Game of Thrones

by BeastWithinProductions

Following Robert's Rebellion and the downfall of the Targaryen Dynasty, Robert married Lyanna and Ned returned North. Only to be called to battle six years later against the Greyjoy's. Now Eight Years later Ned is called from his home to help his friend and family. But Dark winds are stirring and this time the realm will bleed like it has never before.

36. Lady Stark

Margaery

As far as she could remember her Father had always promised she'd marry royalty, that she would be the Queen. This had not been what she expected. The Nephew of the King and Queen yes. A man from a lineage of Kings unlike her own house yes. But she it wasn't what her Father promised.

Before she came to Winterfell all she knew about the North was that it was cold and snowy. Her grandmother had told her the people of the North reflect their land, bitter and cold. She was right at least, it was cold even in summer.

But the Starks were good to her. Lord and Lady Stark made her welcomed, making sure she was comfortable. Sansa was like the sister she never had. The younger Stark children were all playful and fun. And most importantly was Robb, her husband.

A lot of girls were looking to the Young Wolf after the last Great War. But it was Margaery Tyrell who he looked to.

She and Robb used to make frequent visits to Wintertown and nearby Castle Cerwyn. Together they would hand out food, blankets and anything else the people needed. Eventually Margaery gained enough experience to go out on her own. She enjoyed these visits since it was her way of bonding with the people. More importantly it allowed her to see the smallfolks view of her own family. Now Margaery knew the Starks were an old, proud house as all others did. But surely that prestiege and pride would put them at odds with some people right? Wrong. The Starks were loved by all from the Wall to the Neck. From grumpy Lord Eddard to baby Rickon. And now they had a new Stark with Margaery.

The Citadel had declared it was Autumn not too long ago. And no sooner had that news come that the Northern Lords had already begun preparation. Grains had already begun to be stored. Meats and fish were salted to allow food to last long. And the garden in Wintefell was growing in abundance every day. Margaery was looking forward to her first Winter up North. What a terribly, wonderful experience that would be.

Winter is Coming was the Starks words. And she believed that, Winter was definatly coming. The days were getting shorter and colder. The Starks lived by those words whatever they meant and when she became one she had too as well.

Family, Duty, Honor was the Tully Words and her husband was half Tully. And those words seemed just as important to the others. The Starks were the pride of the North, honest, honorable and duty bound no matter the task.

But House Tyrell's words were 'Growing Strong'. Not as frightening or attention grabbing as the Starks or Baratheon's but even now as a Stark Margeary lived those words. It had been that idea that had given Margaery her husband, new family and the North.

The idea to marry Sansa to Harrold had been her's. And it was 'Growing Strong' that inspired the idea from her.

Her marriage gave House Tyrell the North. And the North had direct ties to both the Riverlands and the Stromlands. From those marriages they had even further ties to the Westerlands and the Royal Family. Now with Sansa's marriage to Harrold Arryn the Vale was involved. She was connected to all but three major areas of westeros. She might not have been head of that pyramid as she originaly wanted but there was no doubt she was definatly up there.

She was taken from her thoughts as she felt a thickness come around her shoulders. Glancing back she saw a heavy set of bear fur place over her, by none other than her husband.

"Don't want you catching a cold." Robb rested his head behind her's. The red hair growing off his chin and cheeks tikciling the back of her neck."Margearyreached her arm back and pulled him closer.

"I'm never cold when I'm with you." She turned around and took her husband by the arm and together they ventured back inside, into the warm hall so Winterfell.

Margeary had taken it upon herself to help plan Sansa's wedding. She had laid out all the preperations and was first hand choosing who would sit where at the Wedding Feast. She'd met all the Northern Lords before. Umber, Bolton, Glover, Karstark first at her wedding and then at the Harvest Feast. She was polite and formal as expected, told stories with them, joked with them but she couldn't help but feel they didn't like her. The Smallfolk like her and enjoyed her visit but she got the feeling the Lords and Nobles didn't. They were polite and kind with her but no more than they needed to be it seemed. But this time around Margaery wanted to leave a good impression on them.

"So." She said with a clap of her hands." Which Gods will be in attendance, yours or mine?" Her original wedding to Renly had been in the Great Sept of King Landing. It was the only sept to surpass Highgarden's where she had her second to Robb. And both were in the light of the Seven. But they also went into the Castle's Godswood which containted the Three Singers; Three Weirewood trees of Robb's Old Gods. She lived there her hole life beiliving it to be nothing more than a fairy tale but Robb really believed in it. She could remember how Robb's face lit up when he saw them, like a little kid with candy. She ventured into Winterfell's Godswood several times to see Robb talking to the trees amongst his Old Gods. Margaery would never stay long.

"It's your Gods with all the rules." Robb answered. On their Wedding day the two of them went on a pleasure barge down the Mander, riding around the countryside on their horses, drinking, dancing, laughing at the fools, and of course the bedding.

Sitting in the Great Halls of Winterfell was not Margaery's idea of a 'eventful' wedding.

"Who will in attendance?" she asked. Her husband kept a solemn face.

"Lord Harrold and Several Lords from Noble Houses of the Vale." He responded." My Aunt and Uncle from the Capital. Some of the Riverlords may attend. And All the North. They'll be the first guest we have to entertain."

"All the North." She Margeary knew about the North she learned from books. Then later she'd ask her husband and form her opinions off of his." Does that mean the Boltons will be here?"

"Yes of course." He nodded.

"And your okay with that?" she raised an eyebrow.

"Pardon me?" He responded confused, a dull expression on his face.

"Can we trust them?" Robb straightened out.

"We don't have a reason not too."

"They've rebelled more than any of your other bannermen. Their the second most powerful House, who's too say they don't want to be number one? The Tyrells in Highgarden have a similar problem with House Florent, who say they have a rightful claim to Highgarden. And my Father knew everything the Florents, the Tarlys, the Hightowers ever said about it." Most of it was not good.

"You should hear what they say about my Father." Robb responded. He took a step closer to her, putting both hands on her shoulders." We have nothing to fear from the Boltons my dear. Domeric is a good friend of mine." Margeary knew the man well. He had been present at their wedding where he drank with Margeary and then ripped her dress during the bedding ceremony. He was cheerful but still had all the grim qualities of his family.

