The Rise Of A Dynasty
Highgarden – 298 A.C
Three moons later…
"Blimey... one would think this was a royal wedding, how many tents are there?" said Beric in disbelief as they laid eyes on the camp site at the foot of the hill leading up to Highgarden.
There must have been close to two hundred tents bearing sigils from all over the Reach and various other Kingdoms.
"Margaery Tyrell is the prize of House Tyrell... ever since she was born plans to make her Queen were put into motion, now she is set to become the Wife of the next Warden Of The North, such a thing will be a grand occasion for the Tyrell's" said Jon riding up alongside him.
Ned, Arthur, Theon, Robb, Arya and a now slightly slimmer Samwell Tarly were riding alongside them.
Behind them was a slightly large convoy containing two wheelhouses, three wagons, 20 Guards with Oswell Whent leading them.
"I wonder what they will say when they see how many Northerners have come with us this time" said Robb.
Jon glanced behind their convoy to see a much larger convoy built up of several Northern houses riding a short way behind them.
The banners included Houses Karstark, Umber, Manderly, Mormont, Cerwyn, Bolton, Forrester, Glenmore, Hornwood, Locke, Flint of Flints Finger and Tallhart among others.
"Their Daughter is marrying into the North, if they wish for us to break tradition by having the wedding in a Sept far south, then they should expect the North to follow us here" said Jon.
"Even now I wonder what my Father will say when he sees me... he still believes me to be at Castle Black" said Samwell Tarly nervously.
Ned turned to him.
"House Stark arranged for your release from the Nights Watch... your Father does not get to have a say in that" said Ned.
Samwell Tarly gulped slightly.
"Do you know My Father Lord Stark?" said Samwell Tarly.
"Not personally no" said Ned.
"He will not take kindly to my presence, even if it is just for a few days" said Samwell Tarly.
Ned sighed and nodded as they continued riding towards Highgarden.
Meanwhile…
"Unbelievable... bringing all of the North to Highgarden for his wedding" scoffed Olenna Tyrell.
She was stood on the balcony in her Solar with Margaery, Mace Tyrell and Alerie Tyrell.
"Grandmother, that is not all of the Northern houses, barely half of them" said Margaery with a sigh.
"It sure looks like all of them" said Olenna Tyrell dismissively as Margaery walked over to a small table containing glasses and pitchers of wine near the entrance to the balcony.
Margaery sighed and poured some wine for herself before Olenna Tyrell called her over once again.
"Very well then Margaery... tell us which Northern Houses have followed that boy here" said Olenna Tyrell as Margaery walked back onto the balcony with her wine.
Margaery sipped her wine.
"Houses... Karstark, Umber, Manderly, Cerwyn, Forrester, Glenmore, Tallhart, Locke, Bole, Condon, Mazin, Bolton, Hornwood and the Flints of Flints Finger, not even half of the Northern houses, I expect the rest shall be joining us at Winterfell when I return" said Margaery.
"And how many houses are there in the North?" said Alerie Tyrell.
"About 30 or so… ranging from large houses to small houses" said Margaery.
"Each one is as loyal to the Starks as the next I bet" said Olenna Tyrell sarcastically.
"Hopefully none will be thinking that they can match us... we could have crushed them on the battlefield that day at Storms End" said Mace Tyrell warily.
"Oh do shut up you oaf... you surrendered as soon as you saw Stark banners riding towards Storms End during Roberts Rebellion, you have never fought a Northerner in your life" scoffed Olenna Tyrell.
"Grandmother, I must go" said Margaery quickly.
"Fine, you best get down there and greet the Stark's... but that boy is not to share your chambers until your wedding night" said Olenna Tyrell sternly.
"Whatever you say Grandmother" said Margaery lazily.
She finished her wine before turning and walking out of the Solar.
Olenna Tyrell stepped away from the balcony.
Ten minutes later…
Margaery stood in the courtyard along with her Brothers as Ned led the Stark convoy into the courtyard.
She caught the eye of Jon and smiled as his horse came to a halt.
Jon dismounted his horse and walked towards her before wrapping her in a hug and kissing her.
"You look so beautiful" whispered Jon into her ear.
"Your not so bad yourself" whispered Margaery.
Jon smirked and let go of her before shaking hands with her brothers.
As he was doing that Margaery walked towards the Starks as Ned helped Elia out of one of the wheelhouses.
"Welcome to Highgarden Lord Stark" said Margaery gracefully.
Ned bowed his head.
"Thank you My Lady... forgive me for being rude but, it has been a long ride, could you have someone escort us to our chambers?" said Ned modestly.
Margaery nodded before turning to look behind her.
"Loras, escort Lord and Lady Stark to their chambers when they are ready" said Margaery.
Loras Tyrell sighed before walking towards her.
"Of course dear Sister" said Loras Tyrell as Ned helped Ashara out of the wheelhouse followed by Bran.
Loras Tyrell waited until Ned, Ashara, Jon, Robb, Lyra, Lyarra, Beric, Arya, Elia, Brandon, Theon and Samwell were ready to head into the castle.
As Loras Tyrell led them inside Margaery pulled Jon aside.
"Walk with me" said Margaery.
Jon offered his arm to her so she could take it and lead him into the castle.
As they walked up to the battlements Margaery turned to him with a smirk.
"So... here we are, 4 years after we first met, about to swear to be with each other for the rest of our days" said Margaery sweetly.
