Capítulo 19: Chapter 19: The Deal
Tywin
"They have my son," he growled.
The messenger nodded nervously.
All of Lord Tywin's bannermen were seated at the table. They were silent as the messenger gave the news. His presence usually had that effect as it should.
"It seems that the Stark boy has more stomach for 'butcher's work' than you thought father," Tyrion said with a small smile.
Tywin glared at his youngest child, but he knew that Tyrion had the right of it. He had made the mistake of underestimating someone. Such mistakes could prove disastrous.
As soon as he realized the Stark boy's deception, Tywin immediately marched towards Riverrun. He pushed his men over the limit. and many of his troops had either died or were left behind. but in the end, it had all been for nothing. Robb Stark had reached Riverrun many days ago. Jaime's army was smashed and Jaime himself was captured.
"How could this happen." Ser Harys Sywft moaned. "How? Even after the Whispering Wood, he had Riverrun ringed in iron, surrounded by a great host . . . what madness made Ser Jaime decide to split his men in three? Surely he knew how vulnerable that would leave them?"
Tywin gritted his teeth to control his temper. 'How dare that worthless lump to call my son mad. If your daughter wasn't married to my brother. You would be thrown into the cell for speaking so out of turn.' He thought.
"I would have done the same," his brother Kevan responded a good deal more calmly than Tywin himself might have. "You have never seen Riverrun, Ser Harys, or you would know that Jaime had little choice. The castle is situated at the end of the point of land where the Tumblestone flows into the Red Fork of the Trident. The rivers form two sides of a triangle, and when there's danger, the Tullys open their sluice gates upstream to create a wide moat on the third side, turning Riverrun into an island. The walls rise sheer from the water, and from their towers, the defenders have a commanding view of the opposite shores for many leagues around. To cut off all the approaches, a besieger must needs place one camp north of the Tumblestone, one south of the Red Fork, and a third between the rivers, west of the moat. There is no other way."
"Ser Kevan speaks the truth, my lords," the messenger said. "We surrounded our camps with trench and spike, but it was not enough. They came without warning and cut us off from each other. They came down to the north camp first. Marq Piper had been raiding our supply trains, but he had no more than fifty men. Ser Jaime had gone out to deal with them the night before . . . well, with what we thought was them. We were told the Stark host was east of the Green Fork, marching south . . . "
"What of your outriders?" Ser Gregor Clegane's face might have been hewn from rock. The fire in the hearth gave deep shadows in the hollows of his eyes. "They saw nothing? They gave you no warning?"
The messenger shook his head. "Marq Piper has made many of our outriders vanish. The ones who did come back had seen nothing."
"A man who sees nothing has no use for his eyes," the Mountain declared. "Cut them out and give them to your next outrider. Tell him that four eyes might see better than two . . . and if not, the man after him will have six."
Tywin studied Ser Gregor, with hidden approval. 'He and I have similar mindsets when it comes to warfare.' He thought to himself. Over the years he had come to rely on Ser Gregor whenever he was campaigning in a war. Few weapons were as effective as fear and the Mountain often utilized it to great effect.
"The camp between the rivers was overrun as well," the messenger was saying. "While we were trying to cross, more Starks swept in from the west, two columns of the armored horse. I saw Lord Umber's giant-in-chains and the Mallister eagle, but it was the boy who led them, with a monstrous wolf running at his side. I wasn't there to see, but it's said the beast killed a dozen men and as many horses. Our spearmen formed up a shield wall and held against their first charge, but when the Tullys saw them engaged, they opened the gates of Riverrun and Tytos Blackwood led a sortie across the drawbridge and took them in the rear."
"Gods save us," Lord Lefford swore.
"Ser Jaime taken, the siege broken, half our army shattered, this is a catastrophe!" Ser Harys wailed.
"Thank you for stating the obvious. Ser Harys," Lord Lefford snapped. After a moment he spoke up again. "Is it true about Stannis and Renly?"
Tywin nodded. "Both of Robert Baratheon's brothers have taken up against us. But there is an issue far more troubling. It seems Roland, Joffrey's younger brother has joined his uncles in rebellion."
This bit of news got everyone's attention. Most of the lords were staring with an open mouth. Ser Gregor let out a snarl. Tyrion, however, showed little sign of surprise.
Tywin continued, "he escaped Kings Landing and took the Starks and Redwynes with him. Furthermore, he killed two of his brothers kingsguard and Ser Ilyn Payne before fleeing.
Ser Kevan slumped into the chair. "Gods how could he do this, how could Roland betray his own family."
"Something must have happened in the capital." Tyrion finally spoke up. Everyone turned to look at him. Tyrion continued. "None of you spend as much time with Roland and Joffrey as I have. There is no love lost between Roland and Joffrey. Roland is many things but he would of never of done something this reckless unless there was a reason."