"That's true." Margaery walked around the table to stand beside Robb.

"What about the Skagois? I don't remember them marching in your army. Or at our wedding?

Or have seen any of them visit these past few years."

"Nor should you. The Skagosi are part of the North and are our bannermen but they mostly rule themselves." A strange concept. In the past there have been unruly bannermen. The Reynes and Tarbecks to the west and the House Darklyns to the East. Both bannermen to a greater Lord who sough to usurp their power. But everyone knows how it ended for them. This seemed like a similar solution.

"Perhaps we should do something about that." Margaery suggested.

"Like what?"

"A Marriage perhaps?" Robb shook his head.

"The Skagosi stay on their islands, so let them stay there. It's when they cross the Bay of Seals that we'll have to deal with them." Margaery simply nodded her head. She wouldn't be able to penetrate that thick skull of his today, but the idea would definatly be there.

"They say Unicorns live on the islands."

"They do." He nodded.

"Will you go and hunt a Unicorn for me?" she smiled.

"I don't believe such a thing exists my Lady." Robb smiled good humoredly. She moved along the table until she stood before him, then she sat up on the table.

"Oh but they must." She smiled." And I believe you'd catch one for me." Robb just continued to smile.

"Aye." He agreed." If you asked me, I'd go and hunt one down for you." He leaned in and kissed her on the lips, his beard tickiling her chin. When he stood back she rested her hand on his cheek.

"I think your Grandfather started something wonderful." Margaery smiled.

"Did he?" Robb questioned." What's that?"

"He began marrying the Starks down South." Throughout history The Starks, more importantly the North had very little interaction with anyone below the Neck. This was their icy Kingdom and here they would stay.

"Well we know what going down South did for him." Robb reminded.

"A tragedy to be true. But your Mother did marry your Father."

"After my Uncle whom she was originally supposed to marry was killed." Robb reminded her again.

"Don't be so upset." Margaery pleaded. But Robb's face looked as sour as his Father's. "But who are we to talk of marragies." She chuckled as she leaned forward and rested her head in his chest." We don't even have our own children to give away yet."

"Not yet." He responded as he twirled his index finger through her hair.

"But you know my cousins Megga and Desmera are of a marrying age." Robb nodded his head in understanding. But no doubt he was trying to remember the girl as Margaery had many cousins and many ladies in waiting. Just a year ago they had attended a wedding that Margaery had a hand in. Meredyth Crane was one of Margaery's oldest friends and someone the little rose had secured her friend a marriage to Jasper Redfort, Lord of Redfort in the Vale. " And no doubt there are several young knights or Lords who would love a pretty little bride."

"Yes." He nodded." Perhaps."

"Eddard Karstark perhaps?"

"Eddard?!" Robb turned to her confused.

"Yes." She nodded as she sat back up." Sure he's a bit rough around the edges but I think a sweet girl like Megga would be good for him. Help even him out. And she is very pretty. A man with one hand could do no better."

"Yes." Robb said again though he sounded un-sure. The North didn't particularly like mixing with other Houses below Moat Callin. And the Karstarks were just as grim and old-fashion as their distanct cousins the Starks.

"They could settle their own house along the Stony Shore. There's more than enough land to cultivate." Margaery continued." Their sigil could be a golden rose set against a burning sun. Or if he takes Desmer it could be the sun eating the grapes. What do you think of that?" she was taken with the idea but by the look on his face it was clear her husband was not. He knew the Karstark better than she did, no doubt he could already foresee his answer. So she looked for another option. "Or perhaps Lord Cerwyn?" After the war and the death of Medger Cerwyn his son Cley became Lord of Cerwyn. He was a young boy, only a year younger than Robb. He'd be a better match for since they were closer in age." That would put my cousin only half a day's ride from here."

"Yes I suppose." Robb nodded once more. She turned and covered Robb's left hand in both of her's.

"Will you ask them for me? See if either are interested." She leaned down and kissed his hand." They'll do anything if you ask them."

"Yes. I-I could but I can't promise anything." Margaery tilted her head up and smiled at him.

"All you have to do is try, my love."

That night the Starks sat down for dinner, from high to low the Starks packed the table. The Grim looking Lord Eddard Stark at the head of the table his wife Lady Catelyn to his right. After her was Sansa, sitting across from her older brother and Margaery herself. Beside Sansa was Arya and then Bran Stark. And Margaery herself had the pleasure of sitting next to little Rickon Stark.

"I'm so happy for you Sansa." And indeed she was. Lord Stark sat at the end of the table pushing food around as he silently listened." I'll visit you every chance I get. We can attend Tournies and feasts together, it'll be wonderful." Sansa smiled her agreement. "And just think." Margaery continued." When I have a son and you have a son, they'll be the best of friends." Everyone smiled at the thought. Even little Rickon no doubt excited to have a young nephew around to play with. The only one who didn't seem pleased with it was Lord Eddard as Margeary noticed out of the corner of her eye. She had hoped to change that. "You must be so excited Father." she said turning to Lord Eddard." Now you'll have two Southern daughters." She smiled. Lord Stark did not seem to find the idea as joyous as she did.

"The last time a Stark married and Arryn it didn't turn out so well." He answered. Lady Stark reached over and gave her Lord husband a push on his shoulder.

"Father!" Sansa shrieked.

"Though I've no doubt everything will turn out wonderful this time." Eddard corrected.

"I was thinking Father." Margaery continued. "Why don't we have something special in honor of our dear Sansa's wedding." A single eyebrow rose on Lord Stark's brow.

"Like what?"

"A Tourney of course." She smiled." The Valemen are known as great warriors and would no doubt appericiate it. And we'll have many knights coming up from the South." Lady Catelyn and Sansa smiled their agreement but Lord Stark sat grimly back in his chair.

"I don't think that'd be possible Lady Margaery." He answered." The Lords are coming for a wedding to celebrate, not to earn their own glory." The conversation of the Starks was broken up as Hother Umber appeared. The giant lumbered into the room.

