Introduction

In the opening prologue of George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones, Gared, a member of the Night's Watch, embarks on a ranging mission beyond the Wall. Witnessing terrifying events involving the Others, or White Walkers, Gared feels compelled to flee. This article delves into the reasons behind Gared's decision to flee and explores the possible routes he could have taken to get south of the Wall.

Why Gared Fled the Wall

Gared's primary motivation for fleeing is his fear of the supernatural threats he encountered. The Night's Watch, which he is a member of, is tasked with protecting the realm from the horrors north of the Wall. However, Gared's encounter with the Others leaves him deeply traumatized. Believing that returning to Castle Black would not guarantee his safety from the Others, he opts to flee for his life.

Another significant factor driving Gared's decision is a sense of shame and guilt. As a member of the Night's Watch, he is expected to uphold his duty and not abandon his post. His decision to flee might lead to punishment or the loss of honor. These intermingled feelings make Gared's choice to escape all the more personal and tragic.

Possible Routes for Gared's Escape

Given the circumstances, various routes were available for Gared to take as he fled south of the Wall. Here are some plausible ways he might have gained passage:

1. Rejoining Castle Black

One possible route is that Gared did return to Castle Black at some point and then deserted the Night's Watch. While the exact timeline is not specified in the book, this scenario is a plausible alternative to his decision to flee in the prologue. This route allows Gared to return to what he knows and face the consequences directly, but it still leaves room for explanation regarding his subsequent whereabouts.

2. Using the Non-Plugged Gates

A more covert method could be through the non-plugged gates, such as the one at Nightfort. The Night's Watch maintains several gates along the Wall, but some of these gates may remain unplugged for centuries, serving as secret passages. This route would allow Gared to bypass the more heavily guarded areas and avoid detection. Accessing one of these gates could provide Gared with a more clandestine escape.

3. Utilizing the Bridge of Skulls

The Bridge of Skulls is another potential route for Gared to escape the Wall. Historically, it has been a popular path for Wildlings to bypass the Wall without climbing it. This bridge likely left less of a trace, making it a viable alternative to a direct climb. Gared could have made use of the bridge to cross the Wall in a more circuitous manner, providing a safer and less risky route for his escape.

Conclusion

Gared's choice to flee from the Night's Watch and the Wall is a complex one, driven by fear and a stark sense of duty. The possible routes he could have taken add an additional layer of intrigue to his character. Whether he returned to Castle Black, used a secret passage, or traversed the Bridge of Skulls, the choices he made ultimately led to his tragic fate. This exploration of Gared's path offers insight into both his character and the world of Westeros.