What if Robb Stark Learned The Truth and Declared for Jon Snow

What if Rob Stark learned the truth and declared for Jon Snow? Let's explore the depth of it in the video. Rob stares at the letter in his hand, trying to make sense of everything happening. This had been sent to him by his father, very likely the last letter he had written before he was arrested. Though Rob does not want to believe it, they could be his last words to him. And those same words shatter the world around him. It reads the text over once again to make sure he's not hallucinating. It is a warning that the royal children are not truly the kings. Instead, they are children born of incest from Cersei and Jaime Lannister. As I write this, I intend to confront them on this matter. What happens next should be taken as evidence of this claim. Rob pauses to take that in. He knows exactly what happened, and it is difficult to take this as anything other than a confirmation. His father would not press such a claim unless he had proof. But that is not even the most shocking part. Given all this, succession would be thrown into crisis. While the logical choice would be to support Stannis Baratheon, that is not what Ned advocates. There is another candidate, one whose claim runs far older than Stannis or Robert John. Though I have long claimed him as my bastard, this was a falsehood to defend his identity. In truth, the boy you know as your brother is in fact your cousin, John Targaryen, the last son of Rhaegar. I had kept this hidden for fear of what would happen to him should this become public. Rob's entire body goes rigid as he reads that explanation once again. He feels the world spinning around him and threatens to lose balance. If this is truly the case, then it changes everything. For a moment, he wonders if his father might have truly gone mad like the Lannisters claim. Everything seems so hard to swallow. And yet, why would he lie about that? What was there to gain? He stands up and shakes his head. No, this was no idol claim made to justify a power grab. This was the word of Eddard Stark, and his word was as good as gold. Mr. Leuen is called and told to send letters to the wall with orders to bring Jon Snow back if he has not yet taken his oath. When Jorah Mormont hears this, he is incredulous. Though Jon Snow had not yet sworn an oath, it is highly irregular for a lord to recall a man sent to the wall, especially when he makes such a wild explanation. Some of his men suggest rejecting it, but others are not so certain. However, the vote is tied and they bring the matter to Aman. At last, the maester requests that Jon come to him. He does not interrogate him as some believe. Instead, the aged steward of the watch simply touches his face, feeling it before declaring that Jon is free to go, though not before reminding him not to forget the people who allowed him to leave. In a few weeks, Jon finds himself back in Winterfell. But the castle is even more bustling than before. As he enters the great hall he grew up in, he sees northern lords, both big and small, seated along the tables. Rob is at the high seat, leaning on a long sword. Grey wind by his side. When he rises, the Northmen follow, and when he bows, so do they. Jon marvels as men and women, some decades older than him, bend the knee before him. Your grace, what is the meaning of this, brother? What was this letter you sent me? It sounded like madness. It sounded like madness when I first read it, too. But it was also written by your father, your uncle, I mean. And when has he ever been known to lie about anything? He said he said we would talk about my mother when he returned to the north. If what he wrote is true, he may have been waiting for me to join the Night's Watch when my claim wouldn't matter. True. But now he claims the Lennises have sired children of brother and sister. There is no clear successor. That doesn't make me a king. I have never led armies before, never ruled over lands or administered justice. Then there is a first time for everything. I believe in you and so do these men. Jon looks around seeing the faces before him. Glover, Mormont, Umber, and Karstark. The men who had sworn service to his father now offer to do the same for him. He stands up straighter and nods. >> If that is the case, then I shall strive to be worthy for the north. >> With that, the gathered lords all raise their swords and cheer his name. They vow to help free Ned and march south with them. Despite that, Jon cautions them from declaring their intention right away. So long as the Lannisters hold Ned, Jon announces that he will be willing to set aside his claim if they can secure his rule. And so the army marches out under the command of Rob, but marching under the banner of Jon Snow. It immediately becomes clear that this was the smart decision as when they reach the twins, Walder Frey extorts a marriage pact out of Rob. Jon immediately realizes that the old lord would have gladly done the same thing if he saw him as anything more than a simple bastard. Despite that initial trouble, fortune soon favors them as Rob splits his army and wins a surprise victory at the Whispering Woods and then at Riverrun, smashing the Western Lannister army. Although Tywin manages to evade Roo's trap, he is forced to retreat southward to Harrenhal. And that is when they receive news that Ned Stark is dead. Although kept as a prisoner by the Lannisters, Joffrey executes him as punishment for treason. When Rob finds Jon, he is in Riverruns Godswood, punching a tree repeatedly. Blood stains the bark as his knuckles are cut up. Yet Jon continues to strike it, feeling his entire body shake