"Lord Stark." He greeted his Lord." My Lady." He added to Catelyn. "Children." At that time he was passing by Rickon and reached out with his free hand to tussel his hair, earning him a giggle form the boy. "My Lord." He said silently. Hother produced a Raven and handed it off to Ned. Whatever it was it must have been important, as she saw Lord Stark's deminor sour. Hother then turned away from him." Lady Stark." He said taking a step further. Margaery smiled and tilted her head to the giant.

"Yes?" But Hother's nose twitched and his eyes narowed as he glared the Tyrell girl down.

"Lady Catelyn Stark." He grumbled. He pulled a raven's letter from his sleeve and handed it off to her.

"Thank you Hother." Catelyn smiled. Hother then turned from Catelyn and back to Margaery.

"This one is for you." He extended out his hand, holding a thin piece of paper between his index finger and thumb. Margeary looked up and smiled at him.

"Thank you Maester." Although he had no chain. She took it and began to read. Hother took his leave of the Starks, leaveing the way he came and passing Rickon once more. On his way out the giant reached into his sleeve to produce a handful of candy and giving it to the youngest Stark.

"Hother." Catelyn spoke out." No sweets before dinner."

"Have no fear Lady Stark." The giant answered." Lord Rickon is a good little boy and he'll eat all his vegestables before any sweets." He tusseled the boy's hair once more before leaving.

Margeary sat back and read the letter to herselfas the rest of the Family continued eating. This news was delightful, possibly the best she'd heard in days.

"What is it Mother?" Sansa asked.

"It's from your Uncle, my dear." She answered." He is delighted to hear about your wedding and is already on his way here." After Catelyn's news was shared it was time for Margaery to share her own.

"Oh Robb." she practically sang as he turned and faced her husband." What would you say one of the best privaldeges in the world is?" Her husband looked at her confused as he chewed over the bit of beef in his mouth.

"Family?" He responded, unsure of his answer. Robb has never been too keen on her guessing games but it was a simple joy she enjoyed.

"Close." She nodded. She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek." Congradulations Darling." Lord Eddard Stark leaned over in his chair, hoping to hear more." You're an Uncle!"

"Pardon me?" Robb said.

"My brother, Garlan and his wife Lady Leonette just had a son!" A small smile grew on Robb's face.

"That's wonderful." He said.

"It is wonderful indeed. Now my brother's son, Sansa's son and our son can be the best of friends. A trio!"

"Congradulations." Catelyn smiled. Lord Stark was the only one who didn't seem to enjoy the mood, sitting at the end of the table with a sour look on his face. Perhaps he was hoping for more.

Long after dinner had ended Margaery prepared to return to her room. In her left hand was a small basket filled with sweets liks Leom cakes, and also two glasses. In her right hand was a wine of Arbor Gold. It was Robb's favorite because he liked sweet things, like her.

With one hand she pushed open the door to see her husband's back. But when he turned to face her, his eyes went immiedatly to what was in her hands. He didn't look as happy as she expected.

"What's that?" he questioned as she crossed the room.

"I brought a little treat." She smiled as she sat down on the bed and rested the goodies on the desk before him. Margaery didn't like the scrtching sheets and pillows when she first moved in, they always made her itch. So she ordered the finest silks sheets and blankets ordered from the Reach, to making her new bedroom more comfortable. With a careful hand Robb reached forward and put aside the napkins to view the pastries inside while Margaery began pouring herself a glass of wine. When she was done she looked up to see him staring at her with a stern gaze. A gaze just like his Father's.

"Where did you get this?" He pointed to the food." Did you take them from the pantry?" Margaery managed a malicious little smile.

"Yes." She said with a sip. It was Ser Wendel Manderly who had been taking all the blame for Margaery's little actions. Although none had definite proof of this, other than the man's expanding belly.

"These are being saved for the Winter." He told." And they say it'll be a long one, maybe ten years."

"When I first got here we had enough food to servive an eight year winter. And now we have enough to survive a twelve year winter." That was of course thanks to all the food and supplies brought up my Margaery's own family.

"We can't afford to be careless. We only have a certain amount of food for a certain amount of people. One pound of food missing or even one extra mouth to feed could be disasterous come winter." Margaery continued her smile.

"Even One little pound of food?"

"Yes." He concluded.

"Well it's a good thing these aren't any essential foods. Treat yourself, you deserve it." She finished with a reassuring smile and that made Robb reach in and take one. He took a bit and chewed as his attention turned back at what was on the desk.

Grey Wind began to perk up at his master's feet. The smell of lemon cakes and another sweet treats was appealing to him as well. Margaery reached over and pulled one from the basket and then showcased it before the Direwolf. His big, black eyes fixated by it. Then Margaery turned and tossed the lemon cake to the floor. Grey Wind quickly gave chase following it outside of the bedroom and into the hallway where he gobbled it all into his mouth. With his prize caught he prepared to turn back into the bedroom. But when he turned the door shut on his face.

Margaery then turned her attention back to Robb.

"It's starting to get colder these nights." She said." Do you want to go down to the hot springs?"

"No thank you." He answered. Margaery had already begun pouring wine into one of the two glasses and set it down beside him once she was done. Then began to fill her own. But when she turned back to Robb she noticed he still hadn't touched his and instead gazed solemnly at what lay before him.

"What is that which has distracted you so much?" she questioned as she walked up and peaked over Robb's shoulder. Laid out before Robb was a map of the entire North and beside that was a letter sent by Lord Commander Denys Mallister of the Night's Watch." The Night's Watch? What's it about this time?"

Margaery never understood the purpose of the Night's Watch. It was hardly talked about when she was growing up in Highgarden but whenever someone did bring it up it was always with laughter. Many including her own Lord Father wondered if it was even still around. South of the neck and especially as far South as High Garden taking the Black was hardly an option. As punishment for your crimes would either earn you a lifetime behind bars or a date with the headsman.

She had never seen the Wall for herself but during her first few months at Winterfell she got to meet one of the Black Brothers.

