What if Robb Stark SAVED Ned Stark

The night [music] is dark and full of theories. [music] What if Rob Stark saved Ned Stark? Let's explore the depths of it in the video. Chaos reigns in the docks of King's Landing. Rob cuts down a gold cloak as he helps his father toward the dock. Get out of our way. Theon is holding Sansa's hand as she cries and looks around. Ned is leaning on Great John Umber face a mask of pain. >> Rob, leave me behind. Get Sansa back home. I'm a dead man anyway. No, I won't leave you here, father. We're bringing you home. More gold cloaks and Lannister guards rush toward them three weeks earlier. >> Treason all this. >> It is your sister's hand, but the queen's words. [music] >> Joffrey puts my father in chains. Now he wants his ass kissed. >> This is a royal command, my lord. >> His grace summons me to King's Landing. I'll go to King's Landing. But not alone. Call the banners. >> Instruct my uncle, the Blackfish, and Lord Bolton. They are to lead the army in defense of the Riverlands. Tell Lord Kstark and Lord Umber to bring their best men to White Harbor. We're rescuing my father. You intend to break your father out of the Black Souls. That's mad, even for an Ironborn. It's our only chance to come out of this alive. Joffrey will kill him otherwise. You saw how much of a little [ __ ] the prince was before he was king. Get your things. You're coming as well. Under the cover of night, Rob, Theon, and Sir Rodri set out for White Harbor, intents to sail in one of Lord Manderly's fastest ships. With all haste, Maester Leuen sends out the ravens. But Rob's [music] plan has not been unnoticed. Varys's little birds tell him about the young wolf's plan to rescue his father. Well, well, bold boy. Tragically, it won't work. Foolish boy, too emotional. Surely he knows the risk of such a daring and dangerous strategy. Sighing, the spider adjusts his plans. In order to have any hope for stability, he cannot lose both Starkmen. An allout war must be slowed at any cost, lest his inio's plan go to waste. The consequences would be catastrophic. To that end, the young wolf must succeed. In all secrecy, he sends some of his little birds to Lord Manderly via a merchant ship already bound to White Harbor with a message addressed to Rob with advice to what dock should be the least guarded, when to start the rescue, and a promise that all else will be handled by him. When Rob and his men arrive at White Harbor, Lord Manderly tells him the spider's message. He claims that you can help Ned out of the black cells. You will just have to follow his instructions. Can we trust the spider? He seemed like an oily bastard when me and Lady Catelyn encountered him. If we don't trust this spider, we might as well turn back and let Ned die, or else bring the army to knock on King's Landing's door. That's not an option. If we do that, my father will die. We trust the spider. The little birds depart with Rob and his men. And once they arrive at the docks, the birds slip into the red keep to inform their master. With all the pieces in place, Varys executes his plan. Bribes are given to the citywatch guards working the night shift. He personally puts his alias, Rugan, on the black cell's rotation. When the time comes for the escape, he guides Rob into a secret room, then helps Theon to grab Sansa. >> Theod hugged it. >> Don't say anything, Sansa. We're here to get you home. Where's Arya? >> Gone. Nobody can find her. >> Do not trouble yourself, child. My little birds will find your sister. Just go. >> Satisfied that the pieces are in place, Varys [music] goes to Ned's cell. So, you come to taunt a dead man? If so, you better hurry. I am ready to die. I learned to die a long time ago. Not exactly, Lord Stark. If I have my way, you're to escape to the north. You must remain alive for the wars to come. I do not have much time, Spider. Look at my leg. Varys looks down at the gray and rotten bandages and mentally curses Cersei. The bandages are infected. Likely Ned had at most a week or two to live. Well, then how will I explain to your son and your banaman that you prefer to stay in the black cells for your last few days of life? But what about the guards? Oh, don't you mind them, Lord Stark. The Lannisters aren't the only ones with gold in their pockets. There will be a time where I call upon either you or your son. When that day comes, you'll be faced with a decision. Your friends or the realm. I want you and your son to do this act and to choose the realm when the choice is placed before you. Ned nods and Varys quickly brings him out of the black cells to where Rob is waiting. Weekly, [music] he lets his son bear hug him, followed by Sansa. Ned finds himself hanging on to his son and daughter as they embrace, but they cannot allow much time to celebrate. If they don't move, they will be caught. How is this possible? How did you bring Sansa here? It was Theon, father. He slipped up through the tower of the hand to brought it here. Thank you, Theon. I'm forever in your debt. You're more of a father to me than my own father ever was. I'm just glad to have you back. >> Ned wants to tell them they should have left him, that they will have to watch him die as his own body betrays him, but he can't. Not with Rob and Sansa looking at him with such hope in their eyes. Come on then, let's go. >> Great John lets Ned lean on him and they quickly depart through the passages toward the docks. Just as they're about to exit the main city walls and make their way toward the docks, the small party is spotted by a Lannister patrol coming toward the city. Despite the bestlaid plans, the gods often work in mysterious ways, and a certain songird whispered in the ear of a certain scheming brothel owner, who then alerted the Lannister men to Ned's escape. Despite Rob and his men being outnumbered, Rob, Theon, [music] and Great John attack. Small folk hear the commotion and start to swarm out of their houses and get a look at the disturbance, [music] adding to the havoc spreading across the docks. On one hand, it conceals them. On another, it makes it more difficult to get to the boat. Get out of our way. But the damage is done. More Lannister guards swarm out of the city onto the docks, some bearing crossbows. >> I can't get there fast enough, Rob. I can't make it to the boat with my leg. I'll get you all killed, including Sansa. I won't have my daughter die because of me. I'm not leaving you here to die. Father, >> despite Rob's protests, [music] Theon and the Great Jon see the same thing Ned does. At this rate, they won't make it out of the city alive unless they do something really stupid. Your father's right, Rob. We won't make it out of here alive unless we do something. Go take your family. I'll take every single Lannister man down with me before I let them touch you. Lots. You've always been good to me, Lord Stark. I intend to pay back that debt. The iron price. Theon, don't do this. I won't let you die here. The Ironborn boy won't be enough. I'll stay with him. Don't worry. I'll take 100 men down with me before they've even gotten close to you. Now run along, Wolves. Can't have you dying on me. Tell my son I died a hero's death. Your sacrifice won't be forgotten, Lord. Umb, thank you, Theon. I'm sorry that it had to come to this. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder, Theon and Great Jon charge the Lannisters. Crossbow bolts flying past them. Rob ushers Sansa and his father onto the the ship as Theon and the Great Jon cut the through the Lannisters. After a few minutes of fighting, the crossbow men start pelting Theon in great joy with quarrels. Theon goes down first, a crossbow through his eye. Fueled by rage, Great Jon flings himself into the Lannisters, slashing and hacking with his great sword, even as the guards try to bring him down. Eventually, blood loss causes the Great Jon to fall, allowing the Lannisters to swarm him and kill him. Instead of going directly to White Harbor, Ned chooses to do his duty and dock at Dragonstone. He needs to discuss the events of what's transpired with Stannis and what they need to do next. Stannis is the rightful king. He deserves to know what's happened. We don't have much time. When they arrive at Dragonstone, the guards quickly usher Ned to Stannis. Once Stannis sees Ned's leg and how badly infected it is, he has his maester treat it. Despite Maester Cresen's best efforts, he can do little to slow the decay. However, someone on Dragonstone can. >> Lord Stark, I can buy you some time. Time that you'll need to fulfill the purpose the Lord of Light has for you. >> How much time? >> A month, a year, I do not know. But I can slow the poison enough for you to see your wife again. >> Ned accepts and Melisandre places a charm around his neck that will stop the spread of the infection. Once Ned is ready, he, Stannis, and Rob meet in the map room. They quickly explain how Rob had rescued Ned from King's Landing, mentioning the fact that Varys had helped in the rescue. Without Varys's help, we'd surely be heads on spikes. The spider never does anything for free. He'll ask for that favor sooner rather than later. Agreed. Hopefully, it's something we can afford. >> No matter. The main focus now is to get my birthright, the Iron Throne. Then we can deal with my tracer brother. Your grace, what would you ask me to do? I am willing to put the North support behind you. My brother will trot around and not make any moves on [music] King's Landing, even if he has the Tyrells in his pocket. If we leave a contingent of troops in the Riverlands to defend against further Lannister revenance and march the rest of your forces to White Harbor so we can bring them by sea to Dragonstone. Once we've assembled our host, the Northmen and our men will assault from the Blackwater together. We'll need to send out raiders to make it so that the queen and her forces can't gather supplies. And if Tarwin comes to lift the siege, [music] we can slow his advance. I'll lead the raiders your grace. Rob, father, let me lead these men. I want to fight. I can do this. All right, but take Sedos with you. He's got a sharp mind for all the hidden paths just as much as your wolf does. With that, Rob begins his war in the Crownlands, raiding parties, bearing the fiery heart and direwolf spread through the Crownlands. One night, Rob encounters the Knights Watchmen group being assaulted by a group of Lannisters hunting Gendry. Rob and Grey Wind lead the charge on on the Lannisters, killing them and rescuing Arya, [music] Gendry, and Hotpie. >> Rob, you're here. Oh, yeah. Come here. Let's get you to Dragonstoneone. >> Can Gendry and Hopie come, too? >> All right, they can come. We just have to ride hard to the coast before the Lannisters arrive. Ned and Sansa embrace Arya when she arrives. Ned shaking with his emotion as his wild little girl tells him everything that's happened to her. Now that both his daughters are safe and Rob is back at his side, Ned sails north to White Harbor with Stannis. Once at White Harbor, he gets to work organizing his men. He wishes to see Cat again, but she's already in Winterfell, and he doesn't have the strength to travel over land, and she can't reach them before the departure of the fleet. Sighing, he writes a letter to Cat, outlying everything he'd always wanted to tell her, and sends it to Winterfell. In case Melisandre's spell fails, Ned also writes a letter to Rob. Although the Northmen travel at night to avoid prying eyes, Tyrion and Tywin get wind of the enemy mobilizing soon after they are alerted about Ned and Sense's escape. Insensed at Cersei's failure to keep the wolf caged, Tywin rides through the night to deal with the siege. But scouts find Renley is rapidly moving toward him. The stag has forced him into a corner. He only has two choices. Give Renley battle, return back to Casterly Rock. However, after receiving a letter from Cersei, Tywin pauses. Rather than attempt to take the capital, Tywin sets up camp within sight of the capital. Stannis, Ned, and Rob stand on the deck of fury. 60,000 men and a fleet at their back. When they arrive at King's Landing, it's as silent as a tomb. No bells, no troops on the battlements and no ships to stop their advance. In unison, Stannis and his [music] men storm through the gates at the docks while the Northmen and Riverlands stay behind on the ships. They quickly spread through the city only to find that it's been deserted. I've got a bad feeling about this. It's too quiet. Why would the Lannisters just give up the throne? True, but perhaps they just decided to leave rather than face us. There's no indication of treachery. Still, we should be careful. I'll have some of them pulled back and scout the area. Triumphantly, Stannis walks into his throne room with the queen's men, Melisandre and Sir Alistister at his back. >> Congratulations, your grace. You have the Iron Throne, as you've always deserved. Thank you, Sir Alistister. >> The Lord of Light smiles on us. Did I not tell you that Rolard would deliver them into your hands, my king? The flames never lie. >> Indeed, perhaps your lord of light truly is the one true god. >> Deep in the boughels of the red keep, a mad chuckling echoes through the halls made by Magar the Cruel. The wildest pyromancer Cersei could find holds a candle over the pool of glowing green liquid. The queen says, "Burn them all." So they shall burn. They shall all burn. [laughter] >> The rumbling sound starts rising from below the throne. Davos and Stannis glance downward, [music] then at each other. What kind of >> The king's question is cut off as the wildfire bursts upward, consuming him. Alistister, Melisandre, and 5,000 troops. Rob, and Ned's eyes flick upward as a roar like a thousand lions blast outward right before a green flame explodes upward from the red keep and spreads outward. Within seconds, King's Landing is consumed in green fire. Davos drops to his knees in horror, eyes [music] wide. Ned's hands goes to his chest and he collapses to the ground, veins turning black around his neck. Ned coughs, looking up at Rob. Weakly, he points at his leg. Rob cuts open his father's pant leg. He's immediately transfixed at the sight of the infected swollen flesh and the black veins running upward. I was on borrowed time when you got me out, Rob. At least I got to see you and your sisters. Slowly, his head falls and his eyes close. Grey Wind nuzzles Ned's body, then raises his head and howls. Rob can't believe that this is happening. All his work, Theon and Great Jon's death for nothing. After all that, he'd lost his father. And not to an enemy sword, but to an invisible, unkillable foe. Tears flow down Rob's face as he lays his hand on Ned's chest. