It was the year 282 AC, and the news of the deaths of Rickard and Brandon Stark at the hands of the Mad King had ignited the flames of war in the North. Eddard Stark, barely 19 years old, now stood as the new head of the North.
A letter had arrived at Hornwood, calling the Northern banners to march in defense of the realm and House Stark. Halys Hornwood understood the threat was real and that he had to respond with all the strength his house could muster.
Reorganization of Forces
Before marching to war, Halys made a strategic decision to ensure the defense of his holdings and the safety of his family:
At Hornwood Castle, his younger brother Robert Hornwood was left in command, with a garrison of 1,000 heavy infantry to guard the fortress.
At Castle Antler Hall, Donelle Hornwood, Halys' other brother, was charged with its defense, assisted by Rowena Glover, Halys' wife, with a garrison of 500 crossbowmen and a portion of the infantry.
Thus, Halys left behind a total of 1,500 soldiers between the two castles for protection and control of the territory, trusting in the loyalty and capability of his kin.
Recruitment of the Levies
With this redistribution, Halys raised local levies—men capable of fighting though not part of House Hornwood's standing forces—forming an additional contingent:
1,000 archers recruited from nearby villages and towns, skilled in the use of the longbow.
2,000 medium infantry, equipped with light armor, spears, and short swords, hastily trained for the looming war.
These troops joined the main army, bringing the total mobilized force to approximately 7,500 active men under Halys' direct command, ready to answer Eddard Stark's call.
Halys' Strategy
"Leaving our men behind is dangerous, but necessary," Halys explained to Thorrent Flint. "If we lose our lands without a fight, the North will bleed dry."
Thorrent nodded grimly.
"Levies lack the discipline and experience of our soldiers, but they are the wall that will guard every village and road. Our priority is to hold the land as we march south."
Castle Antler Hall became a nerve center. Blacksmiths worked tirelessly reinforcing armor and weapons, while trainers hurriedly instructed the recruits.
Preparation for the March
Banners were raised and war horns echoed across the North. Men of all ages armed themselves with whatever they could and responded to the call. The Northern nobility gathered to decide the best strategy, fully aware the war ahead would be long and brutal.
Halys, leading the heavy cavalry and his best-trained infantry, readied his men to march toward Winterfell, where Ned Stark was organizing the North's forces to face the king's threat.
"This war will not only test our strength," said Halys, "but our loyalty and the blood that binds us. If we fall now, the entire North will fall."
The soldiers marched out with grim resolve, knowing this time it wasn't just about protecting lands or wealth—but the freedom of their home and the honor of their family.