The news had come from Ser Wendel. His face covered red from exhaustion as he approached Lord and Lady Stark. Margaery could not hear what they were saying but she could read lips. Lord Stark then ordered Wendel to gather some men and called for Robb. And ever the dutiful son and future Lord, Robb quickly readied himself.

Margaery had been curious then. In the South the Night's Watch was hardly mention but it was a much talked about subject here in Winterfell.

"Can I come?" she asked Robb. Her questioned confused him, it was clear enough. But perhaps it was because his Lord Father was giving commands that he could not answer. So she turned and asked Lord Eddard the same thing, his confusion didn't last as long as his son's. He agreed so long as Robb "Watched her".

Lord Eddard rode at the head of the party with Robb and herself by his side. Ser Wendel bounced up and down in his saddle. Even little Brandon came with them who was no more than ten. And with them were twenty more Stark men at Arms.

They rode out into the wilderness where they came upon Ser Donnel Locke and several more Stark men. And on his knees was a man dressed in all black. It didn't take Margaery long to decide who he was.

Lord Stark then dismounted his horse as the man was brought before him. Robb helped Margaery onto the ground and the two watched from several feet away.

She didn't understand the purpose of this venture. Why were twenty men and the Lord of Winterfell needed for a single desert of the Night's Watch. She knew that after the last war many men went to the wall, some by choice other by force. And she knew that men who were forced to do something didn't do it for very long. She thought the deserter would receive a stern lecture from grim Lord Eddard and then be sent back to the Wall by this small garrison. How wrong she was.

Margaery did not know what to expect. She was startled when Robb took her by the arm and whispered "Don't Look Away." She didn't know what he meant but when she looked over to Lord Eddard and saw him unsheathe Ice from it's scabbard she knew what was coming. The Ancestral sword of House Stark was a big beautiful thing. Margaery never seen a Valyarian Steel blade before. Her father had been gifted with a knife but it was a pale comparison to Ice.

The man was bent down over the nearby stump. Tears rolling his cheeks and pleading for mercy. Margaery wanted to jump in and help him but she knew Robb would stop her. But if she could not help the Black Brother then she could at least help Bran. The poor boy was just standing there watching the barbarity of it all.

With one swing of his arms the Greatsword took the man's head clean off. It rolled off his shoulders and bounced against the ground, a river of blood beginning at his severed neck. And Margaery did as he husband had said, she didn't look away.

When it was over Lord Stark put Ice back in it's place and began walking back to his horse. Margaery had seen men die before in the siege of King's Landing but there men were fighting back, that was war. She was so horrified she began to tremble. Not only for the murdered man or herself but for Bran. Poor little Bran had watched it all just like she had.

"It's alright." Robb said taking her in his arms." You did well."

"Why?" she asked turning to him.

"The man who passes the sentence should swing the sword. We owe it to the man to hear his final words and to let him know what and why his punishment is."

"All for a single deserter?"

"The Punishment for desertion is Death." Robb told." Even if we spared him he would have been killed back at the wall." She still looked at him confused." Our way is the Old way."

"So you'll do this one day? And our son after you?" Robb simply nodded his head solemnly.

"That's right." That had been one of Margaery's big eye-openers to her new Family and more importantly to the Night's Watch. She would have to work long and hard if she ever hoped to change that. And even if she got her way just alittle next time Bran wouldn't have to sit and watch that.

"They need more men, more wepaons, more food." He answered before taking another bite of his lemon cake.

"More, More, More is that all they ask for? Are they never satisfied?"

"They have a hard task and need all the help they can get."

"It seems to be a very one-sided relationship."

"We give them whatever it is they need to do their job. In return they protect us, they keep whatever is beyond the wall there where it belongs."

"Yes and you'd know all about that." She took another sip of wine. Robb was starting to get angry she could see it in his eyes.

"Which is exactly why we need to help them." He said with a slightly raised voice." If the Night's Watch or the Wall should fall where do you think the next attack will be? Last Hearth, Bear Island, Karhold, and in right here in Winterfell." A fair enough point she could admit. But she'd rather not see her husband and future sons ride off to die against some savages. There was perhaps another way." You have cousins don't you?" He asked. He knew she had many." Knights and young men at arms? Could you see if any of them would come up here?"

"I'm sure they'd love a Northern Bride." Margaery smiled.

"No. "Robb said. "I mean about taking the Black." She knew that's what he meant. She had cousins in the lower Branch of House Tyrell, House Redwyne, and Hightower. knights and Maesters with little chance at their own lands or glory. But she knew there was more of a possibility of them having lands and titles than there was for them joining the Night's Watch. She had her own idea.

"What if." She paused a moment forcing Robb to look up at her." What if we manned the wall?" Her husband's face twisted in confusion.

"What?"

"As you said yourself we man it better than anyone else. Give them food and weapons when they ask." Robb quickly jumped in.

"We don't have the power to disban the Night's Watch. Not even the King has that kind of power. It's stood since before even the Targarygens Kings back to the Kings of Winter."

"Yes and they had a good run, a thousand years. But it's obsolete."

"What?" he asked sharply tunring his head to her.

"We already man it like you say. So we might as well get something out of it. We should establish ourselves there, take the Night's Watch as our bannermen. We could tax them and in return they could guard the Wall."

"They already have the means of taking care of the wall. To completely take over it ourselves would just be another handful of problems we'd have to deal with."

"If you went to all your bannermen and ask for one hundred men each, then we'd have well over a thousand fit to guard the wall. And if we ever needed them we could call on them."

"Vows of the Night's Watch are sworn for Life. And a Black Brother cannot leave once his vows are sworn you know that."

"Oh don't be angry my love." She leaned up and kissed him across his face. She made her point although she'd doubt he'd listen to it. They saw things differently but on most they could find a common understanding, the Night's Watch was not one of them. But it was not worth going to bed angry over. " If it means so much to you I can write to my brother at Highgarden. See if he has any volunteers for our honorable cause." That seemed to simmer Robb down. She even added a smile when she said 'honorable' to help cheer him up, even if she herself didn't believe it.

