What if Ned Stark Told EVERYONE The Truth, Not Just Stannis

What if Ned Stark told everyone the truth, not just Stannis? Let's explore the depths of it in the video. You will sail to Dragonstone tonight. You will place this in the hand of Stannis Barathe, not his captain of the guard and not his wife, only Stannis himself. Ned watches as the messenger departs and he leans back on his chair to consider his options. He hopes that Stannis answers quickly and sails back with all his strength. Time is of the essence. Renley has made that very clear earlier. His mind still replays everything that has occurred earlier. He had offered him a 100 swords to retake the Iron Throne in the wake of Robert's death. Ned wonders if he should have taken up that offer. It certainly would have secured the throne from the Lannisters and might have forced Tywin to the negotiation table. And yet, he would have only handed it over to another usurper, but as he hates to admit it, Renley speaks truly. Stannis lacks the charisma to gather popular support and only has a handful of narrow sea houses to call upon. It would be difficult to hold the realm with that support. Yet, what could he do? Stannis was the legal heir. If Stannis were to claim the Iron Throne, he would require aid. The North will back him no matter what. so long as he tells them to. But will that be enough? Renley will doubtlessly try to crown himself. That means it may split the armies of the seven kingdoms. He soon finds himself writing to the Tullies, Tyrells, Martell's, and the Erands, where he explains everything he's discovered about the incest. And by the time nightfalls over a flock of ravens have flown, heading to every region across the seven kingdoms. But as these letters find their homes, many lords ponder the implications of the validity of these claims. Though Ned includes as much evidence as he can, they are flimsy at best, and Tywin knows it. As soon as he catches word of these letters, he releases statements decrying these claims as falsehoods, even as Ned is arrested for treason against the crown. However, even if the other great houses know the evidence is flimsy, the Lannisters are not well-liked, and few of them care about the true validity. The Tullies have little reason to support the Lannisters, as do the Dornish or the Erands. All of them release statements condemning the Lannisters for these actions and demanding a proper investigation, including the freeing of Ned Stark. Tywin realizes he is in a difficult position and gives clear orders to Cersei that Ned must not be killed under any circumstances. He might be their best and most valuable hostage. When the envoy at last reaches Stannis, the king finds half the realm burning for a fight and letters from Riverrun offering to back him if they were to help get rid of the Lannisters. And at the same time, the North also offers an alliance to recognize Stannis as king if he aids them in liberating Ned. The realm rises up for you, your grace. They see the truth. You must sail out immediately and press your claim. And where do you suggest I sail forth, Lord Davis? The Lannisters maintain a strangle hold over the Revelins. If they wish, they can contest my landings. They already have five times as many men as I do. Your grace, I have received word that Rob Stark is now assembling his own host and marching down the neck. The Riverlords are already clashing with the Lannisters in their homes. This will draw their attention and leave you free to land. Though it has been taken, Maiden Pool is but lightly guarded. Sail your fleet there, and you shall strike at the Westerman's rear. Your armies are smaller, but even a small hammer can smash through a breastplate, and a small hammer can be turned aside by a blade. Make no mistake, Tywin Lannister will not expect me to sit idly by while war rages, especially when these lords offer their aid to me. He might know, but what can he do while the Northmen and Rivermen keep them occupied? They have enough men that Tywin cannot easily leave his position without exposing himself. You will not be facing his entire army, and that gives you a chance to build your support. If Sir Edmnir and Rob Stark are truly sincere about their offer of support, then they should take some of the pressure off of you. They can batter Tywin while you make a push for the Iron Throne and prevent him from sending reinforcements to the capital. >> And what is your opinion of this matter, Sir Davos? If you leave Robtock to defeat the King Slayer, then he may ask himself why he bothered to declare you king when he must fight your battles. If you leave Serred Edmir to fight Lord Tarwin as the Riverlands burn, he will question why he should back a king who abandoned him. Because it is their duty. >> It is just as it is your duty to protect them. Leave them to protect themselves and they'll wonder why they shouldn't be king instead. You say these things as if we have men to spare. Even if I do join forces with them, my contribution will be small. Rob Stark has already raised three times as many men as me. Place them as beside each other, and it will seem a small account. Rob Stark may still see it all as his victory. >> Then offer him something he does not have. She appears from the doorway, effortlessly gliding through the door and bringing no argument from the men seated at the painted table. She runs her hand across the surface and smiles. >> Saddavos has the right of it. You are Zorai and the people must see it. Though you are poor in men, you have ships and authority. Things Rob Stark requires. He will need to cross the green fork. That is where you must go. to ask you to open your gates, my lord. >> Why should I let him? >> If you could climb your own battlements, you would see that he has 20,000 men outside your walls. >> There'll be 20,000 corpses when Tywin Lannister gets here. >> You swore an oath to my father. >> Oh yes, I said some words. Joffrey is king now, which makes your boy and his corpses to be nothing but rebels, it seems to me. If I had the sense that God gave a fish, I'd hand you both over to the Lannisters. >> Why don't you, >> Stark, Tully, Lannister, Baratheon, give me one good reason why I should waste a single thought on any of you. >> Walder gives that Weasley smile of his and lays down his terms, each one more humiliating than the last. A knighthood, wards, a marriage packed with Arya Stark, and best of all, one with Lord Rob. It was a high price, and Catelyn repeatedly tried to negotiate out of it, offering concessions. However, Walder knows that they have nothing to truly offer that he wants or the bargaining power to turn him back. But as she is about to agree to these terms, the door flies open and a guard appears, bringing the king's messenger, Sir Davos Seaworth. >> What is the meaning of this? >> Apologies, my lord. However, King Stenis has arrived bearing news that must be heard by the Starks immediately. >> What is it, sir? >> The king welcomes Rob Stark's support in the war effort and offers whatever aid