Robb's POV
"You wanted to see me, Father?"
"Sit down, son." Robb took a seat across from his Father, trying desperately not to feel like a boy again. "The King and his party are arriving in Winterfell in two weeks."
"Yes, Father."
"You're not a boy anymore, Robb, you should know what is going on. Jon Arryn is dead, there is a very real chance he will ask me to be the new Hand of the King."
"A great honor." Robb said slowly. "But you're needed in Winterfell, Father."
"I would happily stay in Winterfell, son. I cannot deny the King if he asks. You've been training to be Lord of Winterfell since you were born, son. I have no doubt that if I head south, Winterfell will be in good hands, especially with Maester Luwin to help you. But the King may ask me something else as well."
"He wants to bind our houses." Robb murmured, meeting his Father's eyes as the man arched an eyebrow at him. "I'm not a boy anymore Father. I've been paying attention."
"Good lad." Ned smiled at his son, and Robb struggled not to light up the way he had when he was a boy, fighting for every scrap of his Fathers approval. "I don't' know if his plan is to bind Sansa to one of his sons, or you to his daughter. I want you to know, I cannot deny the King if he asks me to be his hand, but I will always fight for my children."
"I know Father."
"I would like you to consider it though. At the end of the day, I will let you choose your own bride, and it doesn't have to be now. But in a few years, you won't be a boy any longer, and it'll be time to become a man, to be a Lord. Princess Kailyah would be a good match, for you, for House Stark. By all accounts she's kind, and generous, and clever. She is from the South, but so was your Mother, and she's done well."
"I will consider it, Father."
"Good lad." Ned stood, walking around his large oak desk and clasping his son on his shoulder, before leading him back to the door. "You should get back to your lessons, son. We need to get ready for the Royal Party."
TLR
"Easy, boy." Robb murmured, gently scratching behind his Direwolves ears. His Direwolf whined quietly, resting it's head in Robb's knee, but didn't fight when Robb fastened a collar around his neck. He just whined softly, pouting up at him, and Robb smiled sadly, petting him. "I know. Your brothers and sisters will be here soon, Grey Wind. Once Father and Mother convince mine."
"Arya may very well win that fight." A voice murmured behind him, and Robb smiled when his half brother, Jon Snow, joined him on the stone floor at the back of the kennels, setting down his albino pup.
"Hello, Ghost." Robb said, scratching the runts ears for a moment before the pup was tackled by his brother. "Arya still fighting?"
"And Sansa. She's insisting that Lady's far better behaved than her brothers and sisters and should be allowed to at least stay in her rooms. Arya is saying that wouldn't be fair, and Rickon just cries when anyone try's to take his wolf away."
"And Bran?"
"He'll be down soon. He knows when his sisters fight like this everyone loses."
"If you can't agree, no one can have it." Robb quoted, and Jon chuckled, running a hand through his newly cut locks. Robb eyed him for a moment, pushing down his slight familiar jealousy- his half brother looked more like their Father than he ever did, with his Mothers coloring. His auburn curls had started to darken in the last few years, but he'd never quite gotten over how people would see Jon standing next to Father and assume he was Fathers true born heir.
"How are you? With the Princess coming."
"Sansa's been mooning over being the new Queen for a month, we may have nothing to worry about."
"Father won't marry Sansa off so young. You know that. You're old enough now."
"Calling me old, snow?"
"I can see the gray hairs peeking through already, Stark."
"You're the cause for half of them, you know. With you wanting to run off to the Night's Watch and Arya and Bran wanting to go with you-"
"Lord Stark will never let them."
"Father doesn't want you to go either."
"It's a good place. A bastard can make a name for himself there, and I'll be able to do it without making Lady Stark think I'm plotting to steal your title from you."
"Hey." Robb caught Jon's arm, meeting his gray Stark eyes sternly. "I have never thought you would."
"Lady Stark does. I think the happiest I've ever seen her was when she found out I wanted to go."
"Regardless of what my Mother thinks, you are my brother, and you will always have a place here. If you want to join the Night's Watch, I'll support you. You'll be the best ranger they've ever seen. But you'll always have a home in Winterfell." Jon stared at him for a moment before nodding slightly.
"We'll have to see if your southern Princess feels the same." He knocked his shoulder against Robb's, smiling thankfully.
"She's not mine." Robb rolled his eyes at his brother. "Anyway, I doubt the Queen will be thrilled to give away two children to us 'Northern Savages'. I'll have to fight that betrothal from Sansa's cold dead hands."
"Good luck."
TLR
Robb Stark stood in line with his siblings, between his Father and his sister, Sansa, waiting for the King's arrival. He wore his best leathers, his mother had sent him, Theon and Jon to be clean shaved that morning, and still his mother stood, fussing over his curls while Jon and Theon snickered behind him.
"Cat." Father sighed, exasperated. "Let the boy be." Mother huffed, finally stepping away with a final order to stand up straight.
"Got to look good for the little Princess." Theon leaned forward to whisper in his ear. Robb turned to glare at him. Theon grinned unrepentantly, and Jon's smirk grew. Robb's Tully blue eyes narrowed and Jon raised his hands innocently.
