Blood and Winter
Chapter XIV
"I will no longer be party to this farce!" Aegon roared angrily as he shot to his feet. The sudden action meant that the guards of all parties drew their blades in preparation for an attack. But it never came leading to a standstill as Aegon glared hatefully upon Robb who remained seated and dismissive. "Just as I suspected, you never had any intention of negotiating! This was nothing more than a cruel joke to delay me so that your army could get in position! Well, I will not allow that to happen! War is what you want and war is what you shall get!"
Glances were shared all around, Robb and Aegon both looking to the strangely quiet Daenerys Targaryen. The Mother of Dragons had been deep in thought all day, rarely saying a word or seemingly aware of either of their presences.
"Queen Daenerys, aunt." Aegon beseeched her. "Join with me, we are Targaryen's by blood and so we should not allow this pretender to rule over our Kingdom, he has no right. We have the legitimate claim."
Robb scoffed loudly. "Claim? Right? I find it strange how naïve you are."
"Naïve?"
Aegon's anger didn't dissuade and Robb didn't flinch in the face of it. "Yes, naïve." He replied simply. "You think being King is a right, it's not, it's a responsibility. I became King not because of ambition, but because of other people's actions. I have not demanded respect and loyalty; I have earned it, something you have not. And if we talk about right, then as a descendant of the Kings of Winter who ruled as Kings while you were but sheep farmers, then I have far more right than you, boy."
"Call me boy one more time." Brynden chuckled lightly from beside Robb who for the first time, cracked a slight smile. The Blackfish was right, Robb and Aegon were similar, or at least the old Robb and Aegon shared similarities. War had changed him though, hardened him and Aegon didn't have that.
He still had a chip on his shoulder, hating it when people called him, "boy."
"Well, boy." Robb continued, Aegon's hand resting upon the handle of his blade. This action caused many people to react defensively. "Despite your naivety, I'm glad you brought up claims because you seem to have made many."
"King Aegon." Illyrio whispered, just quiet enough for only those closest to him to hear. For a moment, Aegon looked ready to charge across the field and start the war early on but that was the last thing they needed, especially when things had already become derailed. The plan had been to bring an end to this meeting, causing Daenerys to panic and force her to make a quick decision.
Improvisation was not her strongest suit; she had made many mistakes during her time in Essos and then she had come here. By leaving the negotiations, they could leverage this along with the familial connection to gain her alliance or at least a non-aggression pact.
But Robb Stark seemed to have found the weak spot that could easily enrage Aegon and he was digging into it like an open wound. Unfortunately for them, it was working perfectly as now everything had broken down.
"You need to calm yourself." He continued, Jon also standing and placing a hand upon his shoulder.
"He's right, we can't let him rattle us." Jon whispered, everyone watching them try to calm the Young Dragon. The young man in question glaring murderously out at the Wolf King who sat calmly within his chair, openly staring back at him, a small smirk playing upon his lips.
Ragging his shoulder free, Aegon sat down upon the chair, foot tapping anxiously upon the floor. "What claims are you talking about?" He demanded, voice dripping with frustration at the situation he was in. His anger still on the brink of murderous rage as he looked upon the smug, self-assured look upon Robb's face, that little smirk making it ten times worse.
"A few, let me start with one that Queen Daenerys brought up yesterday. About my aunt and Prince Rhaegar, namely the fact that he kidnapped and raped her." Those words earned a reaction, Aegon unsurprisingly was one, but another was Jon Connington.
"You lie!"
"Do I?" Robb questioned. "My aunt despised Robert Baratheon for his whoremongering ways. Why would she then elope with Rhaegar Targaryen, a married man with two children?"
"That proves nothing of your claim, Rhaegar was a good man and a better King! Better than you will ever be, better than anyone!" Jon roared out.
Robb was far from perturbed by this response. "So, you say. However, The Mad King didn't start out mad, but later developed into it. Who's to say that Rhaegar didn't develop some madness of his own?"
"My-"
"But by all means, let's move on to another one of the claims you've made." Robb interrupted Aegon, instead pressing on further, not letting up for even a moment. "Your claim of being Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell. During the Sack of Kings Landing, the Mountain entered into your nursery and dashed your brains across the wall then raped Elia Martell with your blood still hot upon his hands. Miraculous, is it not, that you're still alive?"
His words were sharp and clear, cutting straight to the point and leaving everyone quiet. It was like a taboo had been broken by speaking of what happened on that day and the words he used to describe it, were meant to insight their imagination.
It was Illyrio that kept a calm head. "The King was spirited away from Kings Landing before the Lannister army arrived." Despite his words being calm, Illyrio was far from pleased with the way things were going. This was not what he, nor anyone had expected from a Stark of all people. But one look at his advisors told them who had helped him do what he had this day.
"So, you knew of the Lannister army arriving beforehand?" Robb continued, no smile appearing on his face but his eyes showing his happiness. "Then why did you not spirit away Princess Rhaenys and Elia Martell also?"
That sharp response made more than few look towards Oberyn Martell to judge his reaction. His face was set in stone, nothing showing, but the tight grip he held upon his spear was telling.
"Do you know what I think? I think that you're not Aegon Targaryen, but a boy from Lys taken and raised to believe you were." Aegon looked baffled by this news, Illyrio sitting back into his chair. "After all, everyone knows that Lys was a pleasure city for the Valyrian Freehold with many of its residents still having the blood of the Old Valyrian Dragon Lords. It'd be quite easy to take a random child off the street that bore a passing resemblance to Rhaegar. Considering Jon Connignton's reaction, he wouldn't be able to properly judge the situation for himself and bought the lie you sold him. So eager to believe he had a connection his beloved prince once more."