Lyanna

Sitting at the head of the table was King Robert Baratheon,First of his Name, Protector of the Realhm and her husband. He would turn forty later this year. But there wasn't a grey hair, muscle fatigue or any sign that that the Stag King wuld be slowing down any time soon. He was still as strong, as powerful as they day they married.

One his right was Lord Mace Tyrell and Master of Ships. Lord Tyrell made it a point to spend as much time as he could with the King and Queen. No doubt milkig more honors out of them. Lyanna still didn't like him but Robert needed a drinking companion. And boy did Robert, Mace Tyrell and Tyrion Lannister make a great trio.

By the good graces of the King and Queen Lord Tyrell and his youngest son lived in the Capital with them. And in the Queen's old home of Winterfell was another Tyrell.

Whenever a Raven came from Winterfell Lyanna always made sure to read it first to see what feelings Margaery had towards her new home. But it must have been in some secret code as it was written in the same flattering way the Margaery spoke. It made the Queen sick to think of Margaery sitting there with her dumb smile and doe eyes. And just the same whenever Mace or Loras replied Lyanna always made sure to read it first, to see if their true feelings were coming out. She was still waiting for results.

Standing outside of the door was Ser Richard Horpe one of the Seven Kingsguard.

Robert and Mace gobbled down food, handful after handful. Laughing between bits and smiling between small-talk. Robert told of how he killed Prince Rheagar for the thousandth time. And Mace re-told the story of how he saved Robert for the tenth million.

Mace certainly had made his precence known in the Capital. His daughter might not have been Queen like he originally wanted but he was still a very recognizable force in the the King and his Hand he liked to make himself known. But he kept forgetting 1 person in-between them, her.

While the Commander of the City Watch was a Dornishman many of it's high ranking officers had come from Mace's home of the Reach. Lots of Dornish and Reachmen shared close, confined space in the Capital. Considering the animosity shared between them the occasional violent action was unsurprising. She just hoped it would turn into nothing more.

And even closer still was Ser Parmen Crane and Ser Garth Hightower who had become part of the Household guard in the Red Keep. Not to mention his son in the Kingsguard. The vacant position of Master of Whisperers was filled by Lord Tyrell's own suggestion. Ser Theodore Tyrell was a distant cousin to Mace and sat on the small council to replace the Spider. However came never came up with any interesting news. Mace's own Uncle had even been chosen as Grand Maester and now took Pycelle's place.

At the Head of the table was her Lord Husband and King Robert. All bravado and smiles with a booming laugh. Opposite him at the other end of the table was his brother and Hand, Stannis. Still all scowls and growls. Now Lyanna never enjoyed Stannis much but she could give him this, he was a good Hand. And that's because they shared One Common interest, the well being of her son and the future King.

Stannis knew as well as Lyanna what Robert had been like in his youth. And so the two used their vast influence to make sure the son did not follow the Father in that respect. Stannis had even gone a step farther and tried to arrange a marriage for the next King of Westeros. But many of the majors houses had already married. House Royce, House Mooton, House Conningotn all had young daughters around the Prince's age. And none could refuse a royal match. But Lyanna was picky and wouldn't just hand any girl over to her son, this would be a long discussion.

At that time Davos Seaworth was making his way into the dinning hall.

"Hold Smuggler." Ser Richard said as he kept Davos' an arm's distance away.

"I have news for the King and Queen." Davos said. Lyanna perked up at that. It wasn't so often Stannis' Smuggler spoke with the King and Queen.

"They are eating." Ser Richard said." And do not want to be disturbed.

"But I-"

"If your message is so important, tell it to me and I'll deliver it."

"I-"

"Ser Richard." Called out Lord Stannis. The White Sword and the Onion Knight turned to him." Let him in." The young Knight stepped aside allowing Davos inside. The Onion Knight thanked him before entering inside.

"Good Morning Your Grace." He said to Robert." My Queen." He added to Lyanna. He turned and prepared to address the Hand and Lord Tyrell next.

"Ser Davos." Lyanna cut in robbing Stannis of his Good Morning." You said you had something important to say?"

"Yes your Grace." Davos answered. But he wasn't quick to continue, instead he glanced around at everyone at the table.

"Go on." Lyanna urged.

"It concerns the Prince, your Grace." Up until now Lyanna had only been looking at Davos with a side-wise glance. But now she turned around in order to face him fully.

"What about him?" she asked looking Davos in the eye.

"I uh…I found him and your nephew-"

"Jon." Lyanna corrected." You found him and jon doing what?" The Mother Wolf was on edge and this news was going to push her over it.

"Well the Prince was quiet drunk." Ser Davos continued." And Jon was helping him."

"BA!" Robert said with a laugh and a wave of his hand." What's wrong with the boys having a few drinks. Boys will be boys! HaHa!" But that's exactly what concerned Lyanna. She kept her attention on Davos.

"Is that all Ser Davos?" she asked." Is there more?"

"Well I-"

"Where were they coming from? What time was it?"

"It-It was late in the night, your grace. Closer to Dawn really that night." The Queen sat in her seat expecting more and waited until the smuggler went into silence before asking.

"Is that all?" she asked with a cock of her head.

"Yes, your Grace." In one swift motion Lyanna rose from her chair and to her full height.

"Thank you Ser Davos." She said with a smile. Then she turned and exited the room. Walking past Ser Richard at the door and then down the hallway. And soon she came upon her destination, her son's room.

And standing outside of it was another Kingsguard Ser Lyle Crakehall. The Strongboar was a big man like her husband. Was strong with a sword like her husband. A Loud man like her husband. It's no wonder the two were so fond of each other.

"Your Grace." He said upon seeing her approach." Good Morning. And may I say it's a lovely-"

"Open this door." She commanded pointing to it. Ser Lyle turned and reached for the knoc but only managed to jiggle it, instead of opening it.

"It's locked your Grace." Lyanna's patience was starting to trickle into nothing.

"Break it down." She commanded once more. But the Strongboard turned back to her confused.

"Your Gra-"

"BREAK IT DOWN!" she yelled.

"Yes my Queen." He blurted out. Then in one swift motion he swung his body forward and rammed into the door, knocking it off it's hinges and opening it. He prepared to strike it once more but Lyanna pushed him aside and kick it fully open herself.

