The weeks at Evenfall flew by as preparations progressed for the wedding of Ser Brienne of House Tarth to Ser Jaime of House Lannister. It felt to the couple involved that they were merely observers to the spectacle that was being made of their nuptials. Brienne begged her father for a small and tasteful affair. However, the Evenstar would have none of her bashful pleading, deciding instead upon a grand celebration that would rival any wedding ever seen in the Seven Kingdoms. At least that was how he described the entire event.
"Don't be too hard on the old fellow." Jaime cajoled Brienne one late evening as the two lounged in the privacy of their chamber. "This is the only wedding of one of his children with which he shall ever be privileged." Jaime reminded his betrothed as he drew her into his arms. "Let him have his way." He chuckled, as Brienne sulked in defeat.
"I suppose you have a point." She conceded, her tone conveying disappointment as her soft expression eluded to the esteem and affection in which she held her dear father. "I simply cannot bear the thought of being the center of attention to so many eyes." She reddened in dread.
Jaime squeezed her even tighter. "And why should not the entire population of Westeros behold my beautiful bride?" He asked, burying his face in Brienne's neck and sighing whimsically. She could not help but smile at his eagerness and nestled back against him.
Suddenly, Jaime gasped and regarded her with wide-eyed amazement. "You did not cringe." He exclaimed. Brienne only stared at him in confusion. "I used that word, and you did not admonish me." He said in disbelief.
"What word?" Brienne shook her head questioningly, unable to follow his inference.
Jaime stared at her with worship in his eyes. "Beautiful." He smiled, and caressed her cheek.
Casting her eyes demurely downward. "Oh, that." She nodded, and shrugged her shoulders. "It sounds different now, when you say it." She looked lovingly at him, taking his hand in hers. "Perhaps it is because I know you speak of all of me, not just my outward appearance." Brienne gazed back at Jaime, and it took his breath away.
He brought Brienne's fingers to his lips and kissed each one on the hand he grasped tightly. "It is all of you that I find immensely pleasing." He narrated as he went. "Your sweet, kind heart." He said as his lips brushed her skin. "Your bright intelligent mind." Was his next observation, and with it another finger was kissed. "Your deep astonishing blue eyes." He listed at his next stop. "Your strong warrior's body that brings me to my knees." He continued along his route, humming in delight. "And last, but most certainly not least." He affirmed. "Your lovely elegant beautiful, beautiful face, which even as I sleep graces my dreams." He told Brienne, studying her features as if the Gods themselves had chiseled them from the finest of Tarthian marble. At last, after resting his lips against her final knuckle, Jaime reached for her mouth and found her ready reply awaiting him. Settling down into the pillows of the bed they shared, they began their almost nightly exploration of the wonders of each other's needful and accepting bodies.
The small council had taken up residence at Evenfall as they awaited the completion of the second rebuilding of the Red Keep. The business of the realm continued undeterred, as if the Capital had never been sacked by marauding invaders from the East. As it were, Tarth made the perfect refuge for the King and his Court. The walls of the Evenstar's ancestral home provided all the protection necessary to ensure that the continuity of Bran Stark's reign was never in question. Lord Selwyn's library became a temporary Small Council chamber. Evenfall's courtyard hosted the recruiting and training of a new force of soldiers and guards to protect an even more heavily fortified Red Keep, as young men and a few brave women, inspired by the legend of Brienne of Tarth, arrived on the island's shores.
Within the castle walls, The King's advisors were kept comfortable and well tended in their lavish chambers and salons. Their every need was tended to by an army of servants, and Lord Selwyn saw to it personally that no one was ever in want of any of the finer pleasures. The Great Hall was nightly abuzz with dining, celebrating, and conversation as the counselors discussed and planned the future of Westeros. Evenfall's lush and beautiful gardens provided The Three-Eyed Raven with the peace and solitude needed to commune with the many layered dimension he inhabited.
The Lords Tyrion and Bronn quickly became familiar fixtures in the more questionable establishments of Tarth's busiest town of Castle Port, albeit for differing purposes. The Master of Highgarden found the variety of women available in the seafaring town enthralling. Exotic beauties from the Free Cities and Summer Isles were as attentive to him as were the ivory skinned, platinum tressed maids who were native to Tarth and the Stormlands. He found both types equally appealing. The Hand of the King however, unable to put a certain Wolf Queen far from his mind, found little distraction in any of the available beauties. Instead he spent much of his time nurturing his unrequited heart, and drowning his sorrows in the many vintages that could be found in a trading town.