Jon smirked and gave her a quick kiss.
"Here we are, I take it your family were not too impressed that I arrived with a host of Northerners at my back" said Jon.
Margaery chuckled.
"No they were not... but they are your Vassal Lords, I expected some of them to be here, but not that many" said Margaery.
"And yet not all of them are here with me, many chose to stay in the North and wait for our return... where we will re-swear our vows in the Godswood at Winterfell" said Jon.
Margaery stopped and sharply turned towards him.
"Re-swear our vows, why?" said Margaery sternly.
Jon sighed and pulled her into him.
"I am of the North, where we worship the True Gods, you will be my Wife, thus it is important for us to be wed before the Heart Tree at Winterfell, it is tradition for Lord and Lady Stark to marry at Winterfell" said Jon.
Margaery remained silent for several seconds as they carried on walking along the battlements.
"That is fair, if it is tradition then who am I to ignore it?" said Margaery.
Jon nodded.
"Good... I have missed you" said Jon softly.
Margaery smiled.
"Me too" said Margaery resting her head on his shoulder as they walked along the battlements.
One hour later…
Ned and Ashara made their way down to the hill into the growing camp site arm in arm accompanied by Elia and Arthur and half a dozen Stark Guards.
The four made their way through the camp site for a few minutes passing various Reach and Stormlands tents before finally coming to a halt at a cluster of tents bearing the white flaming watchtower sigils of House Hightower.
Ned glanced at Ashara and nodded before approaching the large main House Hightower tent.
The two Guards stationed at the entrance to the tent crossed their large pikes barring the entrance.
"Who are you?" said one of the Guards.
"Tell Lady Hightower that Lord and Lady Stark are here to see her" said Ashara.
The two Guards remained in place before a voice from inside the tent spoke up.
"Let them in" said the voice of Alyssa.
The two Guards immediately stepped aside allowing Ned, Ashara, Elia and Arthur past them.
Alyssa was sat around a circular table sharing wine and sweets with her Husband Artos Hightower and his parents Ser Baelor Hightower and Rhonda Hightower nee Rowan.
Ser Baelor Hightower was a 6'1, tall, muscular man at around 48 years of age with short light brown hair. He was dressed in a white and gold tunic and breeches with a longsword strapped to his hip.
His Wife Rhonda Hightower was tall and comely at 44 years of age with long black hair dressed in a salmon pink Reach style dress.
Alyssa's Husband of four moons Artos Hightower was slightly taller than his Father standing at 6'3 tall with shoulder length light brown hair tied behind his head. He was 19 years of age and was dressed in a white House Hightower tunic and breeches with a longsword strapped to his hip.
"My Lord, My Lady" said Ned dutifully bowing his head to them.
"Lord Stark, Lady Stark... sit" said Baelor Hightower gesturing for them to sit at the table.
Ned, Ashara and Elia sat down at the table while Arthur stood behind them.
"Sit down Uncle" said Alyssa as she refilled her Arbor Gold.
Arthur shook his head.
"I will stand" said Arthur.
Ned and Ashara poured some drinks of their own before turning to Alyssa.
"Our congratulations Alyssa, sorry we were not able to attend your wedding" said Ashara sincerely.
"It is fine Auntie... my raven was rather sudden, I could not have expected you to come to Oldtown at such short notice" said Alyssa.
"Ah yes your raven" said Ned.
"Something we need to discuss... in detail" said Ashara.
"Where shall we start?" said Alyssa taking a sip of her wine.
Ashara sipped her wine before handing a lemon cake to Elia.
"From the beginning... at Kings Landing" said Ashara.
Alyssa nodded before placing her wine on the table and opened her mouth to speak.
Kings Landing – 297 A.C
Nine moons ago…
Alyssa walked up onto the balcony overlooking court in the throne room along with Sansa Arryn and Ysilla Royce.
The three of them looked down into the throne room at the scene before them.
"Well Boy… what do you have to say for yourself?" growled Robert with an angry look on his face as he sat on his throne with a goblet of wine in his hand.
Catelyn and Edric Baratheon were stood either side of him along with Barristan Selmy and Stannis Baratheon looking down at the young man below them.
Joffrey Baratheon was on his knees with his hands tied behind his back glaring at them as Jamie Lannister and Sandor Clegane stood either side of him.
"These are lies Uncle" pleaded Joffrey Baratheon.
"So you deny raping and murdering three servant girls with a crossbow in your chambers?" said Stannis Baratheon angrily.
"No Father, I did not, I swear" said Joffrey Baratheon in a panicked voice.
Stannis Baratheon could only look at him in disgust.
"You bring shame on me and this great house Joffrey, it is high time you were taught how to be a real man" growled Stannis Baratheon.
Robert leaned forwards before downing his wine and throwing the empty goblet at Joffrey Baratheon hitting him in the head.
"Ow" shouted Joffrey Baratheon.
"I had thought about sending you to the Wall, to live out the rest of your days at Castle Black… but you would most likely freeze to death in the first few days, or Ned Stark would behead you when you eventually desert the Watch, either that or you suffer the other punishment for rape which is to lose your bits" said Robert angrily.
Joffrey Baratheon froze.
"No… please do not send me to the Wall, I'm sorry, I will not do it again I swear" pleaded Joffrey Baratheon.
"So you want to have your bits chopped off instead?" growled Robert.