"Whatever the reasons, they no longer matter," Tywin replied darkly. "But Roland's actions have put us in an impossible position. Because of him we no longer have anyone to trade for Jaime."
"We must ransom Ser Jaime, whatever it costs," Lord Lefford said. "We may not have hostages but we have gold."
"If we ask for a truce, they will think us weak," Ser Addarm argued. "We should march on them at once."
"Surely our friends at court could be prevailed upon to join us with fresh troops," said Ser Harys. "Someone might return to Casterly Rock to raise a new host."
Tywin rose to his feet. "THEY HAVE MY SON," he roared pounding the table, His voice that cut through the air like a sword through silk. "Get out. All of you."
None of the lords needed to be told twice as they quickly emptied the tent. His brother and younger son were about to join them. When he stopped them.
"Not you Tyrion, you stay, you too Kevan.
Tyrion eased himself back onto the bench, startled into speechlessness. Ser Kevan crossed the room to the wine casks. "Uncle," Tyrion called, "if you would be so kind—"
"Here." Tywin offered him his cup, the wine untouched.
Tyrion looked at him confused, nonetheless, he took the goblet and drank.
"Roland was last seen heading for Dragonstone. Tywin told them. "So it is likely that he means to join up with Stannis. Now that he has rescued Robb's father, the two are now in a position to form an alliance. You were at Winterfell Tyrion. How did Roland get along with Robb?"
Tyrion took a sip and spoke. "Roland never had a hard time making friends and the Starks are no different. The two became fast friends almost immediately. I don't think I can name a single Stark that has any ills towards my nephew. He even became friends with Ned Stark's bastard. Although I dare say that Lady Stark may get into a quarrel with Roland after my quality time in Lady Stark's care.
Tywin nodded, he had expected as much. "Like father like son I suppose. So Roland will have the North and Riverlands on his side as well as two seasoned men to counsel him. The Vale may very well join him after what happened in the Eyrie."
"So what is the plan?" Ser Kevan asked. Roland in the east, Robb Stark in the north and Renly to the south. Unless we want to be trapped between three armies, we shouldn't stay here.
"I have no intention of remaining here. We must finish our business with Robb Stark before Renly Baratheon can march from Highgarden. On the morrow, we make for Harrenhal. Kevan, I want Ser Addam's outriders to screen our movements. Give him as many men as he requires, and send them out in groups of four. I will have no vanishings."
"As you say, my lord, but . . . why Harrenhal? That is a grim, unlucky place. Some call it cursed."
"Let them," Lord Tywin said. "Unleash Ser Gregor and send him before us with his readers. Send forth Vargo Hoat and his freeriders as well, and Ser Amory Lorch. Each is to have three hundred horse. Tell them I want to see the Riverlands ablaze from the Gods Eye to the Red Fork."
"It will burn, my lord," Ser Kevan declared, rising. "I shall give the commands." He bowed and made for the door. But as he was out, he bumped into a rider."
"Pardon my lord," The Rider said bowing. "I have a letter for Lord Tywin."
"Let him in," Tywin told his brother and beckoned for the rider to approach.
Tywin looked at the Seal on the letter. "This letter came from Dragonstone."
Upon hearing this Ser Kevan immediately sat back down. Tywin handed the letter to Tyrion. "Read it to me," He commanded.
Tyrion unsealed the letter and quickly read its contents. His face paled slightly, but after a glare from his father, Tyrion began.
Tywin Lannister
Lord of the Westerlands and Warden of the West
By now, news of my actions has reached you. Call me a traitor if you wish but if you go to King's Landing, you will learn that my brother left me no choice. War has begun and I am making my own claim to the Iron Throne.
From what I have learned, you have suffered a crippling blow at the hands of Robb Stark. Serves you right though, after all, 'assumption is the grandfather of all blunders', you once told me. I understand that Robb has captured your son Jaime and decimated half of your little expedition. Since the Starks owe allegiance to me, that means I have your son.
I will make myself plain. I will give you back you son but I want something in return, nothing much really. In exchange for Jamie, I want the oversized ogre you call a knight Gregor Clegane and that halfwit Amory Lorch. Understand this well grandfather, this offer is NON NEGOTIABLE, I will accept nothing else. Seeing as you have no prisoners of value I doubt that you can make any bargain. One other thing, they must be given to me alive and unspoiled.
Please inform me of your acceptance of my terms by sending a raven to Dragonstone within the week. Make a decision swiftly Lord Tywin, my patience is not infinite.