Not long after the upcoming wedding was announced, Lord Gendry Baratheon appeared at the gates of Evenfall. He had been summoned by the King to begin his training as the New Master of War under Jaime's expert and experienced eye. Just as Bran had promised, Jaime found the young man a quick study. It was clear that Gendry had a sharp intellect, and should have lived the life of a knight, apprenticing as a squire and earning his glory upon the battlefield. He cursed the memory of Gendry's late king father, that it had not been so for the new stag lord. Much to his surprise, Jaime found that he quite liked his role as teacher. He enjoyed imparting his knowledge and wisdom to someone eager to learn all he could express. Jaime realized that passing the stewardship of his position on to someone else also meant that soon his focus would be Brienne, and protecting his wife and family. A narrowing of perspective which he not only welcomed, but for which he yearned.
It was during those busy weeks that Brienne began to feel the rare but familiar changes within her body which made her certain she again carried a child. After a glorious day spent together with their son at the water's edge, Jaime awoke to an empty bed and the sounds of Brienne wretching somewhere in the darkness. Frantic with worry, he sprang from the warmth of their quilts. Forcing his eyes to grow accustomed to the darkness, Jaime's worried gaze latched onto the sight of Brienne kneeling upon the floor, her legs curled beneath her, vomiting into a pail beside the hearth.
He reached her in an instant, cradling her shoulders in his comforting grasp, and brushing the stray locks of hair from around her eyes. As the last spasm of her stomach loosed its grip, She fell against him, exhausted, and gasping for breath. He held her for a long moment as her body calmed.
Brienne looked at Jaime wearily, her eyes filled with the tears of her effort. "I am certain." She announced. "The King was right." Brienne nodded. "A babe grows within me. I am sure of it." She tried to smile, happily, though the effects of her churning stomach were beginning to reach her head, stealing what was left of her energy.
Jaime tried his best to steady Brienne. "Did you have the sickness with Galladon?" He questioned, worriedly.
"Yes." Brienne sniffed. "I dare say it began around the same time." She remembered, estimating how, far along she must have been. "It lasted for moons." She predicted, apprehensively.
Taking a deep breath, Brienne stared knowingly at Jaime. "I have not bled since before the attack on the Red Keep." She informed him, and was answered with a wide-eyed stare of wonder.
"Can you stand?" Jaime asked hopefully, tightening his protective hold upon Brienne's arm. She answered the affirmative with the tilt of her head, and Jaime carefully lifted her onto shaky legs. Slowly, Jaime walked Brienne back to their bed. Laying her gently back onto the thick soft mattress, he bundled the blankets snuggly around her. Brienne rewarded Jaime's care with a loving smile.
"We shall consult the Maesters tomorrow." Jaime promised Brienne.
She accepted his decree without protest. "Very well." Brienne smiled, staring up at him from the pillow upon which he had laid her, Galladon sighing softly from the cradle beside them.
The light which Jaime saw shining in Brienne's eyes warmed his soul, and soothed his anxious heart. Softly he rested his palm upon her abdomen, willing his love and oath of protection through her skin to the tiny babe within her. He almost feared to accept the contented joy in which he now lived. At any other time in his past, he would have declared with certainty that such an emotion was a mockery. A cruel joke, a lie to deceive his awareness from the true despicable tragedy of his existence. Now, however, for the first time he was sure that the future held for him, as well as for Brienne and their children, only blessings and joy.
"Gods, I love you." Jaime swore as he gazed into Brienne's eyes. The intoxication he felt in her presence made the strongest of wines seem like water. The brightest of sunshines paled when compared to her smile. "I swear upon my life. I will always protect you." He vowed, his brow furrowing with the seriousness of his words.
Brienne reached for him, encircling Jaime's neck in her arms. "I know you will." She assured him. Her mind traveled to the night he left her at Winterfell, although now she imagined how that moment had torn him apart as it had her. She thought of his decision to see his own sister dead, so that she would never be threatened by Cersei's evil. He had sacrificed himself, to defend her. Somehow, the terrible choice he made had brought them back to each other, stronger and more certain of the love they shared.
"You always have." Brienne affirmed as she pulled Jaime to her. They lost themselves in a slow tender kiss.