he can grant to your family for justice. In that spirit, he sends a flotilla of barges through the greenfork in order to fy your army across. The room goes silent, and Walder's smile curdles, looking at the knight angrily, as if it were somehow his fault. He clenches the arms of his seat tightly and leans over. The other phrase look at each other nervously. They mutter amongst themselves, some giving their lord reproachful looks, muttering that they have overplayed their hand. In contrast, Catelyn looks jubilant and tries her best to hide her smuggness. Lord Wilder, it appears your services are no longer required. >> What? How? What is the meaning of this smuggler? >> It is as you said, Lord Frey. You have sworn oaths to your king and your lege lord. Given that those two are in conflict, you are undecided on which side you should support. Let it not be said that either I or my son pressured you into picking a side. >> Speaking of oaths, dear king, his grace has also sent me with a message. He says that Lord Rob is charged with bringing Tywin Lannister to justice for his crimes against the Riverlands and all Riverlords, Northmen and other allies that will aid him in whatever he requires. That includes House Frey, which must ride out with all its strength to support him. He also says this, "Do not make my life difficult, and I will not make your house's life short." Walder's face twists as he hears this, but in a span of a few minutes, all his leverage has been bled away. All he can do now is salvage what he can and make preparations to march out. When the Northmen hear this, they are pleased to praise Stannis for his help. Davos is welcomed like a hero, and they begin coordinating their plans. As the army crosses the twins, Davos requests about a thousand of the Freys to sail south with him to reinforce Stannis's army along with an equally sized host of Northmen. This will give Stannis the strength to challenge the Lannisters more openly. Those are terms which Rob accepts and a small contingent leaves with a flotillaa of riverboats that the king has provided. They regroup around Maidenbool which soon comes under attack by Stannis. Just as Sir Axel predicted, the Lannister garrison there is small and unable to resist their efforts for long, especially when reinforcements from the Green Folk arrive. This leaves the town to quickly fall into Baratheon's hands and provides a safe landing zone. Tywin sees this and deploys a part of his army to check their advance while the bulk of his northmen accompany Roose Bolton to confront the Westerman while Rob rushes with their swiftest riders to attack Riverrun. The ensuing battle of the Green Fork does not go well for either side as Tywin is forewarned about this advancing army and prepares. Even the attempted night attack by Roose fails and they are beaten back. But with a portion of their army advancing south to retake Maidenool, they do not have the men to turn this into a true victory. All they truly manage is to beat back the attacking Northmen and successfully retreat south. Meanwhile, the two smaller armies have more success. Rob crushes Sir Jaime at Whispering Woods and retakes Riverrun while Stannis confronts Kevin Lannister along the road to Harrenhal. Kevin tries to block their advance, sending their crossbow and archers forward to harass their forces on the advance. Stannis halts and sends his own cavalry out to drive them back. They are followed by deploying their own light infantry, which leads to an archery duel. This favors the Lannisters who are better equipped and drives them back. Seeing this, Stannis deploys his cavalry on both sides to try and envelop them. This forces Kevin to lengthen his line and commit his forces to stop these attacks. But as the center is thinned, Stannis sends for 400 of the most heavily armored horsemen, Northmen and Freys, to smash their center. Soon enough, gaps begin to form in their lines, which allows the infantry to advance and pour through the breaches. The battle ends in a disastrous defeat as Sir Kevin barely manages to escape with a handful of his followers. Seeing them hemming Tywin from all sides, he realizes his offensive in the Riverlands is falling apart and instead tries to break out and return to the Westerlands where he can regroup with the remnants of Jaime<unk>s host. Stannis advances slowly up the road, gathering reinforcements and retaking the castles. However, as he moves deeper, his messengers from Maiden Poolool come back with important news. They had captured an envoy sailing from the capital and heading to the Veil. But this is no ordinary envoy. This is Littlefinger. Stannis leaves command of the advance to Richard Horp while he confronts Littlefinger who is being held by Lord Mutin. When he arrives, he finds the master of coin within the dungeons of the castle. Smiling faintly as he sips from a wineskin. He offers a bow. King Stannis, I'm glad I found you. I was starting to worry that my plan had failed. You plan? Yes. You think it was a coincidence that my ship happened to stop at Maiden Poolool to resupply? Salt pans would have been safer. And most of the realm knows your fleet is swarming the Bay of Crabs. But I had to speak with you. I had no idea you were so eager to meet death. I have no intention of dying here, your grace. That is why I left the capital. I know which way the wind is blowing. The war is turning against the Lannisters. Tywin finds himself trapped in the capital of his homeland. That is why I come to offer you homage, your grace. I appreciate your honesty in your lack of loyalty, Lord Beish. But it will not save you. I have known of your corruption for many years as master of coin. You have used your position to enrich yourself. I would have removed you from your position and sent you back to your gloomy castle if Robert had not insisted on keeping you. But the king is dead. So what reason do I have to keep you? Because Robert understood good service. He often required gold and I provided it to him. Right now I offer you the same service, though I suspect you care for steel more than gold. That is why I offer you the veil of Aaron. The veil? You expect me to believe you can win the veil over to your side? It is not nearly as mad as you think. Lady Aaron and I were close growing up. She remains fond of me to this day. Let me write to her, and I assure you that I can convince her to march out for you and back your claim. In exchange, all I ask is that you spare my life and allow me to take the black. You wish to go to the wall. I know who I am dealing with, your grace. I will not be mad enough to think you would ever let me stay in court, much less keep my position. You would take my head. I say being able to keep that would be a good bargain. Besides, even Castle Black is nicer than my current seat. Stannis considers this for a long moment. Sending Peter Beish to the Night's Watch is as good as killing him. He will have no more influence, and it will allow him to continue doing some good for the realm. However, his terms are