The Rise Of A Dynasty
Winterfell – 297 A.C
One week later…
Robb was sat in his Father's chair at the centre of the high table in the great hall watching as the Northern Lords and Ladies made their way towards him one by one.
Maege and Lyra Mormont were sat next to him with Ned and Ashara on his other side while the rest of his siblings were sat at the table with them.
Lord Gregor Forrester made his way towards them holding a circular Ironwood shield.
"A gift for the new Lord Of Moat Cailin on behalf of House Forrester, a shield crafted from our own Ironwood" said Gregor Forrester gruffly.
Robb bowed his head in respect.
"Your gift is greatly appreciated Lord Forrester, I am sure it will serve me well" said Robb dutifully.
Gregor Forrester nodded before stepping back as Roose Bolton made his way up to the high table.
"House Bolton will gift Lord Stark two two wagons full of grain" said Roose Bolton in a flat voice.
Robb nodded.
"House Stark thanks you for your gift Lord Bolton, have the wagons sent to Moat Cailin" said Robb dutifully.
Roose Bolton bowed his head before he stepped away.
Lord Rodrik Ryswell's eldest, brown haired, 34 year old Son Roger Ryswell then gifted him and Lyra with a wagon full of swords and spears.
Greatjon Umber gifted them three wagons of meat, steel and wood.
Medger Cerwyn gifted them his 9 year old Son Jarrod Cerwyn as a Squire for Robb while Maege Mormont had her Daughter's Alysanne and Jorella Mormont named as Master At Arms and handmaiden for Lyra respectively.
The wedding gift giving concluded over an hour later as Robb and Lyra stood up and thanked their guests one more time before leaving the great hall.
Once they were back in Robb's chambers Robb poured some ale for them as they sat down at his table.
Lyra smirked as she saw the look in his eyes as they drank.
"No… you can keep it in your breeches until tonight" said Lyra in a stern but teasing voice.
Robb sighed and moved his chair next to hers.
"I said keep it in your breeches until tonight… doing this is what got us here in the first place" said Lyra sternly before sighing when she felt Robb's hand on her thigh.
"So… you do not want me to hunt you right now, you want me to wait until tonight before going in for the kill" growled Robb as his hand moved further up her thigh pushing her dress up as well.
(Smut begins)
"You can wait a few more hours, till they rip our clothes off and throw us in here for our wedding night" said Lyra before she let out a low growl as she felt him press two fingers against her covered womanhood.
Robb smirked.
"So you want me to stop?" said Robb cockily as he stroked her through her smallclothes.
Lyra smirked and kissed him biting his lip.
"I never said stop" said Lyra teasingly.
Robb smirked and hooked his fingers around the bottom of her smallclothes before slowly pulling them down her legs.
"Very well" said Robb before he forcefully pulled them down her legs until they reached her ankles.
Lyra smirked and stood up before stepping out of them and quickly removing her dress.
"Get them off, then get on the bed" said Lyra forcefully.
Robb growled before standing up and stripping down.
As he made his way over to the bed Lyra forcefully pushed him down onto his back before mounting his chest.
"I'll have your cock in me tonight, you can eat me instead" said Lyra cheekily as she raised herself up and turned around until her open legs were above his face.
Robb chuckled.
"Then suck me off at the same time… like a dutiful wife" said Robb cockily.
Lyra shrugged her shoulders.
"As you wish" said Lyra cheekily.
She planted herself directly on his face as his arms wrapped around her thighs.
"Have fun" said Lyra passively before moaning as she lowered her head to his manhood and wrapped her mouth around it.
Robb growled into her womanhood as she started to suck him off.
(Smut ends)
Later that night…
Robb was stood at the base of the Heart Tree next to Ned, Jon and Brandon while Greatjon Umber was stood to Robb's right ready to officiate the ceremony.
Ashara and the rest of his siblings and their Guests were stood in two columns behind them as the lit torches stood out amongst the summer snows.
They stood there in silence for several moments before Maege Mormont led Lyra along the path towards him.
Lyra was dressed in a thick cream and white blend wedding dress with dyed white bear fur stitched into the shoulders along with a dark grey House Mormont cloak.
She met his eyes and smiled as she got closer to him.
Robb smiled and took her hand in his before they turned to face Greatjon Umber.
"Who comes before the Old Gods tonight?" said Greatjon Umber.
"Robb Stark, Son of Eddard Stark, the Lord Of Moat Cailin" said Robb.
"Lyra Mormont, Daughter of Maege Mormont, a woman grown and flowered" said Lyra.
"Who brings her?" said Greatjon Umber.
"Maege Mormont, Lady Of Bear Island" said Maege Mormont.
Ned turned to Jon and nodded.
Jon pulled two plain gold rings out of his tunic pocket and handed one to Robb.
Robb took the ring sending Jon a small smile before he slid the ring onto Lyra's left ring finger.
"With this ring, I pledge my love, my honour and my life to you Lyra Mormont" said Robb confidently.
Lyra smiled before taking the other ring from Jon and sliding it onto Robb's left ring finger.
"With this ring, I pledge my love, my honour and my life to you Robb Stark" said Lyra giving him a small wink.
"Now that you have exchanged rings and vows… you will now cloak the bride and bring her under your protection Lord Stark" said Greatjon Umber.