Silence.
No one said a word.
No one even knew how to respond to that claim.
"But that also raises the question of how you got the Golden Company to fight for you. Are you really a resident of Lys that was taken and raised to think he was a Targaryen? After all, we all know that the Golden Company fought for the Blackfyres." He need not say anymore considering that many around were smart enough to connect the dots, but he carried on anyway. "In which case, very smart of you to convince everyone you're a Targaryen when you could very well be a Blackfyre."
"Ironic even." Everyone looked towards the Imp who had much like everyone, sat quietly and watched the proceedings until now. "Especially if we take into consideration what you said about Lys. Young Aegon could not only be not a Targaryen, but also not even a Blackfyre. He could just be a boy from Lys that has convinced everyone he is what they want to be to gain their loyalty."
"And it couldn't have worked better for him." Garlan added in. "As a Targaryen he could gain the loyalty and support of the Targaryen loyalists. As the son of Elia Martell, he gains the support of Dorne. As the son of Rhaegar he could leverage that to gain the support of Queen Daenerys and her Dragons through a familial connection. Then as a Blackfyre, he gains the loyalty of the finest Sellsword Company in Essos. All things considered, it's perfect for you, isn't it?"
Robb rose to his feet at that moment. "You're right, Aegon if that is who you really are. This negotiation is over with. I do not negotiate with men who hold no power and war shall be my answer to you. So, return to Kings Landing and witness my army take it from you before you even get a chance to defend it."
"Queen Daenerys, forgive me for the poor showing that has resulted from your offer of good faith." Robb apologised to the Mother of Dragons. "But I'm afraid we all have many things to think over and I did not lie when I came here to negotiate. War is not what I want and if you're still willing to negotiate, I will be more than willing to hear what you have to say."
Leaning back into his saddle, Robb looked calmly across the fields to the two Targaryen forces. The negotiations had come to a disastrous end, neither side had gotten what they wanted and now war was on the horizon once more. The last thing that those who had experienced it wanted to go through once more.
Robb was far from concerned though, it seemed that despite not being allied with him, Daenerys wasn't against him for now. This meant that his only concern at this point in time was Aegon Targaryen and his forces.
A sizeable force, but he held one far larger. 'Though it won't do to underestimate him, Blackfish has noted that he and I share some similarities. I won't fall prey to the same mistakes that caused the downfall of my enemies.' His success was by no small part due to his understanding of battle tactics and strategy. Ever since he was young, he had held a fascination for war and had read countless tales, stories and reports of battles from all different ages of Westeros, even a few from Essos as well.
Perhaps it was that along with an inane talent for war as some people had whispered that enabled him to gain success. However, Robb also knew that luck and the mistakes of his enemies were also a cause for his success as well.
His enemies had underestimated him at every turn during the beginning, believing him a green boy with no knowledge on war. What they hadn't known was that throughout his youth, Robb had followed the stories of the greatest conquers and military leaders of Westerosi history and used their success and mistakes to inform him on how to win.
Yet after so many years of war, Robb had learned how to not rely upon luck and his enemies' making mistakes. Now he relied upon himself and his allies to make their own luck. That would be his greatest advantage and Aegon's downfall.
After all, Robb had come too far to fail now.
He wouldn't and couldn't fail now, not with everything on the line.
"A messenger raven has been dispatched." Blackfish said from beside him. "Randyll Tarly will know long before they arrive back at Kings Landing. Lord Paxter Redwyne will be arriving and cutting off Blackwater Bay and ensuring no more supply ships will be arriving from Essos."
"Aegon Targaryen must have rich supporters, more than likely that Illyrio Mopatis. He looks like a man of great wealth and riches, if so then they may have more supporters in Essos that we're not aware of." Garlan murmured, all watching as Aegon Targaryen and his forces finally left the field. All had stayed where they were, perhaps waiting to see what the other forces would do and more likely see what Daenerys would do.
However, she had seemed set on remaining where she was, not making her intentions clear.
"In that case, we need to find out how much food they have and how long their siege will last." Garlan continued. "Though we can guarantee that Aegon will be unable to get into Kings Landing."
Blackfish nodded his head. "Randylls a smart man, he'll have scouts dispatched. The moment he finds Aegon Targaryen he'll send out a large force to capture him."
"Aegon won't be returning to Kings Landing." Robb spoke up, watching the man in question leave the area confidently. He wouldn't do so if he didn't have a plan in place, especially with a force numbering a hundred thousand besieging his capital. He'd be far more concerned if he had no plan for the future.
Unlike what many were thinking, the siege of Kings Landing would never happen, or at least wouldn't be the spectacle people thought. If he and Aegon did share similarities, then the last thing he would do was put everything on a siege, especially when the effectiveness of his greatest weapon, the elephants would be vastly reduced.
No, if he was in Aegon's position, defending Kings Landing would be the last thing he wanted to do.
"Then what will he be doing?" Garlan asked.
For a moment, Robb went silent, considering his options carefully. "Send a raven to Lord Blackwood, tell him to abandon his search for Petyr Baelish and prepare for an assault against the Riverlands once more. Tell him to march towards the Bay of the Crabs."
"The Bay of the Crabs?"
While Garlan seemed confused by the choice, Blackfish seemed to have caught on. "You think Aegon intends to sail up Widow's Ford?"