harsh as Stannis refuses to let him leave Maidenpool and will remain there until the war ends. After that, he will be sent to the wall immediately. Those are acceptable terms. And soon enough, Lord Beish begins sending letters out to Lady Liza. He reaffirms his love for her and begs her forgiveness for the state he is in. He says that he will ensure Robin Aaron's safety through this agreement and promises that Stannis will allow him to remain in the veil with his mother if she pledges her knights to his cause. To the Veil Lords, he offers a confession. He confirms their fear that Jon Aaron was murdered by the Lannisters. The incest allegations are proof of it. He had actually secretly been investigating the matter, just as Stannis said. And because of that, the Lannisters attempted to silence him to prevent the secret from getting out. Littlefinger says that he had long suspected them of doing something suspicious, but dared not confront them due to owing his position to them. It is the sort of rumor that the Veil lords already believed and have no problem accepting. Now, this awakens their fury as both Lysa and the Knights of the Veil commit themselves to coming to war. An expeditionary force of about 6,000 men is already marching out. On the south, Dorne also begins to stir as this victory gets their attention. They send a token force of a thousand men under command of Oberin Martell, who reinforces Stannis and Maidenpool. Although it is not much, their real contribution comes in the form of information as they send their spies north to catch a glimpse of what Renley is up to. They learn that the youngest Baratheon has left Storm's End and is issued a call to arms. This doesn't just apply to the Stormlanders, though. He also reaches out to the Tyrells and their bannermanmen. He offers them a marriage pact between him and Marjorie, which Lord Mace gladly accepts. This gives Renley the largest army on the field. While he remains at High Garden for the time being, many watch his movements wearily, and Stannis is grateful for the information. It only adds more incentive for him to press the attack and end the war. Now, if Renley attempts to invade, he will need to be at full strength to halt his attack. But if not, then he should be at least prepared to shore up his position by defeating Tywin Lannister and securing the capital. He sends word to Rob Stark in the north and the Veilman and Riverfolk that the time has come to finish off the Lannisters. Ravens are sent to the other houses to march out and tighten the noose around them. Rob rides out from the west, blocking the Golden Tooth, while Roose Bolton bears down on them from the north with the Veilmen in the east. Stannis finishes off by attacking from the southeast. Tywin recognizes it and orders his army to abandon the field. They double back the way they came, seeing their best chance to loop around southward and fight their way to the Golden Tooth. He sets a grueling pace for their army, riding along the trident with the advanced guards of the Dornish and Vilman harassing them every step of the way. Though Sir Adam fights bravely and beats back these assaults, the numbers are overwhelming and at some points they are nearly surrounded and crushed. Saving these troops becomes so costly that they end up losing more men than they save. As they march, the Lord of Castle Rock decides to sacrifice portions of his army to ensure their escape. It is a difficult decision to make and hundreds die, but it allows Tywin to evade the net for now, at least until they reach Wayfairer's rest. From there, the armies are at least able to catch up and surround them. On the ridge, Tywin Lannister sits astride his horse, face grim, eyes scanning the horizon. His enemies close in from all sides. The Knights of the Veil descending like hawks from the hills. Rob Stark's outr rididers circling and Stannis Baratheon's mly host of Dornishmen, narrow sea lords, and riverfolk. Then we carve our way out. Better a broken swordge than a shattered one. >> For a moment, the lions roar again. Thousands surge behind him. About 11,000 Wester. For one heartbeat, it seems as if Tywin's will alone might break the news. Knights crash into Veil Pikemen and the ground shakes with hooves. They manage to buckle their lines, but Stannis sends reinforcements. Lord Sunglass and Valyrian are sent with their contingents to steady the line. They begin to press back, but do not shatter. Meanwhile, the rest of the army presses closer. Rob Stark rides at the head of of his riders. Grey Wind lunging into men and horses alike. Roose's men close ranks in eerie silence, pressing along the flank, their shields locking and pikes thrusting outward. Then comes the hammer. Veil and Dornish cavalry strike the Lannister flank. Armored lances punching holes through the line. Men scream and horses rear and fall. The golden tide waivers, breaks, and then drowns beneath the weight of wolf, stag, trout, and falcon. Tywin himself is cut down in the crush. Crimson cloak soaking into the meer, his lifeless eyes staring skyward. Kevin, who commands the rear guardman, manages to escape with 3,000 men. Rather than move to the Westerlands, they instead flee to the Reach where the road remains open. No pursuit. My king, we can finish them. End them here and now. Kevin Lannister flees with scraps. Let him. They're little consequence. My war is for the throne, not for vengeance. After dealing with the scrapes, the army turns east at King's Landing. Blackwater Bay churns with Stannis's fleet. Black sails blotting out the sun. The walls bristle with defenders, but the men within are pale, weary, half starved. They've heard that the defeated wayfairers rest and know that no hope will come. Yet the Red Keep holds one card yet unplayed. Eddard Stark. Ned stands upon the battlements, wrists bound in iron. The small folk jeer him as a traitor, but he does not flinch. His eyes scan the armies below. Wolves, stags, and falcons fluttering side by side. A strange sight, a hopeful sight. In Stannis's command tent, the lords argue, >> "Storm the walls. One hard push and a city falls and see Lord Stark's head spiked for it. The Lannisters will kill him before the first slider touches stone." We started this war to save Lord Stark. It is what we asked from King Stannis. We will ensure that happens. I agree. Rob Stark helped us save the Rivals, and I will help save his father. The man is as good as dead, but we don't need to join him. We cannot strike. Not while the wolf lord is hostage. Hold off and starve the city. No help shall arrive. There is no rush. Yet even as he says that in public, he holds private counsel with Melisandre. That night, the red woman moves silently through the camp. A shadow follows her, tall, terrible shape like a king with a stag's crown. It slips through the walls as easy as smoke. At dawn, the guards of Ned Stark's cell lie cold and lifeless, their faces twisted in fear, allowing him to slip through the castle walls. Without their hostage, Stannis orders a full-on