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. He doesn't know who he's saying sorry to. Stannis, Davos, The Yawn, Great Jon, his father, all at once, maybe. It's as if a shadow falls over him. Davos Seaworth walks up to Rob and puts a hand on the lad's shoulder. >> You did your best, lad. Some things you can't change. >> Rob looks up, eyes red rimmed and filled with fury. In response to his master's anger, Greywind snars at the ruins. >> Then we change what we can. I will hunt Cersei Lannister to the ends of her days. I will destroy House Lannister and turn Castasterly Rock into a monument of their destruction just as Tywin did with the rains and Tarbex. When they speak of House Lannister for generations to come, all they will say is winter came for House Lannister. Rickard Karstark nods and starts thumping [music] his fist against his chest. Soon the whole of the Northmen are following his example. Rob motions toward the ruins. Move into that wreckage. Start setting fires around the area. I want this whole area covered in smoke for when Lord Tywin arrives. As soon as Tywin sees the capital consumed in green flame, he knows why Cersei had told him to stay back. That mad woman, [clears throat] she destroyed the capital in a single instant. The Iron Throne, everything, it's all gone to ruin. As soon as Cersei arrives at the Lannister camp, Tywin has her and Joffrey brought to his pavilion. The old lion's face is stone cold as his daughter is escorted in. Father, we removed Stannis Baratheon at long last. House Lannister has a Valyrian steel blade. >> As she gestures toward him, Sander Clelegane holds up ice. The only man beside the mountain who could effectively wield the gigantic weapon. Everyone but my family, get out. Despite Tywin's emotionless tone, Cersei and Joffrey both quail backward under his iron gaze. Even Jaime starts shifting uncomfortably as Tywin rounds [music] his desk and walks forward. Silently, Tywin clasps his hands behind his back and looms over his daughter and grandson. You burned King's Landing with wildfire. >> Yes, I >> You burned King's Landing to ash with wildfire. Are you completely and utterly insane? >> Cersei flinches under Tywin's glare, drawing in on herself as Tywin continues his quiet tyrate. >> You have done something not even the mad king would consider doing. We have destroyed any possible claims of legitimacy in exchange for a few deaths. >> My mother killed Stannis Baratheon. We won't have to worry about him attempting to claim my throne. >> Are you two actually this stupid? There is no throne anymore. Because your mother is an incompetent, feckless imbecile. Also, by killing Stannis in this way, the entire realm will rally around Renley Baratheon. Everyone backs away. They never heard Tywin this furious. Cersei looks toward Jaime to defend her, but Jaime can't see anything but the mad king. Burn them all. Burn them all repeats over and over in his mind as he remembers Aries. [music] In the midst of Tywin's fury, Tyrion simply sits back and sips his wine, watching as his father chastises Cersei and Joffrey. Finally, after Tywin has finished venting his unbridled wrath on the hapless pair, he angrily dismisses them and takes his seat behind his desk. >> You can keep the sword, Clegane. For now, I will want it returned. I'll put it to good use. >> Muttering under his breath, Tywin leans back in his chair and rubs his forehead. Jaime and Tyrion sit uncomfortably as they wait for their father to explode again. Slowly, Tywin rests his hand on his desk and nods to Jaime. >> We need to see if there's anything salvageable from the capital. If we can take the Iron Throne and move it to Castasterly Rock, there might be a symbolic victory. Fortify the road to prevent Renley from attacking us. We need to go in and out quickly. We have no time to waste. The smoldering ruins of King's Landing are deathly silent. Smoke rises throughout the fields around the city from where the wildfire has spread. Tywin motions toward his troops to move into the city and try to salvage what they can from the Red Keep. However, as soon as they vanish into the smoky ruins, sounds of screams accompany the men. Jaime glances around, hand on his sword, face set in a hideous snarl. The hound draws ice. The huge man handling the huge greatsword as easily with one hand as most men would carry a long sword. Without warning, a rain of arrows fly out from the smoldering ruins. The unprepared Lannister troops start falling as the arrows find chinks in their armor. >> Ambush form ranks. Prepare to fight. >> With a creek and a roar, the trebuchets that Stannis had brought to bring down the walls hurl stones from the wreckage of King's Landing at the Lannisters. As they attempt to form up, their formations are broken by rocks flying into them along with arrow fire. Charge the ruins. They're in sight. Jamie, don't. >> However, it's too late. The king's slayer leads a wild charge toward the hill formed from the broken walls, only to be [music] met by a wall of spears. The Westerman cavalry flounders and loses their momentum as the Northern and Riverland spearman force them off balance. And all the while, the trebuchets continue their barrage. >> Archers, return their volleys now. >> Screaming and howling, a horde of Northern cavalry rides out from the Kingswood right [music] into Tywin's rear as the Northman infantry charges out from the smoke. All of them are covered in white paste, giving them the [music] appearance of evil spirits. And at their head, a young man with a giant direwolf at his side. At the sight of the spectral-looking Northmen charging toward them from two sides, the Westerman's moralis starts to break. They didn't agree to fight the vengeful spirits of King's Landing's dead, led by the shade of Ned Stark's son. Terror surges inside Joffrey when he sees Rob riding directly toward him. Grey Wind howls like a demon from a nightmare. His yellow eyes fixated on the young king. Sander gets between Joffrey and Rob, but at that moment, Davos Seaworth commands the trebuchets to fling fiery projectiles at the Lannisters. Terror fills the Hound as fire starts spreading across the Lannister lions. He has the presence of mind to grab Joffrey and drag him back, but the sight of the king fleeing breaks the morale even further. [music] Laughing, Gregor tries to pry ice from his brother's grip after slapping the back of his head with the flat of his