Joffrey Baratheon paled.
"No… not that, I will do anything, anything, anything but castration or the Wall" pleaded Joffrey Baratheon.
"Silence Boy… you are far too weak and cowardly to serve on the Wall, even the rapists and thieves have more courage than you, and your Father has other plans for you" growled Robert.
Joffrey looked up at Stannis Baratheon with a pleading look on his face.
Stannis Baratheon straightened up.
"You will be sent to Casterly Rock to serve as a cupbearer for your Grandfather, and if you are lucky, he will offer you a position more suited to your status when you are older… but you will never set foot in Kings Landing again for as long as you live, nor will you rule Dragonstone or any other castle unless I deem it suitable" said Stannis Baratheon stiffly.
Joffrey Baratheon snarled.
"I will not serve as Grandfathers cupbearer… I am no low born servant, I am a Prince" snarled Joffrey Baratheon.
Robert glared at him.
"If you do not wish to serve as Tywin Lannisters cupbearer… Ser Ilyn will behead you for murder, is that understood boy?!" roared Robert.
Joffrey Baratheon glanced at the famed executioner Ser Ilyn Payne and paled.
"Okay, okay… I will go to Casterly Rock, just do not kill me, please" pleaded Joffrey Baratheon sobbing onto the throne room floor.
"Get rid of the snivelling fool Clegane, a bloody disgrace to the Baratheon name is what he is!" shouted Robert.
Alyssa looked down at Joffrey Baratheon in disgust as he was hauled to his feet by Sandor Clegane and dragged out of the throne room.
"Good riddance" growled Alyssa.
Sansa Arryn and Ysilla Royce looked at her.
"I could not agree more… he is a disgusting lecherous boy, death would have been a fair price for his crime" said Ysilla Royce.
"A commoner would get death for such crimes, or even be sent to the Wall... to be sent to ward with his Grandfather at Casterly Rock" said Alyssa bitterly.
The three girls walked out of the throne room.
"When do you leave for Oldtown?" said Sansa Arryn.
"Probably a moon or two at this rate, whenever my Brother arrives to escort me to Oldtown, hopefully by ship" said Alyssa.
"I left for Oldtown just over a moon later" said Alyssa as she took another drink of her wine.
Ned nodded.
"And what about our Daughter?" said Ned glancing at Elia who looked up at them.
Alyssa smiled and turned to Elia.
"I was hoping she would come with me to Oldtown, to serve as a handmaiden for a few years and to see the world outside of the North properly" said Alyssa softly.
Elia smiled before turning to her Mother and Father.
"Can I go please Mother, please?" said Elia with a hint of excitement.
Ashara sighed.
"Elia" said Ashara sadly.
"Elia... if you go to Oldtown with your Cousin... it means leaving me and your Mother for some time, years even, and Lyanna Mormont and Eddara Tallhart will not be able to go with you either" said Ned solemnly.
Elia was shocked but composed herself.
"I know... but I would like to see more of the South, somewhere different from Highgarden and Starfall... please let me go with her, please" said Elia in a slightly pleading voice.
Ashara sighed and stayed silent for a few moments.
"All right... you can go... but we expect you to write to us every so often, it is highly unlikely that we will be able to come to see you at Oldtown" said Ashara sadly.
Ned squeezed Ashara's hand and nodded.
He turned to Elia and then to Alyssa.
"She will return to Oldtown with you after the wedding... Samwell Tarly will also go with you on his way to the Citadel" said Ned causing Alyssa to smile and bow her head.
"She will be safe at Oldtown Lord Stark, you have my word" said Baelor Hightower.
Elia smiled before standing up and walking over to Ned wrapping him in a hug.
"Thank you Father" said Elia pressing her head into his chest.
Ned smiled and stroked her hair.
"Look after yourself while you are there dear Daughter" said Ned softly as he pressed a kiss to her forehead.
Elia smiled and let go of him before moving over to her Mother and hugging her.
"Write to me while you are gone" said Ashara softly as she wrapped Elia in a tight hug and kissed her forehead.
"I will Mother" said Elia softly.
Later that night…
Jon took a sip from his ale as he gazed out into the hall in front of him.
He was sat next to Margaery, Ned, Ashara, the royal family and the rest of the Tyrells at the extended high table watching as all of the attending Lords and Ladies took their seats in the large hall.
As he watched the last Guests take their seats he felt a strong hand on his shoulder.
Turning to his left he saw Ned squeeze his shoulder before nodding his head.
"Well done Son" said Ned softly.
Jon smiled and nodded before turning to Margaery who was seated to his right.
Margaery nodded to him before the two stood up with their drinks in hand.
Margaery cleared her throat as she gazed out into the hall.
"My Lords, My Ladies... welcome to Highgarden, on behalf of the Houses Tyrell and Stark I thank you for attending my upcoming wedding" said Margaery causing applause to be heard around the hall.
"And on behalf of Lord and Lady Tyrell... I give you all leave to indulge in as much of their wine and ale as you fancy, they have enough to last a few days, and we are honour bound to get drunk off of it" said Jon cheekily.
To his amusement quite a few cheers could be heard from the group of tables seating the Northerners as Jon and Margaery sat down once again.
Margaery let out a small giggle and glanced to her right before noticing the slightly displeased look on Alerie Tyrell's face.
"It was just a joke Mother" said Margaery softly.