The next morning, Jaime left Galladon in the care of the boy's grandfather. He then quickly summoned not only Evenfall's Maester, but also Grand Maester Tarly to tend Brienne and confirm their belief that she was indeed with child. The man who had always prided himself on the cool almost cocky manner in which he approached even the most terrifying challenge, found that he was shaken almost to tears at the idea of the woman he loved being prodded and examined in the most private of ways. Even if she could still beat him to a bloody pulp, in this he thought her the most gentle and delicate of flowers.
Brienne lay quietly, almost serene, in their bed and tried her best to remain calm. Although she found such scrutiny awkward to say the least, it was no more than she had endured when she carried and birthed her first child. As the exploration of her body progressed, it was clear that Jaime did not share in her quiet and understanding disposition. Every motion the Maester made in Brienne's direction was met with either opposition or interrogation from Jaime. In his nervousness, he peered at the patient over the mens' shoulders, answering their questions for her. At last taking the space beside the head of the bed, Jaime reached for Brienne's hand and held it tightly, protesting loudly when the elder Maester, who had himself brought Brienne into the world, lifted her shift and began pressing upon her belly. Jaime only found peace when Samwell assured him the action was necessary and would not cause harm to either Brienne or any babe there might be within her womb.
Trying his best to sooth what he perceived as Brienne's fears and failing miserably, Jaime knelt beside the bed with a declaration even he did not trust. "Everything will be alright, My Love." He promised her through a worried expression.
Brienne smiled sweetly at Jaime, and tried not to let him see her frustration. "I have done this before." She reminded him. He nodded in silence at the memory he did not share, and attempted to steady his own breathing.
"Perhaps it would be best if Ser Jaime waited outside, until we finish our examination." The older man offered, rather sternly. Sam presented no argument but remained quietly trembling at the thought of Jaime's response.
Jaime gave Brienne a shocked look, feeling certain she would object to his forced absence. However, her found her brow creased and her shoulders shrugged at the logic of the suggestion. It was then he saw how his tension was troubling Brienne and made it difficult for her to relax. Her energies were focused upon relieving his worry, when he should have been the one to calm her fears. Jaime's face fell, but he reluctantly accepted the veiled decree, wishing only for what would make Brienne most comfortable.
"Very well." He agreed dejectedly. "If you think it would be better for her." He looked hopefully at Samwell, but found only a politely resigned agreement in the young man's stance. Quite honestly, the Grand Maester was trying to hide his relief that the more intimate part of the examination would not need to be undertaken beneath the watchful eye of the father.
Jaime felt Brienne's fingers squeeze his reassuringly. "I'm sure it will not take long." She said, her tone holding an appeasing apology, as her gaze thanked him.
"You will call for me if you need me?" Jaime asked fearfully.
"You shall be the first know of any occurrences." Samwell agreed, beginning to shepherd Jaime toward the door.
"Occurrences?" Jaime repeated in horror, trying to turn in his tracks.
Samwell blocked Jaime's momentum back to Brienne's bedside, and reached for the knob of the door. "Please do not worry." He smiled timidly. "I am sure all will be well." He affirmed, as he nearly shoved Jaime through the open door and closed the casement behind him.
Suddenly alone in the hallway, the silence closed around Jaime like a relentless foe. He knew whatever indignity to which Brienne was being subjected in their bedchamber was necessary to assure her health and safety as well as that of their babe. Yet even that knowledge did little to quiet his racing worry, or the loneliness that seeped into his bones at the distance from her. He had not even his son to keep him company, the child certainly being enthralled by Brienne's own father at that very moment.
His heart filled with love and his mind anxious, Jaime began the pacing that would fill his time until he would be allowed admission to be near Brienne once more. It seemed an eternity before the door to their chamber opened, and out stepped the two Maesters. While the man who had seen to the needs of the Tarth family regarded him with what Jaime took for aloof judgement, Samwell Tarly's wide beaming smile put his heart at ease. He took an eager step forward, holding his breath in anticipation.
"Well?" Jaime implored them, his frantic gaze searching for any hint of news.
Sam chuckled, almost giddy in his understanding of the whirling emotions of potential fatherhood, even for the second time. "I think perhaps Ser Brienne should be the one to reveal her diagnosis." He nodded. Jaime swallowed hard and continued to stare at the Grand Maester, his feet suddenly frozen, his eye unblinking. With a happy smile, Samwell stepped away from the door and nodded. Jaime needed no further invitation. He sprang at the wooden panel, nearly knocking the scholars off their feet as he bolted through.
