not reckless. If he's willing to negotiate, it's because he sees a benefit in it. But that doesn't mean it will be straightforward or safe."

"Then we must be cautious," Serafina said softly, her voice steady despite her growing unease. "I don't know what Robb Stark will decide, but I hope it leads to peace."

Jaime gave her a thoughtful look. "Robb Stark is a young king, but he's not a fool. If he's considering this, he knows the risks as well. And you, Serafina, need to stay alert. You're in the middle of a dangerous game."

"I know," she replied, meeting his gaze. "I'll be careful. And you... be safe, Jaime. Whatever happens, we must protect our family."

Jaime's expression softened for a moment. "We will. No matter what, we look out for each other."

Serafina was lost in her thoughts as the guard escorted her back to the King's tent. She was relieved to have shared her concerns with her brother, but the weight of the situation pressed heavily on her. Obviously, there was more to the whole thing than she knew. How had Joffrey died? What was happening in the war? What would happen if the negotiations failed?

She sat on her bed and picked up a new book she had just received yesterday. Robb Stark had been more than considerate toward her ever since sending her to his brother's tent. There had been no staring or touching, only polite formality. She wasn't sure what to make of that. She looked up as he entered the tent.

"Your Grace," she greeted him.

He replied with a brief nod.

"Lady Serafina."

"Is everything alright, Your Grace?" she asked after a moment of hesitation. "You seem tired."

He sat at the table, eyeing the papers in his hand.

"Yes, my lady, everything is fine."

She nodded, not daring to push further. There were so many things she would have liked to ask, but she knew he wouldn't give her any answers. A silence fell upon the tent as she picked up her book and he concentrated on his papers.

"Do you hate me, my lady," he asked suddenly, managing to surprise her completely.

Serafina's eyes widened at the unexpected question. She closed her book slowly and looked at him, considering her response carefully.

"No, Your Grace," she replied, her voice calm and measured. "I do not hate you."

Robb looked up from his papers, his gaze steady and searching. "Then what do you feel towards me?"

Serafina hesitated, gathering her thoughts. "I… I am grateful for all your kindness, Your Grace, I truly am. I believe you are an honorable man, but I am also aware of the situation we are in. My family and yours are at war. It's not an easy position to be in."

He nodded, seeming to appreciate her honesty. "I understand. This war has put us all in difficult positions."

She waited for him to continue, but he didn't. Not before moments of silence.

"I want you to know that whatever happens, you will be safe. I will make sure of that."

She swallowed hard, truly fearing the worst now.

"Thank you, Your Grace," she murmured.

With that, he turned back to his papers, and she returned to her book, though her mind was far from the words on the page.


"Lord Tywin" Robb greeted the head of House Lannister. The older man observed him closely, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"The Young Wolf," he stated. "You have quite a reputation."

"I could say the same to you."

Tywin Lannister's lips curved into a slight, humorless smile.

"Indeed. Let us dispense with the pleasantries, then. We both know why we are here."

Robb nodded, his expression resolute. "We are here to discuss terms of peace and the possibility of an alliance."

Tywin inclined his head. "Precisely. You have read our proposal?"

"I have," Robb replied. "And I understand the terms. The return of Sansa Stark, independence for the North, and a marriage alliance to seal the agreement."

Tywin's gaze remained steady. "Yes. Your sister's safe return in exchange for your withdrawal from the South and a guarantee of peace. The marriage alliance would ensure our houses are bound together, preventing future conflicts."

Robb's jaw tightened slightly, but he maintained his composure.

"And what would this marriage alliance entail?"

"The marriage between yourself and my granddaughter, Myrcella."

Robb wasn't completely surprised; he had considered this possibility beforehand.

"Your granddaughter is too young," he stated. "I am however willing to accept your daughter, Lady Serafina."

Tywin's expression remained stoic, though a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes.

"Lady Serafina is not a bargaining chip, Lord Stark. She is my daughter."

Robb met Tywin's gaze steadily. "And she is of an age suitable for marriage. This union would solidify our alliance and ensure peace. It would show that both houses are equally invested in this truce."