with emotion. When his brother places a hand on his shoulder, he pulls away. John, some [ __ ] king I am. I can't even keep my own father alive. If this is what kinship is, then who would want it? I see now why King Robert got the way he is. Why would he do it? Father, Lord Ed was a valuable hostage. He could have ended this war by trading him for the king slayer. Because he's a spoiled brat who does not feel the weight of the crown on him. It is just a shiny trinket to Joffrey. He does not care what it requires of him. I have been lord of Winterfell for less than two months and wonder how far the held it for so long. Every day I wake up and worry if I shall bring down everything he's worked for. If I am the Stark who destroys our name, I can't imagine what responsibility you carry. A part of me feels angry, you know, at father for giving me this task. I've longed for the chance to rule, to prove myself. And yet, here it is, handed to me on a silver platter. And now I feel like it was given some cruel gest. John, I know father would never do this to me. But I feel that way. And every day I wonder why. Because he saw something in you. He lived with Joffrey for months, which means he believes he would be a better king than any of these southerners. Do you know why I haven't given up my lordship? Why? Because I cannot imagine giving that responsibility to Bran or Sansa or Arya. Duty. Duty. It's what father would have done. And what does your duty tell you? That Joffrey would be a terrible king and the realm would suffer from him. When he emerges from the godswood, Jon looks around and declares that he shall take up the mantle as king of the seven kingdoms and press his claim. These words are immediately met by cheers not just from Northmen whose grief remains fresh, but also from the riverlords whose anger at the Lannisters for attacking their lands marks them as eager allies. Their recent victories have emboldened them, and the Northmen are quick to declare Jon lord of the seven kingdoms and Rob, the ruler of Winterfell. They become known as the White Dragon and the Young Wolf, respectively. >> My lords, my grief for these recent events runs just as strong as any of you. But we must not let our anger blind us to this situation. Jon Snow has perhaps the weakest claim. He is not among the royal family and a few months ago he was about to be a man of the Night's Watch. They will not accept him. What proof do we have that they will accept such a claim? >> We have made Stark's word. That is good enough for me, my lady. If those damn lions and stags can't accept that, then they can piss off. They offer me vengeance for my loss in the pain the Lannisters have caused. I'll ride for that. They didn't burn my home down or sit back as Lannisters rampaged unchecked. >> If you all truly feel this way, then I will not oppose it. However, you must also be aware that should we go through with this path, it will also mean that the chances of winning new allies will be gone. Neither Stannis nor Renley will accept this. >> A few think a bit more soberly after hearing this. It is a possibility that they've all considered, but in the end, they decide that it is all worth it. However, it is just as Catelyn had predicted. After they declare independence, the other three kings respond immediately, all roundly condemning the North and the Riverlands for raising this boy king and claiming to be a Targaryen. Not only do they denounce him as a fraud, but they even call it treason that he would raise up a banner of the dragons once more. This makes it impossible to ally with any of them, though they are not completely devoid of allies. Dorne watches this declaration with great interest and immediately sends ambassadors to begin secret negotiations with Jon and Rob. The Red Viper is especially impressed at how they managed to out Tywin Lannister and sees the chance of vengeance right before them. They offer to invade the Reach should things come to war against them and to send troops through Maidenool in exchange for an alliance and for Jon to marry Ariana Martell. Oberin shall also remain as an adviser to the new king. With the Red Viper serving on their council, they begin strategizing their next move. When it comes to the war tactics, he sees he has little to teach them as Rob has a gift for war. Where he does offer assistance, though, is navigating the political landscape. The simple fact is, if you truly wish to claim the Iron Throne, you will need more than the North and the Riverlands, you must contend with the Lannisters in Harrenhal and the Baratheians to the south. Even with Dorne, it shall be difficult. I understand that. And we've sent letters to the Iron Islands in the Veil. I plan on sending Theon Greyjoy to Pike in order to No. That boy must remain here. He's proven his loyalty, though. If anyone can convince Balon Great Joy, it's him. You did not fight in the Great Joy Rebellion, Young Wolf. The old Kraken was never the sentimental sort unless it came to brooding over old sllights. His son will not be able to convince him of anything except convincing him to stay with his long ships. But that is only as a hostage. Send him letters and prepare one or two phrase. The seven knows we have those to spare. Tell him he will receive his son as soon as his first long ships strike at Lannisport. And keep close watch of your coast. Jon in particular listens to the Red Viper. Impressed at how well he knows and predicts these things. He speaks as if he is planning a war, but instead of moving armies, he is moving letters and promises. The Red Viper follows by sending Catelyn to the Veil to secure the aid of the Knights