Breathless with concern, he knew not if the moment would call for celebration or comfort. Jaime's agitation was soon assuaged by the sight of Brienne reclining against the pillows of their bed. For the length of a heartbeat, he stopped, taking in the view of her. Then he realized, her smile was brighter than he had ever seen it and her hand was cupped gently, protectively over her abdomen. Caught in the glory of the moment, he moved slowly toward her, toward them, he was sure.
Jaime could not draw breath as he sat gingerly at Brienne's side. He lightly took her hand and leaned toward her. Brienne's eyes glistened joyfully as she nestled into him. "Yes?" Jaime asked, his heart bursting with hope.
Brienne nodded, unable to control the happy tears that fell upon her cheeks. "Yes." She nodded blissfully, Jaime caressing her cheek. Their lips met in all the promise the discovery would mean.
"The Maesters say our babe has been two moons in my womb." Brienne told him, as his hand moved to rest atop hers, guarding the life within her.
"The King was correct." Jaime acknowledged through the happiness that lumped in his throat, threatening to escape in full sobs at any moment.
Brienne sat back and regarded him disarmingly. "This babe may grow to be King, but I shall treat him no differently than our first born." She warned.
Jaime smiled admiringly at her determination. "I would have it no other way." He affirmed, kissing Brienne again with a passion that threatened to overtake both of them.
Suddenly remembering her condition, Jaime pulled reluctantly from her. "You should rest." He declared.
The disappointment was obvious as she sighed in frustration. "The Maesters, bid as much." She nodded with a frown. Jaime raised an eyebrow in triumph. Brienne continued undeterred. "Just so you are aware, I have no intention of remaining celibate for the duration of this pregnancy." She warned.
Jaime found her discontent so adorable that he could not help but graze a kiss along the bridge of her nose. "Nor do I, My Darling." He assured. "However, for now, a small nap." He ordered, snuggling onto the mattress and wrapping her in his arms. "Then, we shall venture out in search of our first son." He smiled, and nuzzled her neck.
Nestling softly against him, Brienne concurred. "And perhaps we can inform the Evenstar of his second grandchild." She smiled warmly.
"Of course." Jaime answered, kissing her hair. He held Brienne as she drifted off to sleep. His heart thrilled at the thought that this time he would be at Brienne's side as she brought his child into the world. However, he gulped apprehensively, wondering what would be Lord Selwyn's response to learning that Jaime Lannister had again gotten a child on his daughter, and they were still not yet married.
Jaime and Brienne walked hand-in-hand through the passageways of Evenfall. Brienne had awakened refreshed and energized from her short slumber. Jaime had thoroughly enjoyed watching over her as she slept. He had helped her dress, and they had gone in search of their son. Having made stops in Lord Selwyn's solar, and the Great Hall they had found no sign of the boy. Far from frantic, and secure in the knowledge that Galladon was somewhere within the castle walls, safe with his grandfather and surely enjoying the old man's undivided attention, the couple spent their hunt enthralled in each other's company.
In their wanderings, the two came upon a large ornate door at the end of a cavernous hallway. "What is in there?" Jaime asked mysteriously, eyeing Brienne suggestively, thoughts of a covert tryst swirling in his brain. He curled his arm around her waist and pulled her to him, laying kisses upon her neck.
Brienne squirmed delightedly, but resisted the idea of following Jaime's notions toward their passionate conclusion. "That is our Sept." She informed him, her tone attempting to divert his amorous attentions with the solemn nature of the room beyond.
Rolling his eyes, examining the playful thoughts in his mind, Jaime edged toward the door. "Let us take a look." He smiled through heavy lids, reaching to pushed open the door.
Brienne's laughter rang through the corridor, watching his obvious attempt to prolong their time alone. "They're not in there, Jaime." She scolded playfully.
"I know." Jaime teased. "I am also certain that where ever our little knight is, he is safe and satisfied with your father." He reminded her. "I would like to see the place where I shall take you as my wife." He admitted, and traced the line of her jaw with his lips. A soft sweet sigh, told Jaime that Brienne planned to present no protest.