Stepping inside the room she saw her startled son laying on the bed before her. Looking up with bewildered fright from his bedside. He probably didn't know what was going on or why. But he would soon.

Lyanna began marching across the room and towards him.

"Where were you last night?" she barked. Edric shifted in bed, sitting up.

"Mother I-" Wrong answer as Lyanna swung her hand out and slapped him across the face. He fell over but had the comfort of landing on a pillow.

"WHERE WERE YOU!" she yelled. Edric turned his head back to his mother. But since he didn't have an answer he was slapped once more." IS THIS WHAT YOU DO?!" she continued to yell." YOU GO OUT AND FUCK WHORES?" She slapped him once more and this time knocked him off his bed and to the floor.

The yells of the Queen and the sounds of violence could be heard all around the Capital. The King, his Hand, Davos and Ser Richard Horpe could heard it from the dining hall. The household knights were all along the halls. Ser Rolland Storm was with the other 3 White Swords in the Courtyard along with Ser Parmen Crane. Lord Commander Barristan Selmy had been getting some sleep. But all turned their heads to the attention of the noises.

And everyone stopped what they were doing and ran off to what they thought were the sounds of real trouble. The men in the yard turned their swords from practice and prepared it for the real thing.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" she yelled with another slap." HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING THIS?!" The doorway became crowded as everyone tried to peak in too see what was going on. Robert pushed his way to the head of the group and prepared to stop it.

"Lyanna." he said stepping forward.

"SHUT UP!" Lyanna snapped pointing to him. And even the Stag King knew some battles weren't worth fighting. It ws as he stepped back that someone else became clear to Lyanna. Standing just beside Ser Daemon Sand on the edge of the group was Jon Snow.

"JON!" Lyanna yelled when she saw him." Get in here!" Jon was practically pushed by every man in the group into the room and before the Queen." Where did you go last night?!" she snapped before he had any time to answer. Jon glanced at his cousin groaning on the ground before looking to the Queen.

"I-" but he wasn't quick enough as she gave him the same thing she gave her son.

"Wonderful news!" a voice cheered. Everyone turned over to see Samwell Tarly. The Maester's cloak around his body, the chain around his neck, a smile on his face and a letter in his hand." Your Grace." He said looking to Lyanna." Your niece is getting married."

Everyone turned back to Lyanna. Wondering just how the Queen would take this news at this time.

"Wonderful." She smiled.

Eddard

This wedding was going to be Big. It had been in the works for years now. After the war and Robb's Marriage to Margeary Tyrell both Cat and Ned turned their attention to their next child, Sansa. Their eldest daughter.

He had wanted to stay local at first, stay North. Howland Reed had a son and Ned always had a soft spot for the cranogman. Lord Umber had a brother. Eddard Karstark had yet to take a wife. But Cat wouldn't have that. Sansa was a delicate little thing despite her upbringing in the harsh North. She needed to be somewhere colorful and lovely.

Ned also didn't mind looking in the Riverlands. Ser Brynden heir of house Blackwood didn't have a wife. Lord William Mooton had at least two sons to pick from. But no matter what, a Frey was definatly out of the question.

But Catelyn kept picking. None of the matches seems suitable at least from her prespective.

And then the idea came from the newest Stark, Margeary.

In the past House Stark had the support of the Vale, most recently through Catelyn's own sister who was Lady of the Eyrie to the late Lord Jon Arryn. But now Lysa was dead and her son with him, putting a new Arryn in the Eryie. One who was unknown to them.

And the Vale was a wonderful place. A place of history, honor and chivalry. Their Sansa would like it there, especially as Lady of the Eryie.

It took some effort on Catelyn's part but with the help of Margeary, Ned finally agreed to reach out to Lord Harrold. And just in time no doubt. After the war many great houses of the Vale and suffered from being under Targaryen rule. There was little prospect for Lord Arryn there.

Lord Yohn Royce had married off all his children. His heir Andar to Gella Borrell, his daughter Ysilla to Lord Lucas Corbray. Myranda Royce of the Cadet Branch had even married Ser Roland Waynwood heir of Lady Waynwood. Some of the other Lords had look elsewhere for their brides. Lord Jasper Redfort married Meredyth Crane. Myranda's brother Ser Albar married Amrei Frey. Even a member of House Hunter took a Frey bride.

Walder Frey had never been a more important man that after the last war. As a man with over a hundred livning descendants it was his job to make sure they were all married and taking care of. After the war and troubles came of rebuilding houses is where Lord Walder came in. He married his granddaughters up North, to the Vale, the Westerlands and even as far as the Stromlands. To go along with these deals he was able to get fosterings, and squires for his grandsons even those who weren't born yet. Yes, Old Walder Frey certainly was an important man the past few years. He passed in his sleep at the age of ninety two. And even now two years later his family was still glad to be rid of him.

But the young Lord Arryn was not interested in a Frey bride. He would have to look elsewhere.

And that's where the Starks would come in. The match was agreed upon and soon the wedding would be on them.

Harrold Arryn was riding out from the Vale. In attendance would be some of the major houses of the Vale, Sansa's future bannermen. House Harddying and House Waynwood who had raised Harrold would no doubt be in attendance. Houses Royce, Corbray, and Redfort of all of which Harrold had friends in would most likely attend.

And the Royal Family would be coming up from the South. The King and Queen would be riding up with perhaps a royal caravan. Perhaps a hundred or so bannermen, Knights, Squires, no doubt three or four of the Kingsguard. And Cat couldn't help but wonder to herself if the Bastard Jon Snow would be with them.

Cat's brother Edmure would be riding from Riverrun. Whether or not he'd bring his wife is another matter. But he'd come, along with her Uncle Brynden and her Father if he was up for it.

Then there was their own bannermen who would be present. And most likely they would all be coming. Lords who wanted to come and congradulate the Starks on this achievement and say goodbye to Ned's sweet little girl.

House Umber, House Karstark, House Bolton were come with the hope of seeing their friend Robb again. A friendship between men was fine but Ned feared the other. Would House Mormont attend? There had been controversy surrounding Robb's marriage before it happened. And to the best of her knowledge Robb had not seen Dacey since the end of the war. He wondered if the woman came, if his first love appeared what might that hold for the future.