assault. Just as everyone predicted, the defenders break like rotten wood. Soldiers soon pour inside, and the captain is taken. Cersei is put to death alongside Joffrey. But as men celebrate, the remains unease as men question how Ned Stark was freed. The whispers of blood magic are on many lips, muttering nervously at what this might mean and how Stannis accomplished this. They wonder if the red woman is truly controlling everything and if they can truly trust him. They speak of worries that Stannis might begin forcing a foreign religion upon them. Even allies eye Stannis with suspicion now, as though his victories are bought with something fou than steel. They fear you, your grace. Fear may win wars, but it does not win loyalty. >> Let them fear. Better a king feared than a king mocked. Davos bows. But soon there is word from Renley and High Garden. The youngest Baratheon was not deaf to the mutterings in camp. He knows that some people are starting to have their doubts about his brother, and they are not keen on having a Baratheon feared being under the thumb of the sorceress on a throne. But at the same time, he also recognizes that Stannis holds the advantage in this war. If his army marches out, he realizes he must negotiate, lest he bleed himself dry in this war. Because of that, Renley sends a runner with terms. He will recognize Stannis as king, but only if he names him the heir. It is a bold claim, but it is fueled by more than ambition. Renley is well-liked and popular. It would be easier for people to accept him as the next line rather than a girl with grayscale. At the same time, he realizes he must have something to show for it if his brother will accept his terms. Mace gathers his troops and launches a full-scale invasion of the Westerlands. The attack scatters the remnants of Jaime Lannister's host. Craig Hall falls in a matter of days and a week later, Silver Hill follows. Meanwhile, Renley leads the army to destroy what remains of the Lannister army. While Kevin makes a mad dash for the Westerlands, it is easy for the Stormlanders to intercept him. The Westerman make their last stand on a defile, hoping the uneven ground will mitigate the superior Stormlander cavalry. It does, but in reality, it makes no difference as they are overwhelmed and crushed. With that dies the last spark of rebellion from the Westerlands who sue for peace. Renley presents these victories at Stannis's feet, offering the prisoners and gold as a sign of goodwill. >> It is a wise move, you grace. It shall put your conflict to rest, and Renley will bring the Reach and Stormlands into the fold. He does not need to bring anything into the fold. They were not his to give. That may be the case, but he still controls them. We cannot dismiss him entirely. Besides, he has acted. The Tyrells would claim glory for battles already won. Glory is all they care for. Let them have it. They will claim that they have always backed your claim and sing your praises too. Your grace. Better to let them believe they share in your cause than turn them against you. Based Tyrell's pride feeds cheaply. But his gold buys much. Stannis glares at them both. And for heartbeat, Savos thinks he will refuse out of sheer stubborn pride. But then the king exhales slow and sharp like a man swallowing bitter wine. So be it. The Reach may claim its victories, but make no mistake. The throne is mine. Mine by right and mine by fire. In the ensuing days, there is much celebration from the Baratheon host. As the war draws to a close, not with bloodshed, but a peace deal that reunites the Baratheon dynasty. The reach floods the streets of King's Landing with bread and wine. For a city that has known nothing but starvation and fear, this is a welcome reprive and goes a long way in securing their support. As the people celebrate, Stannis begins organizing the court. Varys and Pycel are both executed while Littlefinger is put on a ship and sent to the wall. However, as he boards his transport, he smiles faintly to himself. Rewards are handed out and new lords are made in celebration of the recent success. Sir Davos is raised as a lord, while Ned is invited to remain as hand of the king, serving as a compromise between the Baratheon brothers, as Renley recommended Mace and Stannis wanted Davos. One point of contention between them is what should be done with the Tyrells. Stannis already feels like he's being gracious by allowing them to remain in court and pandering their attempts to crown him. Yet Renley urges for more concessions, and the only one Stannis grants is naming Paxter Redwin his master of ships. Aside from that, no one can oppose them, and the Baratheons seem stronger than ever, at least on paper. In reality, the war has seriously exhausted them, and they are much weaker than most people realize. Rather than being a single unified realm, Westeros appears closer to a loose coalition of allies, and that soon becomes clear in the aftermath. While there is no direct conflict, there is little unity as the great houses do not seem too obedient to the crown. The first test emerges when Littlefinger manages to escape his transport. As the trading galley makes its way to the wall, it passes the three sisters where the ship comes under attack by pirates. These raiders are beaten back, but in the chaos, Lord Beish goes missing. Stannis wishes to organize a manhunt for the Wayward Lord to ensure he reaches the wall. He recognizes the threat that Lord Beish poses and calls for men and ships to find the truth. Yet the response is surprisingly muted. For many lords, he is little more than a money changer, a talented one, but not someone worth losing sleep over. The Riverlands are more interested in rebuilding, and the Lannisters are not keen on helping Stannis, especially when Littlefinger was their own ally. the reach. Stormlanders and Dornish protest distance and say it is too much of an investment for so little work. Even among the Veil Lords, few truly wish to commit to this much effort for the likes of Lord Beish. The most they offer is to help hunt down these pirates. The closest thing he gets is Ned promising to have the North keep close watch if he turns up there, but even they cannot do anything as they lack the strength at sea to organize a long larger search. Brother, he is not a threat to peace. As irritating as that little man is, he probably just jumped overboard and tried swimming to safety. I doubt we'll be seeing much of him again. Cursing under his breath, Stannis has no choice but to let things go. However, this is only the start of his problems. With the sheen of victory fading, the unity of the realm begins to break down as each region and house now turns its attention to focusing on its own goals. The Dornish are the first to leave, saying that they had only fought due to their desire for justice against the Lannisters. With that accomplished, they returned to the deserts, reminding Stannis and Renley that they had not forgotten their pardoning of Jaime and Tywin for their role in the war. The