Quietly they entered the vast chamber which had been witness to the most hallowed events of the history of House Tarth. It was so unlike the Sept Jaime had known at Casterly Rock. Growing up, religious events had been dark austere occasions accompanied by proclamation of judgment and damnation. The images presented to him of the Gods who ruled arbitrarily and brutally over Westeros were so dire, and his offenses so grave, that he avoided them altogether. He was certain what awaited him in the afterlife.
Evenfall's sanctuary was far different from the dark cave-like expanse of his ancestral home. Bright, airy, and as ethereal as his own perfect Brienne, Jaime felt as though he had stepped from the mortal world into the Heavens themselves as they crossed the threshold. The island's marble glimmered upon every surface. The white stone had been fashioned into graceful columns which supported a ceiling painted as if the sky were peering inside. Delicate clouds floated upon a vista of purple, blue, and orange resembling one of the Tarthian sunsets through which he and Brienne had strolled along the shore. High, tall windows bordered the room on all sides, not of the dark blood red of The Rock, but fashioned of a shimmering rainbow of glass that sent shafts of brilliant color through the space, which danced in Brienne's eye. Each day he spent on Tarth was a wonderous new discovery. Brienne stood amidst it all, touched by his awe yet unphased by her surroundings. 'Of course, why should an angel of such a realm be astonished at the glory of the Heavens?' Jaime thought to himself.
"Well." Brienne asked, surveying the distant edges of the room. "What do you think?" She inquired. "Is it grand enough for a Lannister wedding?" She gave him a coy smile.
"Perfect." Jaime nodded. "Your family and friends here…" He turned and swept over the massive interior with his arms, throwing them wide and directing Brienne's focus over most of the open floor space. "Mine will fit nicely there." He pointed to a small alcove in the corner, hardly even part of the main chamber.
Brienne held him in her loving gaze, her expression contradicting his perception of himself. "My love." She comforted. "You have more than redeemed yourself. No one thinks of you in the malicious ways they once did." Brienne stepped toward him and touched his face, her gaze fixed upon his. "You have many more friends and defenders than you believe." She assured him. "The Kingslayer is dead." Brienne proclaimed. "Long live Ser Jaime Lannister." She announced to an unseen audience.
Jaime met Brienne's affirmation with an almost bashful smile. He pulled her closer, and nestled her into his arms. She fit to him like the missing piece of some long ago fashioned puzzle. "I care nothing about all of that." Jaime said, finally feeling complete. "All I care about is right here." He sighed, laying his hand softly upon her belly, never taking his eyes from her. "And spending the day somewhere with your father." Jaime pictured Galladon's happy little face. He shrugged with a chuckle, before resting a gentle and adoring kiss upon her lips. Brienne sank into his embrace.
As they lost themselves in their dreaming, Brienne took Jaime by the arms and began to pull him across the floor. As they moved across the room her hands slid down his forearms. A sly amused smile found his eyes at the sensation of her touch. So thrilled by the excitement of the moment was she that before realization took hold of her the fingers of her right hand were enticingly entangled in those of his left. Her other hand was grasping firmly the stump end of his opposite arm. With a gasp of shock and embarrassment she pulled away from him, her eyes wide with humiliation.
"Forgive me." She reacted. "I did not mean to…" Brienne trailed off, mortified.
Jaime's expression was calm and compassionate. "It is alright, My Love." He gave a warm and sympatheric smile. "I enjoy when you forget." He told her endearingly.
Brienne's brow creased with disbelief. "When I forget?" She repeated. "I've done that before?" She questioned, hoping she had truly not been so callous.
He chuckled, and drew near to her. "You do it all the time." He sighed happily. "The first time was at Winterfell, the first night we…" It was his thought that was now left unfinished. There was no need, she knew of when he spoke. "You held on so hard, that I could almost feel your pulse through your palm." He breathed, leaning his head against hers.
"Did I hurt you?" Brienne shuttered. Tears straining her throat.
Jaime shook his head reassuringly. "Of course not." He nodded. "There has been no pain for a very long time." He reported. "And you could never hurt me." He slid a soft kiss across her cheekbone. For a unwelcome moment, he recalled the way Cersei had been repulsed by his stump, had never come near it. Brienne never noticed the absence of his hand. "I feel whole when you touch it, complete." He said softly. "As if I am not a monster, not even in my deepest core." His voice became a whisper as he spoke.