Robb nodded before letting go of Lyra's hand and moving behind her.
He removed his own House Stark cloak along with her House Mormont cloak before fastening the House Stark cloak around her shoulders.
Beric stepped forward and took the House Mormont cloak from Robb as he moved to stand next to Lyra once again.
He turned back to Greatjon Umber as he took Lyra's hand once more.
"In the eyes of the True Gods… I pronounce you Husband and Wife, and the new Lord and Lady of Moat Cailin" said Greatjon Umber.
Robb was a little surprised when he felt Lyra grab hold of his tunic and forcefully kiss him.
Hollers and cheers erupted from around the Godswood before the two separated.
Robb felt himself get pulled away from Lyra before he was wrapped in hugs by each of his Siblings, both his Parents and Ellaria Dayne who along with his Mother wiped tears from her eyes.
Eventually he broke free of the crowd and led Lyra back into the castle for the feast.
Half an hour later…
Robb turned to Lyra from their seats at the high table as the cooks and servants made their way out of the bustling great hall.
Lyra nodded to him with a small smile before they both stood up with their drinks.
"My Lords and Ladies… myself and Lady Stark thank you for attending our wedding, and for all of the gifts you have given us" said Robb.
"And my Husband promised to make this short, so we did not deprive you of this wonderful feast" said Lyra cutting him off causing a few cheers to be heard around the hall.
Robb gave her a cheeky but discreet slap to her rear causing her to jolt slightly and smirk.
"Sit down Lady Stark" said Robb teasingly.
Lyra smirked at him before taking her seat pulling him down onto his own seat at the same time.
"You might be my Husband now… but that does not mean you order me around" said Lyra sternly.
Robb chuckled and sipped his ale.
"You are Lady Stark now… that means you obey Lord Starks commands" said Robb teasingly.
Lyra smirked and sipped her wine.
"Perhaps… we shall see" said Lyra.
Robb chuckled and leaned into her ear.
"Or do I have to make you obey my commands?" whispered Robb huskily.
Lyra growled and squeezed his thigh.
"You can find out tonight, when we have our bedding" said whispered Lyra cheekily.
She let go of his thigh and returned to her food.
Robb smirked and resumed eating.
Meanwhile on one of the side tables at the top of the hall Lyarra turned to Wynafred Manderly as the two girls sipped their wine.
"When is your wedding to Edwin Glover?" said Lyarra.
"In three weeks… Father wants me to leave for Deepwood Motte in a weeks time" said Wynafred Manderly with a small smile on her face.
Lyarra nodded and placed her hand on top of Wynafred Manderly's free hand.
"My Mother says I am to accompany you to Deepwood Motte… it seems I am to be your handmaiden" said Lyarra sweetly.
Wynafred Manderly grinned.
"Perfect, I was planning to ask you to come with me, I want someone I know and trust greatly there with me, in case my Husband bores me" said Wynafred Manderly cheekily.
Lyarra chuckled.
"Hopefully he will not get bored with you" said Lyarra jokingly.
Wynafred Manderly laughed.
"Cheeky girl" said Wynafred Manderly amusedly.
Lyarra chinked glasses with her.
"Here's to a long and hopefully brilliant marriage" said Lyarra.
"Do not forget satisfying" said Wynafred Manderly cheekily with a smirk.
"Who is being cheeky now?" said Lyarra teasingly.
Wynafred Manderly drank some more of her wine.
"So… how long do you intend to stay with me at Deepwood Motte for?" said Wynafred Manderly.
"I expect Mother will want me to return home after Jon's wedding to Margaery in 7 moons, to start planning for my future" said Lyarra.
Wynafred Manderly sent her a knowing smile.
"Your future… does that mean you have had offers from a few lucky boys?" said Wynafred Manderly cheekily.
Lyarra rolled her eyes and sipped her wine.
"Not that I am aware of, but I expect Lord Cerwyn is thinking of his next offer already" said Lyarra.
"Karl Cerwyn is rather good looking" said Wynafred Manderly with a knowing smile.
"He is… but Mother says I will get to choose my future husband, or rather choose one from the offers I receive" said Lyarra.
"Lucky you… anyone in particular you are hoping for?" said Wynafred Manderly.
Lyarra shrugged her shoulders.
"I'm not sure yet, given that most of my potential suitors are second and third sons most of whom are either a few years younger or a few years older than me" said Lyarra.
Wynafred Manderly was about to reply before stopping herself when Robb and Lyra stood up.
"Alright… you fat cunts have eaten far too much of our food… sorry Grandmother" said Robb as he noticed Ellaria Dayne looking at him with pursed lips.
Laughter could be heard around the hall as Robb had a slightly sheepish look on his face.
"My Husband is right, we have fed you more than you are owed, now you can either get drunk or dance, this is a wedding after all" said Lyra cheekily as Robb wrapped an arm around her waist.
Applause and laughter could be heard as people from all around the tables stood up.
Robb led Lyra down from the high table onto the small dance floor as the bards entered the hall.
The two locked eyes as they took their places on the dance floor.
"You look beautiful Lyra" said Robb.
Lyra smiled and gave him a quick kiss.
"Your not so bad yourself" said Lyra cheekily.