Signed Roland Baratheon, The Black Prince of the Seven Kingdoms
Tyrion finished the letter and was met with silence. Ser Kevan was staring in shock, while Tywin himself had his fists clenched behind his back. 'This boy can't be serious.' He thought to himself. His mind was now blooming with conflict. On one hand Roland was practically giving back his son for almost nothing. Any lord would have gladly accepted this offer in a second. But Tywin is not like other lords. On the other hand, in exchange for his son Tywin would have to surrender his most valuable asset in the war. He was going to need Gregor in his war effort. But Roland's request would be a major setback.
Tywin rubbed his temples as he thought back on his grandson. Though he never admitted it to anyone. Tywin couldn't help but feel respect for Robert's second son. When he first met Roland on his first journey to Casterly Rock. He had very different expectations. Roland had his fathers looks his black hair and blue eyes though he had his mother's chin and cheekbones. Naturally, Tywin assumed that the boy would also share his father's attitude. What he expected was a brash, reckless and tempermental young lad. Instead, he found a quiet, serious and even-tempered individual. Though Roland did enjoy hunting and fighting as much as his father. He took most everything else seriously, from his studies to his training.
Over the years Tywin slowly realized the high level of cunning and intelligence the boy possessed. Tywin often questioned him about certain things. Such as how to deal with certain criminals. For Roland rapers and murderers were executed high born or low born. He stated that people like that were only good dead and it meant one less mouth to feed when winter came. These conversations usually occurred during a game of chess.
Tywins mind drifted back to the present day. He looked and realized that Kevan and Tyrion. were staring at him in anticipation.
"This is great." Kevan finally said. "We should make arrangemants for a trade to be made. Jaime is definitely worth the price Roland is asking for."
Tywin remained silent. He still wasn't sure whether to accept these terms or not. The last statement in the letter bothered him. 'Make a decision swiftly, my patience is not infinete.' Tywin now wondered what would Roland do if he chose to decline the offer. Roland wasn't exactly giving him much time to make a decision.
"Do you seriously need to think about this father?" Tyrion spoke up in a raised voice.
Tywin turned on his youngest son with his unflinching gaze. "Watch your tongue boy," he warned.
Tyrion spoke up again. "Jaime is your son, my brother. Roland is practically giving him back to you on a silver platter why are you even hesitating."
"You and I know very well how valuable Ser Gregor is to us." Tywin snapped at him.
Tyrion didn't flinch this time. "Ser Gregor is vaulable to you, and Roland knows this. He will do whatever it takes to remove him permanently."
Tywin rubbed his temples before finally looking up. "I will send Roland my reply in the morning. Tyrion you will go to King's Landing.
His son looked at him in shock. Clearly, he wasn't expecting such an order. "What am I suppose to do in King's Landing?" he wondered.
"Rule," Tywin replied curtly. You will serve as Hand of the King in my stead."
Tyrion gave a small laugh. "My sister won't like that idea very much."
Tywin humphed, "your sister can complain all she wants. But this is how it's going to be. Bring my grandson to heel and my daughter as well if you must. As for our oh so wise council, the sniveling Baelish, the bootlicking Pycelle and that cockless wonder Varys. If you find even the smallest sliver of falsehood in them-."
"Heads, spikes, walls," Tyrion finished for him.
Tywin nodded approvingly. "I see you are learning. Those men are leading the king and queen regent from one folly to another. They gave Janos Slynt lordship of Harrenhal. Harrenhal was the seat of kings I'll be thrice damned before I let it fall into the hands of the rabble. Then they dismiss Barristan Selmy and replace him with Sandor Clegane. What sense did that make. Ser Barristan's name holds respect in the seven kingdoms the same can't be said for the Hound. I won't tolerate it any longer Tyrion. These follies must end."
"I will see it done father," Tyrion told him. "But why not someone else? Lord Kevan or Lord Stafford, why me?"
Tywin looked Tyrion dead in the eye. "You're my son."
With that Tywin rose from his seat and beckoned his son to leave him. As Tyrion was at the tent entrance, Tywin spoke again. "One more thing, You will not bring that Whore to court understand."
Tyrion gave no reply as he walked out of the tent.
Tywin slowly walked to his desk to brood in his thoughts. After what seemed like hours he picked up a quill, took some paper and began to write.
Robb
The War Council was seated in the Great Hall in Riverrun. The Riverlords sat in one end, the Northmen in the other. Though it had started at dusk, the bickering between the lords had stretched into the night. Every lord had a right to be heard and Robb was content to listen. Some wanted to attack Lord Tywin. Some wanted to march on Casterly Rock. His own mother suggested peace. A suggestion that was opposed by everyone.
"The proper course is clear," Lord Jonos Bracken declared. "we must ally with King Renly and move south to join our forces with his."
"Renly is not the king Lord Bracken," Robb finally spoke up.
"You cannot mean to ally with the Lannisters." Greatjon Umber objected. "They hold your father and sisters captive."
