NOVEL NEXT Chapter 34: A Lion’s Roar
Chapter 34: A Lion's Roar
The victory at Maidenpool brought the Riverlands a moment of relief, but Tywin Lannister's shadow continued to loom over Ivar Sunblode and his allies. The Lannister forces had retreated, bloodied but far from broken. Ivar knew that Tywin's next move would be calculated and devastating.
As the Riverlands began to rebuild from the latest assault, whispers of intrigue and betrayal spread through the Accord. The lords were weary, their loyalties frayed by the unrelenting war. Ivar faced not only the threat of the lion but also the fragility of the unity he had worked so hard to maintain.
Aftermath of Maidenpool
Ivar returned to Sunblode Isle after the defense of Maidenpool, his body battered but his mind sharp. The castle bustled with activity as soldiers trained, supplies were stockpiled, and scouts prepared to gather intelligence on the Lannisters' next move.
In the great hall, Lysa Blackthorne presented her latest reports. "Tywin has recalled Ser Gregor Clegane to Harrenhal to regroup. The Lannisters have suffered significant losses, but they're already mobilizing fresh troops from the Westerlands."
Roland Emberhill, seated nearby, frowned. "Tywin doesn't stop. If he's willing to absorb these losses, it means he's preparing for something bigger."
"We've been hitting his supply lines and slowing his forces," Timothy Sunrise said, his tone confident. "Let him come. We'll bleed him dry."
Lysa's expression darkened. "That might not be enough this time. My spies in King's Landing report that Tywin is leveraging his influence to bring more houses into his fold. If he succeeds, the Riverlands will be surrounded."
Ivar nodded, his jaw tight. "Then we can't wait for him to act. We need to shift the balance in our favor."
A New Alliance
To counter Tywin's growing influence, Ivar turned his attention to the Vale of Arryn. The Vale, protected by its natural defenses and ruled by the cautious Jon Arryn, had remained neutral in the conflict. Securing their support could tip the scales against the Lannisters.
"Jon Arryn is a pragmatic man," Lysa said as they discussed their strategy. "He won't join the war unless he sees clear benefits for the Vale."
"Then we show him the cost of neutrality," Ivar replied. "If Tywin wins, the Vale won't be spared. We make it clear that standing with us is the only way to ensure their survival."
Ivar dispatched Roland Emberhill and Lysa Blackthorne to meet with Jon Arryn at the Eyrie. Their journey through the treacherous mountain passes was fraught with danger, but they arrived safely at the castle, its towering walls and snow-covered peaks a testament to its strength.
Jon Arryn greeted them in the high hall, his expression wary. "The Vale has long been a haven of peace," he said. "Why should we risk that by joining your war?"
Roland stepped forward, his voice steady. "Because the Vale isn't isolated from the world, my lord. If Tywin Lannister prevails, he won't stop at the Riverlands. The Vale's peace will be shattered the moment it stands in his way."
Lysa added, her tone sharp, "And if you stand with us, we can ensure that the Vale remains strong and independent. The Riverlands won't forget those who aid them in their time of need."
Jon Arryn considered their words carefully before responding. "I will not commit my forces lightly. But if the Riverlands can demonstrate their strength, I will reconsider."
Frey's Schemes
Back at Riverrun, tensions among the Riverland lords continued to simmer. Walder Frey's loyalty remained suspect, his grumblings growing louder with each passing day.
During a council meeting, Frey voiced his concerns openly. "We've bled ourselves dry for Sunblode's ambitions. How long must we continue this charade before we see sense? Tywin Lannister cannot be defeated."
Tytos Blackwood slammed a hand on the table. "Enough, Frey! Your cowardice is a stain on the Accord. If you're too weak to fight, then stand aside and let the rest of us defend the Riverlands."
Frey sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "Easy for you to say, Blackwood. Your lands aren't the ones in Tywin's path."
Ivar's voice cut through the argument like a blade. "The Riverlands are all in Tywin's path, Lord Frey. And if we falter, he'll devour us piece by piece. If you have doubts, speak them plainly. Otherwise, hold your tongue."
Frey glared at Ivar but said nothing more.
The Lion's Trap
A fortnight later, Lysa's spies brought alarming news: Tywin had ordered a large force to march on the Red Fork. Unlike previous raids, this army was well-organized and heavily supplied, indicating that Tywin was preparing a decisive strike.
In the war room at Sunblode Isle, Ivar and his council poured over maps and reports, their expressions grim.
"This isn't a raid," Lysa said. "Tywin is setting a trap. He wants to draw us out and force a pitched battle."
Roland frowned. "If we don't respond, he'll gain control of the Red Fork and cut off our access to Riverrun."
"And if we do respond, we risk walking into his hands," Timothy said. "Tywin's too smart to show his hand unless he's already holding the winning cards."
Ivar studied the map in silence before speaking. "We don't take the bait. Instead, we force him to overextend. Lysa, I need your spies to spread false information—make Tywin think we're reinforcing the Red Fork in greater numbers than we actually are. Roland, take a small force and set up defensive positions near the river, but avoid direct engagement. Timothy, you and your team will target their supply lines."
"And what about you?" Roland asked.
"I'll lead a diversionary force to draw Tywin's attention elsewhere," Ivar said. "If we can divide his army, we can turn the trap against him."
The Diversion
Ivar's diversionary force moved swiftly through the Riverlands, striking at Lannister outposts and supply convoys. The attacks were calculated and precise, designed to sow confusion and force Tywin to divide his attention.
In one skirmish, Ivar personally led his soldiers in a nighttime raid on a Lannister encampment. The battle was chaotic, the flickering torchlight casting eerie shadows as swords clashed and arrows flew.
Timothy joined him, his daggers flashing as he cut through the enemy ranks. "This'll keep Tywin guessing," he said, grinning.
"Let's hope it's enough," Ivar replied.
The Turning Point
As Tywin's forces struggled to respond to the multiple threats, Roland and his small force near the Red Fork executed their own plan. Using the natural terrain to their advantage, they set up ambushes along the riverbanks, inflicting heavy losses on the Lannister troops.
Meanwhile, Timothy's team struck at Tywin's supply lines, leaving the enemy army stranded and vulnerable.
By the time Tywin realized the extent of Ivar's strategy, it was too late. His forces were scattered and weakened, and the Riverlands had gained a critical advantage.
Aftermath
Back at Sunblode Isle, Ivar and his council celebrated their success, but the mood was tempered by the knowledge that the war was far from over.
"Tywin won't make the same mistake twice," Lysa said. "We've bought ourselves time, but he'll adapt."
"Then we'll adapt faster," Ivar replied.
As the council dispersed, Ivar stood alone on the battlements, staring out at the darkened horizon. The lion had roared, but the Riverlands had not been cowed.
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