Robb chuckled and started to guide her in a slow dance as the music began.
"I love you, and your mine now" said Robb.
Lyra placed her head against his shoulder.
"I love you too, your all mine Robb Stark" said Lyra.
Robb pressed a kiss to her forehead as they continued to dance.
Three hours later…
Maester Lewin approached Ashara who was sat at the head table drinking wine with Jonelle Cerwyn and Elissa Forrester.
"A raven Lady Stark" said Maester Lewin.
Ashara turned to him and took a raven scroll with the House Dayne seal.
"From Oldtown" said Maester Lewin.
Ashara nodded and unrolled it as Maester Lewin left them.
Auntie
I have arrived at Oldtown for my wedding which is due to take place in three moons. Things were not going well when I left Kings Landing since Prince Joffrey Baratheon was sent to Casterly Rock as punishment for raping and murdering three servant girls. But that is not important right now. I was wondering if you would permit Elia to come to Oldtown to serve as one of my handmaidens until she becomes a young woman and is able to marry herself.
Your loving Niece, Alyssa
Ashara rolled the scroll up in two minds.
"How can a Prince escape punishment for such vile crimes, such crimes should warrant death" thought Ashara bitterly.
She turned her gaze to where Elia was dancing with Jon.
"And now my Niece wishes for me to send my 9 year old Daughter far south, to a place strange to her" thought Ashara.
She finished her wine before excusing herself from the table.
"Perhaps Ned would be willing to come to an arrangement about this" thought Ashara as she walked towards her Husband who was stood talking to Greatjon Umber.
The two men turned to face her.
"Lady Stark" said Greatjon dutifully.
Ashara nodded to him.
"Could you give us a moment Lord Umber?" said Ashara.
Greatjon Umber nodded before clapping a hand on Ned's shoulder and walking away.
Ashara turned back to Ned and handed the scroll to him.
She remained quiet as he unrolled it and read it before he turned back to her.
"So the Prince escaped punishment?" said Ned sternly.
Ashara nodded.
"Yes… but it is the second part of the raven that I am more bothered about, Elia is nine, and our Niece wishes to have her at Oldtown with her for a good few years at least" said Ashara.
Ned nodded.
"I was but a year older than her when I was fostered at The Eyrie, and it helped turn me into the man I am today, it will be a good thing for her" said Ned.
Ashara sighed.
"We are to travel to Highgarden for Jon's wedding in 7 moons… after that I will permit her to go to Oldtown with Alyssa, and not before" said Ashara sternly.
Ned nodded and took her hands in his.
"Very well, I accept that" said Ned.
Ashara smiled and allowed him to lead her onto the dance floor as another song began.
Ashara rested her head against Ned's shoulder throughout the entire song with slight tears in her eyes.
"Are you crying Ashara?" said Ned sincerely.
Ashara nodded and wiped her eyes.
"Look at him Ned... our Son is now a married man, soon he will be leaving for his new home, where I cannot mother him any more" said Ashara sadly.
Ned smiled and held her close to him.
"Robb will always need his Mother, and if the Gods are with them, we will have a Grandchild in no time" said Ned softly.
Ashara smiled and wiped more tears from her eyes.
"Hopefully very soon... but look at our family now Ned, Robb leaving for Moat Cailin, Beric and Arya going to The Saltspear Tower with their Aunt and Uncle, Jon getting married in seven moons, Elia leaving for Oldtown when that happens... our pack is dividing" said Ashara sadly.
"We cannot keep them here forever Ashara... they have to grow up one day" said Ned softly.
Ashara sighed and pressed herself into him.
"Is it a crime to want to keep my children by my side forever?" said Ashara sadly.
Ned pressed his chin onto her forehead.
"You are their Mother... of course you want to keep them close by" said Ned softly.
Ashara looked up at him before nodding and stepping away from him.
She turned and slowly walked towards Robb who nodded and separated from Lyra upon seeing his Mother.
Robb took her hands as she locked eyes with him.
"Are you crying Mother?" said Robb.
Ashara nodded and wiped her slightly tearful eyes.
"I cannot help it... my baby boy all grown up and married" said Ashara sadly.
"Mother, I am fifteen now, I am not your baby boy any more" said Robb sounding embarrassed.
Ashara shook her head slightly.
"You will always be my baby boy, so will Jon, Beric and Brandon" said Ashara sadly before wrapping him in a hug.
Robb sighed and wrapped his arms around her.
"Mother, it is my wedding, can you try not to cry tonight?" said Robb in a slightly embarrassed voice as Ashara wiped her eyes again.
Ashara took a deep breath and nodded.
"I cannot help it, you are my Son and it is your wedding, I love you" said Ashara.
Robb smiled and held her tightly.
"I love you too Mother" said Robb softly.
Ashara smiled and let him lead her around the dance floor as the music started once again.
Meanwhile...
"When is your Mothers wedding?" said Wynafred Manderly.
"In two weeks" said Lyarra.
The two girls were sat at their table with Jeyne Poole, Beth Cassel, Alys Karstark and Jeyne Manderly nee Cerwyn laughing and talking over wine.
"How big?" said Alys Karstark.
"How big?" said Lyarra in slight shock.
The other five girls chuckled.
"The wedding... how big will it be, you know, how many people?" said Alys Karstark quickly.