own greatsword. >> That's for the hounds turning pump. For a moment, the Hound's eyes turn red. Roaring, he attacks Gregor in the midst of the Lannister guards. Ice a blur in his hand. Chaos now spreads through the Lannister ranks as the Northern cavalry crashes into them and the infantry emerges from the ruins. In the midst of the battle, Sander and Gregor battle, ice hitting the mountains great sword with such force that chips fly from the blade. Crying for his mother, Joffrey finds himself trapped in the press of the Westerman as they attempt to run from the Northmen. Suddenly, Jaime is there trying to cut his way to Joffrey. Joffrey, follow me. I'll get you out of here. Roaring in fury, the Hound ignores his charge and keeps swinging ice into Greor's greatsword. Roose Bolton sees the Clelegane brothers dueling, then motions to his archers. Arrows fall among the Westermen, and a few find places in the Hound and his [music] brother. As the Wester start to flee southward, arrow fire comes from the south where more Northmen had been hiding. along with a force of Riverland cavalry but led by Tythos Blackwood. Now completely surrounded. The battle rapidly devolves into a straightforward butcher yard. As the men in the center are pushed so close that they can't move. However, despite the press, Jaime manages to push his way through only to find himself face to face with Rob and Greywind. Snarling, the direwolf charges at Jaime as Rob attacks Joffrey. Caught between the wolf and defending Joffrey against Rob, Jaime doesn't notice the Northmen closing in on him. Small John Umber, Harrion, Torren Karstark, and Daisy Mormont. With so many opponents attacking him while he attempts to hold off Greywind, Jaime is overwhelmed and pulled down. But Harrion and Torin both take serious injuries while Daisy gets a cut across her face. Now without any of that, the king has been stripped of all his protectors. Rob advances on Joffrey, eyes filled with hatred. Joffrey tries to run, but Grey Wind closes his jaws around Joffrey's leg and drags him back to Rob. It's over, Joffrey. With a single savage blow, he severs Joffrey's head from his shoulders. With the death of the king, the fall of the king's slayer, the hound, and the mountain, the Westerman's discipline shatters. Those who don't try running throw down their weapons and are taken prisoner. Tywin and Kevin are brought before Rob along with Jaime and the other hostages. After retrieving ice from the Hound's corpse, Roose Bolton offers the great sword to Rob. Imitating his father's pose before an execution, Rob takes hold of the hilt with both hands. Jaime and Tywin Lannister, for your part in the death of my father, Eddard Stark, I, Rob of House Stark, Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, sentence you to die. Your father fought well. I'm sorry I couldn't get the chance to actually cross swords with him. With a single blow, Rob decapitates Jaime. Then Tywin, after the old lion, takes a moment to stare at his golden son's head on the ground. Shaking with fury and unsatisfied vengeance, Rob walks away from the two men and instructs his men to place the heads on spikes outside the remains of King's Landing. Hunt down Cersei Lannister. Hang her from the highest point available. Leave Tommen and Marcela alive if you find them. Pursued by expert woodsmen, Cersei is quickly apprehended and hanged. Rob spares her children from seeing their mother die, but keeps them under guard along with Tyrion. Now that his oath to destroy House Lannister is fulfilled, Rob walks away from everyone to find a quiet place to clean ice. He'd thought that killing the Lannisters would alleviate the shadow over him, but it had only intensified. Every time he closes his eyes, he sees the carnage, the men dying, horses screaming. Rob can even taste the blood in his mouth from Grey. Once he's away from his troops, Rob drops to his knees, holding ice to him as if it were his own father. Heaving with racking sobs, Rob lets his tears drop to the gray and silver steel. He'd killed them all, but he'd felt nothing. No triumph, no satisfaction. He just felt empty. A large hand coming into Rob's shoulder causes him to look up to the small Jon looking down at him. Rather than trying to [music] console him with words, Small Jon simply sits down next to Rob opposite Greywin. >> I killed them all. But I feel so empty. Why does it hurt? Because we don't have them back. >> Small John's simple response brings it all home to Rob. All those dead men out on the field outside the ruins of King's Landing. All of the dead in the city. And it wouldn't bring Ned back. >> I failed. I failed. >> Small John helps Rob up and gives him a crushing bear hug. Come on, Rob. The men need to see their leader. >> Rob moves to wipe his eyes, only to find that he smeared blood across his face. Giving up the attempt, Rob walks out of the glade back to his army. As soon as Rob emerges, the Northern and Rivermen army raise a cheer. The Red Wolf, the Lion Slayer, the Gray Avenger. Even though he doesn't feel anything, Rob raises ice above his head to a redoubled cheer. Within the day, Renley arrives to find the battle is over, and the northerners are in control of the ruins of King's Landing. Seven hells. He beat them. He actually beat them. Do we sound the charge, Renley? Say the word your grace, and I'll see these wolves off with their tails between their legs. >> No, no. The time for battle seems to have passed us by. Let's have a chat with Ned Stark. However, rather than Ned, Renley finds a bloodstained and battlewear Rob, looking more like a Tully than a Stark. Renley reigns up and then dismounts to meet Rob on equal footing. Lord Stark, I presume, your work, correct? Silently, Rob glares at Renley with undisguised animosity. Grey Wind bears his fangs and growls at the self-proclaimed king. Renley sigh and rather than trying to assert himself, he takes off his crown and kneels before Rob. Lord Stark, you need not kneel to me, but allow me to give you the respect owed to you for your victory. You abandoned my father, and your inaction caused the infection that took his life. I know, and for that I'm sorry. What may I offer you and recompense for my failure? Am I to believe this performance, King Renley? >> Sighing, Renley stands up and spreads his hands. [sighs] I see a great deal of my brother Stannis in you. The heads on spikes show that you have a fair sense of the appropriate. However, I would like to work with someone with your caliber. What if I simply go north and try to forget all of this ever happened? Because those ghosts never go away. Rob, listen. My father-in-law is Mace Tyrell. He's asked me for the position of hand of the king. Paxter Red Wine will be my master of ships. But I need a master of laws. I am needed in the north, you grace. I don't want to take part in southern politics. The North is yours to call upon, but I won't serve on your small council. >> At that moment, Marjgerie Tyrell walks up to them. Rob immediately takes notice of the pretty queen and bows