Ned even found himself wondering if Mace Tyrell and the people of the Reach might come. He would hope not, more for the sake of his House. Winterfell as big as it was wouldn't be able to support the hundreds or even worse thousands that might arrive for this.

But right now Ned was not concerned with the Wedding. Catelyn, Margaery and Sansa were enough to handle that. Instead Ned focused himself on his duties as Warden of the North.

The Lightning Tower had been rebuilt. So it was nice and strong for the upcoming party and the upcoming Winter. Bran would climbing up there in no time. He also turned his attention to rebuilding Moat Callin, something he'd wanted to do for a long time. Though a formidable ruin, a fortified castle was better than a ruin one.

The Night's Watch had written again last night. More men, more weapons and more food they pleaded for. He hoped that now more parts of the Seven Kingdoms headed the Black Brother's Calls. But they asked for weapons and food, so that is what he would give him.

His own smith was crafting swords while others prepared the food. It would have to wait until after the Wedding to be transported. He himelf would most likely go and see the state of the wall, to see for himself what the state of the Night's Watch was.

"Father!" called a voice." Father!" But it wasn't Arya. It was too song-like but it wasn't Sansa either, it wasn't light enough. Ned tilted his head to the side to see Margaery walking towards him. If she hadn't called for him he would have hoped she would walke right past him. But instead she walked over and stood right beside him." Good Afternoon Father." She smiled.

"Good Afternoon." She replied turning away from her and looking at the smith.

"Do you know what I've noticed Father?"

"What's that?"

"We don't have a steward. Why is that?" She already knew the answer to that. They'd have this conversation many, many times before.

When Margaery first came up here she had brought some people of the Reach with her. Some stayed until they knew she was comfortable but some lingered and have yet to leave. And Margaery had tried her best to get one of them into the vacant stewart among other position. But Lord Eddard kept refusing her.

"Ser Wendel, Ser Donnell and Hother divide the work between them. And with Winter coming we can hardly afford to hire another one from a neighboring house or down south." She hadn't seemed to have heard him.

"Speaking of Maesters." She smiled. Ned took in a deep breath." Hother isn't a real one is he?" She sounded as if she already knew the answer.

"That's right. "Ned exhaled." He has no chain."

"Why's that?" she blinked. But that was not a story for Lord Eddard Stark to discuss, especially with his daughter in law.

"It's a long story." Was all he said. He prepared to leave it at that but evidently Margaery was not.

"Because you know my cousin is training to be a Maester." Ned only nodded his head." Once he's forged his chain he can come up here and then we can have a real Maester."

"Perhaps." Was Ned's answer.

"Let's go and talk to him. Tell him our intentions."

"I can't. "Ned answered." I have to oversee the shipment for the Night's Watch." He turned away from her and hoped she would leave. Instead she smiled and looked the other way.

"Ser Donnel? Ser Donnel!" she called." Lord Stark needs your help." In another second Ned turned his head and there was his Captain of the Guards.

"What can I do for you Lord Stark?" Ned rolled his eyes and breathed in a deep breath. Evidently there was no winning.

"See that these swords and prepared for the Night's Watch." He told." Once their finished put them on the carts." He pointed it out. "And we'll take them up after the wedding.

"Yes My Lord."

"Excellent." Margaery smiled as Ned turned to her." Now could we go and talk to Hother about his positions?" Ned's entire afternoon had been opened up, so he might as well.

They found the giant man nearby the stables. His back rested against the pole, An open letter in both hands.

"Hother, Good Morning. "Ned greeted him.

"Good Morning Lord Stark." His eyes shifted from his Lord to his future lady." Lady Margaery." He grumbled and turned his attention back to his letters.

"Good news?" Margaery asked. Hother raised the one in his right hand.

"This one is from my nephew. Another child's been born to him, a daughter this time."

"That's wonderful." Ned said.

"Yes congradulations." But the news didn't seem to please the Umber. He raised the letter in his left hand.

"This one is from my brother, Mors. And he thinks the baby isn't my nephews."

"How scandalous!" Margaery gasped. Hother only snorted at her, turning his head back to the letters." Maybe you should go back to Last Harth and help sort all this out."

"My Brother can handle things just fine. He sent this letter simply to keep me updated. Besides I'm needed here." Ned went silent and rubbed his hand through his greying beard. He looked down at Margaery who was looking up at him. Evidently she wanted him to do this.

"Uh Hother."

"Yes, Lord Stark?" He asked putting down his letters and giving his Lord his undivided attention. But Ned was not quick to answer." This is never easy…" he looked up at the big man who was waiting on ever word from him." But uh, I think your services might be done here soon." Hother's eyes bugged open.

"What do you mean Lord Stark?" He said taking a step forward." I have displeased you? What have I done wrong?"

"It's not you Hother it's just..." Ned glanced down at Margaery." There are a lot of Maesters earning their chains in Oldtown." Hother took a step back. That's what this was all about, he didn't have his chain.

"If I get a chain Lord Stark can I stay?"

"Well... yes." Hother turned and disappeared from their sights.

"Oh he looked so heartbroken." Margaery said.

"Yes." Ned said." I think he's gotten used to calling Winterfell home."

"Well we don't have to kick him out just yet." She said moving infront of him." My cousin hasn't earned his chain just yet. And Hother probably has a few more years of service left in him." At that moment he returned.

He looked the same as before except he had taken a chain from the blacksmith and put it around his neck like a scarf.

"How's this Lord Stark?" Ned took a deep breath.

"That won't be necessary Hother." Umber's eyes lit up." You still have many years of service left in you."

"That I do Lord Stark." He smiled as he stood up to his full height." And don't you worry I'll be here as long as you need me." He glanced over to Margaery. Ned began to understand what he was meaning.

"Very well." Ned nodded." As you were Maester." Hother smiled as he leaned back against the post and continued to read his letters.