"I do."
If Tytos Blackwood was able to get into position and prepare for Aegon's arrival upon the Widow's Ford like he expected, then victory would be theirs. After all, Lord Blackwood was a master of defensive warfare, enough so that not even Robb felt confident in victory should Tytos be able to properly set up his formation. If Aegon did sail up Widow's Ford, then not only would Tytos be in a strong defensive position, but Aegon would also be in a weak position as well.
Either way, Robb was confident in victory.
War.
Daenerys knew that was coming to Westeros once again, just like she had always expected. Though she had never imagined it would go quite like this, but perhaps she had just been naïve in thinking that she would be welcomed with open arms. This wasn't like Essos where cities were rampant with slavery who were grateful to be freed.
'And now I must make the decision on what to do with my future.' She thought, looking around her cabin upon her ship. They had arrived mere hours after the negotiations ended and all parties went their separate ways. However, they had yet to set sail back for Dragonstone, Daenerys uncertain on what to do.
Hearing a knock at her door, Daenerys sighed. "Come in." She called, stroking her three children's scaled bodies as they slumbered peacefully.
"Your grace." Ser Barristan greeted. "I ask that we please set sail from here. We are exposed and far too close to Robb Stark's lands. War is now upon us and I ask that you give the order to sail for Dragonstone. There we will be able to better defend ourselves from an attack, and we can watch as our enemies weaken themselves."
Daenerys however noticed the look upon his face. "You do not wish for war."
"I wish for you to be Queen, as is your right." Ser Barristan responded. "But I do not think it will be easy. The Imp is right, you are in a unique position that gives you a great deal of bargaining power. I've seen the destruction your Dragons can bring about and I know that they have been becoming more unruly as of late."
Daenerys frowned at the truth of his words, even if she didn't like to admit it. Her children were growing and they no longer listened to her like they once had. She was lucky that once well-fed, they become more docile.
"If we go to war, it's possible that you may not be able to control them when we need control the most." He warned. "If that happened, you would not be seen as a saviour, but as a tyrant. The thing you want least in the world is to be viewed in such a fashion. Negotiation with both Kings failed, but both want you as their allies, use that and gain what you've always desired. Or do as the Imp said, leave Westeros and focus upon Essos. There are still many slaves there that you could free."
"The Imp, has a name." Tyrion Lannister said, walking down the corridor of the bowel of the ship. "It seems, one of the Kings has no intention of waiting for you to make a decision and has come to negotiation anyway."
"Who?"
"Robb Stark."
Once more, Robb found himself in a tense and unwanted situation. Trapped within the bowels of a ship that belonged to his enemies. He possessed no large army nor many guards to protect him if things went south, he had to leave them behind in order to keep his movements hidden from Aegon Targaryen in case he attempted to do something, which he may very well still do.
Was it ideal? No, far from it.
But Robb couldn't afford to let an opportunity like this slip through his fingers. Daenerys and more specifically, her Dragons were a serious threat and he needed them on his side, not against him. Besides, he wasn't unused to taking risks with his life, he had done from the moment he marched south, always heading into the the thick of battle rather than watching from the rear.
"I must apologise for how those negotiations fell apart," Robb said, Daenerys shaking her head.
"You raised good points, things I had never considered." She explained. "Though I wish war was not the outcome, but it is what it is. May I ask, why you have come then?"
"I have come for an alliance, between me and you." The Mother of Dragons looked to the Imp, he had been right, as he had been on a number of occasions. She was in a unique situation where she could ask for a great deal, but also very little. Something she doubted she would have been able to realise by herself and not for the first time, begrudgingly had to internally thank Ser Bronn the Blackwater for convincing her to make use of him.
Robb himself noticed the look shared and wasn't entirely pleased with it. The Imp, was as he had come to learn was very smart. He was able to understand people and Robb wasn't happy with him being a part of this negotiation though there was nothing he could do to stop it. He was a part of Daenerys faction and he couldn't stop her from making use of him as she was. If he were in her position, Robb would do the same.
"What would the aim of this alliance be?" Ser Barristan asked.
Robb kept his calm, despite not wanting to openly voice the reason behind it. He still didn't know what Daenerys thought of her nephew and whether she believed that he was Aegon Targaryen or not. If she did believe Aegon then him saying his reason, may cause her to turn against him.
Ultimately though, Robb needed to take a risk. "To bring an end to this war." Not the complete truth, but not a lie either.
"To defeat Aegon Targaryen you mean," Tyrion spoke up, Robb withholding the urge to openly frown. It was for this reason that Robb didn't want Tyrion in these negotiations, he not only was smart, he also wasn't afraid to speak his mind either. "So the question remains, what are you willing to give us in return for our aid."
Robb chuckled humourlessly. "You already know my stance upon this matter, lets save us both the trouble of me repeating myself." He stated firmly, crossing his arms over his chest and looking directly towards Daenerys. "What do you want, Queen Daenerys?"
There was a pause, Daenerys looking towards Robb and judging him. She knew full well that asking for more land and any of the realms that he hadn't already offered up was not something she would get. As Ser Barristan and Tyrion had explained to her, Robb wouldn't give her anymore land in order to make sure she couldn't become any stronger.
The North was his home.
The Vale had some of the finest knights in all of Westeros.
The Riverlands were a massive trading and fishing hub and was also seeing a massive overhaul in its military structure.
The Westerlands despite having been ravaged by raids were still the richest realm.
The Reach was the biggest agricultural landscape with an even larger army.