"I didn't say anything."
"You thought it." Robb hissed, and Jon just chuckled, a small grin breaking over his normally stoic face.
"Where's Arya? Sansa, where's your sister?" His Mother questioned frantically as the loud sound of a hundred horses approached. Sansa shrugged carelessly, her eyes locked on the gate. She'd been rambling about the King and the Queen and the Princes the whole week, and here she stood in her best dress that brought out her blue eyes with her blood red hair combed til it gleamed. As though she knew that her name had been mentioned, Arya hurried forward, trying to sneak the helmet she wore past her Father, but he grabbed her arm and stopped her in front of him.
"What are you doing with that on?" He questioned, pulling it off the girl's head. Robb and Jon chuckled at her, as the girl groaned when her father sent her to her place in line. Robb watched her father pass the helmet backwards to Ser Rodrik, before they all turned towards the gate again, waiting, while Arya and Sansa hissed insults at each other.
The visitors poured through the gates, a river of gold, black, and crimson, both the banners of House Baratheon and of House Lannister fluttering in the Northern winds. Together, stags and lions rode into the cold den of the wolves. The Princess and Princes arrived first and Robb took them in quickly. Both Princes were blonde, one blue eyed and one green, with regal features, though the youngests were sharper and pulled into an annoyed scowl. Both were tall, but the crown prince had a stockier build and hard earned muscles, likely from the broadsword hanging from his hip. The youngest didn't seem to carry any weapons, but had a guard in a dog helmet looming over his shoulder. Both wore fine red leathers, with a black fur cloak hanging over their shoulders. Sansa was mooning over them already, smiling shyly when she caught the younger prince's eye.
Robbs eyes caught on the Princess and stayed there. He'd known she was pretty, they'd heard rumors of the beauty of Kings Landing, but he wasn't quite prepared for this. She was pale and petite, and her cheeks were flushed slightly by the cold, though she didn't seem the slightest bit bothered by it. Her emerald green eyes roamed curiously, and when they caught his her pouty mouth quirked up into a small smile. There were small gold studs throughout her windblown raven curls that shined in the sun and matched her Baratheon black dress with gold detailing. Though she wore her Fathers colors, dangling around her neck was a gold lion head necklace that stood out against her snow white skin.
Robb came back to himself with Aryas excited 'there's the Hound!' just in time to see the royal wheelhouse to enter the courtyard and the King to lumber in on his exhausted horse. You wouldn't have known it was the King if not for the crown on his head and the circle of guards around him. He looked nothing like Father had described in his stories of a great warrior. Nonetheless, Robb bowed with his family and House as the King passed Winterfell's gates.
His mind raced as he did. He was the future Lord of a Great, wealthy house, the next ruler of the largest kingdom in Westeros. Someday soon, he would have to wed a highborn Lady.
The King wanted to join his house with his Fathers, Robb had known that for years now. The soonest match would be he and the princess, or Sansa and one of the princes. The Lords would scoff at the thought of a southern lady, a daughter of a Lannister nonetheless, but his Mother had done well, building a home and earning their respect. It was too soon to know for sure, but…
She intrigued him, Robb decided, lips quirking up when he glanced up, meeting curious emerald eyes. And the feeling seemed to be mutual.
He'd have to spend some time with the Baratheon princess.
TLR
Jasper, Kailyah, and Joffrey all dismounted from their horses as the carriage rolled through the gates, handing their horses off to nearby servants.
"It's freezing." Joffrey grumbled as the Starks knelt before the King, shivering slightly under his cloak.
"You're going to have to get used to it Joff, we're to be here for a month." Kailyah whispered as they lined up next to the royal carriage. She watched carefully as Lord Stark stood, curious of the man Father claimed could do no wrong.
"You've gotten fat."
"Oh seven hells." Kailyah groaned quietly, even as her Father and Lord Stark started laughing and embraced like brothers. His House stood as the King embraced Catelynn and ruffled the youngests hair before turning back to Ned.
"Nine years…Why haven't I seen you? Where the hell have you been?" The King questioned his old friend.
"Guarding the North for you, Your Grace. Winterfell is yours." Lord Stark said as her Mother stepped out of the carriage with her two youngest siblings. Kailyah heard the youngest Stark daughter ask for the imp, and her eyes narrowed dangerously. Her Uncle Tyrion and her weren't nearly as close as he was with Jasper, but Kailyah loved him dearly, and she didn't take well to people insulting him. Sansa seemed to notice and hissed for her sister to shut up. Father greeted each of the Stark children fondly as Cersei approached and offered Lord Stark a thin, courteous smile, holding her hand out. Lord Stark knelt, kissing her knuckles.
"My Queen." Catelynn echoed him, bowing with a kind smile. The moment the barest of formalities were over, Father piped up again.
"Take me to your crypts Ned, I want to pay my respects."
"We've been riding for a month, my love. Surely the dead can wait." Mother cut in.