Veil men soon follow, saying how they wish to focus on stabilizing their realm and preparing Rob and Aaron to lead. While they are more polite than the Dornish and thank Stannis for their aid, there is something left unsaid. Their alliance died with Robert and John Aaron. The rest of the houses are a little better. The Riverlands want to rebuild, and the Westerlands are reeling from the war and are keeping a low profile. Only the North and Stormlands are fully committed to Stannis's rule and the Tyrells. But he knows their interests are to line their pockets first and foremost. As the houses give their excuses and claims, it becomes clear just how far royal authority is falling. This is no longer the unified realm which Aegon the Conqueror created, but a patchwork of provinces that owe nominal authority at best. It soon becomes clear that if he is to rule as a king of the seven kingdoms, he must assert his authority. Many houses will proclaim him king, but they will not truly accept him in practice. For that, Stannis will need military strength, wealth, and more land. He turns his eyes to the Westerlands, which emerge as the ideal proving ground for his plans. The Lannisters are diplomatically isolated, militarily weak, but economically strong. Without a clear leader, he appoints Sir Stafford Lannister as the new ruler of Castle Rock. However, Stannis has him sign a series of treaties that will tighten the crown's control over the region. Lannisport will be overseen by royal tax collectors and a port of the royal fleet shall be established there and soldiers will be stationed in critical points like the Golden Tooth. All of that aims to strengthen their hold over the region. A royal adviser is also sent to Castle Rock to ensure that the new Lord of Stafford obeys these demands without any problem. However, this is not entirely unjust as while the crown takes full control of the tax and shipping policy, he allows a fair bit of wealth to remain in the Westerlands, enough to rebuild roads and resettle depopulated areas. While he has reason to be pleased with himself, Ned advises caution. The other houses will not like the smell of this. They already said you overreach yourself by allowing the red woman to sit in your council. That red woman has proven more loyal than most of these great houses put together. They cry oppression even as they lock themselves up in their homes and refuse to answer my call. What am I to make of that? It seems they have forgotten that we might be seven kingdoms, but there is only one king. I do not disagree. Much needs to be done to write this situation, but perhaps a bit more caution and to slow down the reforms. Slow down. The crown is 3 million in debt. Half my houses do not respect me, and the others only do so to forward my ambition, and your advice is to slow down." Robert acted slowly, and look what became of that. Yet Ned's advice proves wiser than expected. As while few truly care for the Lannisters, they do not care about their own wealth. The Tyrells publicly decry these actions and warn of how long it will be until Stannis strips them of their lands entirely and places his own men to rule. They privately offer Stafford a lifeline, a marriage pack between Sir Devon and one of Ma's nieces, as well as a generous loan to help rebuild and compensate the house for their diminished status. He even goes as far to remind Stannis that he had won the war by crushing the remnants of Kevin Lannister's host in the Reach. Stannis would have laughed at this claim if he cared to laugh, but he threatens to block this marriage entirely. However, Renley steps in and intervenes, saying that such an action is already going far beyond the powers of a king. He advises against it and reminds him that things like that breed discontent and there already is enough of that as is. >> So at last I get to meet the one who turned the golden lion into a beggar. >> I have done nothing. They brought all of that upon themselves. >> Ah yes, just as it must have been the wind that tried to block the union between my granddaughter and that young Lannister knight. Lady Tyrell, I admit that we have behaved hastily in deciding that matter, but I assure you we have no desire for further conflict between our houses. >> Good. >> But I wish the same can be said with you in your house. >> Your son forgets himself. He speaks of his actions in the same manner as King Stannis in his victory when all he has done is shut himself in High Garden and attack a sacred foe. If you wish for me to say that my son is an overp proud oaf, then I will gladly do so. I've been doing it for years. Make no mistake, I am of the mind that the Lannisters are most pleasant when they are helpless. If you wish to take over Lannisport and keep watch over them, I see no problem there. But they should still be allowed to marry who they wish. >> Are you suggesting a compromise? If my house can stomach that dreadful banner of yours fluttering on Lannisport, I suppose it shouldn't be too difficult to watch as the Tyrell Rose flies on Castly Rock. After all, it is a far more pleasant symbol, and you may still keep your advisers there, >> brother. Yes, fine. Such terms are acceptable. The Riverlands are a graveyard. Charred fields stretch for leagues and leaves. Villages stand rofless and Renley volunteers to fix that. He rides out and establishes himself in Harrenhal, which has now been confiscated into a royal thief. His smile is easy, his voice warm, and everywhere he goes, the small folk gather as though he carries spring with him. He stands there with Marjorie, turning it into a shelter as the two visit the people. Hope. That's what they need. Not speeches of fire and brimstone. Hope. A full belly, a hand that soothes. If we can give them that, then they'll forget Stannis's dour face entirely. >> Then we shall give them hope, husband. But hope alone will not rebuild these lands. You will need coin. I've managed to secure some loans from my father's banamin. >> High garden is fertile, wealthy, and generous. Their investment would be helpful. >> Thus, loans are secured. And with Loris at his side, Renley rides out to distribute aid. Food wagons bearing the stag of Baratheon and the rows of Tyrell roll into starving villages, greeted with cheers. Songs follow in his wake. For a time, he shines, but these efforts are limited. With the crown's debt, Stannis cannot commit much, and most houses are reluctant to hand over more than a few chests. Meanwhile, Ma Tyrell makes his own camp at Fair Market, where his banners blot out the horizon. With the gold of Castalie Rock seized and the endless grain of the reach, each stages feasts, employs masons and builders, and boasts of rebuilding the Riverlands into the jewel of the realm. But it isn't just small folk. Sparrows wander barefoot through the streets, crying sermons that sting like whips. They spread rumors of why the crown is doing so little, whispering that they are using all their wealth to build a temple of light. Already, the number of converts