Just one of them would make Daenerys incredibly powerful and dangerous. Which was precisely why Robb wouldn't give one of them to her. He'd keep them to himself to ensure that he held an advantage over her. Even if the lords of that land wanted to support her, Tyrion had implied that Robb despite his words, would not let them do so. As strange as it might be for a Stark, especially a son of Edward Stark to act in such a way, Robb had proven a willingness to be cunning and very much like Tywin Lannister.
So, once more Daenerys was forced to give up herself once more. "Marriage."
That singular word left Robb stomped, he looking towards Smalljon who looked as equally as surprised. "Marriage?" He repeated questioningly. "Between whom?"
"You and I." Daenerys continued. "It would ensure that neither of us could betray one another and unite us together completely."
"I'm afraid I can't do that." Robb shook his head. "I'm already married to Margaery Tyrell. I will not annul that marriage, not after everything the Tyrells have done for me in this war."
It was Tyrion that spoke this time. "We're not asking you to annul your marriage with Margaery Tyrell. We're asking that you marry Queen Daenerys as well. Hardly a difficult thing, especially for a young man like you to have two beautiful ladies like them as your wives."
Trying to appeal to the Wolf King's sexual desires was smart, but something any doubted would work. Despite all knowing that Robb married Margaery purely because he took her to his bed and then married her to not stain her honour, they all knew the context behind it. Robb had been reeling from news of the North and apparently a gift that had made him go temporarily mad with rage in a council meeting.
That act had led to him taking Margaery to his bed and then ultimately marriage. Starks were loyal and honour-bound, the chance of appealing to their sexual desire might have worked on someone like Brandon Stark, Ned Stark's brother. But on someone like Robb Stark, they weren't so sure if it would work.
"If you think that's enough for me to agree to this, then you're mistaken." He replied, proving their thoughts but that was hardly concerning.
"That's fine." Tyrion continued. "You see, we both know the reason why you want us on our side, Dragons. The destruction they can cause is vast and rightfully so, you don't want us as your enemies. We, in turn, would like to avoid causing death and destruction on the scale necessary to defeat you in battle."
"I will not betray my marriage," Robb stated firmly.
Tyrion however was undeterred, he was in his element. Negotiations like these and reading people were what he was good at. "You don't need to, as we said keep your marriage with Margaery Tyrell, but take Daenerys as your wife. The position of King is already secure in yourself, the position of Queen on the other hand is not."
Robb frowned deeply. "You're not making this marriage sound very appealing." He replied, Smalljon scoffing in agreement. Even he could see how disastrous that would be. Sure, Robb would be King, his position strong and unshakeable. But the position of Queen would be up for contention by Margaery and Daenerys, the little power struggle could actually destabilise the realm and plunge it back into war.
"You can be assured, thrusting the realm into war is the last thing we want." Ser Barristan tried to appease, though Robb was obviously still against this.
"I'm afraid you don't really have a choice." That earned a reaction, Smalljon looking outraged as he stepped forward. Robb stopped him from going further by placing his hand in the way of his path, but the act alone put everyone on edge.
There was a pause as both sides studied one another carefully before Smalljon stepped back. Despite that, the tension in the room was still palpable and after a moment, Robb looked towards Tyrion with a look that demanded answers. Tyrion would admit, it was creepy how alike that look was to one his father had, especially to see it on a Stark and from someone so young.
Trying to avoid shifting openly under the gaze, Tyrion kept on speaking. "You see, you can't give Daenerys to another member of your family because Daenerys won't accept it. However, she will accept marriage to a powerful noble such as your uncle, Edmure or Harrold Hardyng. But, if you do that, you'd be giving powerful nobles who might be convinced to rebel against you Dragons. The choice is yours, Robb Stark, take Daenerys as your second wife and we can assure you, the conflict for Queenship will not destabilise the realm as many might fear. Secondly, you won't have powerful nobles being given powerful creatures such as Dragons. Above all else, we'll be united against the pretender, Aegon Targaryen."
"And what assurance is there that you won't take this war for Queenship openly? That you won't kill Margaery Tyrell?" Over the time Robb had spent with Margaery, he had grown to care for her, the happiest moment in his life was learning she was pregnant. Even knowing from the beginning that she had come purely to seduce him, marriage to him and the position of Queen on her mind, he hadn't been able to stop himself, she was good at what she did.
Just because he knew that though didn't mean he would allow her to die. For all her subterfuge and manipulations in the past, she was his wife and the mother of his child. From a purely political standpoint as well, Robb couldn't allow her to die because of what the Tyrell's had done for him. Without their aid and supplying of food throughout his realm, he would have no doubt lost this war long ago.
"I had a hard life in Essos." It was not Tyrion that spoke though, but instead Daenerys. "I have seen things and done things myself, I'm sure you've had to do in your time here. I know I've changed from the naive girl I once was, but there are somethings within me that I won't change and won't do. Your wife, Margaery is pregnant with your child, that connection is something I can share. I lost my child, that nearly broke me. I've also seen children lost and alone, slaves without their mothers and fathers to protect them. I did not come Westeros to rob children of their parents. I will not rob your child of theirs."
There was a pause, Robb looking towards Daenerys, trying to gauge whether her words were truth. Daenerys stared back, openly looking to him, her gaze showing the belief she held in her words.
Eventually, Robb gave a short nod of his head. "Very well."
Galloping through the gates of Riverrun, a rider quickly dismounted from his horse and rushed through the muddy grounds. It wasn't raining, but it had been, the ground slick with mud that squelched underfoot.
