Ranking all 11 sample chapters from The Winds of Winter
By John Fallon
2. “Theon I”
In 2011, Martin released the first Winds of Winter sample chapter on his NotABlog. It follows Theon after it is revealed in A Dance with Dragons that he survived his escape from Winterfell alongside Lady Jeyne Poole and found his way into Stannis’ encampment in a blizzard. Theon’s chapters throughout Dance were haunting, adding a complex mystique to the struggle in the North. His redemption arc may very well end on the chopping block.
The Boltons and their allies deal with the constant barrage of heavy snow within Winterfell. Outside it, Stannis and his freezing forces, made up of various northern clans, prepare for an assault. As a prisoner, Theon witnesses what’s happening within the camp:
- Stannis prepares to battle Hosteen Frey’s approaching vanguard.
- Braavosi banker Tycho Nestoris and Stannis sign a contract.
- Justin Massey, “Arya Stark” (Jeyne Poole) and Tycho Nestoris are sent to the Wall.
- Stannis plans to have Arnolf Karstark and his son executed for their planned treachery.
- Stannis plans to hire 20,000 mercenaries, and if he dies, the army will be ordered to place Shireen on the Iron Throne.
- Stannis says he’ll execute Theon Greyjoy to gain favor with the North by avenging the murders of Bran and Rickon Stark.
Interestingly enough, Asha Greyjoy tries to convince Stannis to execute Theon before a weirwood heart tree. There’s a hint of some other presence there. Could it be the “Three-Eyed Crow-in-training” beyond the Wall? Whatever happens, Theon’s life hangs in the balance.