"Why... what did you think she was on about?" said Jeyne Manderly in a teasing voice.
Lyarra's eyes went wide as she drank some of her wine.
"Not that Jeyne" said Lyarra sounding shocked before laughing a few seconds later.
The other girls joined in with her laughter before Jeyne Poole sighed.
"What is it Jeyne?" said Lyarra.
Jeyne Poole looked at her and sighed.
"Lady Stark came to see me and Father this morning... she has requested that I go to Moat Cailin to serve as a handmaiden to Lady Lyra, and Father has accepted" said Jeyne Poole sounding slightly disappointed.
Lyarra was about to reply before they were all interrupted by the sight of Greatjon Umber stumbling towards the head table.
"All right you sad fuckers... its time we got rid of the young couple for the night" slurred Greatjon Umber causing most of the guests to get to their feet.
"Bed them" chorused the Guests.
Robb chuckled as the ladies and girls struggled to lift him up so instead resorted to undressing him as they dragged him towards the doors.
What was more amusing however was that Mors Umber picked Lyra up over his shoulder.
A rather angry Lyra then proceeded to swiftly kick him in the groin causing him to drop to his knees groaning in pain.
"Serves you right for putting your hands on my Wife Umber" shouted Robb jokingly.
The entire hall roared with laughter as Mors Umber remained on his knees clutching his groin in pain.
Lyra smirked before yelping slightly as several other men hoisted her up in the air and completely stripped her before carrying her out of the hall.
"Get up ya fucking wimp" slurred Greatjon Umber loudly as he stumbled towards the still kneeling Mors Umber.
The hall roared with laughter once again as Greatjon Umber roughly pulled his Son to his feet.
Robb chuckled and allowed some of the ladies to lead him out of the hall.
By the time he reached his chambers he dismissed all of the ladies before entering his chambers.
He bolted the door before turning around which caused him to smirk with a hungry look in his eyes.
Lyra was already laid on the bed looking at him with an equally hungry gaze as she traced her hand up and down her body.
"Lord Stark" said Lyra in a teasing flirty voice.
Robb smirked and slowly walked towards the bed.
"Lady Stark" said Robb teasingly as he walked around the bed keeping his gaze firmly on her.
Lyra smirked before fixing him with a stern glare.
"You have a duty to perform Lord Stark" said Lyra sternly.
Robb shrugged his shoulders before suddenly climbing on the bed and furiously kissing her.
Lyra moaned into his mouth and pulled him into her as his hands came up to her chest.
The next morning...
"So... how long do you wish to remain here for?" said Lyra with a moan as she felt Robb kiss her neck.
He was on his knees behind her with his hands around her stomach while he pulled out of her.
"That depends... how long do you want to stay here for?" said Robb as he kissed and sucked on her neck.
Lyra twisted her head to face him and kissed him.
"A few days I think... the Lord and Lady of Moat Cailin need to be at Moat Cailin... we guard the North from southern invaders" said Lyra sternly.
Robb smirked.
"But there are no southern invaders... not any more anyway" said Robb.
"But this is Moat Cailin Husband, and you are a Stark, one must always be ready for times of war" said Lyra cheekily.
Robb shrugged his shoulders and kissed her before forcing her down into the bed.
Three days later...
Robb strapped his shield to his horse as Ned made his way over to him.
"Are you ready?" said Ned sternly.
Robb nodded.
"I am Father, Lord Manderly is expecting our arrival in a few days, we can stay at Castle Cerwyn tonight" said Robb dutifully.
Ned nodded.
"I was going to accompany you, to discuss further rebuilding of Moat Cailin with Lord Manderly... but you are a man grown now, and it is your castle" said Ned.
"Yes Father" said Robb.
Ned sighed and placed his hand on Robb's shoulder locking eyes with him.
"Remember... Lord Manderly has served as your Castellan for years, he knows your household staff, speak to him, heed his advice, and learn from him, it is necessary" said Ned sternly.
Robb nodded.
Ned pulled him into a hug which was eagerly returned.
The two stayed like that for a few moments before Ned let go of Robb and stepped back.
Robb turned to Jon who wrapped him in a one armed hug.
"Next time I see you... I expect it will be when I travel to Moat Cailin on the way to Highgarden" said Jon.
"In 7 moons... surely I will see you before then Brother" said Robb.
Jon let go of him.
"I am sure you will... myself and some of the other Northern Heirs will be touring the castles of the North in a few weeks, Smalljon Umber wishes to get away from his Wife for a short time as it seems, since she has given him a Son" said Jon with a hint of amusement in his voice.
"I wonder why" said Robb sarcastically.
Jon chuckled as the two clapped each other on the shoulders before stepping away from each other.
As Jon stepped away from him Robb felt himself be swept into a swift hug by his Mother.
"Take care of yourself my Son" said Ashara pressing a longing loving kiss to his cheek.
"Mother please" said Robb embarrassedly.
"Ashara" warned Ned.
Ashara sighed and slowly let go of Robb.
"Be safe, and I want you to tell me as soon as Lyra is with child, so I can be ready for the birth of my first grandchild" said Ashara sadly wiping traces of tears from her eyes.
"I will Mother" said Robb softly.
"I will come to Moat Cailin to see them when they are born" said Ashara.