Yet none paid the actions of this young man any heed, all too busy with their own tasks. He rushed in through the doors and straight into the keep. Up the staircase and made a beeline towards the Great Hall. The guards standing watch outside noticed his approach, moving to intercept in case of him being a threat.
"I bring news on Arya Stark!" There was a widening of the eyes from the guards, both looking towards one another before they scrambled into action. Both pulled the doors open and allowed the young man to burst into the Great Hall where a few of the lords of the Riverlands had gathered. At the head of the table, sat the leading figures of the new Stark rule, Eddard Stark, the Quiet Wolf and the father of Robb Stark, the Wolf King. To his right, sat Willas Tyrell, one of the main advisors and overseers of the kingdom as Robb fought the war. To his left sat Olenna Tyrell, the Queen of Thorns and to her left was the Queen Margaery Tyrell.
The latter three with the help of Edmure Tully had been hard at work, ensuring that the realms under Robb Starks rule could still function in times of war. The drain upon their money, food and other resources was by no means small. However, the Tyrells still worked to ensure that when the war came to an end, the impact of it would not be severe.
Oftentimes, what killed a kingdom wasn't war, but the peace that followed. During the period of war, men would be off fighting, provided food and given money for their troubles. Their families on the other hand would feel the brunt of the war, the women and the children left behind. It was only when the men returned, no longer provided food from the army rations and forced to live off the land much like their wives and children did they too feel the effects of war.
That was when mass dissension was felt which if not quelled and appeased, could lead to rebellions. It would not do to have invested so much into Robb Stark so that he could become King only to have him be overthrown within a matter of months.
But each of them turned from where they had been engaged in conversation. Willas had already given Eddard the necessary information to inform him of all the world they had been doing. It wasn't a huge amount considering the lack of resources at their disposal, but every little would help. Now with Olenna, the three were thinking upon the next steps to make, as a Northern lord Eddard had experience in working with limited resources to maximise returns.
His expertise were different to theirs and so he would be of great help in the coming months.
Margaery on the other hand was talking with Sansa, the latter placing one hand upon the very pregnant belly and feeling the baby inside kick.
However, all turned upon seeing the doors open, witnessing the young man burst into the Great Hall and come to a stop before them, bowing deeply before them. "I bring news on Arya Stark." Eddard quickly leaned forwards, Sansa gasping in shock. "She has not been found yet, however we followed the trail of horse hoofs they were heading south towards Acorn Hall. About a days march, we found a campfire, a small one."
"She's still out there?" Eddard questioned, the young man bowing his head deeper in apology.
"Then why are you here?! Find her!" Sansa exclaimed angrily.
"Riders are still searching, m'lord." The young man replied. "Lord Blackwood has already sent word to the commander of the party to meet him at Darry. He is working under orders from King Robb."
That brought a pause, all saying nothing momentarily. "You were part of the original party searching Lord Baelish, is that correct?" Willas asked, the young man nodding his head. "Then that means something else is happening. Lord Blackwood knows why we asked for a search party, the only reason he would abandon it was if Robb desperately needed troops to be moved elsewhere."
Eddard knew all that, but the frustration he felt, the anger that his daughter was still out there was palpable. Arya had always been headstrong and difficult to control, much like his sister, Lyanna in that fashion. When he had arrived at Riverrun, greeted only by Sansa he had first been a little concerned but imagined that it was no cause for concern.
It was when he looked to the Tyrells and his son's wife, the looks upon their face told him something was wrong. That was when he learned of Arya having disappeared, the biggest fear being that she had been kidnapped. But then he learned of what they had discovered, food being taken from the kitchens, daggers and a suit of chainmail from the armoury as well as a horse from the stables.
Arya hadn't been kidnapped, she had run away to be with him and Robb, no doubt to fight.
As relieved as he felt to know that she was not kidnapped, the worry and concern still persisted. A world ravaged by war was no place for a young girl, let alone one as important as Arya. But she was young and naive, unable to see the consequences of her actions and that's what scared Ned more than anything.
"Has there been any news from Lord Blackwood or Robb?" Ned turned to Willas who shook his head.
"Nothing."
"They intend to keep it secret." Olenna summarised. "The fewer people that know, the less chance there is of his plans being let slip." Not all that impressive, even a fool could realise that, but it was certainly not what she would expect from a Stark.
Willas nodded his head. "Robb has raised concerns about the loyalties of some of his lords, especially those that were previously Targaryen loyalists. He still doesn't trust them."
"Smart. I don't either." Olenna murmured quietly, looking around at the few of the lords and castellans gathered within the Great Hall. She didn't have control over the Riverlands and its spread of information like she did in the Reach. Knowing everything about the lords was something she liked, a comfort and her own suit of armour. Yet in the Riverlands, she didn't have that control just yet and it put her at a disadvantage.
She didn't like being at a disadvantage.
"I want more riders dispatched from Riverrun personally. I want them to head for Acorn Hall. I also want a raven sent to Lord Randyll, inform him that Arya has run away from Riverrun and to be on the lookout for a young girl." Eddard ordered firmly, both Willas and Olenna sparing a glance.
Revealing Arya's disappearance to Lord Blackwood was one thing. The man was very loyal to Robb Stark for his actions in the war against the Lannisters.
However, Lord Randyll was another thing entirely. He was a stern man who respected strength, it was why he had followed the Tyrells for so long despite the actions of her son. Randyll respected the strength of Olenna Tyrell. He also respected the strength and skill of Robb Stark, but if he learned of Arya's disappearance right under their noses, who knows what impact that could have?