of the Veil. Rob himself will campaign in the west to draw Tywin Lannister from Harrenhal. Jon intends to go with his brothers and ride by his side, but Oberin pulls him back and shakes his head. >> No, my lord. Your battle is not in the Westerlands, but here. The Lannisters do not just hold Harrenhal. They also hold many river castles and keeps. You must help the lords here free it. But Rob is my brother. He needs me by his side. You are a king, your grace. Your job is not to ride after one of your lords. It is to lead. The riverlords may have offered you a crown, but they can just as easily take it away if you do not prove capable of defending their homes. They do not know me. They are not my people. The Northmen are then make them yours. Reluctantly, Jon agrees and rides alongside Oberin and a picked force of rivermen who Edmir was happy to provide when he heard of their strategy. Alongside them, Roose Bolton sends a small contingent of his Northmen, giving Jon an army numbering around 3,000 men. As they ride out, Jon glances over at the Dornishman, who rides this army with the same certainty as if they were his own countrymen. You seem to know quite a bit about politics. You don't survive years in a viper pit without learning how not to get bitten. Then I would like to learn how to avoid getting bitten. Smart boy. All right, then. Let's get to work. They start with the surrounding castles, riding out and crushing the Lannister forces occupying Stonehedge and Ravenree Hall. As they drive off these westernmen, the Red Viper spreads rumors between both houses of how much support their rival is offering. Unwilling to be outdone, Janos Bracken and Titus Blackwood both eagerly promise more, whether it be gold, men, or supplies. By the time Jon departs, his wagons are close to bursting. In Seagard, while the Malister lands remain untouched, they recommend Edmir send Theon there as an extra insurance policy should the Ironborn be proven deceptive. In exchange, Lord Jason uses his town to funnel supplies from the north to rebuild the other houses. All the while, the Red Viper has Jon ride through villages, using gold provided to him to help them rebuild, while Jon assists in burying the dead and escorting Lannister prisoners. Jon watches the Red Viper closely. He listens to how Martell explains the tricky art of diplomacy and has him observe how deals are struck and how to get the most out of any negotiation. While a student at first, the White Dragon finally gets his chance in Derry. After Ghost finds a column of Lannister riders under the command of the mountain, they are attempting to steal a march on the castle which had just been captured. This time Jon gets to see how the Red Viper is in combat. In contrast to the cool, collected man he is at the negotiation table. Oberin is wild and fiery in battle. He whirls around and cuts through men at arms with ease, leading the charge as Ghost and Jon are close behind. The direwolf leaps out and knocks a man off his saddle while his owner knocks another man off with his lance. The mountain was not expecting such heavy resistance and tried to rally his men. All he can do is best a hasty retreat as Oberin smashes against his lines again and again each time they try to reform. By the time they are driven back, the mountain is bleeding from several wounds and and he's lost too many men to properly launch an attack on Derry, leaving Jon and his army with the field. Morale soarses and men are excited. It was Jon's first victory against the mountain, no less. When the young lord of Derry comes to greet them, they are showered with praise, and stories of this begin to spread through the Riverlands. It also helps with Jon's reputation. The Daries were a proud supporter of the Targaryenss back in the day, so having a descendant of the dragons is a great boon to them. Jon notices this and is quick to capitalize on it. He meets with their young lord and reminds them that neither the dragon nor direwolf forgets their allies. He uses this as proof of his claim and his willingness to help his bannermanmen. They help send word to other Targaryen loyalists in secret, telling them how Jon is very much the dragon reborn. Other houses like the mutants, Goodbrooks, Ryers, and even the roots all hear of this, as do the houses beyond the Riverlands and even beyond the narrow sea, including Yrio Mopantis. The Red Viper watches all of this and considers the possibilities. The people are excited by this success, my friend. A few more victories like that and the Lannisters might take your claim more seriously. With a few more victories like that, we might hopefully be able to win the war. Not without allies. Dorne is ready to march. But against whom? The Baratheonss. We lack the ships to transport an entire army. Although I am building strength in Maiden Pool, but it will take time. In the meantime, we must consider the possibility of reaching out to allies further away. Who is left? We certainly can't trust the Ironborn. I mean, beyond Westeros, my friend. The dragons still leave in exile. We might have a chance of convincing her to join us. Taurus Targaryen. You're referring to her, aren't you? But she is a runaway without an army. The last I heard, her husband died, and his Kalisar is fractured. Those who remain number a few hundred at most. Still, you must ask yourself how she was able to survive for so long. Her husband only protected her for a year, but she survived 13 on Essos. That means someone else had to watch over her or the allies. It is worth thinking about. And if not, at the very least, you should be able to present a unified front. Across the narrow sea in