"I know Mother, you will be more than welcome to" said Robb.
Ashara nodded and wiped her eyes again before stepping away from Robb and walking over to Ned.
The two watched as Robb and Lyra said their goodbyes to the others for the next ten or so minutes before they mounted their horses.
Ned took Ashara's hand and squeezed it as they watched their Son depart Winterfell with his new Wife.
Moat Cailin – 297 A.C
Four days later...
Robb smiled as he caught sight of the banners bearing the new sigil of House Stark of Moat Cailin hanging from the outer battlements.
A snarling grey Direwolf head surrounded by dark green representing the Neck that surrounded Moat Cailin.
"House Stark of Moat Cailin... oh how good do those words sound right now" said Robb as he led their rather large convoy towards the gates which started to rise with loud metallic clanking noises.
"Forever guarding sounds just as good" said Lyra.
Given that Moat Cailin was originally used to guard the North from the Andal invaders Robb and Lyra had adopted the words "Forever Guarding" for their House words.
A constant reminder of the purpose that Moat Cailin has served for thousands of years.
"Welcome home Lord Stark" said Daryn Manderly from Robb's right.
"Once it was a deserted ruin... now it belongs to us, and our children and grandchildren after us" said Lyra from his left as they rode through the gates into the vast courtyard.
Awaiting them in the courtyard were their entire household staff and guards including a few familiar faces.
Alysanne Mormont, Wendel Manderly and Thor Wull.
They all bowed their heads respectfully as Robb, Lyra and Daryn Manderly dismounted their horses.
Wendel Manderly stepped forwards towards them.
"My Lord, My Lady... welcome to Moat Cailin, the Lord and Lady's chambers have been prepared for you" said Wendel Manderly.
Robb nodded and turned to Thor Wull as the Mountain Clansman stepped towards him.
"Stark" said Thor Wull gruffly.
"Wull" said Robb nodding his head.
Thor Wull straightened up causing Robb to look up at the slightly taller man.
"My Father sent me with 80 men to serve the Ned's Son" said Thor Wull gruffly.
Robb nodded and turned to Daryn Manderly.
"The Wull is here to serve as the Captain Of Your Guard, his men are well trained I assure you, even if they do not fight like we do, they are far more brutal" said Daryn Manderly eyeing Thor Wull curiously.
"My men fight harder than any others" said Thor Wull gruffly.
Robb nodded and turned to Wendel Manderly.
"Lady Mormont here will serve as your Master Of Arms... I will serve as your chief advisor, as will my Son when it is time for me to step down" said Wendel Manderly.
"Thank you My Lord... but for now we wish to visit our chambers, to unpack and prepare for our welcoming feast" said Robb.
Wendel Manderly bowed his head.
"My Daughter Jessamyn will escort you to your chambers My Lord" said Wendel Manderly before he nodded to Jessamyn Manderly.
Jessamyn Manderly was 13 years of age with long dark brown hair down to her shoulders. She was wearing a dark grey dress bearing the sigils of House Manderly and House Stark of Moat Cailin side by side.
Robb bowed his head respectfully.
"Thank you My Lord... myself and Lyra will require a meeting with you, your Son, Lady Mormont and Thor Wull in the hall in an hour" said Robb.
"What for My Lord?" said Daryn Manderly.
Robb turned to Lyra and nodded.
"Myself and my Husband know little of our new lands, we ask that you educate us about the lands under our protection" said Lyra.
"Very well My Lady... Jess, take them up to their chambers" said Daryn Manderly turning to his Sister who stepped forward.
Jessamyn Manderly curtsied to Robb and Lyra.
"This way My Lord, My Lady" said Jessamyn Manderly.
Robb bowed his head before he and Lyra followed her into the castle.
Jessamyn Manderly led them through the main keep into the Children's Tower where their chambers were located.
She led them through a large oak door into their chambers.
The Lord and Lady's chambers were large with a four poster bed covered with the finest wolf pelts in the centre of the room. Surrounding the walls of the room were a large lit hearth, two large wardrobes, four chests, a large metal bathtub and an open door leading to a balcony.
Robb managed an approving smile and turned to Jessamyn Manderly.
"Thank you Lady Manderly, though I will ask that you have a bath drawn for my Wife, our long ride has left her smelling rather ripe" said Robb cheekily.
Lyra growled.
"Say that again and I will break your arm Robb Stark" growled Lyra causing Robb to chuckle.
Robb turned to Jessamyn Manderly and nodded his head.
She curtsied to him before leaving the room shutting the door behind her.
Once the door had shut Robb took Lyra by the waist from behind and guided her through the door onto the balcony.
Lyra leaned forwards on the railing looking down at the bustling courtyard below them as Robb wrapped his arms around her waist.
"Welcome home Lady Stark" said Robb.
Lyra managed a small smile.
"Our home" said Lyra in a soft spoken voice that he only heard every now and again.
Robb smiled and rested his chin on her shoulder.
"Moat Cailin is ours now, and we will bring it back to its former glory... so that anyone who even thinks of invading the North will tremble when they look upon it" said Robb.
Lyra smirked and rested her head against his.
"And what of our plans for the Moat?" said Lyra.
Robb smirked.
"Our plans will begin very soon Lady Stark" said Robb.