Alerie Tyrell remained quiet as she sipped her wine.
Thankfully the feast began a few seconds later before anything serious could happen.
"So" said Alerie Tyrell stiffly.
Margaery turned to Alerie Tyrell as she placed her knife and fork back on the plate.
"What?" said Margaery.
Alerie Tyrell pursed her lips as her gaze landed on the Northerners.
"Whom of Lord Stark's Vassal Lords are here tonight?" said Alerie Tyrell stiffly.
Margaery straightened up and picked her knife and fork up as she looked out at the specific tables.
"The two big ones with the short hair are the Greatjon Umber and his second Son Mors Umber, the two men beside them are Lord Karstark's second and third Sons Torrhen and Eddard, and beside them are Lord and Lady Hornwood with their Son Daryn, and I believe that is Lord Robin Flint of Flints Finger next to him" said Margaery cutting into her venison sausage.
"Who else?" said Alerie Tyrell.
"The tall one at the next table is Lord Bolton, along with Dacey and Lyanna Mormont, the group at the next table are Rodrik Forrester, Asher Forrester, Mira Forrester and Cley Cerwyn... the young boy next to Cley Cerwyn is Robb Stark's Squire Jarrod Cerwyn, Lord and Lady Tallhart, Daryn Manderly... and who I presume to be his Wife and younger siblings next to him" said Margaery popping a small piece of sausage into her mouth.
"Well... at least you know your future bannermen" said Alerie Tyrell as she returned to her meal.
"My Husbands bannermen you mean?" said Margaery.
"They will be your bannermen too... when you impose your presence on the North, as the Lady Of Winterfell" said Alerie Tyrell.
Margaery nodded.
"If you say so Mother" said Margaery lazily.
"Though I am surprised... I expected more of his bannermen to follow him south for his wedding" said Alerie Tyrell.
"I am sure I will see the rest of them upon my return to Winterfell... when Jon and myself re swear our vows in the Godswood at Winterfell" said Margaery.
Jon turned to Margaery as Alerie Tyrell went deathly silent.
"And why would you even consider doing such a thing?" said Alerie Tyrell in a slightly strained voice.
Margaery was about to reply when she felt Jon's hand on her arm.
"Every Lord and Lady of Winterfell dating back to the Kings Of Winter have been married in the Winterfell Godswood My Lady... even though your Daughter is marrying me here in the South our traditions must still be upheld" said Jon quickly.
"And when will this be?" said Alerie Tyrell.
Jon poured himself some more ale.
"Within a week or so of our arrival" said Jon.
Alerie Tyrell let out a small scoff.
"I fail to see why such a thing is necessary... you will be married before the True Gods the day after tomorrow, there should be no need to re swear your vows at Winterfell" said Alerie Tyrell with disinterest.
Jon let out a small scowl as Margaery turned away from her Mother.
"Mother" warned Margaery.
Alerie Tyrell turned away from them to continue her food.
One hour later…
Ned was stood with Ashara, Lord and Lady Hornwood, Robert and Renly Baratheon conversing over wine.
Lord Halys Hornwood was a slightly slim but muscular man standing at 6'0 tall with short light brown hair and matching stubble. He was around 37 years of age and was dressed in a dark green tunic and breeches.
His Wife Lady Donella Horwood was around 40 years of age with long black hair and a slim figure dressed in a dark green Northern dress.
"Curious that you are allowing this wedding to take place in the south instead of the North" said a cold stern voice from behind Ned.
Ned turned around to see Roose Bolton stood behind him with a neutral look on his face.
"Lord Bolton" said Ned respectively.
Roose Bolton gave a curt nod as Robert and Renly quietly left them.
"The Lord and Lady Of Winterfell usually marry at Winterfell, yet the next in line are marrying here instead, very curious that you agreed to this" said Roose Bolton.
"Sometimes sacrifices have to be made Lord Bolton" said Ashara flatly.
Roose Bolton curtly nodded.
"Of course" said Roose Bolton before covering his cup with his free hand as one of the serving girls approached him with a pitcher of wine.
"You do not drink Lord Bolton?" said Ashara questioningly.
"No My Lady... it dulls the senses and leaves one vulnerable" said Roose Bolton moving his hand away from his cup as the serving girl walked away.
"That's what wine is supposed to do Lord Bolton" said Helman Tallhart as he walked towards them.
Helman Tallhart was a slightly short, muscular man who stood at 5'11. He was around 38 years of age with long dark brown hair dressed in a leather tunic and breeches with a black cloak fastened to his shoulders.
"So you say... My Lord, My Lady" said Roose Bolton bowing his head to Ned and Ashara before walking away.
Ashara watched him leave with a slight uneasiness before walking over to Lysanne and Deria Dayne.
The next day…
Jon took a deep breath before exhaling as he looked down at the sword Ethan Forrester was strapping to his hip.
The two were stood in the large tent at the end of the arena as Jon prepared himself for the melee.
He managed a smile as he remembered the events of that morning which led to the sword coming into his possession.
Earlier that day…
Jon was cleaning his armour in preparation for the tourney when a knock at the door caught his attention.
"Come in" said Jon as he laid his new Direwolf patterned steel and leather armour out on his bed.
The door opened and Ned walked inside holding onto the sheathed Ice with one hand.
Jon took one look at Ice before turning back to Ned when he realised.
"Father" said Jon in shock.