Tywin's lips pressed into a thin line, considering the proposition. "She has been your prisoner."

Robb's voice remained firm. "And she has been treated with respect and dignity under my care. I offer her a position as the Queen in the North. This marriage would be a true alliance, not a simple exchange of hostages."

Tywin's gaze was sharp, assessing. "You are asking a great deal, Lord Stark."

"And so are you," Robb countered. "You want the North's withdrawal and peace. You want our support for Tommen's reign. This is a way to ensure that our families are irrevocably linked."

Tywin considered this for a long moment before nodding slightly.

"Very well. However, since she has been in your camp for a while now, I must insist that she will be examined by a Maester of my choosing and by one of your choosing before the wedding. I am sure that neither of us wants any… ambiguity."

Robb's jaw tightened, but he nodded, understanding the implications of Tywin's request. "Very well."

Tywin's expression remained neutral. "Good. This will ensure clarity and prevent any further complications. Then there is one more thing."

"And what would that be?" Robb asked, retaining his composure.

"The matter of your heir," Tywin replied. "You will be the King in the North and therefore I must insist you to name a temporary heir for yourself in case, gods forbid, something were to happen to you before my daughter gives you a son."

Robb's eyes narrowed slightly as he considered Tywin's request. He had anticipated many demands, but this one was particularly pointed.

"Very well," Robb said after a moment. "I will name Jon Snow as my temporary heir. He is my half-brother and has proven his loyalty time and again."

Tywin raised an eyebrow. "A bastard as your heir? That is… unconventional. I assume you want him legalized?"

Robb met Tywin's gaze steadily. "That makes no difference to me. Jon has the respect of our people and the capability to lead. His lineage may be questioned, but his loyalty and honor are beyond reproach."

Tywin considered this, his mind undoubtedly working through the implications.

"Very well. Jon Snow it is. This will be formally recorded as part of our agreement. Oh, I almost forgot. Naturally, he will wed my daughter, if he were to become the King."

Robb felt a momentary jolt of surprise but quickly masked it. Tywin's maneuvering was relentless, always seeking to solidify the Lannister hold on power through every possible avenue.

"Your daughter?" Robb repeated, maintaining his composure. "You mean Lady Serafina?"

"Indeed," Tywin confirmed, his expression unreadable. "You did offer her the position as the Queen in the North and I wish her to retain that position even if she would become a widow."

Robb felt a wave of emotions crash over him: surprise, confusion, and a touch of anger. Tywin certainly lived up to his reputation.

Robb took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding.

"I see your logic, Lord Tywin," he began carefully. "However, this decision affects more than just political alliances. It involves the lives and futures of those we care about."

Tywin's expression remained stoic, but there was a glint in his eyes.

"Indeed, which is why it is imperative that we think ahead. Serafina is my daughter, and I wish to ensure her future stability and security. Marrying Jon Snow in the event of your untimely demise will not only maintain the alliance but also provide her with a strong, capable husband."

Robb nodded slowly, recognizing the calculated brilliance of Tywin's proposal. It was a move that ensured the Lannister influence in the North, regardless of what happened.

"Very well," Robb said finally, his voice steady. "I will agree to this condition. Serafina will marry Jon Snow if I fall before producing an heir."

Tywin gave a slight nod of approval. "Good. Then we are agreed. I will have the necessary documents drafted immediately, and we can proceed with the examinations, marriage arrangements and exchange of hostages. I will also take care of your brother's legalization and prepare the delivery of my daughter's dowry. It is quite significant."

Robb nodded, managing to control his racing mind.

"I would also like my nephew, Ser Alton, to accompany you to your camp," Tywin continued. "With your permission, he will explain the situation to my daughter."

Robb considered Tywin's request. It was reasonable to have someone from the Lannister side explain the situation to Serafina, ensuring she understood the political nuances and felt reassured about her future. He didn't dare to even think about what to say to her in private yet.

"Very well," Robb agreed. "Ser Alton may accompany us. I want this transition to be as smooth as possible for Lady Serafina."

Tywin nodded in approval. "Thank you, Your Grace. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated. Now, shall we discuss the details?"