"That does not make Renly a King," Robb replied calmly. "Robert has three sons and a younger brother older than Renly. How can Renly rightfully claim that iron chair."
"Renly is not right," Lord Tytos Blackwood agreed. this earned him a glare from Lord Bracken.
Many of the northern lords nodded in agreement.
"There's been no word from the capitol." Brynden Tully spoke up. "So we don't know what is happening there." As the lords continued to argue, two sentries approached holding a third man roughly.
"Pardon my lords," one of the sentries spoke, "This rider has a message for Robb Stark."
Robb, his mother, and the other lords rose from their seats. "From where?" Robb asked.
"Dragonstone," The rider replied. "My orders were to give it to you and you alone." He held out a roll of parchment for Robb to take.
Robb took the parchment, unrolled it and began reading.
Robb
Son of Lord Eddard Stark and Heir to Winterfell.
Old Friend, I'm not sure if you have heard yet but I wish to put your mind at ease. Your Father and Sansa are safe. I freed them as I was forced to flee the city due to a very unfortunate event that recently occurred. They are with me now in Dragonstone where Lord Stark and my uncle Stannis are making plans for war.
I regret to inform you that Arya is missing, she disappeared after your father was arrested. The Lannisters don't seem to have her at the moment, so I can safely say that she has left the city. My horse Bane is also missing. Keep a eye out for him, it is likely that Arya escaped the capitol with him.
Since my dear uncle, Renly has decided to make a claim to my father's the urging of my uncle and your father. I have decided to do the same since we both seem to agree that my brother Joffrey is unfit to rule the seven kingdoms.
I understand that you hold my uncle Jaime captive. I know some of your fellow lords have the desire to teach him a lesson. But I ask that he not be harmed, I need him for an exchange I am making with my grandfather.
I hope to meet with you soon. I will be coming to Riverrun with you father and Sansa as soon as possible. Good luck on your campaign against the lion and congratulations on your first battle and victory. One more thing. Send for Sansa's direwolf, the two have been apart for too long now.
Signed Roland Baratheon, The Black Prince of the Seven Kingdoms
Robb reread the letter twice to make sure his eyes were not deceiving him. His father was alive and well. As was his sister. And Roland was making a claim to the throne. All these events changed everything. It also certainly made his decision much easier.
Robb handed the letter to his mother and Informed the other lords of what had transpired. After hearing it everyone fell silent.
After a few moments of silence, Robb spoke up. "You are right, Lord Bracken, the proper choice is clear now."
"Does this mean you will be supporting 'King' Roland." Ser Brynden asked.
"Roland claims that he has my father's support." Robb said. "So yes, if we are to give support to anyone it might as well be Roland."
"Roland is Joffrey's younger brother." Lord Karstark wondered. "How do we know Roland isn't using your father as a bargaining chip. Why does this boy deserve our allegiance?"
"Be kind Lord Karstark," Robb replied. "Roland Baratheon is a dear friend of mine. We met when he and his family came to Winterfell. He is a good, honest lad from what I saw. He treated me as a brother and even went as far as to bestow the same respect to Jon, my baseborn brother." He saved my sister's direwolf and now he has risked everything to save my father and sister as well. Besides Roland is to wed my sister soon and his claim to the throne is far stronger than Renly's will ever be."
Many of the lords nodded in agreement. But some were unsure.
"King Renly has the might of the Stormlands and the Reach. Stefford Frey objected. "What does Roland have against that."
It was at this moment that Greatjon Umber stood up, "my lords, MY LORDS." His voice boomed all along the great hall. "Here's what I say to the other kings," He spat on the ground causing the northmen to cheer and laugh. "Renly Baratheon is nothing to me, nor Joffrey neither. Why should I let prissy boys and men rule over me and mine from a flowery chair in Highgarden or Casterly Rock? What have they done to earn my allegiance? But Roland, he is willing to fight against his own kin to save my liege lord. To do what is right and honorable. If Ned supports him that's good enough for me. Roland is one I will gladly call king. He is the only king I will bend my knee to."
Silence descended upon the hall before Lord Karstark stood up. "I will have peace on those terms, the White Walkers can take the other kings."
One by one, the other lords followed suit.
Robb stoops up as well. "Then I guess it is settled then."
Lord Karstark spoke up again. "If the Lannisters don't hold your family hostage anymore. then we should teach the Kingslayer a lesson. The other lords roared in agreement. Robb, however, raised his hand for silence."
"No Lord Karstark," Robb declared. "Roland insists that he not be harmed. He says he needs his uncle for a trade of some kind."
"Who?" His mother asked. "Who do the Lannisters have that Roland could want so badly."
"I don't know mother," Robb replied shaking his head. "I don't know."
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