Her eyes filling with loving tears, Brienne took hold of his stumped arm, this time softly, tenderly. "You are not a monster, My Dearest." She brought his arm up and caressed the healed skin over its end. "There is nothing about you that repels me." Brienne swore to him. "No part of you I do not cherish." She placed her lips over the scarred edges of what was once his sword hand, and placed long slow kisses over the curves which remained.
Overcome with the feelings of being loved unconditionally by the woman he adored, Jaime cloaked Brienne in his embrace and held her tightly. For a moment they were the only two people that existed, as if the world was made solely for them. The wedding ceremony that was being so meticulously planned for them, was only a formality. They had already been man and wife so very long. Where once, their love was hidden from sight, now it could be declared to the entire world.
They stood together, for a long while, in the quiet seclusion of the place, pledging their unspoken vows to each other. Jaime felt his passion for Brienne building until it threatened to overtake them both, then and there. She was aware of his pressing need. Hastily and regretfully, she pulled away from him, freeing herself from his desperate grasp, and halting his advance with a hand upon his chest. "I do believe we should continue looking for our son before we commit any number if unpardonable sins in this holy place." Brienne stopped him.
Jaime's reply was a mix of sarcasm and disappointment. "My sins are already far to numerous to be concerned about any punishment incurred from demonstrating my love to the one for whom I was made." He smiled, attempting to continue his path down her neck.
A soft, understanding look found Brienne's tender eyes."I cannot believe the Gods would spare you only to condemn you." She told him. "I am certain you have been forgiven for all of your past transgressions." Brienne wished with all of her heart that he could believe his own righteousness and honor.
Jaime stared at her, amazed at her goodness, awed by her integrity and virtue. He thanked those same Gods that she was his. "Perhaps I Have." He considered. "It could be possible, the Seven have seen to pardon this wretch after all." He kissed her once more before leading her from the Sept.
Jaime and Brienne strolled into the garden on each other's arm, the first stop on their search since leaving the Sept. It was in the garden beneath the shade cast by bows of an ancient oak that Galladon and Lord Selwyn were at last located. The approach of the child's parents was serenaded by the sound of the Evenstar's deep jovial laugh, and Galladon's happy squeal. The old lord seemed years younger seated on the ground and leaning against the trunk of the tree, a wiggling bundle on his lap.
Before they were noticed Brienne stopped in her tracks, enchanted at the scene she beheld. Always, she had desired to give her father even a small portion of what had been taken from him, his other children, his heir, his family. Though she took immense pride in her strengh and skill as well as the life she had chosen, Brienne had always wished to be the daughter he deserved, one who could ease the losses he had suffered. Her heart melted as she watched The Evenstar with her son. A bright and joyful happiness, which rivaled that of Lord Selwyn's, lit her face to think that she would be presenting him with yet another grandchild.
"It is good to see him smile." Brienne told Jaime proudly.
Jaime's arm found its favorite resting place, around Brienne's waist and he sighed in contentment, regarding her with fascination. "It is good to see you smile, My Darling." She graced him with another wide grin as he kissed her temple. He thought of how she had despised him only a few moons before, and how he feared they might never again know the bliss of their love. He thrilled to think that now his life would be entwined with Brienne's forever. It would be their memories casting a warm sentimental glow over his elder years. Their children would carry a legacy into the future.
As they moved closer to the delightful display before them, Lord Selwyn became aware of his admiring audience. "Look who has come to find us, Grandson!" He laughed as he waved a greeting to Brienne and Jaime. "It seems I have kept you too long." He grinned at Galladon as if the two shared a jest between them.
Brienne chuckled. "Not at all, Father." She peered at him lovingly as she and Jaime stopped a few paces from his outstretched legs.
At the sound of his mother's voice, Galladon turned his head and answered her with a gurgling coo, stretching his arms in response. Brienne bent and lifted her child softly into her arms, kissing his head. At the sight of his father the babe bent toward Jaime in expectation of his affections. His young enthusiasm was rewarded with a proud kiss upon his tiny cheek.
"He appears not have even noticed we were absent from him, My Lord." Jaime approved. "Thank you for seeing to his care this morning." Jaime bid Lord Selwyn.
The Evenstar's bellowing hearty laugh echoed through the paths of the garden. "No need for gratitude, My Boy." Selwyn answered, holding out his elbow as Jaime rushed to assist him in rising from the his seat on the pillow of leaves which covered the ground, and steadied the old man on his feet.