automatically, causing her to smile. >> Husband, Lord Stark is clearly exhausted from the fighting. We should give him a chance to rest. >> Agreed, my dear. Lord Stark, will you accept my invitation to a feast in your honor? Rob accepts the invitation and soon the Northern and Reachmen and Stormlanders are eating together. Despite the festivities, Rob can't bring himself to fully join in. Instead, he sits at the table and nurses a cup of wine. Seeing the red wolf's despondent expression, Marjorie [music] stands up and raises a cup. >> To the Red Wolf, slayer of lions and avenger of King's Landing. To Rob Stark. >> Rob blinks as the room starts cheering his name, then glances at Marjorie, who gives him a smile, giving the queen a smile of his own. Rob raises his own cup. >> To the true king, Renley Baratheon and his lovely queen. The Reachmen and Stormlanders cheer for the king and queen, and Renley gives Rob an approving nod. Most young men after their first victory would be basking in glory, but Rob seemed to be exhausted from all that he's gone through. When the feast winds down, Renley asks Rob to walk with him. Initially, Rob is suspicious, but he accepts. For a while, they simply talk about the feast, some plans to go to High Garden, but then Renley [music] turns serious. You aren't the only one who's lost someone, Robert. I lost both my older brothers. Stannis saved my life at Storm's End by having me eat second after his wife. Robert was my idol. I wanted to be him. I thought I could be him. But you were the Robert of this war. My brother always rewarded those who served him well, and I would like to treat you accordingly. Is there anything you would have from me? If it is within my power, I will give it. Rob takes a deep breath and considers the offer. He could ask for anything. Northern independence, become hand of the king. But after the death of his father in front of him and the horrible crush of the slaughter before the walls of King's Landing, all of those things seem pointless. You're very generous, and I appreciate your offer, but what I want is not something you or any king can give me. I want my father back. I want Theon and the Great Jon back. And no matter how many men you have, how many kingdoms bend the knee to you, you can't give those back to me. I know how that feels. Think of my offer. I have faith that you will not ask anything of me that I cannot grant. I had a thought that you might ask me for my wife, considering the looks you've been giving her. Rob flinches and looks away, trying to hide his shame. Seeing the young wolf's discomfort, Renley smiles and pats the lad on the shoulder. Rob, I understand how it feels to see someone who instantly tugs at your heart. It's natural. But she's your wife. Yes, she is. But she isn't the person I've always wanted to be with. Oh, is there someone else who you lost in King's Landing? >> Renley starts to laugh more at Rob's sincerity than anything else. >> Nothing so tragic, though. Your concern is touching. So, can we at least be friends, Rob? Your father and my brother brought down the mad king together. Together, you and I can rebuild the kingdom however we will it to be. >> Despite his initial reluctance, Rob finds the offer, coupled with Renley's frankness, appealing. Perhaps they could work together after all. Let me think about it, you grace. It's been a long few weeks. Of course. Take all the time you need, my young friend. Come with me to High Garden. Take the time for your men to rest and recuperate. Rob accepts the invitation and within the week they march toward High Garden. On the march, Rob strikes up a friendship with Randall Tarly. Despite the man being harsh and utilitarian, he's a great tactician and Rob enjoys playing sasi with him when they stop. Loris and Garlin are also happy to help train with Rob. He doesn't have their natural talents, but he pushes himself and at least manages to hold his own. However, the person that he grows closest to is Marjorie. The Rose Queen is gentle, kind, gracious, and witty. Out of all the people that seem to wish to interact, she seems the most genuine. Her smile slowly begins to draw Rob out of the darkness that hangs over him. But that cloud still hangs over him. When they arrive at High Garden, Rob and the Northmen are hailed as heroes and the ones who killed Tywin and Jaime Lannister and brought justice to the mad queen Cersei and her bastard. Marcella and Tommen are kept out of sight and placed under guard on Renley's orders since he doesn't want them subjected to the mob. >> They love us, Rob. Smile, why don't you? >> Rob attempts to smile, but is forced and weak. Chuckling, Small John claps him on the shoulder. >> Come on, Rob. We won. And look at all these girls. I imagine they'll be eager to find an Northwind to warm their beds for some lights. >> That only makes Rob's smile falter. You can see that there are several attractive reach girls waving at them. Some even putting on flagrant displays that would make a northern prostitute blush. Despite all that, Rob doesn't want any reach girl. He wants one in particular, but he can't have her. Enjoy the attention, lads. Break some hearts for me. >> You're not going to join us, Rob. >> It'll take your mind off some things. >> I'd rather not steal your Welland's quaries away. If I'm there, none of the girls will look at you. They laugh, but Rob can only manage a slight smile. Finally, they reach the castle, and after a long drawn out feast, Rob retires to one of his rooms and lies down on the bed with Greywind sitting next to him. The direwolf senses his master's depression and lays his head on Rob's stomach, heart beating rapidly. Rob just strokes Greywin's head, letting the repetitive motion calm him down. You're the only one who understands. I wish John were here. >> Sighing, he rolls over and goes to sleep. In the middle of the night, he wakes up in a cold sweat. Images of the slaughter of King's Landing going through his mind. Greywind immediately pads over to Rob, who grips the wolf's fur, not wanting to stay caged up in his rooms. Rob grabs ice and heads to the Godswood with Grey lopping at his heels. As he turns a corner, Sir Davos walks up to him. Lord Rob, I take it you're not sleeping too well. Not really. you. Same. But there was something that your father entrusted me with, and I figured that you want to read it away from prying eyes. Rob accepts the [music] letter and opens it. Rob, if you're reading this, then I am no longer with you. The Red Woman gave me a little time, but I know that I have left things undone that you must finish for me. Rob, John, is not your halfb brotherther. He's your cousin with Rhaegar and Lyanna. Bring him home from the wall and give him a normal life. I should have stopped him from going, but I couldn't tell your mother. I've rectified that mistake and sent her a letter. But I want to leave you with this one last letter. As a father to his son, Rob, you've grown into the man I always thought you'd be. You've exceeded my expectations and proven