The Road to Redemption

Chapter 5: The Road to Redemption**

As Cedric and Robb rode south from the Wall, their minds were filled with thoughts of the challenges that lay ahead. They had sought the counsel of the Night's Watch, and now they were determined to rally support from the lords of the realm in preparation for the looming threat of the White Walkers.

Their first stop was Riverrun, the seat of House Tully, where Cedric hoped to secure the support of Lord Edmure Tully in their fight against the coming darkness. As they approached the castle, Cedric couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him.

Riverrun stood as a bastion of strength and resilience, its walls towering high above the rushing waters of the Trident. It was a sight to behold, a testament to the power and prestige of House Tully.

As they rode through the gates of the castle, Cedric and Robb were greeted by Lord Edmure himself, a stout man with a warm smile and a hearty laugh.

"Greetings, my lords," Lord Edmure said, his voice booming across the courtyard. "What brings you to Riverrun on this fine day?"

Cedric stepped forward, his gaze steady as he met Lord Edmure's eyes. "We have come seeking your aid, my lord," he said. "The threat of the White Walkers looms large, and we must unite the lords of the realm if we hope to stand against them."

Lord Edmure's smile faded, replaced by a look of concern. "The White Walkers," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I had hoped that they were nothing more than tales to frighten children."

Cedric shook his head. "I assure you, my lord, they are all too real," he said. "And they will stop at nothing to destroy everything we hold dear."

Lord Edmure's expression darkened, a fire igniting in his eyes. "Then we must stand together," he said, his voice filled with determination. "House Tully will not shrink from this fight. We will stand with you, Lord Cedric, against the coming storm."

Cedric felt a surge of relief wash over him as he clasped forearms with Lord Edmure, sealing their alliance in blood and honor. With Riverrun at their side, they would be one step closer to uniting the realm against the White Walkers.

But their journey was far from over. As they rode out from Riverrun, Cedric and Robb knew that they still had many allies to gather and many battles to fight.

Their next stop would be the Eyrie, the seat of House Arryn, where they hoped to secure the support of Lady Sansa Arryn in their quest to save the realm from destruction.

And so, with their hearts filled with hope and their minds set on victory, Cedric and Robb Stark rode forward into the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

For the night was dark and full of terrors, but they would not rest until the realm was safe once more.

---

Word count: 545