to the Lord of Light grows, and they see it as a challenge. They build fire temples for false gods. They burn coin on heresy while widows starve. They speak of crowns and stags. Yet whose hands feed you? Not the kings, the mob murmurss, restless. But the sparrows turn on Renley as well, whispering him an ungrateful godson and a fornicator among worst of things. They say he must be among the most fanatic worshippers of Rolar. Renley hears of this and Harrenhal and slams his goblet down. Wine spilling across the maps. >> Do they think I'm Stannis's shadow? I had no part in those fires. >> Mace hears this and does not support them. But nor does he halt them entirely. When Alena hears of this, he berates his son for foolishness even in allowing those men to speak and warns him against supporting them or even letting them into his city. She convinces him to condemn the Sparrow's words and warns that they might come after him next. Mace relents and calls their actions unacceptable, saying that he will not abide by anyone insulting Renley or the king. Yet the wildfire has been released, and the rumors spread from there. >> You dine with him, you ride with him, you wear his name. Is that enough for the rebel? Blaming kings costs them nothing. >> It costs me. Every sermon makes me seem a tyrant's echo. >> Better an echo than a fool. Endure it and you may yet be loved. And what of Mace? Your son manages to benefit from all this chaos. >> I will contain him. He will handle things. >> The Lord of High Garden does take action, starting to arrest some of the sparrows he catches speaking poorly of the king. This is enough to pacify Stannis for now. But in council, when Mace demands new honors, master of laws, warden of the West, keeper of the fair market, even Renley's smile falters. Later that night, he shakes his head as Marjorie tries to calm him down. He overreaches, yes, but he feeds the people, wins their songs. They are empty titles, nothing more. >> And what am I then? A husband to the reach? >> A good man who has served the realm. The people will be sure to remember you as much. >> Yet as he departs and meets with Stannis and Ned, both men can see the trouble. >> We did not depose the Lannisters to replace them with Tyrells. They are our allies. >> Allies? That's the problem. We are not another great house, brother. We are the ruling power. Allies only last as long as our goals match. And Lord Mace has clearly started thinking otherwise. So what is it you propose? We cannot throw them aside when they have done nothing illegal. We do that and no other house will ever ally with us again. No, they have done nothing wrong. You're right. But we must begin to limit their power. They cannot continue to strengthen themselves uncontested. This is what I have long feared. The seven kingdoms have started to see themselves as seven once again. We must reverse. We must reverse that trend before anyone gets the idea of ruling themselves. That is why I had hoped to secure our position in the Westerlands. Secure critical infrastructure, resources, and strengthen our power. A centralized realm. So, all of this wasn't simple madness. But you should know that Mace has no intention of accepting that. If our dynasty is to survive, then it's the only way. But even as they discuss and strategize what should be done for the reach, there are stirrings in the east. While many believe Littlefinger dead, the truth was that the pirate attack was staged. Those men had been his men and secretly spirited him away from the Night's Watch. He sneaks himself back to the Eerie where Lady Lysa welcomes him with open arms. From there, he kept close watch to the realm and searched for his chance to reestablish influence. This cold war between the Baratheians and Tyrells is the perfect opportunity and he soon gets the chance as there are reports of someone claiming to be Aegon V 6th in Essos. Letters are sent out and an alliance is forged in secret. Soon enough, the Golden Company lands in the fingers where few people will notice their presence. They make a sudden sweep southward, storming the coastal castles and leaving the Veilmen on the backfoot. However, as Yonroyce gathers his army, Lady Lysa makes a bold claim and orders her army to stand down. Many of those houses choose to ally themselves with them. The Belmorars, Templetons, and Corbres are amongst those who pledge themselves to the new arrival, sweeping aside those who refuse to join. Soon the entire veil falls under the influence of the Golden Company and at top the highest peak of the Eerie, Aegon V 6th is crowned king. The news sends shock waves across the realm as many houses see the sudden arrival of the Targaryenss. For most of the realm, there had been a hope that war would not return to their shores for at least a few decades. But as the army assembles and marches past the bloody gate, that truth becomes unavoidable. Yet the reaction is also equally troubling. The Westerlands closes its borders as the best they can, while the North promises aid. Though their troops are distant, a few riverlords oppose them, but others rally to their side. Dorne remains quiet, but Stannis knows they are likely to declare for Aegon if left unchecked. This leaves only the Stormlands in the reach to deal with them, but their attention is divided as the Dornish begins calling their banners. Stannis also has no illusions for who they intend to support and orders that a portion of the southern armies remain behind to check their advance while he deploys the royal fleet to blockade them and the other portion to block the veil. This leaves the Blackwater Bay vulnerable as Corsair's strike across the scattered islands, seizing Claw Isles, Crackclaw Point, and Sharp Point. All of these are a series of blows for Stannis. The worst being claw is where a vast treasures of Lord Keltigar are looted, including a Valyrian steel ax and a legendary horn found in the ruins of Valyria. These fall into the hands of the Corsair's captain, Euron Crowi. Like Littlefinger, he has kept a close watch of the realm and sees it falling apart. He sees his lords worry about their houses falling to ruins, at the expansion of foreign gods, at how they can grow stronger. All of this is like the sweetest nectarhead to him, but leaving the blood in the water for them to attack. But as this happens, the Reach and Stormlands mobilize for war. Mace recognizes the threat Aegon poses and mobilizes 25,000 men, while Stannis gathers another 10,000 and Renley 12,000. They all rush into the Riverlands, finding the land they had so painstakingly repaired being reduced to ruin. The sight of this fuels Stannis's anger as he rides forth, taking control of Harrenhal and cutting his way north. The Riverlands burn once more as the armies clash and try to retake the countryside. All sides know its significance. If it were to fall, the Golden Company would be able to advance across the region as they wish. But if they can be stopped, Stannis can push back and bottle up their army in the veil. These