Ned managed a small smile and walked over to Jon holding Ice out towards him.
"It is your wedding tournament... therefore I think it appropriate for you to use this, since it will be yours one day, and your children after you" said Ned.
Jon paused for several seconds in awe and silence before slowly taking hold of Ice and unsheathing it.
"May it serve you well" said Ned.
"I am sure it will Father" said Jon as he looked up and down the blade.
He sheathed it after several seconds.
Jon turned to Ethan Forrester who was stood near the entrance to the tent.
"You can go now Ethan" said Jon.
Ethan Forrester bowed his head before turning and leaving the tent.
Jon picked up his helm placing it on his head and made his way out of the tent into the arena where most of the other combatants were waiting for them.
To his shock he saw two very unexpected faces stood on the other side of the arena to him.
Arthur Dayne and Prince Oberyn Martell.
Jon gulped as he made his way over to an empty space next to Ser Martynn Hightower who was a distant cousin to Ser Baelor Hightower.
Looking around the arena he saw how difficult the melee was going to be with other combatants including Loras Tyrell, Vorian Dayne, Greatjon Umber, Brienne Of Tarth and Ser Lyn Corbray.
He saw Arthur smirk at him as he slowly unsheathed Ice while Greatjon Umber looked slightly shocked at the sight of Ice.
Holding Ice to his side with both hands Jon turned to look at the stands where Mace Tyrell gave the servant the instruction to sound the horn.
Taking a deep breath as the horn sounded Jon steadied himself as Loras Tyrell swiftly moved towards him.
While much heavier than his own longsword Ice was not too difficult to use as Jon disarmed Loras Tyrell after five heavy hits which chipped tiny bits of Loras Tyrell's sword off with each strike.
After Loras Tyrell's sword hit the floor Jon pushed him away before turning to Lyn Corbray and attacking him with the same brute force.
After dispatching the Vale Knight after a good few minutes Jon found himself dodging the spear of Prince Oberyn Martell.
The Viper Of Dorne was quickly pushing Jon back and forth with his incredible speed and agility.
"Fuck me" thought Jon in frustration as he just managed to parry Prince Oberyn's spear in the nick of time.
Jon kept on doing the same thing for the next five or so minutes before he luckily landed a heavy blow to Prince Oberyn's spear breaking it in two to the shock and excitement of the crowd.
Prince Oberyn jumped away from him before turning around and walking away without another word.
"Is that it" thought Jon in relief before turning around.
He got his answer as he locked eyes with his last challenger stood at the other side of the arena.
Arthur Dayne was holding Dawn in one hand with a steely look on his face.
Jon glanced up at his Father who nodded.
That was all the encouragement he needed and he held Ice with both hands stalking towards his Uncle.
The final test to make him a man.
Arthur did not react as Jon stalked towards him.
"Come on boy" muttered Arthur as Jon readied Ice in a defensive position.
Jon paused and remained still for several seconds waiting for an attack which never came.
"Here goes nothing" thought Jon.
He swung Ice hard towards his Uncle's midsection only to be halted by a deafening clang of steel hitting steel with Dawn blocking his strike with lightening fast speed.
Jon barely had any time to react as Arthur repeated the move forcing him backwards.
He quickly back pedalled across the arena blocking each strike from Dawn returning a few of his own before he felt Ice leave his hands after two minutes.
Arthur kicked him to the floor and placed his foot on the blade of Ice.
Jon looked up at Arthur and nodded as cheers erupted from around the arena.
"You fought well" said Arthur sheathing Dawn and pulling Jon to his feet.
Jon nodded and knelt down picking Ice up.
He shook Arthur's hand and sheathed Ice before walking out of the arena.
Later that night…
Beric had his head held high as he made his way along the hallway towards Princess Myrcella's chambers which were being guarded by two House Baratheon Guards.
The Guards turned to him and nodded their heads slightly upon noticing the silver Direwolf pin attached to his tunic.
"Lord Stark" said one of the Guards.
Beric nodded to them and stood in front of them.
"Who is it?" said the voice of Myrcella Baratheon from behind the door.
"Its Lord Stark's Son Princess" said the other Guard.
Beric stood still in silence for the next minute or two before the door opened and Myrcella Baratheon stepped out.
Despite being only 12 years old she was turning into quite a beauty with her red brown coloured hair cascading down past her shoulders.
She made her way towards him and curtsied as the Guards shut her door and stepped into position behind her.
"You look lovely Princess" said Beric taking her right hand and kissing her knuckles.
Myrcella Baratheon smiled.
"Thank you My Lord... you look very handsome" said Myrcella Baratheon nervously.
Beric smiled and held out his arm for her to take.
"Allow me to escort you to the feast Princess" said Beric confidently.
Myrcella Baratheon blushed and took his arm allowing him to lead her down the hallway.
Meanwhile…
"So... exactly what is going to happen tomorrow?" said Jon as he took his seat at the table.
Margaery was sat across from him as the two indulged in some wine before the feast.
"We shall receive our wedding gifts from all the Lords and Ladies in attendance, including your Vassal Lords... if they have brought any in the first place" said Margaery sipping her wine.
"Oh they will have gifts for us... weapons and clothes most likely" said Jon taking a swig of his wine.
"Is that all?" said Margaery.
Jon chuckled.