yourself. You acted with honor and decisiveness, proving yourself as a leader these past few weeks. Never forget that when you act with honor, honor will help you. Follow your heart, son. Find a girl to marry. Have children. If you see your chance, take it. I had the chance to marry many years ago and didn't take it. I've often wondered what might have been. And I don't want the same fate for you, your father, Ned. After he finishes, his eyes widen in shock, then starts to mist with tears. Reverently, he puts the letter into his [music] pocket and embraces Davos. Sir Davos, thank you. I would ask something of you. What do you want? Come north with me. Bring your family. Your service would be greatly appreciated. I might take you up on that offer. Let me talk to my wife. Rob nods, then heads to the godswood and leans ice against a tree before sitting down, snuffling. Greywin lays his head on Rob's lap, allowing the red wolf to stroke his fur. When morning comes, Rob's back feels stiff, but at least he feels somewhat well rested. >> Lord Stark, are you all right? >> Rob turns to see the queen standing near him with some of her ladies, some of them giggling behind their hands. Somewhat she grinned, Rob stands and bows. Grey Wind prowls over to her and sniffs her hand. While the other ladies flinch back from the large wolf, Marjorie just starts stroking him behind his ears. Seemingly very pleased with himself, Greywin starts wagging his tail. You grace, I couldn't sleep, so I came out here with Greywind. >> He's quite a dear, isn't he? But if you couldn't sleep, perhaps we could check the mattress. The hero of the battle should have his rest. >> You're very gracious, but it wasn't the mattress. I kept dreaming of the battle. >> Would you like to talk about it, Rob? I can call you Rob. Right. >> I wouldn't mind you, Grace. >> Please call me Marjorie. We're all friends here. >> After she sits down next to him, Rob finds himself telling her everything about how he felt a shadow over him when he watched his father die in front of him, the horror of the battle, the emptiness he'd felt after killing Joffrey, Jaime, Tywin, and Cersei. He even tells her about how he'd broken down afterwards and just looking down at ice and thinking about the slaughter he'd just been through. Through all of it, Marjorie just listens and holds his hand. When the Queen of Thorns finds out about Marjorie meeting with the red wolf, she immediately goes to her granddaughter. >> My dear, please don't let whatever is happening between you and the young lord Stark continue. Renley is already the subject of gossip and we cannot have you. >> Rob is our ally, grandmother. It benefits us to court his support. Are you caught in his support or the boy himself? >> Grandmother, I am not a silly girl. >> My dear, I have watched you since you were a babe in swaddling up until now. When you say Lord Stark's name, there's a light in your eyes that I've not seen before. I know you are no fool, and he seems like he's relatively smart for a lad his age. Please don't do anything to prove me wrong. Renley also notices his wife and Rob, but rather than discouraging them like Oena, he facilitates the two sitting together at feasts. He doesn't feel more than familial affection for M Marjgery. So, the possibility of Marjorie and Rob falling in love and producing an heir for him is a possibility. However, the problem remains of getting Rob to do it. One night, Renley decides to put forward the plan to Marjorie. I've seen how you look at our red wolf, and I may have an idea for solving our little succession problem. Renley, that's madness. An uncertain succession is why you weren't able to take the throne. >> Marjorie, we've tried, but I just can't with you. >> Renley, if the child looks like a tully, your rule will be challenged. >> Marjorie, I already [music] feel like a hypocrite. Let me at least give you a moment to your wolf, even if it doesn't result in a child. Have your night with him. >> Marjorie blinks, but she considers. If Friendly won't attempt to consummate their marriage, then perhaps this might be a viable option. When Robert gets the message to meet in an inn in as good a disguise as he can manage, he assumes that it's Varys asking to call in his favor. When he slips into the room to find a hooded figure, he sigh and leans against the wall. So, what? The words die in his throat as Marjorie lowers her hood and walks over to him. All the feelings that Rob has for the queen surge up inside him. >> Rob, I had to see you alone. >> Marjorie, this is unwise. If we're seen together, what will your husband think? >> My husband doesn't love me. He won't even share the same bed with me. There needs to be an heir to continue the Tyrell and Baratheon line. Please, Rob, I'm desperate. >> Eyes fill with unshed tears as Marjorie reaches out to him, but Rob places his hand on her shoulder. He cannot do this. They cannot do this. >> Marjorie, I I can't betray my friend. I'm sorry. I >> Rob, I love you. Rob's mind reels his hand falling only to have her take his hand and put it to her cheek. For a long moment, the two look into each other's eyes. >> Kiss me. >> At that moment, Rob's resolve breaks. He pulls Marjorie in for a long kiss. They stand there for a long [music] moment. The red wolf and the golden rose lost in the moment. Eagerly, Marjorie starts unlacing Rob's shirt, but Rob pulls back and takes her hands. Marjorie, please don't ask me to do this. Renley is my friend and my king. He trusts me. >> What if we talked to him? He could tell you that he's all right with it. >> Even if you were here, I won't be like the king's slayer. I can't dishonor you like that. I love you too much to do that to you. >> Rob, honor can go bugger itself. We love each other. Renley needs an air. >> Rob leans his forehead against Marjory's, letting her kiss him and stroke his face. >> Please, Rob, can't you just leave your honor at the door for one night? Your father had a bastard. Surely. >> Rob pulls back, anger rising inside of him. Don't mention my father. Eddard Stark was a good man. >> Rob, I'm sorry. I just >> I know what you meant. My father. >> He cuts himself off, remembering that his father had told him to keep the secret. Instead, he grabs the door handle and departs. As soon as Rob leaves, Marjorie leans against the door and starts to cry. The next morning, Rob declares his intention to head to the ruins of King's Landing and take his fleet and go north to the king without Marjorie present. Rob, surely you can stay a bit longer. There aren't any pressing matters. I wish I could stay here and enjoy the reach, but my place is in the north with my family. I miss my brothers and I want to see my sisters again. Rob, is this about what happened last night with Marjorie? So, you know, I know that you broke her heart. I understand that you were in a hard place and made an honorable choice not to touch another man's wife. I applaud that, but I applaud that. But if you were to impregnate Marjgery, it would make things considerably easier. Renley, my