thoughts run through his mind as he advances deeper, watching the ruins stretch out around him. Remley rides beside him, bright as ever. But even his easy smile seems to falter as he watches the destruction. In the distance, Mace's banners can be seen as his own army presses deeper. They have already started clashing with the advanced guard of the Golden Company and their rebel Riverlord allies. While they enjoy some success, it is troubling to see how many riverlords eagerly rebelled against them. Houses Bracken and Derry throw up their banners for Aegon the 6th, joined by barefoot sparrows who march with cudgles and torches. They are the first to engage the royalist host, but are beaten back with young Lord Derry captured. But he reports other houses have followed them and are gathering with the Golden Company. Seeing the larger royalist host approaching, John Conington pulls his forces together and assembles around the Green Fork. Yet the roads there are fought with chaos as the clashes escalate. Renley's knights sweep aside ravel sparrows with glittering charges, the small folk scattering like leaves before the wind. At the banks of the blue fork, Stannis's infantry grinds through a contingent of veilmen raiding this far. At long last, far into the green fork, the rebels assemble their forces. The Golden Company anchors their lines with veilmen on one side and the rebel lords and sparrows on the other. The first battles are brutal. They choose a low rise that offers considerable protection while archers fire behind rocks. This rains down on the Baratheon and Tyrellmen as they charge. On the left, Mace and the Veil Lords clash. The elite nightly cavalry meeting the endless numbers of the reach while Renley and his stormlanders clash with the sparrows and riverlords. Many veterans of the war of the five kings. Stannis personally commands three charges against their hillside position, hoping to break them. However, as they crash and are beaten back, it is their own forces that show signs of strain. Seeing this, Aegon and his men unleash the elephants which throws the entire battlefield into chaos. Their ranks are thrown into disarray as their armies scatter. Aegon presses the advantage and continues to drive his troops further in. So much that they begin to descend the hill. Still, Stannis rallies his men and manages to hold out until at last Ned Stark arrives, pouring from the neck. With the news closing, the hills fall one by one with the Golden Company's famed discipline giving away. Amidst the chaos, Aegon is cut down by Loris Tyrell and his head presented before Stannis. Soon after, the conspirators are dealt with. Stannis allows Edmure to deal with the Riverlords, though he recommends they are sent to the wall. The same is true for the Veilmen, who are offered the chance to redeem themselves if they storm the Erie and punish Littlefinger. Meanwhile, the Sparrows are all executed, and the Golden Company is enrolled as cells swords. This leaves the Targaryen forces completely crushed, but it also leaves the crown fully occupied up north, and from there, the Ironborn strikes. Iran had not seriously committed to this war beyond simple raiding, and that was because he was after the wealth of Claw Isles. With that, he easily hires cells swords to find and assassinate his brother and take command of the Ironborn. The rest of the wealth is handed over to the captains who offer him their support, and they strike all across the western coast. Euron Greyjoyy's laughter echoes from the decks of the Iron Fleet as villages burn along the Stony Shore. His captains raid deep into the Westerlands, torching Craig Hall and Fair Isle. The Lannister ships are led into an ambush and destroyed. To the south, Ironborn long ships strike the shield Isles, cutting into the Reach itself. Lord High Tower pleads for aid, warning that Oldtown itself may fall. In response, the Reach lords abandon the Westerlands, racing south to defend their own. This leaves fierce Devon to fight the Ironborn with fishing gifts, rocks, and harsh language. The only thing that stops the Westerlands from being completely overwhelmed is the naval presence of the Royal Fleet, which barely holds Lannisport. Even Ned Stark cannot ignore this threat and pulls back half his army to deal with the Ironborn. All of this spooks the lords who rush south to defend their own. Iron hears this in his dreams. Their frantic prayers music to his ears as they all plead desperately for the gods to save them. But the Crowi hopes they will come to deliver them low. The storm crests at the arbor as Euron's fleet descends like a plague of shadows. Long ships swarming the emerald waters. Despite that, the Red Winds challenge them, trusting their numbers in their larger galleys. At first, it is a trust wellfounded as they easily outfight the Iron Fleet, matching them in skill and boasting superior warships. Soon, the waters around the Isisles churn with blood and ruined ships, many of them ironborn. Seeing this, Paxter Redwin presses his ships forward, eager to fight and finish off the iron threat. On his flagship, Euron holds a loft, a black horn bound in gold and Valyrian glyphs. He watches as his ships retreat and flounder in the water as he raises his horn to his lips and blows. The sound that comes out shakes the seas and heavens alike. From the depths, not krakens rise. He has no interest in them. In the stories of his youth, they spoke of sea dragons that caused even the krakens to quake in fear. Beings that can match the dragons of the Valyrians. A shape vast as a mountain heaves from the sea. Scales black as midnight, eyes glowing like drowned suns. A sea dragon, jaws lined with teeth like towers, bursts from the water, unleashing a tidal wave that consumes the nearest ships. Euron leaps into its back and grips its horn. He knows the beast from legends. It was said that if left untamed, it could devour the moon itself. Bakunawa. The beast roars and whole galleys shatter like driftwood in its wake. As Bakunawa flips his wings for the first time, it sends the largest galley capsizing to the churning waters. Slowly but surely, the seadragon takes to the sky. It surpasses Bolyrian, the black dread in size, and is stouter and heavy set, though unable to breathe fire. Yet somehow, through the chaos, Euron raises his ax high. He listens to the desperate prayers of the sailors and laughs. Yes. Pray to your gods. Plead for mercy as you are dragged down under. There are no gods, only me. We are sainted by the storm. Facing the wind, for we all have sinned. We are tainted and forlorn. And for my ironborn, fight for your conquest. Fight for the wild, for the night, for the land and the fight. We are sainted by the night. The news arrives like thunder across the realm. The Redwin fleet, Pride of the Reach, is shattered. Euron Greyjoy sails unchallenged, and with him comes something far worse. The Stormbringer, Bakunawa. It does not breathe fire like a dragon. Instead, it summons storms. Seas rise and swallow villages whole. Fisher