"One or two of them will probably offer their daughters as handmaidens... quite a few Northern Daughters have served as my Mother's handmaidens over the years" said Jon.
Margaery leaned back in her chair and sipped her wine.
"And you want me to make their daughters my handmaidens, instead of my usual handmaidens" said Margaery.
"Of course, you will be a Lady of the North, you will need Northern girls to be your handmaidens... it will endear you to the other Northerners amongst other things" said Jon.
Margaery smirked and stood up walking around the table.
Jon smirked and wrapped an arm around her waist as she sat down on his lap and kissed him.
"And what else will endear me to the Northern Lords?" said Margaery cheekily.
Jon smirked and stroked his hand over her stomach.
"Giving me some strong Northern children will certainly help" said Jon cheekily.
Margaery smirked.
"Is that your sword pressing into my hips My Lord?" said Margaery teasingly as she ground her hips on his lap.
Jon groaned slightly.
"Aye, do you want me to stab you with it?" said Jon huskily.
Margaery kissed him.
"No... not yet anyway" said Margaery cheekily.
Jon chuckled.
"All in good time, soon enough you will beg me to stab you with my sword every night" said Jon.
Margaery laughed before sipping her wine.
One hour later…
"Can we talk My Lady... in private?" said the voice of the young man in front of Lyarra.
Lyarra was stood near the exit of the hall with Prince Edric Baratheon.
"My Lady?" said Edric Baratheon.
Lyarra turned to him and nodded.
"Of course My Prince" said Lyarra politely.
Edric Baratheon smiled before taking her hand and leading her out of the hall followed by one of the Kingsguard.
Once they were just outside the hall Edric Baratheon stopped them and took Lyarra's hands in his.
"My Prince" said Lyarra warily as she felt the heat rush to her cheeks.
Edric Baratheon shook his head.
"Just call me Edric" said Edric Baratheon softly.
"Okay... Edric, wha-" started Lyarra before she was cut off when she felt his lips on hers.
Her eyes went slightly wide as Edric Baratheon placed his hands on her back and neck.
"Oh my god" thought Lyarra as she slowly brought her hands up to his neck and shoulder.
The two broke apart after a few seconds.
Neither of them said anything as Edric Baratheon leaned closer to kiss her again.
"No" said Lyarra quickly placing her hands on his chest.
"No?" said Edric Baratheon in shock.
Lyarra nodded and stepped away from him.
"You are a Prince... I am a bastard girl whose Father died before I was born, we cannot do this" said Lyarra softly.
A difficult thing to do as she felt her heart breaking with each passing second.
"Who says we cannot?" said Edric Baratheon.
Lyarra sighed and wiped traces of tears from her eyes.
"You know we cannot, you will marry a girl of noble birth, with the proper family name, not the name Snow" said Lyarra sadly.
Edric Baratheon stepped towards her.
"I do not want any other girl... I want you, I love you, I have done for some time" said Edric Baratheon.
Lyarra wiped more tears from her eyes and turned away from him.
"Please... do not make this harder than it already is, can we just leave it here?" said Lyarra.
"Why should we... I will make you a Queen, and anyone who says otherwise can go fuck themselves" said Edric Baratheon.
Lyarra stepped even further away from him.
"Please Lyarra" said Edric Baratheon in a pleading voice.
Lyarra just shook her head and quickly walked back into the hall before he could say anything else to her.
She glanced over her shoulder spotting Edric Baratheon following her.
She saw Arthur stood talking to Vorian, Edric, Rhaenys and Arianne Martell and quickly made her way over to them.
"Lyarra" said Arthur warily as she came to a halt next to them.
Lyarra sighed and turned around locking eyes with Edric Baratheon who was stood a few feet away from her.
He glanced at Arthur for a moment before turning around and walking away from them.
Rhaenys turned to Lyarra and placed her hand on her shoulder.
"Do you want to talk about it?" said Rhaenys softly.
Lyarra turned to Rhaenys.
This was the first time she had seen her secret Sister since she left Winterfell six years ago.
"No its fine... its nothing to get upset about" said Lyarra confidently.
She looked at Edric Baratheon as he walked towards Renly Baratheon.
"Nothing to get upset about" thought Lyarra sadly.
She turned back to Rhaenys and smiled.
"Shall we sit and talk, I want to hear all about your time at Sunspear" said Lyarra.
Rhaenys managed a small smile before taking Lyarra's arm and leading her towards the Stark table.
The next day…
Jon and Margaery were sat at the centre of a long rectangular table in the courtyard where their wedding celebrations and feast would take place.
The two of them were enjoying wine and sweets as they received their wedding gifts.
Jon took a sip of his wine and gestured for Greatjon and Mors Umber to step forward.
"A gift to the new Lady Stark… the finest wolf pelts, for your future children" said Greatjon Umber placing a pile of folded up wolf pelts in front of Margaery.
Margaery picked one of the pelts up and unfolded it seeing that it would fit on her shoulders.
"Thank you for such a generous gift My Lord" said Margaery placing the pelt back on the pile.
Greatjon Umber bowed his head before stepping away as Mors Umber placed a large doubled edged steel battleaxe in front of Jon.
"For you Lord Stark… made from our strongest steel, may it serve you well in battle" said Mors Umber.
Jon nodded and picked the axe up tracing his finger along the side of the blade for a few moments before putting it down.
"My thanks Lord Umber… I am sure it will serve me well" said Jon.