"There is nothing I would rather enjoy than spending the hours with a child gifted to me by my daughter." Selwyn Tarth sighed with mirth, reaching to tweak Brienne's cheek in gentle acknowledgment. "I have waited a long time for him." He affirmed happily.
Brienne lowered her eyes and blushed, before gazing at Jaime, an unspoken inquiry shining in her eyes. Jaime answered with a quiet nod. "We have wonderful news, Father." She began, breathlessly anxious. She hoped her father would find their earlier discovery as joyous as they had. "I carry another grandchild for you." She announced, laying her free hand dotingly over her belly. Jaime moved to her side, taking her tenderly in his arms. She nestled into him, her face beaming with elation.
Selwyn stepped back, regarding his daughter and the man who had given her now two babes, and was still not joined to her in marriage. He inhaled slowly his gaze lingering over Brienne and Jaime, their eager faces caught somewhere between euphoria and dread. He knew they feared that his reaction to their blessed disclosure might be less than accepting. However, his heart wanted to soar at the idea of how swiftly his family had grown. At last his own dear child had found the love she had always deserved. Finally, the future of Tarth was certain. He would live out his remaining years surrounded by the sound of his grandchildrens' laughter. Lord Selwyn could not conceal the joy that enveloped him, nor could he fight the loving tears which filled his eyes as he watched Brienne with her own family.
She took a timid step forward, uncertain she would find his approval unconditional. "Is our news welcome, Father?" She questioned, almost in a whisper.
Selwyn brought his hand up gently to hold her chin. "I could not be more pleased, My Daughter." He answered, staring into the deep blue eyes that were so like those of her mother. The Evenstar leaned in and softly kissed her forehead. He held her close for a long moment, and Jaime quietly watched the touching moment between father and daughter. He prayed he would have the same close bond with the children Brienne would give him.
At last, Lord Selwyn returned Brienne to other man who adored her. He took Jaime by the shoulders and congratulated him. "You have been given a rare gift." He declared. "I am certain you shall always cherish them." He spoke of the babes, and of Brienne. Even as he shook Jaime's hand jubilantly, his fatherly warning was evident.
"I will, My Lord." Jaime vowed. "I swear it upon my life." He promised.
Satisfied with Jaime's level of humility, he turned again to Brienne. "I do believe it is high time we get you married, my Dear." He laughed. "The preparations for the wedding are coming along nicely. In a fortnight, you shall be a wife." He told her, a gleam in his eye.
Brienne gave Jaime another delighted smile. "We were just in the Sept discussing that very subject." She said, reddening slightly at the memory of Jaime's zealousness.
Suddenly, Lord Selwyn stood stiffly, unable to meet her gaze, the color draining from his face. "The Sept?" He questioned in a sad and defeated tone which Brienne could not recall ever hearing from his tongue.
"Is there something wrong, Father?" she asked, worry furrowing her brow.
Lord Selwyn did his best to shrug off her concern. "No." He shook his head. "I am a foolish old man." He attempted to hide his emotional reaction, however sadness still tinged his expression.
Brienne did not accept his false assurance. "Father." She spoke up. "You are not foolish." She affirmed. "As for your age, I would declare that the youngest and quickest in the realm could not yet get the better of you." She smiled thoughtfully. "Please, what is it that troubles you?" She insisted.
The Evenstar lowered his eyes with a low sigh, suddenly making him seem even older than Brienne wished to contemplate. Slowly, mournfully he began. "I have not set foot in the Sept in over three decades." His face was stricken at some unseen memory.
"When Mother died." Brienne ventured, the frown that settled upon her features was burdened and compassionate.
The Evenstar's head hung in sorrow even as he nodded. "Yes, and your dear brother." His stare hung upon the infant Galladon in Brienne's arms though his mind saw his own precious son, lifeless upon the hard slab in the terrible room he could not enter. "Your two sweet sisters as well. Both before you were born." Selwyn shook his head, and wrung his hands. He seemed to shrink in misery.
Lord Selwyn spoke slowly, painfully. "They were laid out in the Sept." His voice was grim. "Each in there own time, yet all far too early." He choked. "I stood watch over their bodies there for days on end, until the Septon was forced to nearly drag me from their sides." He recalled, sobs clutching at his throat.
Brienne took hold of his hand comfortingly. "Forgive me, Father." She begged. "I was not aware." She admitted.
