Which is worse: a promise made, a promise kept, or a promise broken? George R. R. Martin's masterwork continues!   When Tyrion Lannister, with his savage escort of clan warriors--to whom he is half leader, half hostage--is reunited with his father, Tywin vows to uphold Tyrion's promises to the clans . . . provided they fight for him against the army of Robb Stark. The clans agree, but only after securing another promise from the Imp: to fight at their side. Meanwhile, Robb, in need of allies, sends Catelyn to treat with Lord Walder Frey, master of the Twins, the fortified castle that is the sole crossing point over the river Trident, beyond which lies the Lannister host. But Walder will exact a high price in exchange for permitting the passage. And in the north, Jon Snow, newly bound to the brotherhood of the Night's Watch, must decide once and for all where his loyalties lie.