"Of course, we will dispatch riders immediately," Willas replied, rising to his feet. "I'll also write a letter, informing Randyll Tarly."
Tapping his finger anxiously against the table, Jon looked out across the table filled with maps and parchment holding reports from all over the North. At one time, it had all been a little overwhelming, the work he had helped Joer Mormont do seeming easy in comparison to what he was doing now.
Yet it was something he was gradually getting used to.
Right now, as it had been for many months, the North was at a tentative peace. Neither side could move and were all focused on hunting for food so that they could feed their armies. All things considered, out of all the sides stationed in the North, he and the Stark loyalists were in the strongest position. They controlled the most land and while not possessing the largest force, had a much more stable position.
Stannis Baratheon was the next biggest threat, he was stationed at Castle Black as well as a few more keeps along the Wall. However, he was facing resistance from the Night's Watch, they were displeased with him taking their food stores to feed his army. He also had limited places to hunt for food, Mance Ryder and his army of Wildlings acting as a buffer that stopped him. The fact that Stannis couldn't just ride out and crush them was a major problem for Stannis as he would be stuck beyond the Wall.
From reports that Sam had given him, Stannis had already launched a few expositions to force the Wildings back. Each met with success, the Wildlings seemingly fleeing and giving Stannis a hunting ground. Only for the Free Folk to return and ambush them. It was a drain upon men and resources, something Stannis couldn't afford and had since stopped.
The Greyjoys were in a few keeps along the coast, mostly concentrated further north held within Deepwood Motte and Ironrath as well as in Torrhens Square. Jon had already ordered for the food stores of all nearby keeps to be emptied ensuring that hunting would be the only lifeline the Ironborn had to feed themselves.
The Boltons were of a similar line, though they at least had the food stores of both Winterfell and the Dreadfort.
Overall though, things had reached a tentative peace, one that would eventually break at some point. It was just a matter of who would break the peace first. Jon hoped it would be them, with the negotiations going on in the south, it was very possible that any time soon he would receive news that Robb was marching north to end this war once and for all.
Without so much as a knock or announcement, the door to his office burst open and in strode Val. "I see you've returned, successfully I hope?" He questioned, no longer caught surprised by her sudden entrances. "Where's Owen?"
"Still outside, overseeing the food being brought in." She replied. "Any news yet?"
Jon shook his head. "Nothing yet, but soon."
"That's what you said before I set out with the hunting party." Val retorted and Jon frowned.
"Do you expect information to just instantly travel across the world?" He questioned. "Ravens have to travel from where they were released to here. It takes time and in a war such as this, it's very possible they could get shot down. For all we know, Robb could already be marching up north but the raven was intercepted. Patience is key."
Val didn't seem overly convinced, but pulled out a chair and sat down. "That may be the case, but this is hardly what I expected when sailing south of the Wall. Mance Ryder said we'd be joining you and your brother because you offered us the chance to live south. We all agreed because we respect Mance Ryder and he seems to respect your family. But I'm not totally convinced. Tell me, what is your brother planning to do now? Is he coming North right away or planning to wait a little?"
Jon looked to her, brow raised in questioning as he read the undertones of her question. "Are you asking me if I trust him? If so, don't insult me or my brother again. I was born a bastard and Robb always treated me as a friend and brother. He legitimised me, something I never even dreamt would happen and gave me the duty of protecting the North. I've failed where he has succeeded. I trust my brother; completely."
"Well that's all well and good, but it does very little with the situation we're in." Val would admit though that how quickly he came to his brother's defence and how sharp his tone was, it at least told her that Jon's bond with Robb was strong. Though she couldn't be sure it was the same on the other end. "But I'll ask properly now. Does your brother have a plan?"
"I don't know," Jon said. "As I said, I have yet to receive any information on what is going on in the south. Until I do it will be pure speculation."
"You must have some idea, you know him don't you?"
Jon frowned in response to that because as much as he knew Robb, that had been who he was, before the war. The Robb back then and the Robb he had heard tales about now didn't match up. War had changed him, so Jon knew it would have changed Robb as well, far more deeply as well. To say what Robb was thinking and what he was going to do next was difficult.
"If the negotiations succeed, Robb will march north and this war will come to an end." Jon stated firmly.
"And if negotiations don't work?" Val pressed.
Jon hesitated. "They won't."
It was then that Owen entered the room, a letter clutched in his hand. "News, from Lord Mallister." Quickly Jon extended his hand, Owen rushing to hand the letter over as both he and Val watched Jon read over its contents.
"What does it say?" Val asked, noticing the look upon Jon's face, already having an idea of what it might say.
"Summon the Castellans," Jon ordered. "Negotiations in the south have failed."
Nodding his head, Owen turned and left leaving Val and Jon alone once more. "I guess you should start trying to figure out what your brother is going to do now."
"As you all know, negotiations in the south have failed." Jon proclaimed, frowns being shared all-around at the news. It was hardly the most promising or wanted of things. After all, it meant that their problems in the North were still far from over. "Lord Mallister is marching south under the request of King Robb. I will be assuming command of the Northern front."
"Why is Lord Mallister marching south?" Castellan Umber asked.
Many around the room shared the same concern, Lord Mallister was a recognised and accomplished military commander. His arrival had tipped the tide in their favour and given them the position of strength they currently enjoyed. Without him, they were worried about what that could mean for their position.