the great city of Karth, the rumors of the dragon's return now reaches Daenerys. She listens in silence as strong bellwis and aren whitebeard kneel before her in the perfumed halls of Zoro Zoan docus mans the hair is heavy with incense but the words are heavier still recounts the tidings blunt and unpolished while Arston adds the finer details across the narrow sea the seven kingdoms are no longer ruled by one king but torn apart by war lords rise kings are crowned and now a white dragon is whispered of in Westeros a boy with her blood in his veins, calling himself Targaryen. That is not all. Magister Ayrio has also received word that this Targaryen boy seeks allies. He seeks them amongst his kin, including you. If you ride back, you shall have family in three regions to declare for you. That is why Lord Mantis insists you return to Pantos to regroup with the rest of your army. >> Army? >> I, the Magister, has begun assembling a force for your arrival. He hopes that this would bolster the Targaryen war effort. For a moment, Daenerys sits frozen, considering these possibilities. To have an army, not just an army, but a kin prepared to support her claim was something that she had not thought possible since she left Vay Dothrak. Hang on. How can we be certain this nephew of yours is truly even legitimate? I have heard more true tales from a brothel than this. A lost son of Rhaegar. Rather convenient, is it not? And how it happens to leave him ahead in succession. And yet we still have an army. >> His army which will be loyal to him or Majestio's army which is paid by his coin. Your grace. If I may give my opinion. I have heard of Ned Stark. He is an honest man who has never lied about a thing in his life. If the letters are written in his words, then I shall believe it is true. >> Whatever the case, it will not matter. If I remain here, he may steal this throne from beneath me. No, I shall meet my nephew. >> A ship is prepared for her, and the queen sails back to Pentos alongside her retinue. When they arrive, they find an army massing outside the city limits. Yo had spared no expense for this endeavor. Militias and nobles from Tyro, Volantis, Mir, pirate princes of the Stepstones, cells sword companies, and the tribesmen of the disputed lands. Dany<unk>y's hands tighten on the arms of her chair. She can almost hear the crackle of dragon flame in her thoughts. Her children stir restlessly in their cages, as if sensing the pull of destiny. Still, doubt naws at her. When Yrio speaks of the great host before her, numbering some 15,000 men, she does not seem certain. >> You speak of sell swords and pirates. How long will they fight for me before they turn for richer plunder? I need true loyalty. >> Gold buys loyalty, my queen. Victory keeps it. Let me prepare the way. You need only return to claim the throne that is your birthright. >> No. If victory buys loyalty, then I must be there to win it. >> Far away, the Riverlands boil with war. Jon rides back into Riverrun. Ghost lopping at his side. In the seat of House Tully, Edmure is preparing for war. The Riverlords arrived with small contingents of men, regrouping for the first time since the battle of Riveron months before. His face is grim, for he knows what must come and yet recalls Rob's plan before departing west to begin campaigning in the Westerlands. They need to draw Tywin out to face them, so he speaks to Edmure about it, explaining what Rob intends. The knight of Riverrun seems confused at first, but Jon explains that if Tywin is trapped between their hosts, they can destroy him at their leisure. This battle, even if it results in victory, will not guarantee that. Do not hold him too tightly. Let him pass the fjords. Give him battle. Show him defiance, but do not close the trap. We will bleed him elsewhere. >> The lords murmur, confused. But Edmure nods, swallowing his pride. The Riverlords seem to trust you after what you've been doing in the Riverlands. To you. I I do. Now, let's go find a lion's pelt. When Tywin finally marches, the riverlords give him a sharp fight along the crossing. across a dozen areas. They fight him and try to hold him back. They manage to halt the Lannister advance in these different spots, forcing them to fight hard for every advance they make. But at last, an opening is made where the Lannisters under the command of Sir Gregor face a crossing at a point and secure a towhold. The Lannisters are quick to take advantage of this and pour a troops in. They continue to advance, driving them forward, and as they push, the riverlords slowly peel back. The Lannisters thunder across their banners of lion gold and crimson streaming. Tywin believes he has broken Riverrun's defenses. Though the castle is within sight, he does not go for it and urges all his men to rush forward and move before the reserves can be assembled. He orders the mountain to secure the crossing and watch out for the riverlords. Because of that, he does not see the Red Viper's fangs closing behind him. At Maidenpool, Oberin Martell leads a force of riverlords loyal to Jon, those same men he had aided. Now he rushes with them and gathers a small host of Dornish spears. They descend upon Tywin's rear guard with a fury. Knights of House Mutin, Derry, and Goodbrook carve into the stragglers. Oberin himself rides at the front, spear flashing, striking down Bannerman. The Lannister rear guard shatters under the assault. By the time the sun sets, the road is choked with corpses and burning wagons. The screams of dying lions echoes across the fields. Though Tywin escapes, he leaves with 5,000 fewer men. More importantly, it leaves him unable to learn what is