The two remained in place on the balcony overlooking the courtyard for the next few minutes.
One hour later...
Robb and Lyra took their seats at the high table in the now near deserted main hall.
The only other occupants in the hall were Wendel Manderly, Daryn Manderly, Maester Ulrick, Alysanne Mormont, Thor Wull and four House Wull clansmen dressed in furs and cloaks with greatswords and axes attached to their backs.
Once they had taken their seats Robb turned to Maester Ulrick.
"How much grain do we have in our stores Maester, and how much meat do we have?" said Robb.
Maester Ulrick turned to Robb and bowed his head.
"We have enough grain for two years Lord Stark, along with a weekly supply of fish from White Harbour and four deer waiting to be cured" said Maester Ulrick.
Robb nodded with approval.
"Good" said Robb before Lyra leaned forward resting her elbows on her table.
"Lord Manderly... how many villages are there on our lands, and how many people per village?" said Lyra.
"Around 10 farming villages Lady Stark... the largest houses around 100, the smallest about 30, the others house around 50 to 60, and we have 6 smaller villages that house part of your army" said Wendel Manderly.
"How large is our army My Lord?" said Lyra.
"500 Men My Lady, including 100 mounted men... with a further 200 reserves courtesy of my Father" said Wendel Manderly.
Lyra glanced at Robb and nodded.
"What of our other villages... how many fighting men can they yield?" said Lyra.
"The two largest farming villages house around 40 trained fighting men each, the rest are just common smiths, stonemasons, farmers and such" said Daryn Manderly.
Robb nodded.
"Have riders sent to every village on our land on the morrow Lord Manderly, any man or boy who does not know how to fight will come to Moat Cailin daily, where they will train with sword, axe, bow and pike, each village will train for a moon at a time" said Robb.
"All of them My Lord?" said Wendel Manderly in slight shock.
"Every one of them, its time they learned how to fight" said Lyra.
"We cannot man the Moat properly without a bigger army, the battlements can hold a thousand men, with a further five hundred in the castle grounds" said Robb.
Hushed discussions started to take place before Thor Wull stood up.
"The Stark is right, the Moats army must grow whenever possible, we in the hills teach every man and woman to fight as equals" said Thor Wull.
Robb nodded to Thor Wull before Wendel Manderly turned to face him.
"I will have riders sent out on the morrow Lord Stark" said Wendel Manderly respectfully.
Robb and Lyra nodded as the discussions continued.
The Saltspear Tower – 297 A.C
One week later...
"Who comes before the Old Gods tonight?" said Howland Reed.
Beric and Arya stood next to each other in a small crowd in the moonlit Godswood behind The Saltspear Tower.
Arthur and Lyanna were stood before Howland Reed at the base of the central Weirwood tree.
Arthur was dressed in a dark blue tunic and breeches with a purple House Dayne cloak fastened around his shoulders. Lyanna was dressed in a traditional grey Northern dress with a black House Stark cloak fastened around her shoulders.
The other people in the crowd consisted of Lyanna's household staff, Guards, Maester Loren, Bryn Snow, her Master At Arms Ser Oswell Whent, Jojen Reed, Meera Reed, Corin Umber, Morgana Umber, Wynafred Manderly and the new Captain of her Guard Jonothor Karstark.
"Ser Arthur Dayne, Son of Beric Dayne" said Robb.
"Lyanna Stark, the Lady of The Saltspear Tower" said Lyanna.
"Who brings her?" said Howland Reed.
"Lyarra Snow, Daughter and Heir of Lyanna Stark" said Lyarra from her place to the right of her Mother.
Lyanna glanced over at her Daughter and smiled.
Lyarra nodded and held out two gold rings before handing one to Arthur.
Arthur took the ring and slid it onto Lyanna's left ring finger.
"With this ring, I pledge my love, my honour and my life to you Lyanna Stark" said Arthur.
Lyanna smiled before taking the other ring from Lyarra and sliding it onto Arthur's left ring finger.
"With this ring, I pledge my love, my honour and my life to you Arthur Dayne" said Lyanna with a smirk.
"With the exchange of rings, it is time to cloak the bride and bring her under your protection Ser Arthur" said Howland Reed.
Arthur let go of Lyanna's hand and moved behind her.
He removed the House Dayne cloak from his shoulders along with her House Stark cloak before fastening the House Dayne one around her shoulders.
Oswell Whent stepped towards them and took the House Stark cloak from Arthur before stepping back into the crowd.
Arthur took Lyanna's hand and turned back to Howland Reed.
"In the eyes of the True Gods… I pronounce you Husband and Wife, and the new Lord and Lady Dayne of The Saltspear Tower" said Howland Reed.
Lyarra rolled her eyes slightly as her Mother swiftly pulled Arthur into her and kissed him.
Cheers and applause could be heard around the Godswood as Lyanna and Arthur broke apart.
Lyanna took Arthur's arm and allowed him to lead her out of the Godswood and back towards the castle.
As they exited the Godswood Lyarra turned to Wynafred Manderly.
"When do you plan to leave for Deepwood Motte?" said Lyarra.
"Want to leave already?" said Wynafred Manderly teasingly.
"My Mother just got married for the second time... I would prefer it if we were not in the same castle for the next few days, if you get what I mean" said Lyarra.