folk vanish into waves that never recede. The coasts of the Reach and Westerlands drown beneath endless rain. There are fears that this may even consume the entire Seven Kingdoms. Some suggest outright retreat, fleeing inland, but the seas do not stay at the shores. They rise higher and higher, swallowing the lowlands, creeping inland. And yet, where others despair, Stannis stands unbent. At Harrenhal, he summons Renley, Mace, and the Riverlords, every major house. Even the sparrows who had spat upon his name fear the end of the world. If you think this is about crowns, about who sits the Iron Throne, it is not. This is about survival. If we do not act, there will be no kingdoms left to squabble over, only a graveyard beneath the sea. We must act as one realm. There can be no more room for conflict. The sparrows hiss, calling him heretic, but even they cannot deny the rising tide. They kneel, if only for now. Others are afraid, citing the ruins of their fleet. But then the blackfish grabs one frightened lordling and pushes him back when he tries to leave. Back in my day, we didn't have great drummans or slick long ships. We had sticks, two sticks in a rock, and we had to share the rock. Buck up, boy. You're one very lucky sailor. Thank you, sir. I have heard survivors refer to this beast as Bakunawa. If this is the same Bakunawa of legend, I recall it being lured to the surface in the age of heroes, by the light of the moon. But it was driven back by the sacrifice of men. And so on the black waters of the narrow sea, a fleet gathers. Baratheon, Tyrell, Martell, Stark, even ships of the veil. Everything from war galleys, long ships, cogs, brigaders, even fishing skiffs. They form a triangular formation with Stannis's ship at the center. All around him, war drums echo across the waves, mixing with the sounds of gongs and horns, while sparrows and priests of Vrolar chant, and torches flare upon decks. Above them, the moon shines bright. Then the moon disappears. A moment later, something vast moves across the sky. A shadow darker than night. Bakuama comes. Its endless coils blotting out the stars. Lightning flashing in its wake. The seas rise and crash, swallowing ships whole. Stannis stands upon the fury. Lightbringer in hand. The sword burns red like a beacon as he waves it around. Ships ignite, wildfire blooming green across the waters, flaring brighter than day. These spells are empowered by the priests and pyromancers to be deadlier than ever. The creature shrieks as fire lashes its scales, but the storm smothers much of the flame. While they are singed, there is no serious damage. Still, it comes, roaring, maw, wide enough to swallow fleets whole. But while they are distracted by the seadragon, the Ironborn strike, their black sails crash into the Allied fleets. Reavers leaping across decks with axes and hooks. The drums falter, men scream, steel clashes in the night. The Black Fish and Lord Davos command the ships and prevent the Ironborn from breaching their formation. >> They're on our stern and gaining more speed. Hold your weapon and hold your water. Brace up. Dying is the day worth living for. Full forward and into the abyss. Are you murder? What's the matter? Afraid of getting wet? >> Stannis does not waver. He holds his burning sword aloft, daring the beast to come. As the ship's war around him, the fury trembles as waves rise around it. Standing on the damp wooden helm, he still does not surrender. Barely, he can hear the crews moans as they're crying aloud through the pouring rain. The icy spurts and the cracking of the boards. He glimpses the heedless nightcloud ghost and closes his eyes to believe the seas are dwelled by his fears. Creatures of old, forgotten times. from a whirlwind grandiose. He he appears. The mighty sea dragon circles around to attack again. He directs his crew to take aim with their scorpions and catapults. Firing at Bakunawa. Their next salvo strikes the beast across the mouth, leaving its jaw smoking as he shakes his head. Euron and Bakinawa turn to see the fury firing defiantly at them. With their attention, Stannis waves Lightbringer around defiantly and catches the sea dragon's eyes. Grinning, Euron dives the beast low until it's half submerged and sends the nearest ships scattering. The entire northern point of their formation is thrown in disarray as Bakunawa flattens the nearest ships. Stannis turns to his crew, spying Matos Seaworth among them. The sea swift is pulling us aside. If you want to live, leap onto her deck now. But you, Grace, we can't leave you alone. You can't pilot the Fury on your own. Stannis glances at Melisandre calmly, gliding across the deck. I won't be alone. Besides, this destiny is mine, not yours. Now go. Sparring his king one final glance, Matos shouts for the others to follow him as he leaps onto the smaller galley. Stannis watches them depart, bold wind sailing past, letting its large sails carry them forward and just barely escaping the sea dragon as the beast devours ship and king alike. Yet, as the jaws close on their ship, Stannis shouts from Alisandre, who ignites the wildfire hidden inside the fury's stores. Inside the belly of the beast, fire ignites. The sea itself seems to burn as Bakunawa convulses, writhes, shrieks. When it opens its mouth for the first time, it spits out fire, howling in pain as his body writhes in agony. Seeing it's weakened, Ned and Renley have the drummers redouble their efforts, the sound of their instruments aggravating its sensitive ears. Between the fire and fury of the Greenlanders, the great sea dragon has had its fill. and plunges back into the depths. Euron screams as he tries to urge the beast forward, back into the fight, but the beast was never his to control and disappears back into the sea, dragging him with it. When the storm clears, only wreckage remains, burning ships, broken masts, corpses, a drift, and from the waters emerges Lightbringer, still burning. Ned glances at the horizon and sees the Ironborn sailing away, leaving the battle behind. They're turning away. >> With that, the whole fleet erupts and cheer. He turns to find Renley smiling, but tears sting his eyes. For a moment, the realm is united. They look upon the sword and think of Stannis, not as a da king, nor as a heretic, but as the man who defeated the Stormbringer. The sparrows chant his name and curse him in the same breath. Mace Tyrell pins about his bravery. Renley watches, bowing his head, knowing that the path forward will be no easier. When they return to King's Landing, Renley is crowned king. Yet, he vows to continue Stannis's policies in reforming the kingdom to create a stronger throne, one where they do not need to live in fear of constant wars. It begins to strengthen their position, improving the navy, placing garrisons across the seven kingdoms, and begins creating a longlasting government. That's our theory. Westeros is a land filled with exciting stories and possibilities, and we love exploring them. 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