happening in King's Landing. After sailing towards Storm's End, Stannis manages to kill his brother Renley and take command of parts of his army to strike at King's Landing. With Tywin trapped in the Westerlands and badly bloodied, there is little he can do to reach the capital as Stannis and his men fall upon the city. Though Tyrion had sent Littlefinger to reach out and appeal to the Tyrells for help, seeing the position of the Lannisters, they hesitate. Their army remains in Bitterbridge, watching events unfold and waiting to join the winner. All the old lion can do is try to fight his way out. His first tries to crush Rob Stark's army and then double back to King's Landing or show strength to convince Mace Tyrell to march out. However, this leaves him desperate and rather reckless to end the war quickly. And this leads him to chase down Rob in hopes of finally crushing him in an open battle. Rob at last indulges in this battle along the coast of the Westerlands. The first clashes seem to favor Tywin as he drives the men back. Though Rob's host can avoid the Lannisters well enough, they pursued relentlessly, and the Northmen eventually regrouped along a small sandy hill at the edge of the water. The Lannisters are quick to send their men out, raining arrows before sending their men at arms through the sandbar, eager to surround them and crush the army. From the front, Grey Wind howls and tears into men when they get close, while the biggest, strongest Northmen clash with Tywin troops. Many western men fall as Great Jon roars defiantly and swoops his great sword back and forth. But elsewhere they begin to gain ground on them. Slowly, Tywin pours more troops into the battle, eager to bring it to an end. But as the battle goes on, the tides begin to turn. Literally, the water rises and the sandbar that they used to cross floods over, leaving men in half deep water, which continues to rise. This slows down their heavy cavalry and leaves men slogging through the ground. At last, the Northmen begin their counterattack. Rob blows a horn as Greywin tears into their ranks, leaving men stranded on the small island to be slaughtered. While their allies try to bring new soldiers, their efforts are slowed down. By the time these troops arrive, the Westermen are dead on the ground. But now, the Northmen begin reigning arrows upon them. The Lannisters are forced into a disorderly retreat, scrambling away from the chaos as a small mounted contingent under the Blackfish strikes them from behind. This throws the Westermen into a panic and rather than stopping Rob's army, many simply throw down their weapons and retreat. Tywin and his lords try to rally their men, but this is a futile affair. And as Rob's men reach the shore, they break entirely. Amidst the chaos, Greywin leaps at top Tywin's horse and tears into it, sending the Lord falling to the ground where a Northman drives a spear into him. With that, the Lannisters are routed, and even those who escape simply take shelter in whatever settlements they can, unwilling to ride out and challenge Rob. In King's Landing, without hope for aid, the city soon falls to Stannis, who secures control of the Crownlands and replenishes his army in the Stormlands. Seated at top the Iron Throne, he reiterates his stance that the Starks are traitors and that Jon is a fraud. Efforts to reach out to him are in vain, and their initial probing attacks fail. As though his armies might be smaller, Standis enjoys complete naval superiority. This allows him to move troops faster than Rob or Jon each time an attack is launched. The king's fleet is there to prevent a breakthrough. Dorne begins its attack, not in the reach, but at the Stormlands. The lords of Yornwoods and Fowler both launch attacks along the marches, laying siege to the castles. While most of the Stormlanders are north with Stannis, the king quickly directs his forces south and relieves the siege of Nightong, forcing the Dornish raiders back to the Boneway. But this campaign does not allow Daenerys to land with most of her army. While a few of her ships are caught by the royal fleet, the bulk of her force arrived unharmed in the Riverlands, where they go about reinforcing the northern armies. The Riverlords, Dornishmen, and Northerners all stare out in awe as the fleet disembarks his army. And they come face to face with some of the most exotic looking warriors they've ever seen. Pit fighters from half the known world, noblemen from Essos and stunning armor, cell swords and strange armor, and tribesmen with filed teeth, furs, and headunting axes. At their head rides Daenerys with a small cadre of Dothraki. They ride tall and proud despite their small numbers. Their confidence is emboldened by the sight of dragons above them. They are still small, but the dragons are a sight no man in the Seven Kingdoms has laid eyes on in almost a century and a half. Many, even the most seasoned knights, openly marvel at them. This remains the case as she rides all the way to Riverrun, where Jon and Rob are waiting. For a moment, there is silence as both parties regard one another. Jon, cold and wary, and Daenerys, curious and fiery. >> So, this is my nephew. You don't see the family resemblance? >> Not unless you colored your hair. >> For a moment, there is silence. But then the two share a laugh and start to chuckle. Slowly, the tension eases as the two smile at each other as they look at each other in the eyes and both sense something familiar about the other. There are no further questions about whether their parentage is legitimate. Instead, both go about planning their next move. The first matter is to agree on