Mors Umber nodded before stepping away as Roose Bolton stepped forwards before kneeling and bowing his head to them.
"My Lord, My Lady… House Bolton gifts you two of our finest Northern Stallions" said Roose Bolton as he stood up and gestured for two stableboys to approach them.
The stableboys were holding the reins of two large Northern Stallions. One of them was a dark brown female while the other was a striking black and grey male.
Jon nodded to Roose Bolton.
"Thank you for such generous gifts Lord Bolton" said Jon gracefully as two servants took the battleaxe and wolf pelts away from the table.
Roose Bolton stiffly nodded before turning to the stableboys who took the horses away.
As Roose Bolton stepped back into the crowd Rodrik and Asher Forrester walked towards the table along with their 14 year old Sister Mira Forrester.
She was short and slim with long dark brown hair dressed in a green dress with a sheathed dagger strapped to her waist.
"My Lady… our Father has asked that you take our Sister Mira as one of your handmaidens until she is old enough to take a husband in three years" said Rodrik Forrester.
Jon turned to Margaery who smiled and nodded.
"Tell your Father that his offer is greatly appreciated, your Sister will return to Winterfell with me as one of my new handmaidens" said Margaery gracefully.
Mira Forrester managed a small smile before curtsying to her.
"Thank you My Lady... I will serve you well" said Mira Forrester.
Margaery nodded.
"I am sure you will" said Margaery.
Mira Forrester walked back to her Brothers before the three walked back into the crowd.
For the next fifteen minutes they received the rest of their gifts from the Northerners including Lyanna Mormont being named as another one of Margaery handmaidens, two cases of wine from the Tallharts, a supply of various silks from the Manderlys, two daggers from the Cerwyns for Jon and Margaery.
Once the servants had removed the gifts they had been given the Reach Lords and Ladies stepped forward.
Most of the gifts they received were for Margaery including a Septa from her Alerie Tyrell who insisted that their children should receive the same education and upbringing that Margaery had.
The most generous gifts they received were from the Daynes which included crates of spiced Dornish venison, spiced fish, tunics, breeches, dresses and cloaks designed for use in the Winter.
It was well over an hour before the gift giving ceremony was over once they had received their gifts from the Royal Family.
Two days later…
Jon was stood before the alter in the Sept.
He was dressed in a brown House Stark tunic and breeches with a black House Stark cloak fastened around his shoulders.
Robb who was dressed in near identical clothing except with a green Direwolf head representing the Moat Cailin Stark sigil on his tunic was stood next to him while the rest of his family were stood rows behind them.
Jon turned around to see Margaery being led towards him by Mace Tyrell.
She was dressed in a purple and lavender blend coloured dress and various jewels with her hair done up in a fancy braid.
Jon caught her eyes and smiled causing her to do the same in return.
When she reached the front of the Sept Jon took her right hand in his left hand.
The two of them smiled before turning to the ageing Septon in front of them.
"My Lords and Ladies, Your Graces… we are gathered here today in the eyes of the Seven to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony" said the Septon.
The Septon turned to Jon.
"Lord Stark… if you will cloak the bride and bring her under your protection" said the Septon.
Jon let go of Margaery's hand and removed his cloak.
He moved behind her fastening it around her shoulders before moving beside her once again placing his hand on top of hers.
The two of them glanced down at their joined hands as the Septon loosely tied a gold ribbon around their joined hands.
The Septon took a step back.
"If you would now swear your vows before the Seven, making your union whole and true" said the Septon.
Jon and Margaery turned to each other locking eyes.
"Father, Warrior, Smith, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger… I am his/hers, and she/he is mine… from this day, until the end of my days" said Jon and Margaery together.
"Before the eyes of the Seven you are now man and wife, bound together in holy matrimony for the rest of your lives, you may kiss your bride Lord Stark" said the Septon.
Jon placed his hand on Margaery's cheek and kissed her.
Applause broke out from around the Sept as Margaery closed her eyes and brought her free hand up to the back of his head deepening the kiss.
The two broke apart after several seconds before making their way through the Sept past the crowd.
One hour later…
Jon sipped his wine before smirking as he felt Margaery trace her hand on his thigh.
"It is barely an hour into our wedding feast, and already you wish to be spirited up to your chambers and fucked harder than you can imagine" said Jon cheekily.
Margaery smirked.
"You have a dirty mind Husband" said Margaery teasingly.
Jon gripped her wrist moving her hand over to her hips before leaning into her ear.
"So do you… I bet you played with yourself every time you got my ravens, thinking of what wicked things I was going to do to you" whispered Jon as he stroked her hips with her hand.
"Maybe I did" whispered Margaery.
Jon smirked and let go of her wrist.
"Try not to get too desperate Lady Stark, we still have a long feast ahead of us, and we are not going anywhere until they call for the bedding" said Jon teasingly.
Margaery chuckled.
"If you say so" said Margaery.
They spent the next half an hour eating and drinking before standing up for their first dance as man and wife.
Jon locked eyes with her as they slowly danced in a circle.
"So… has it sunk in yet, that you are now Margaery Stark of Winterfell, married to Jon Stark?" said Jon softly.
Margaery smiled.
"Not yet, though I am sure it will soon enough" said Margaery.
"It will, and we will be on our way North in a few days, only this time it will be some time before you travel south again" said Jon.
Margaery sighed and kissed him.