"He looked so sad when you told him the news." Margaery said as they walked along." Like a big, puppy-dog." Of all the animals in the world to describe the Umbers a puppy dog was not one of them." But I think he'll be good for another few years. At least until my cousin gets his own chain." Ned could only see the worst option. That a young Tyrell Maester appeared at Winterfell to an aged but still very powerful Hother Umber. That would not end well. Margaery still didn't seem to realize just how people up in the North were yet.

The two continued to walk side by side. Ned had assumed that she was going to walk away and go off on some other task. But her task still concerned him.

"Do you know what Robb and I were talking about last night?" she asked. Ned knew she hadn't been talking to Robb about anything, unless it was something she wanted. Whenever she asked something like this and was refused by Ned it wasn't long after that Robb approached him proposing the same idea. And then when he denied Robb Catelyn came asking questions.

"What?" He asked.

"You know there's only three great fleets in Westeros?" Ned nodded. Everybody knew that. He fought the Iron Born during Balon's Rebellion and even Robb in the previous War. He also saw the Redwyne Fleet when he ended the siege at Storm'd End." After the last War all my cousin's ships were burned by the Iron Born. Whether they were for war, trade or commerce they burned them anyway. And of course we all know what happened to the Greyjoys after." Everyone knew what happened after that. The Sea Power of the Iron men would never reach that potential ever again, even when there were no Greyjoys left." And from what I heard of the Royal Fleet there were less than a dozen after the Battle of Blackwater."

"Then your Father had quite the job didn't he?"

"And he did." She smiled." But it's a slow road to recovery, especially when coupled with everything else that has to be rebuilt." She paused as they continued their wlak across the courtyard." But" Ned dreaded that word because he knew more was coming." I think this is actually a great opprunity for us. Perhaps we can offer a helping hand?" She turned and smiled at him." A bigger one than before."

"How?" Ned asked gravely.

"Well we happen to have one of the five great cities of westeros at our disposal." White Harbor home of the Manderlys. An ideal point of Trade for the North." It's been practically untouched in the recent conflicts." In the last war Wyman Manderly provided a small but decent sized fleet for the Invasion of the Vale. Since then the ships have remained at Anchor when not expericing the little trade it has. Some pirates have ventured up the White Knife but nothing to big to be handled.

Margaery's idea on the other hand…

"If we can build them up to create a Great Fleet to rebuild the three that were lost. I think it would increase our influence and people's reliance on us in the rest of Westeros. While those three fleets take time to heal. If we had a fleet the size of say… the Redwynes we'd be able to trade with even the Free Cities or the Summer Isles. More goods would come into White Harbor, it would expand as a City and therefore more would come to us. We could call it "The Great White Fleet" for all the snow. "She giggled despite herself." They'll be big beautiful, white ships. With tall masts and sails that reach the clouds. Don't you think that'd be wonderful?" She turned to him with her bright, beaming face.

"It would. " he agreed." But Winter is Coming and we have more to worry about than a "Great White Fleet" Their walk around the courtyard just so happen to take them to a very special place in Winterfell. The Ironwood door.

"Shall we go and pay our respect to our family?" she pointed down the stairs and into the darkness that was the crypts of Winterfell. Truth be told it had been a long time since Ned had been down there, longer than he would have liked.

He said nothing but grabbed the torch and began descending the steps. Margaery was right behind him.

"Mind your head." He said turning back to her. He ducked his head as the ceiling came lower to them, Margaery followed his lead. Then she stepped out and next to him. Looking forward with torches lightning the way were the stones statues of Winterfell.

"It's dark down here." Margaery said. Her voice echoing all around them. Ned continued to hold the torch out infront of them, lightning the way." Sometimes I come down here with Robb, Bran and Rickon. We go into the dark and see how far we can get. I never win though." Ned was sure she did other things with Robb in the dark.

Not all the statues had been rebuilt yet. The faces of Torrhen Stark the King who knelt, Lord Edwyle Stark who was Ned's grandfather, Lord Willam Stark who was the last Stark till Robb to fight the Wildlings and the king beyond the Wall. Some faces he could never forget. But the only record of the previous Lords of Winterfell were these statues in their likeness. When Theon Greyjoy destroyed them, he destroyed history. Some of them would never be seen again. He'd left his mark on Winterfell but now he was no more alive than the people who surrounded them now.

"And who's this?" Margaery pointed. Ned turned to the statue she was pointing at. A long stern bearded face, the eyes of cold stone just like the man's in real life.

"That's my Father." Ned told.

"Rickard Stark?" Ned only nodded. Neither in life or in death could he ever meet his Father's eyes for long." Robb has some resemblance with him." Ned lifted his head a moment to look for the comparison.

"He takes more after his Mother's side." He concluded. Margaery continued to look at the stones faces in the dim light.

"And who is this?" she pointed to the figure beside Lord Rickard.

"My Brother Brandon." Margaery took a step closer for further inspection.

"He has a nice smile." It always looked like a snarl to Ned." Robb told me that only the Kings of Winter and Lords of Winterfell could have their statues down here." Ned just gave a small nod.

"That's right." And that's all he would say on the matter.

"So when you die we can place your statue right there?" she pointed to the empty space next to Brandon. A crypt without an owner.

"I would like that." Then she pointed to another spot after that.

"And Robb will go there?" Ned only nodded this time." And I can go beside him?" She just acknowledged that only the Kings and Lords have a statue to their likeness." Or with him?" He stopped nodding now." If it's alright for your brother to be here I'm sure no one will mind a Lady of Winterfell."

"Let's head out." Ned said choosing to not acknowledge that statement." We both have other things we must attend to."

"You are right, Father." She smiled." Wardens, Weddings. So much to do so little time." She for some reason put her arm around his' as he lef her out. Then together they exited the crypts and entered back into daylight." I must be going now." She said letting go of him." I promised I'd help Sansa with her wedding dress." But there was one thing Ned needed from her before she left. Something he'd wondered about long before she came here and something still left unanswered all this time later.

"Are you happy here?" Ned asked. Margaery looked up at him with a big, bright smile.

"Of course." Ned managed a small smile in response. But Margaery had a way of talking that made Ned unsure. It sounded to him as if she said one thing and meant another.