succession. They agree that Jon shall be the next king and that Daenerys shall be his adviser. Regarding Stannis, their main priority is to retake King's Landing. They agree to march out and try to confront him. Soon, the host of Dragon and Wolf thunder south. Riverlords ride beside Dothraki, Dornish spears alongside Celsorts and Rob's Northmen in the vanguard with Grey Wind at his side. To the eyes of common folk along the road, it looks like a host fit to unseat gods. Yet behind the banners, rivalries churn. Northerners mutter about foreign mercenaries with no honor. Daenerys's captains sneer that these rustic lords cannot keep step. When they reach the blackwater rush, Stannis is already waiting. On the banks, his men in trench, Stormlander and Crowlander alike, bristle with pikes as their horsemen stand ready. Though they are not as numerous, they have prepared well. Draw him north. Bleed him into the rivers where we hold the ground. But Daenerys, fire in her blood, demands a direct assault. and her Celsoids do not follow a young boy king they have never served under before. Many believe they can envelop his position with their superior numbers, though Jon tries to mediate between them. Daenerys and her men eventually attack. The battle begins with horns and fire. The Dy's cell swords charge the Baratheon lines, but their discipline falters when the riverlords hold back, waiting on Rob's signal. Miscommunication spreads. What should have been a hammer and anvil strike does not hit at the same time, leaving the Baratheon men to take them peacemeal. As that happens, Stannis sends a counterattack forward, landing troops some distance away with its river barges and sends them striking at their flanks, scattering men and mounts alike. Rob rages, driving his Northmen into the fry to give the riverlords a chance to rally, but the cells swords fall back at the first sign of heavy losses. What should have been a victory turns to chaos. At sunset, the field belongs to the stag. Jon watches the route with his jaw clenched. Grey wind howling beside him. Dany<unk>y's eyes blaze with fury, but her captains whisper that Rob abandoned them. In the camps, Northman spat that the Targaryen cell swords broke the line. That night, Varys watches all of this from the shadows. The dragons have come, yes, but which dragon shall the realm follow. He begins sending quiet envoys to dormish lords discontent with Daenerys. To the tribesmen bleeding for this war, to associate captains already thinking of switching contracts. Where mistrust already smolders, the spider fans the flame. In the weeks that follow, Stannis uses his fleet to harry their every move. He lands raiding parties along the trident, burning villages and cutting supply lines. Wherever Jon rallies men for an assault, the ships are there cutting them off. Tensions deepen in Riverruns halls. Catelyn Stark quietly reminds her son that Ned died fighting to bring down the Targaryenss. Daenerys overhears and coolly replies, >> "He died serving a usurper who stole my father's throne." >> Careful, dragon girl. That man is the only reason you were allowed to set foot in the Seven Kingdoms again. >> What was that? I don't care if he had some regrets in his last moment. Best remember that you are one of my banamin now, Lord Stark. >> Enough. I will not hear any disrespect to my lord father. >> Ned Stark is not your father. Rhaegar is. >> He was more of a father to me than Rhaegar ever was. Do not forget that. Daenerys stiffens but swallows her anger for the sake of the alliance. Still, given their recent defeat, even Daenerys recognizes that they would be foolish to risk an open battle again, much less on Stannis's terms. So instead, Rob proposes grinding down their army. They have the advantage in numbers, and they should wear down Stannis until he loses all his best troops. Daenerys agrees, seeing that her dragons are not yet fully grown. Soon, smaller probing strikes are launched across the Stormlands and Crownlands. The Dornish regroup and strike again from the south, while Rob attacks from the north of the Crownlands along Hayford. Meanwhile, another strike under Daenerys hits along the God's Eye. Rather than fighting as a singular army, they instead fight as several separate hosts, each one aiming to force Stannis to divide his army and wear them down. Even with his fleet, he cannot move his army fast enough. He deploys and redeploys his forces, trying to counter each strike or leave a trusted subordinate around one area. These have some success, but the war continues to drag on. They cannot fully take territory, but prevent Stannis from fully striking back. Soon, the losses begin to mount, and he struggles to contain them. So rather than continue a war of attrition, Stannis switches tactics and tries to widen the divisions between their army. A raven comes with Stannis's seal. In Riverrun's great hall, Jon reads it aloud before our gathered lords and captains. The words are blunt, stripped of flattery. Lay down your swords, forsake the foreign queen, and the realm shall have peace. The boy Jon called Snow I shall name my heir Stark of Winterfell and Targaryen by blood provided he agrees to a marriage pack between him and Shireen Baratheon. Let him inherit the Iron Throne when my days are done. For the sake of your father, whose blood was shed fighting against the Targaryenss alongside me and my brother, I am prepared to forgive all past crimes. Do not shame his memory by fighting for one. For a moment, silence hangs heavy. Then voices rise. Some riverlords murmur that this is tempting. Peace at last, and Ned Stark's son is heir to the realm. Others wish to do