Wynafred Manderly giggled.
"I will be leaving in two days... the Glover's are getting a little impatient, it seems I am to be married by the end of next week" said Wynafred Manderly.
"Which Glover is getting impatient do you think?" said Lyarra.
Wynafred Manderly sighed and took Lyarra's arm.
"Probably old Galbart Glover... wants to see his Nephew's future secured as quickly as possible, Gods, for a man who has never taken a wife of his own he is very keen to see his kin marry as quickly as possible" said Wynafred Manderly.
"I guess that make sense, he wants to secure the future of House Glover" said Lyarra.
"Lucky for me at least... I do not have to wait much longer before my wedding, Walt had to wait for four years before he married Jeyne" said Wynafred Manderly.
"How well did he take that?" said Lyarra with a hint of amusement.
Wynafred Manderly smirked.
"As well as any boy who is itching to get married so he can bed his new wife, especially when she is as beautiful as she is" said Wynafred Manderly.
Lyarra chuckled as they walked back into the castle.
Moat Cailin – 298 A.C
Four moons later...
Jon brought his horse to a halt at the top of the hill looking down at Moat Cailin.
Theon, Samwell Tarly, Smalljon and Mors Umber, Torrhen and Eddard Karstark, Karl and Cley Cerwyn, Rodrik, Asher and Ethan Forrester rode up alongside him while various mounted Guards and a few wagons remained behind them.
"Moat Cailin... as it should be" said Rodrik Forrester fondly.
"Your Brother certainly knows how to man Moat Cailin" said Cley Cerwyn.
"That he does" said Jon.
"It seems we have company Boys" said Smalljon Umber turning to his left as the sound of horses hooves in the distance started to get louder.
Jon followed Smalljon Umbers gaze to where a small group of Guards were leading a wheelhouse and wagon towards them.
The Guards were carrying yellow banners bearing the black crossed axes and black crown sigil of House Dustin of Barrowton.
"House Dustin right?" said Samwell Tarly.
Jon nodded as he then recognised the rider leading the Guards who was dressed in brown riding clothes, wolf furs and a black cloak.
The rider was around 16 years of age with short brown hair and matching facial hair which did little to hide his slightly pale skin.
Eldric Dustin.
The only Son of Lady Barbray Dustin nee Ryswell and the very late Lord Willam Dustin.
"What is that fucker doing here?" growled Eddard Karstark.
"Is that a bad thing?" said Samwell Tarly in slight confusion.
"You have no idea Tarly" growled Mors Umber.
"That arrogant little cunt is bad fucking news" said Asher Forrester as Eldric Dustin stopped his convoy besides them.
"My Lords" said Eldric Dustin in a slightly cold voice eerily similar to Roose Bolton.
"Lord Dustin" said Jon.
"I thought you were still squiring for Lord Bolton Dustin, or did you finally have enough of his bastard?" said Rodrik Forrester in a slightly mocking voice.
Eldric Dustin gritted his teeth slightly.
"My Mother decided that it was time for me to return to Barrowton, to learn to rule, and to find a Wife" said Eldric Dustin.
"Shall we continue on?" said Jon quickly.
Eldric Dustin gave him a curt nod.
"After you... Lord Stark" said Eldric Dustin flatly as he gestured his hand forwards.
Jon nodded to the others before setting off towards Moat Cailin once again.
As they approached the gates to Moat Cailin Samwell Tarly turned to Jon.
"What was all that about?" said Samwell Tarly.
"I will tell you later" said Jon as they rode through the gates.
Upon entering the courtyard they spotted Robb and Alysanne Mormont stood in the courtyard training a group of young boys with wooden swords and shields.
Robb turned to look at Jon as he dismounted his horse and made his way towards him.
The two Brother's smirked and embraced each other.
"Welcome to Moat Cailin" said Robb as he let go of Jon and turned to the others.
"As you can see you have company Lord Stark" said Jon jokingly.
Robb jokingly punched Jon in the arm.
"Welcome to Moat Cailin My Lords, I will have chambers prepared for you at once" said Robb dutifully before his eyes locked on the wheelhouse as its door opened.
Eldric Dustin walked over to the wheelhouse and helped his Mother out of the wheelhouse.
Lady Barbray Dustin looked so much different from the girl who had fallen for Brandon Stark at a young age of 16.
She was now 39 years old with her long light brown hair down her back. Her skin was just as pale as her Son's and she had a slightly resentful look in her eyes at the sight of Robb and Jon.
Robb made his way over to her and bowed his head respectfully.
"Lady Dustin... welcome to Moat Cailin, I can have someone show you to your chambers if you wish" said Robb.
Lady Dustin fixed him with a neutral look as he took her hand and kissed it before giving Eldric Dustin a reluctant handshake.
The two Dustins walked past him towards the entrance to the keep moments later as Jon made his way back over to him.
"Lyra too tired to train is she?" said Jon.
"She is busy at one of our villages... she will be back before nightfall" said Robb as he and Jon made their way back towards the training yard.
Jon nodded.
"I heard you finally did what Mother feared you had done at Bear Island, got her pregnant I hear" said Jon cheekily.
"Aye she is pregnant, only two moons" said Robb.