Selwyn shook his head. "You do not remember." He told her understandingly. "I would not allow you to enter." He lowered his eyes regretfully from her. "Of course, you were but a babe yourself when the Gods took your mother. Too young, you were, to know she was gone." His loving gaze washed over Brienne. "How you cried for her." Selwyn gave a deep agonized sigh. "You refused to take the wet nurse for so long I feared you would starve." He paused, his eyes distant.
Taking another step toward her father, Brienne tried to speak, to ease his suffering, but Lord Selwyn was unable to halt his remembrance. As if needing the relief of releasing the matter that had weighed upon his heart for so long, he continued. "Although you did not see him, you felt your brother's loss profoundly." He told her. "You screamed for him until your little voice was raw." Selwyn closed his eye. He could still hear the sounds of her hopeless pleading. "You beat upon the door of the Sept until your hands bled, but I could not let you in." His eyes begged her to understand. "I did not want the last vision of your mother or your brother to be such." He raised his eyes to his daughter, the specter of a warm caring smile crossing his features at the thought of his late wife and their children. "I could not bear it. They loved you so." He recalled, and squeezed Brienne's fingers reassuringly. She could only peer at her father, unable to find words, wishing desperately that there would be something she could do to help him.
As he listened to The Evenstar's sad reminiscence, Jaime was suddenly acutely aware of how many had been lost to Brienne. Nearly all of those she had loved were taken from her, her mother, her brother, the sisters she never knew. They had all spent so few moments in her life. 'Even the man she had first loved Renly Baratheon, to whom she had sworn her life's protection had been stolen from her side.' Jaime thought jealously. Lady Catelyn Stark had also been gifted with the oath of Brienne's sword, and had fallen before her time. Jaime swallowed the lump which climbed his throat to think that even he had been among those Brienne had mourned. He thanked the Gods that he had been allowed to returned to her.
Jaime covered the few steps to Brienne before even an eye could blink, keenly aware of the struggle she would face in seven moons to bring their child into the world. It had taken her mother. It had taken his. Although he had the assurance of the Three-Eyed Raven that all would be well and their second son's future was assured, he could not bear the thought of any harm befalling his beloved Brienne. He vowed he would endeavor anything to make her time easier, and to see her safely through her ordeal. He knew, however, that it was not his work to be took Brienne in his arms, his stumped arm caressing Galladon on her hip, and coming to rest over her life-filled womb. His care did not escape her father's grateful notice.
At Jaime's touch, Brienne's anxious fear at her father's heartbreak calmed a bit. She looked wide-eyes at her betrothed for his approval, and saw in his eyes an unconditional agreement. "Then, we shall not be married in the Sept." She declared to her father.
"Of course not." Jaime affirmed, eager to comply.
"Nonsense." The Evenstar tried to argue. "I will not be the cause of ruining your wedding day." He told them thoughtfully.
Brienne's protest continued. "I do not want the first moments of our marriage to bring painful memories for you." Brienne touched Lord Selwyn's arm compassionately. She gave Jaime a hopeful glance, her expression asking for anything he could offer to quell Lord Selwyn's gallant and selfless debate. He understood, and jumped to advise a new course. Jaime's brain swirled with the beginnings of an idea as shafts of golden light caught the splendor of Brienne's eyes, causing them to shine like the stars themselves. He stared at her in awe. A soft cool breeze blew in from the shore, surrounding them in warmth and stirring his inspiration. The images in his mind formed into a scene he could almost reach out and touch.
"My Lord, might I suggest we begin to make new memories." Jaime smiled enthusiastically. Lord Selwyn watched him quizzically, yet seemed still agreeable to hearing Jaime's thoughts. "A ceremony amidst the splendor of your beautiful island, under the bright blue sky, beside the sapphire waters, in the Gods' own Sept." Jaime offered, imagining the glory of all of Tarth paled next his Brienne, his bride.
Selwyn considered the idea for no more than a moment before a wide grin softened the lines of his face. He noticed how Jaime eyes never wandered from Brienne. "I do believe Tarth agrees with you, My Boy." Selwyn laughed, patting Jaime's shoulder sharply.
Jaime blushed, and lowered his eyes respectfully for a moment. Then he returned his loving gaze to Brienne. Her smile was bright and happy. Their child rested in her arms, while another grew in her belly. She was all he needed, all he ever wished for. "Yes, My Lord." Jaime nodded. "I do believe it does." He acknowledged, his gaze fixed upon the woman he loved.