this out of spite, saying how Daenerys was of little help to them. Her dragons are too small, and her army is undisiplined and savage. Why should they have to share the throne with her? Others spit in disgust, calling it a trick, and warning that Stannis is likely just trying to turn them against one another. That much is true, and it works. As Daenerys rises from her seat, her face pale with fury. >> He dares. He dares to offer pardon and to offer the throne as if it is his to give. >> It is more his than yours, your grace. I You said you wish to be an adviser to help seek King Jon. Well, now is our chance to do just that. More voices roar in agreement, saying that this is their chance to make peace with the Baratheonss. Yet the Cells sword captains in Daenerys's army all curse and spit upon that. To bring war to such a quick conclusion when they had not had a chance to loot and pillage leaves their coffers unsatisfied. Arguments soon arise as they all shout and curse at one another. There are even times when it seems like they will come to blows. Only the protection of Sir Barristan, who has now revealed himself, and strong Belellwis prevents people from getting any ideas. Later, alone with Barristin and Belellis, she vows that she will not allow her fate to be dictated by the lords of Westeros. She gathers her own council and considers the situation. She will require some allies on the continent if she is to seriously press her claims, and she finds them in the reach, which has not committed to anyone yet. Within weeks, envoys ride south. A pact is struck conceit. Willis Tyrell shall wed Daenerys Targaryen. In return, Ma Tyrell marches his banners north from Bitterbridge. Soon, green and gold fill the roads. Knights and men at arms pouring into the Crownlands to join the dragon. Confidence swells again in the dragon camp as Daenerys rides out, aiming to take King's Landing on her own. If she can secure the victory, then she can secure it on her terms and bring the Northmen to heal. They march through the Rose Road, moving from southwest, riding up past Stokeworth with close to 40,000 swords, most of them Tyrells against 25,000 Stormlanders and Crownlanders. They take up defense positions on a low ridge that leaves them surrounded. And that is precisely what their army does, keeping them trapped as they slowly wear them down. Knights rushing up to try and break their lines while men at- arms clash along the slopes. For a while, Stannis holds, but his army is slowly pushed back. Then the ground shakes beneath the thunder of drums. Out of the haze of dust, armored ranks emerge. Banners of the Golden Company, bright elephants painted with black and gold. The cell swords march with ruthless precision. Warhorns blare. The elephants crash into the reachman's lines, scattering them like kindling. Knights of the reach are thrown from their saddles. Men trampled underfoot. Barrist and Selme fights like a man possessed, cutting a path through to Daenerys. Strong Bis bellows as he hacks down foes, dragging her back from the slaughter. They gather a handful of the bravest men and organize a retreat, keeping Daenerys safe as wave after wave of Golden Company men at arms arrive, pushing through the lesser cells sword companies towards them. The army manages to regroup further down the Rose Road, exhausted and demoralized. Stannis was surprised to hear the Golden Company offer its services to him, but he had gladly accepted it when all homeless Harry requested was a royal pardon for the exiles there. Little does Stannis know that another Targaryen is part of that company. While they will play the loyal Cells Sword army for the time being, that is only until the war is won. Yo has instructed them on that much. He also has further instruction for the men in Daenerys's army. That night, the mutiny comes. In her camp, mercenary captains storm into her pavilion, blades bared. The cells swords and militia claim the men will fight no longer, that too much blood has been spilled for too little gain. In truth, they've already been bought. Yo's gold lining their purses. Daenerys's fury burns, but even her dragons are too small to turn them. She watches helplessly as companies of men march away into the night, but not all leave. Others turn upon her, intending to capture her and ransom her to Stannis. Soon, Daenerys finds her own camp under siege as the Cell Swords try to capture her. Barrist and rally some loyal reachmen. But in the chaos, many are driven off or killed. All the knight and pit fighters can do is rally their people around the camp and defend it. Word soon reaches both Baratheon and Stark camps with completely different reactions. Stannis immediately dispatches a thousand men to reinforce them and handle the exchange. Meanwhile, Jon wishes to ride out and save her. Jon stands apart, staring into the dying embers of the campfires. His knuckles are white against the pommel of his sword. All I wished was a kingdom worth saving, and every day it crumbles more. Ghost presses against him, but it brings no comfort. Around them, the wolf dragon alliance unravels, just as Stannis intended. Some of the Northmen are happy to let the enemy army have her. They say that at least now there shall be only one ruler and clear leadership. Yet when Jon hears this, he is shocked. He glances at Rob, who seems conflicted. I say, let them have it. Those cell swords want to run along home fine then. We don't need them for victory. What do you say, Lord Stark? I admit the cell swords have been a hindrance at times, but they are still our soldiers who fought for us and Daenerys Targaryen is still our ally. Begging your pardon, your