"There was no explanation as to why, only that it was a request from King Robb. However, I know that Robb would not make this decision unless there was no other choice." Jon said, trying to put the Castellans at ease. "We must not forget that Daenerys Targaryen has Dragons and Aegon has the Golden Company. He would only move Lord Mallister if he believed it would bring a more speedy victory."
"So it will be up to us to maintain the peace here?" Castellan Mormont asked. "That won't be easy with the forces at Moat Cailin gone. What of Lord Bracken and the forces at Castle Cerywn, are they gone?"
Jon shook his head. "No, they are still there. Lord Mallister is marching south with two thousand men to link up with Lord Tytos Blackwood and his forces at the Ruby Ford." He explained, looking around at the displeased faces of the Castellans, Lords and Ladies. "But I would like to propose a different plan?"
His words earned many surprised faces, some concerned as well. "What kind of plan?"
"One that will force the Ironborn and the Boltons into battle against one another. One that will force Stannis Baratheon into making a move that will rob him of his position of strength." Jon explained, a small smile coming to his face, trying to showcase his confidence. "One that will make removing them from the north that much easier. What say you all?"
Those gathered looked towards one another, silently deliberating and gauging peoples reactions to the news. Jon himself watched on anxiously, trying to portray an image of confidence. He had failed before, made his mistakes, but he had learned from them and he wanted to make amends. This plan of his, it had been one he had been thinking of since forced upon Bear Island. A plan that would tip the scales even further in their favour and if possible, even earn victory over the Boltons, Ironborn and Stannis Baratheon even without the help of Robb and the armies of the south.
All he needed was the full agreement of the lords, ladies and castellans around him. "What's this plan of yours?" Val asked.
'Study him.' Daenerys thought, recounting the words of advice given to her by Tyrion Lannister. Her gaze turned to look upon her husband-to-be, Robb Stark. The tent they were in was neither large nor small, it was stained and slightly ripped in certain areas, showing that it had been used many times in the past. 'See what he does, how he acts and reacts, how he thinks and speaks.'
There was a difference, a difference in how he acted when meeting her and Aegon during the Meeting of Kings to how he acted now. There he had listened attentively, but here, he seemed to be elsewhere. People all around murmured loudly, sharing words and ideas on how they should progress.
Many wanted to march south, take Kings Landing and end the threat of Aegon Targaryen. Though the fate of her pretender 'nephew' was said in hushed tones, wary and suspicious glances sent her way. She wasn't trusted by Robb's court, just as he wasn't trusted by hers however, the difference lay in the respect. Robb's actions in the war earned the respect of everyone, hers on the other hand did not earn the respect of his court.
However, some wanted to use their new forces, her forces to march north and provide much-needed aid to rid the North of the Ironborn and Boltons. Even more so, many were worried about what Stannis Baratheon could do, he had been quiet and that worried them.
Yet Robb seemingly listened to all of it and none of it. His gaze swept over everyone and then dismissed them entirely, as he leaned back in his seat. The thick furs of his cloak rested against his cheek but hardly seemed to bother him entirely as his blue eyes looked towards the table and the map resting upon it. There his eyes began to move, flickering across the map, pausing and judging where the figurines were rested.
She didn't have a clue as to what he was seeing or planning.
But as soon as it came, Robb blinked for the first time and it was gone. Whatever he had been thinking about must have failed because he seemed displeased, lips twisting downwards into a prominent frown. A sight that many lords around the room noticed and quickly went silent mistakenly believing that he was displeased with them.
'How does he do it?' Daenerys wondered, trying not to seem impressed by how he commanded a room without so much as a word or overt movement. She could silence a room with but a simple hand being raised. Yet he hadn't even done that, just frowned lightly and lords went silent. She was not ashamed to admit that she was jealous of the presence he seemed to command.
It was then the tent opened, Olyvar Frey the former squire of Robb who entered, a letter clutched in one hand. "Your grace." He moved forwards, presenting the letter to the king who took it.
Robb silently read through the contents, careful not to let his emotions show. He didn't trust Daenerys or any of her court, they weren't even properly married, a grand ceremony apparently meant to be held at the end of the war. Garlan had correctly deduced that the intention was to imbed into the minds of the Smallfolk that Daenerys was the Queen, not Margaery by having a large ceremony held at the end of the war.
However, Robb had already imagined ploys like these would be used, just not so soon. 'No doubt a scheme put in place by Tyrion Lannister, they are a crafty family.' That was said with respect; begrudging respect.
"What does it say?" Daenerys asked, frustrated without having any knowledge of the contents of the letter. Everyone around the room may have been content to simply wait for him to speak, but not her. She may be his wife in the future, but that did not mean she would be subservient to him. Daenerys was a Queen and she would not be treated as another one of his lords.
Placing the letter on the table, Robb looked around the tent. "Lord Tarly reports that the fleet of supply ships as well as the original transport ships that brought the Golden Company over the Narrow Sea have departed Blackwater Bay. He sunk a few of them, but he estimates that Aegon has lost no more than a few hundred men. They will now be sailing up the coast, no doubt heading towards the Bay of Crabs."
Murmurs erupted once more, unsure glances shared. Why wouldn't they? They were all currently taking refuge within Maiden's Pool, the first castle of the Riverlands that laid within the entrance of the Bay of Crabs leading towards Widow's Ford. If Aegon did come towards them, they would no doubt be under siege, the castles of Dyre Den and Brownhollow were practically abandoned at this point and would not be able to put up much of a fight.