father had one moment of weakness. He told me to act with honor, and honor would find me. I have seen the kind of king you are, generous and fair. What sort of man would I be if I dishonored myself, Marjorie, and you [music] by doing that act? Even if you love her and she loves you. Yes. And that's why I must go. Renley doesn't know what to make of the red wolf. Not many men could have resisted Marjorie or been so frank with him. I don't know if I've ever met someone like you, Rob. I'm glad that we're allies. We're not allies. We're friends and always will be. But I do know what I wish to ask. Very well. What is your desire? Only that you release my brother John from his Night's Watch vows. My father intended to bring him home. and I mean to fulfill his last wishes. Done. I will drop the order immediately. I'm glad that you did not ask for Casterly Rock. Don't tempt me. Your grace. Smiling, the two men clasp arms in a gesture of brotherhood. When Rob departs, he glances over his shoulder at Queen Marjorie, looking at him from the battlements with eyes rimmed red from crying. Shame curdling inside his stomach. Rob turns away and begins the long journey north. When he returns, Catelyn comes out to meet him with Arya and Sansa, holding her letter from Ned. >> Rob, have you seen this? >> Yes, mother. >> We have to bring Jon back. We have to honor your father's final wishes. >> Rob looks at his mother, wanting to tell her that it was her fault that Jon was gone in the first place. However, when he sees the pain and shame in her eyes, he shakes his head. I'll ride to the wall. >> Is John coming back? >> Yes, we're bringing him home. >> Come back soon. There's a great deal that I have to say to John. >> Rob marches north with 40,000 [music] troops, leaving the rest of his men to guard the coast in the event of an Ironborn invasion. When Rob arrives, he finds the bodies of several wildlings outside in the wall under the command of Alistar Thorne. I'm Rob Stark, Lord of Winterfell. I'm here to assist with the Wildling host. Where is the Lord Commander? Welcome to Castle Black. I'm acting Lord Commander due to the death of Jaw Mormont. All right. Now, where is my brother? Jon Snow. He's in the wildling camp. What? We sent him to assassinate Mance Radar under a flag of Parlay, his punishment for joining the wildlings. You sent my brother to his death? Yes. I >> Rob smashes his fist into Thorne's face, sending him to the ground. >> Open the bloody gates. I'm going through. >> Holding his broken nose, Alistister glares at Rob, then carries out the order. Rob rides out of the wall with Grey Wind at his side. One half of his army gallops around the wildling camp to the other side as Rob crashes into them with the full might of 20,000 northern cavalry. Under the onslaught of trained soldiers, the wildlings break and run. [music] As he rides through the camp, Rob whistles to Grey, who quickly reaches for Jon. Finally, they find him in a tent with Dela's body, Val, and a newborn babe. Rob, you came. I told you I'd see you again, and you were right. Black does suit you. The two brothers embrace as the Northmen round up the wildlings. Jon quickly tells them what's happened with his espionage mission. To Rob's surprise, his brother advocates for the wildlings, asking Rob to spare them and let them through the wall. Rob is initially skeptical, but he does follow his brother's council. However, they first have to deal with Alistister Thorne. You are a traitor, Lord Snow. You should have hung you when I had the chance. Be careful how you speak to my brother, Sir Alistister. If you don't want him, then return them to me. What? You heard me. By order of King Renley Baratheon, I'm releasing Jon Snow from his Night's Watch vows and offering him a full pardon for everything he's done beyond the wall. You may be Lord of Winterfell, but you can't just take a turn cloak. From where I stand, Jon Snow saved the wall from disaster. Without him, you would be dead, and the wildlings would be swarming over the north. Regardless, the bastard stays. Rob walks up to Sir Alistister, meeting his gaze with an iron stare. Despite himself, Thorne flinches back from the cold rage in the red wolf's eyes. I released my father from King's Landing's dungeons. I defeated Tow and Lannister in open battle. I just broke the Wildling host beyond the wall. Tell me, Sir Alistister, why should I listen to anything you have to say? Alistister backs down, and Jon is released from his vows and [music] allowed to help gather the wildlings and escort them through the wall to the gift to settle. Rob does give strict terms that the wildlings will adhere to the king's peace and not raid, rape, or otherwise break the king's peace. With the full might of the Northmen army breathing down on them, Mance Radar has few choices. The king beyond the wall accepts the terms and offers to send a few wargs south to teach Rob and his siblings how to use their powers as a sign of goodwill. Rob takes the wargs into his service, allowing him and Jon to start developing their bonds with Greywind at Ghost. When they arrive, Catelyn comes out and embraces Jon and Rob right before Arya and Sansa. >> John, I'm so sorry. I've mistreated you all your life. >> Lady Catelyn, what made this happen? >> Come inside, John. Ned gave some last words for you. >> As soon as they're all together, Rob gives Ned's letter to Jon, finally revealing the secret of his parentage. However, Jon refuses to press his claim, instead swearing himself to Rob. Later that evening, both Rob and Jon sit by the fire sharing stories of what they've done since parting. So you kissed a queen and she actually liked it. You're want to talk. Betting a wildling girl. Rob, in all seriousness, don't waste your chance. If you love this girl, you should go to her. Take it from me. I lost and I don't know if I'll ever have that again. Rob leans forward, staring into the flames and considering his brother's words. He wants to. gods. He wishes it were that simple, but he can't. >> If only I could, John, but I can't. >> Well, I'm sorry, Rob. Maybe there'll be another girl. One that's not married. Sod off, John. >> After a few years, there are no children born to Renley and Marjorie, allowing an opening for Varys to exploit. With the Westerlands weakened with the deaths of Tywin and Jaime, and with Rob Stark's reputation as a field commander, Balon Greyjoy launches an invasion of the Westerlands. As Renley moves to get rid of the raiders, another army moves in. The Golden Company, supported by Daenerys's dragons, Unsullied and Dothraki land in the Crownlands and move into the Westerlands and reach. With the raiders attacking from the sea and the Golden Company supported by the dragons attacking from the land, Randall Tarly is forced into a defensive war using rapidly constructed siege weapons to fight the dragons. With the war rapidly escalating, Renley sends word to Rob asking for his help. At the same time, a letter from Varys arrives along with another unmarked letter. Red's Wolf, I