"You are my Husband, Winterfell will be my home" said Margaery.
Jon smiled and held her close to his chest.
"Yes it will" said Jon softly.
After a good 20 minutes of dancing Jon caught the eyes of Eddard Karstark, Robb, Asher Forrester, Benfred Tallhart and Karl Cerwyn walking towards him carrying goblets and pitchers of wine.
Benfred Tallhart was barely older than Jon at 19 years of age with neck length dark brown hair and a 5'10, muscular build like his Father Helman Tallhart.
Jon turned back to Margaery and kissed her.
"It appears I have been summoned for a drink, and your Brother wants your attention" said Jon glancing to where Willas Tyrell was sat watching them from one of the high tables.
Margaery smiled and gave Jon a quick kiss.
"Do not get too drunk Husband" said Margaery cheekily.
Jon chuckled and stepped away from her walking over to Robb and the others.
Asher Forrester poured him a goblet of wine.
"Careful with this stuff Stark… I doubt Lady Margaery would like it if you were to have too much before the bedding" said Asher Forrester teasingly as he passed the goblet to Jon.
"Some men can drink more than others, most men can drink a lot more than you Forrester" said Jon.
Asher Forrester scowled slightly as he poured the wine into the other goblets.
"Still got those bruises on your chest from when Dacey Mormont clobbered you at my Sister's wedding?" said Karl Cerwyn mockingly.
"Not my fault she has no taste in real men" said Asher Forrester bitterly causing the others to laugh.
"You mean she did not like it when you got so drunk that you pulled your cock out for her while she was drinking, I thought she was going to vomit" said Jon mockingly.
"Fuck you" growled Asher Forrester.
"Probably was not as big as she liked" said Benfred Tallhart mockingly.
There was a moment of silence between all of them before suddenly Asher Forrester landed a punch to Benfred Tallhart's jaw knocking him back slightly.
The entire hall fell silent before Benfred Tallhart squared up to Asher Forrester and head butted him knocking him to the floor.
Jon and the others chuckled as Asher Forrester rolled around on the floor groaning slightly as Benfred Tallhart poured his wine all over him.
"Next time you hit me… make sure you knock me down" said Benfred Tallhart mockingly before rubbing his forehead wincing in slight pain.
Jon chuckled as Eddard Karstark pulled Asher Forrester to his feet and helped him over to an empty chair.
Meanwhile…
"Unbelievable... bringing those Northerners here and look at them, fighting at your wedding" scoffed Willas Tyrell.
Margaery sighed as Jon was pulled into a one armed hug by Vorian Dayne who was holding onto a pitcher of Dornish Red and two goblets.
"So you would not hit a man if he hits you Brother?" said Margaery.
"There is a time and a place for such things Margaery… weddings are not that time or place, they should show more respect in our home" said Willas Tyrell.
"Show more respect… for what, having a good time, in their own way" said Margaery.
Willas Tyrell scoffed.
"I still cannot believe that you are married to a Northerner… a Northerner who was raised in a different way to us, hopefully he will not force you to pray to those trees of his, bloody heathen Gods that have no place in the south" said Willas Tyrell.
Margaery glared at him.
"He is my Husband, and I am his Wife… yet you are not happy for me" said Margaery sounding annoyed.
"Of course I am happy for you… is it wrong for us to wish you had chosen different, especially when you could have been so much more, we only wanted what is best for you Margaery" said Willas Tyrell glancing across the hall at Edric Baratheon who was sat at the high table drinking with Steffon Baratheon.
Margaery scowled.
"You are very far from happy for me… otherwise you would not say such things, I love my Husband, and he loves me" said Margaery bitterly.
"I am your Brother… and like I said, we only want what is best for you" said Willas Tyrell quickly.
Margaery growled.
"I already told you, Jon Stark is what is best for me… its time you accepted that, or you will lose me forever" said Margaery.
Willas Tyrell was stunned before he swiftly stood up and walked away from her.
Margaery watched him leave her with a frown.
Suddenly she felt a pair of arms encircle her waist and lips on her neck.
"What is it?" said Jon softly as he kissed her neck.
Margaery smiled and turned to him.
"You know how much I love you?" said Margaery softly as she kissed him.
"Very much… and I love you" said Jon.
Margaery smiled and leaned into him.
"If they do not call for the bedding soon… they will all be watching as I bend you over this table and fuck you till you scream" said Jon teasingly.
Margaery laughed before allowing him to turn her to face him.
"I say we ignore the bedding ceremony" said Jon huskily.
Margaery raised her eyebrow at him.
"I thought you wanted to end the night in between my legs, now you do not want a bedding ceremony" said Margaery teasingly.
Jon kissed her.
"I will be having you tonight Margaery, but maybe it would be better for us to leave before they announce the bedding" said Jon huskily.
Margaery smirked.
"Have you not the patience to wait for the bedding?" said Margaery amusedly.
Jon leaned into her ear.
"I want you on your back, screaming my name as you get fucked" whispered Jon causing Margaery to blush slightly.
"So you plan to make me scream for you, so the whole castle can hear?" said Margaery.
Jon smirked.
"I will make you scream every night" said Jon huskily.
Margaery kissed him before pulling him back to the table.
"You will wait for the bedding, now shoo… go and drink with your friends" said Margaery cheekily.
Jon chuckled and kissed her deeply before stepping away from her.