grace. Those men didn't fight for us. They fought for our coin. There's a big difference in that we should not ignore. I It will mean fewer swords, but our army will be leaner and more disciplined. As for this queen, it will be a great loss. But what does she truly offer us? Would you have us stand by while a woman kin is butchered in her tent is sold off like a stud horse by those who swore to serve her. That is not the way of the north. That is not the way of House Stark. He turns to Rob Greywind pacing at his side. >> John, perhaps we can rent some her back after the war. In the meantime, we should focus on winning. What will stop these men from just crossing over to Stannis if they think we'll lose? Even if they don't, what would father have done? Rob, would he have stood aside while men betrayed their oaths? He risked everything to send me that letter about you. He did. And I will not create a realm where this betrayal happens over and over again. You're right. Father would not have let it stand. Summon the cavalry. Oberin, take your riders and cut those treacherous curs to pieces. The Red Viper only grins, his spear gleaming in the fire light. At dawn, Oberin's horsemen descend upon the enemy camp. They ride through the night thanks to their trusty sand steeds, and find Daenerys hold up in a nearby holdfast, the banners of the dragon, and Tyrell still fluttering defiantly. Her dragons hiss tentatively and wish to be released, but Daenerys holds them back. In a situation like this, unleashing them would be foolish. The mutineers broke at the first charge, not expecting enemy reinforcements, especially when Stannis's men claim they are nearby. Some are run down, others throw down arms and flee for Stannis's lines. Barristan and Bellwis stagger from the smoke, battered, but alive. Daenerys between them. Her violet eyes are wide with disbelief when Oberin rides up to her. >> Tell my nephew he has my thanks. >> It is not him you have to thank, but Ned Stark. It was his memory that convinced them to ride out to help you. >> They did this because of him. >> For a long moment, she is silent. Then Daenerys lowers her head and they agreed to ride back to Riverrun. She gathers a few lords with her while Randall Tarly remains behind to gather reinforcements and bolster her army. The rest of the batterman rides with Daenerys where she returns to the castle and to her surprise bows her head. >> You saved me >> for the sake of our alliance. >> And Ned Starkh for him too. I never met your father. >> And yet you saw fit to call him a usurpus dog. >> I know. I apologize for that. But if his memory is what saved me, then I shall honor it. From this day, my men will take your orders from the Starks. We fight as one host, or not at all. >> The final march begins. Northmen, Riverlords, Dornish, and Reachmen stand in a single line at last. Banners of wolf and dragon rising together. Rather than attack in separate armies, they combine their strength and strike together. Before them waits the Baratheon host, disciplined, grim, bolstered by the Golden Company's elephants and hardened veterans who fled Daenerys's army. The clash is thunderous. Elephants break the first charge, scattering horse and men alike. Stannis himself rides the line, sword in hand, face like stone, as he directs troopers to continue attacking, pouring troops into the gaps forming in their lines. Though the ferocious Northmen try to resist it in whatever way they can, they are struggling and their line begins to buckle. For a moment, the battle teeters on a knife's edge. Then Daenerys calls out one word in Valyrian. The sky answers. Her dragons, small but fierce, swoop down. They are the size of sheep, but their fire licks across the battlefield nonetheless. Fire spreads across the grass, setting it a light and sending smoke across the air. It leaves elephants shrieking and bolting, trampling their own ranks. Cavalry panics. Lines break. They are followed. Grey Wind tears into the disordered men at arms. And from their flanks, Oberin spears and the riverlords press their advantage and begin encircling Stannis's men while Rob and Jon rally the Northmen. The Baratheon host shatters. Stannis fights to the last. Cut off and surrounded. He refuses to yield, striking down men until Rob himself rides to meet him. Grey Wind leaps, dragging him from the saddle. A Northman's sword ends the matter. Aegon V 6th and the remnants of the Golden Company flee to the city, but the citizens do not recognize him as king. He is a stranger to them, and when the army arrives, they mutiny. In the chaos, Aegon is killed. King's Landing opens its gates after a brief siege, wary of famine and fire. The Wolf and the Dragon enter side by side. Jon walks before the Iron Throne, the hall hushed. He looks at Daenerys, then at Rob, then at the seat of his birthright. With that, Jon sits upon the Iron Throne. He decides to start his reign with forgiveness, pardoning both Shireen and Tyrion to show mercy and allowing their houses to continue within them. Next, he combines his court with Daenerys, allowing Sir Barristan to serve in the King's Guard and appointing Strong Bellwis to guard the dragons. Rob is invited to serve as hand of the king, but that honor is instead passed to the Red Viper while the marriage between Daenerys and Willis is recognized, bringing them into the fold, allowing Jon to begin his reign in peace. That's our theory. Westeros is a land filled with exciting stories and possibilities, and we love exploring them. If you want to accompany us on this journey across the Seven Kingdoms and beyond, then please like, share, and subscribe to our channel.