told your father that I would require him to make a choice to serve the realm. I am asking you to make that choice. Aegon, Targaryen, and Daenerysius are the best choice for the realm, not Renley. Either stay out of the war or join the side of justice and order. Rob hands the letter to Jon and puts his head in his hand. How did one navigate between loyalty to a friend and a debt unpaid? >> What do you want to do? >> I don't know. No matter what I do, I'm breaking my word. I know how you feel. I had a very few choices in order to survive beyond the wall. How do you know what's right in this situation? [music] I don't. But I know this much. There's nothing I wouldn't do to heavy grip back. Don't make the mistake I did. Rob leans his elbows on the desk, eyes fixed on the two letters. Then his gaze flicks to the unmarked letter, hoping to get good news or maybe something to help him decide. Rob opens the letter. >> My dearest Rob, I have thought about you often since you left. You broke my heart when you left, but it showed me what kind of man you are. You valued my reputation in friendship with Renley and the stability of the realm over your own self-gratification. I was broken because I couldn't have a man like that as my husband. And now we need you to come south again on our behalf. We need the Red Wolf to help against the Targaryenss and their dragons. And I need you here. Please, Rob. You're our only hope. >> Rob's free hand clenches. Then he grabs Varys's letter and throws it in the brazer. Eyes intent, he puts his hand on Jon's shoulder. >> Call the Bennis. The North rides for Renley. >> Within a month, Rob and Jon ride south, accompanied by as many wargs and skin changers as they can find. Despite Catelyn's protests, Arya accompanies them and starts gathering Nimria's wolfpack. Rather than combine all his forces into one large host, Rob separates them into smaller units and uses the skin changers to scout where the dragons will be along with where the enemy is weakest. With so many attacks hitting them along the wildfire turning against them, the Targaryenss retreat their troops into the Westerlands and start pushing the northerners with their dragons, only to be ambushed by giants and their bows. When the Targaryen forces start pulling away to focus on the Northmen, Renley and Randall attack with a giant host, hoping that the Northmen will have drawn the dragons away. However, when they do, Daenerys and Aegon unleash their dragons on the combined armies of [music] the Reach and Stormlands. Just as King Marder did on the field of fire, Renley Baratheon dies in fire. After the death of their king, the Reachmen and Stormlanders retreat into the south when a storm allows them to escape the dragons. As Aegon and Daenerys turn their attention toward the Northmen, they send to the Golden Company to besiege High Garden. When Rob hears the news of Remley's death, he nearly crumples the letter in his fist. So, we're up against the Targaryenss alone. Rob, I've been thinking. If Rhaegar was my father, I can steal one of their dragons, and we can use the wildlings to grab both of their dragon riders. If their riders are neutralized, the advantage shifts to us. That's a good idea. All right, I'll give the orders to the other squads to spread the Targaryenss thin and then scout the area for where the dragon riders are. Once they've decided the best way to draw out the dragons and their riders, Jon and a few other experienced wildling raiders set out on their mission. As they do, Rob launches a mass series of raids, drawing [music] the enemy into ambushes and using the wildlife to cover them when they retreat into the hills and forests. In response to the escalations of raids, the dragons take to the sky. But when they do, they're swarmed with birds controlled by the wildlings. Frustrated and exhausted, Daenerys and Aegon land their dragons near the Golden Tooth. Now that the dragons have landed, Jon and the Wildlings make their move. Using a goat path that bypasses the Golden Tooth, Jon and his team split into the camp. The Wildlings grab Daenerys and Aegon after drugging them while Jon claims Viserion. To cover the wildlings escape, a thousand wolves, bears, and shadowcats attack the opposite side of the camp, causing the Targaryen forces to fall into chaos. When Viseris rides from the camp and starts blasting them with flame, the morale of the Targaryenss breaks. Satisfied that the enemy was in chaos, Jon lands his dragon to pick up the Wilding team and Dany and Aegon. Separated from their dragons, Daenerys and Aegon are forced to come to terms. The Dothraki will be returned to Assos. The Golden Company will be added to the defenses of the wall for when the White Walkers come along with the Unsullied. The two Targaryenss agree to these [music] terms. Aegon is sent to Dorne and marries Ariana Martell as insurance, while Daenerys marries Jon after his parentage is revealed and become the new rulers now that the Baratheonss have been extinguished. The only exception being Shireen, who was raised by Davos in Storm's End. Now that the Targaryenss have been dealt with, Rob rides to High Garden to break the Golden Company's siege. With Jon flying Viserion over them, seeing the dragon flying over a large Northmen and Stormlander host, the Golden Company surrenders for the second time in two years, Rob rides into High Garden at the head of his army, but this time he is hailed as the new hand of the king. With the king being his [music] brother, Mace Tyrell welcomes the red wolf and his brother to High Garden, and Rob formally asks for Marjgery's hand. Mace gladly accepts and Marjorie and Rob are married in the star sept in Oldtown alongside Jon and Daenerys. When the Golden Rose and the Red Wolf separate from the well-wishers to be alone, Rob strokes Marjory's cheek and kisses her forehead while she smiles and leans into him. I'm sorry it took me this long. I >> Rob Stark, for a little time longer, I'm still your queen. [music] And as your queen, I am commanding you to stop talking so you can tear my clothes off and ravage me until morning. And then hold me captive in these rooms and not let me put on clothes like the northern savage everyone thinks you are for at least a week. >> The next few months are spent reconstructing the seven kingdoms. With King's Landing gone, Casterly Rock becomes the new capital of the Seven Kingdoms. As both Tommen and Marcela are married off to other houses, though Tyrion is gifted Castmir as a recompense, Rob and Marjorie both sit on the small council with Jon, Daenerys, and Aegon. Soon enough, Marjorie gives Rob a son named Edart and a girl named Thea. With the seven kingdoms at peace, Rob hangs ice on the mantle and settles into the role of statesman with his wife Marjorie to advise and counsel with him. That's our theory. Westeros is a land filled with exciting stories and possibilities, and we love exploring them. If you'd like to join us on this journey across the Seven Kingdoms and beyond, then please like, share, and subscribe to our channel.