"He has dispatched thirty thousand men led by his son, Dickon Tarly to follow them. They will be sticking to the coast." Here Robb looked to her. "How long will it take for your forces to be ready to depart Dragonstone."
It was Ser Barristan that answered in her stead. "If we send a raven today, they'll depart within the day they receive it. I would say no more than three days."
Robb rose to his feet and for the first time began to move the figurines upon the map. First moving a few of the wolf figurines that had stood surrounding Kings Landing. These indicated Dickon Tarly's pursuit force. He then moved the dragon figurine from Dragonstone and moved it to Rook's Rest, joining the wolf figurine of Dickon.
He then took the wolf from Moat Cailin, placing it north of the Ruby Ford. Then the one representing Lord Tytos' Blackwoods forces that remained in the Riverlands, placing it south of the Ruby Ford.
For a moment everyone was silent, considering everything they were being shown. All watching as Robb took the dragon figurine of Aegon Targaryen, placing it directly between the wolf figurines of Tytos Blackwood and Jason Mallister. Then moving the dragon and wolf figurines stationed at Rook's Rest moved it up to cover the entirety of the Widow's Ford, effectively cutting of Aegon's retreat.
It would be a slaughter, everyone realised that instantly.
It was also nothing short of genius.
Daenerys may not have understood the full scope of it, but her advisors certainly did. They each realised that at that moment, Robb was every bit as good as the rumours and stories of him said he was. To effectively think of a counter this soon after just receiving news of Aegon's departure from Kings Landing, meant that either he just instantly thought of it. Or he had predicted that Aegon would do something like this in the first place.
None of them knew what was more terrifying to imagine.
That someone could see that far ahead as to predict the moves of a man he had only interacted with for a short time.
Or that he could think of a plan like this just on the spot.
And by the calm, confident way Robb showcased his plan, never once saying a word and simply allowing his actions to tell the plan, it made them realise it was the former. 'No wonder my father lost.' Tyrion thought, looking to the Wolf King as he began issuing individual tasks to people. 'He may have spread rumours of him being a military genius, but he never was one. He was simply ruthless and rich, leveraging people with more experience around him to earn victory. However, Robb Stark is what my father always aspired to be like, always wanted one of his children and grandchildren to be like.'
Cold, ruthless, cunning and calculated.
Everything his father would have loved to see amongst his own children.
Funny that he found it in a Stark of all people.
Even more so that said Stark was directly responsible for his death.
So, another chapter done and with it, the negotiations come to an end, Aegon is now at war with Robb. However, Robb has agreed to a marriage with Daenerys ensuring her alliance with him and has already put plans in motions to stop Aegon Targaryen from performing a daring counterattack. Now for those of you who are worried about the pairing, don't be, this isn't your typical harem where everyone loves everyone for some bullshit reason. No, Daenerys is marrying Robb to gain the position of Queen and intends to perform a political battle against Margaery to get it. Robb himself had to agree to the marriage in order to avoid the vast amounts of destruction that her Dragons could cause and to avoid giving a powerful lord such powerful weapons.
So, remember, this is not your typical harem and there's still a lot to come from it. As we learn though, Daenerys is willing to go ahead with the marriage because as far as she is aware, she is barren. She came to Westeros to avoid war and the speech she gave to Robb to convince him is the truth. A succession crisis is the last thing she expects and if she wins the political war, it won't be or at least in her eyes. But again, the reason she offered this was because she can't have children.
At the same time, the search for Arya continues, she has not been kidnapped, instead having escaped Riverrun on her own like the wild child she is. Her destination is as of yet, unknown but it's believed she's heading south towards Kings Landing believing Robb to be there. However, the search for Petyr Baelish has been called off and he is now free to do as he pleases, what consequences will that hold?
We get a little more information about what's happening in the North with Jason Mallister marching south and Jon once again being given total command of the northern forces. He now puts in place a plan that will force the Ironborn and the Boltons into conflict while also denying Stannis additional keeps to create a safety net. I am aware I've made serious mistakes with Jon's character, heavily influenced by the mess that was his character from the final few seasons of the show. But this is the start of me making amends.
Finally however, Robb showcases just how far ahead he is in this war and also proves to Daenerys and her faction that yes, he is that good. A little segment from Tyrion about how Robb was the child Tywin would have wanted but in a funny twist of fate, was not only born in a rival house, but was also responsible for his death. At the same time, he puts in place a plan to slaughter Aegon in what was his attempt to tip the scales in his favour.
Anyway, now that that's done, let's get on with the questions:
George Cristian810: You're absolutely right, except a knight will still fear. Fear leads to hesitation and hesitation can lead to death. If you strip a knight of his armour and give him the same equipment as an Unsullied or vice verse, the Unsullied will win. They do not feel fear and are trained purely to be a fighting force. They are much like the Spartans in which they rely upon unity and the ability to work together as a unit to emerge victorious.
But you're right, an armoured unit of knights while be highly effective against the Unsullied. And no, Aegon won't. As you can see, Robb's already hinted at what Aegon is planning and has already set the plans in motion by using the fleet of supply ships to help ferry his men. There is no pulling it out of my ass as I've already clearly set up how it will happen.
Frisc0: Right now, the main focus is upon the war. They don't have much impact just yet. Arya will be coming into play soon, however Sansa and Ned don't have a huge role in the story just yet. Don't worry though, that role will arrive eventually. I have plans for them both.
Anyway, if you have any other questions, please don't be afraid to ask and I'll answer them as best as I can.