Jon clapped his hand on Robb's shoulder.
"Mother was ecstatic when she found out" said Jon.
Robb chuckled before he felt himself get pulled into the side of Smalljon Umber.
"I am sure Lyra will be hoping you behave better than Jon here when she gives birth... he is taking some time away from his Wife and his seven moon old Son" said Jon gesturing his head at Smalljon Umber.
"Little Ned is like every Umber babe... loud and proud, unfortunately for me" grumbled Smalljon Umber.
"And no doubt you will be banned from her chambers upon your return, since you left her when she asked you not to do so" said Jon teasingly.
Smalljon Umber pushed him to the ground.
"She will come round eventually, she cannot keep me away for too long" said Smalljon Umber.
"If you say so Umber, she might throw a something very large at you when you get back" said Asher Forrester mockingly.
"Shut up Forrester... or I will throw you into the fucking Neck" said Smalljon Umber angrily.
"What is Lady Dustin doing here anyway?" said Jon as he stood up.
Robb sighed.
"I heard that she is trying to betroth her Son to Jessamyn Manderly, since he is of age" said Robb.
"Poor girl" muttered Asher Forrester.
Robb chuckled as they stopped in the training yard.
The Saltspear Tower – 298 A.C
One moon later...
"Close, but not close enough Niece" said Arthur as he reached down.
He pulled a heavily breathing Arya to her feet.
The two were stood in the training grounds with Arya, Oswell Whent, Lyanna, Jonothor Karstark and Meera Reed.
"Try again" said Arthur sternly as Arya picked up her training sword.
Arya glared at him before he stepped away.
"Beric" said Arthur.
Beric stepped forwards holding his training sword and shield.
Lyanna made her way over to Arthur as the two watched Beric and Arya clash swords with each other.
"She is learning quickly" said Arthur.
Lyanna nodded.
"She is... but she still has a lot to learn" said Lyanna as she took his hand.
"That she does" said Arthur as they watched Arya sidestep a downwards slash from Beric.
Lyanna nodded.
The fight lasted for another few minutes before Beric shoulder barged Arya to the floor.
"Meera" said Lyanna turning to face Meera Reed who was clutching a training spear in both hands.
"Lady Stark" said Meera Reed.
"Your turn" said Lyanna.
Meera Reed nodded and moved towards Beric readying her training spear.
Beric nodded and readied his sword and shield.
Meera Reed slowly circled him before she swiftly jabbed him with her spear causing him to take the impact with his shield.
"These Crannogwomen know how to fight" said Lyanna as they watched Beric block and dodge Meera Reed's attacks unable to return many of his own.
"They fight differently than you or I" said Arthur.
Meera Reed pushed Beric back with a powerful thrust into his shield.
"So much differently" said Arthur.
Lyanna chuckled.
They carried on watching as Beric was eventually able to overpower Meera Reed after another minute or so before knocking her to the floor.
"You fought well Meera" said Lyanna walking towards Meera Reed and pulling her to her feet.
Meera Reed bowed her head and picked up her spear.
"Thank you My Lady" said Meera Reed.
Lyanna nodded.
"You can have the rest of the afternoon off" said Lyanna.
Meera Reed bowed her head before walking over to the weapons rack to put her spear away.
Deepwood Motte – 298 A.C
Four days later...
Lyarra was walking arm in arm through the small village with Wynafred Glover nee Manderly when one of Lyarra's Guards walked up to her.
"A raven for you My Lady... from Kings Landing" said the Guard handing a sealed raven scroll to him.
Lyarra took it from him and spotted the stag Baratheon wax sigil.
"Thank you" said Lyarra.
The Guard bowed his head to her before leaving.
Wynafred Glover tightened her grip on Lyarra's arm.
"Come... let us walk back to the castle, then you can see what lover boy has to say" said Wynafred Glover cheekily.
Lyarra turned red.
"He is not my lover" said Lyarra quickly.
Wynafred Glover smirked.
"But you want him to be, you want to know whether the Crown Prince is a stag or a doe" said Wynafred Glover cheekily.
"I am sure he is a stag through and through Wynafred" said Lyarra quickly.
"If you say so... maybe you want to be his doe" said Wynafred Glover teasingly.
Lyarra sighed.
"You know... I saw the way he looked at you when he last came to Winterfell, and what he wants" said Wynafred Glover.
"What do you mean?" said Lyarra.
Wynafred Glover chuckled.
"The way he looks at you... is like he is undressing you with his eyes, he is thinking about doing all manner of things with you" said Wynafred Glover cheekily.
Lyarra sighed as the two girls carried on walking back up towards the castle.
Ten minutes later...
Lyarra held the now open scroll in both hands as she read it again.
Lyarra
My Father informed me that we will be attending your Cousin's wedding to Margaery Tyrell at Highgarden in three moons. I hope that I will see you there My Lady. There is something important that I must tell you.
Prince Edric Baratheon
Lyarra sighed and rolled the scroll up before placing it on the bed next to her.
"Is that what you really want my Prince... to confess to me what I have secretly longed for since the moment I laid eyes on you" thought Lyarra hopefully.
She stood up and walked towards her open window resting her arms on the window ledge.
"Why is the thing that I have longed to happen for so long the one thing I cannot have" thought Lyarra sadly.