"Ned." The King barked, ignoring her entirely. Lord Stark offered the Queen an apologetic smile before racing after the King, and Kailyah scowled at his disrespect. Catelynn stepped forward, offering to show them to their rooms and Cersei nodded politely, gesturing for her children to come forward. Jasper offered Kailyah his arm and the five children stood next to her mother.
"My children. Prince Jasper, Princess Kailyah, Prince Joffrey, Princess Marcella, and Prince Tommen." Catelynn and her children bowed once again.
"Thank you for having us, Lady Catelynn." Jasper said.
"Your home is beautiful, Lady Stark." Kailyah offered them a smile. "I'm sure we'll enjoy our time here." Her eyes caught Robbs, and her smile became a slight smirk when he held her gaze, eyebrows arching lightly with interest. Cersei's eyes narrowed and she turned back to lady Catelynn pointedly.
"Forgive us Lady Stark, it has been a long journey, and we would like to rest."
"Of course Your Grace, let me show you to your rooms."
"Where's the imp?" The youngest Stark girl asked quietly, and Jasper's arm tensed under her hand. Kailyah squeezed slightly before letting go.
"Mother, I'll go with Jaime to collect Tyrion-" Kailyah met Arya's eyes pointedly as she said his name, and the little girl flushed slightly. "We should be back shortly."
"Alright, darling." Her Mother allowed Kailyah to kiss her cheek, before watching her daughter curtsy at the Starks before making her way to Jaime.
"Bored already, little lion?" Jaime drawled, rucking his helmet under his arm.
"We're to collect Uncle Tyrion." Kailyah said, turning to meet Adam's eyes. Adam quickly handed off her brother's horse before leading hers over and helping her up onto the saddle. "Thank you Adam."
"Mm. I have a feeling I know where he went. Not exactly an appropriate place for a Princess."
"Has that ever stopped me?"
"No, I suppose it hasn't." Jaime chuckled, climbing onto his own horse and leading her out of Winterfell, down the path a little ways before branching off towards Wintertown.
"So what do you think so far?" Jaime asked.
"I think I'm going to run over Father with my horse."
"I meant the Starks, little lion."
"I don't know." Kailyah sighed. "They seem…simple."
"Simple minded and stubborn. They wouldn't last a month in the South."
"Have you spent much time with them, Uncle?"
"No. Northerners tend to stay in the North, a fate I fear you'll have to suffer should Robert marry you off to the Stark boy. I knew Brandon, and respected him. He was a good swordsman, could've been on par with me. Ned Stark has never shown me anything but scorn."
"He clings to his idea of honor, doesn't he?"
"He'd rather I have let Aerys execute the entirety of the Seven Kingdoms than betray my vows and kill him."
"He regards Father as the best man he knows when Father is a drunken leatcher who betrays his vows to his wife everyday. He abbores betraying your wife but has a bastard of his own."
"His idea of honor isn't attainable, even for him. But I'm talking about his son. I saw you looking at him."
"He's handsome, at least. He's still a boy, I could shape him to suit my needs, if I had to."
"If you marry him."
"He would treat me right, at the very least."
"You'd be sixteen hundred miles from your home. Your family."
"All children leave home eventually."
"Not you. Not anytime soon." Kailyah smiled slightly at the fierceness in his voice as they reached the brothel, jumping off their horses and handing them off to a stableboy with a few gold coins.
"Not yet." She conceded, taking his arm and following him to the brothel, stopping to speak to the owner before they were pointed towards Tyrion's room.
"Last chance to wait outside." Jaime offered, shaking his head when his niece simply arched an eyebrow at him. He sighed, turning to open the door and stepped inside, Kailyah close behind. She found her Uncle lying on a bed in only his tunic, a pretty redhead straddling his hips, only wearing her smallclothes.
"Don't get up." Jaime drawled, and the redhead smirked, meeting his eyes, then Kailyah's.
"My Lord. My Lady." She acknowledged before rolling off of Tyrion smoothly, draping herself sensually against the pillows. Kailyah studied it carefully, committing it to memory so that she could teach herself later.
"Should I explain to you the meaning of a closed door in a whorehouse, brother? Or should I not bother? Cersei will kill you when she finds that you have dragged her eldest here."
"You have much to teach me, no doubt. But as her eldest insisted, I should hope that most of the blame falls on her shoulders."
"With that pretty face? Never." Kailyah smiled slightly at her Uncle's compliment, accepting the glass of wine Jaime poured her.
"I'll take the blame, if only to keep Jaimes head on his shoulders. My mother craves your attention, Uncle Tyrion."
"She has odd cravings, my sister."
"A family trait." Jaime chuckled. "The Starks are feasting us at sundown. Don't leave me alone with these people."
"I'm sorry, I've begun the feast a bit early. And this is the first of many courses." Tyrion drawled, wrapping his arm around the redhead's shoulders.
"I thought you might say that." Jaime turned, striding towards the door. "But since we're short of time…" He opened it, letting in three girls, who rushed towards the bed, disrobing as they went. "Come on, girls." They giggled and trilled obnoxiously as they swarmed Tyrion, and Jaime chuckled, leading Kailyah towards the door. "See you at sundown."
"Close the door!" Tyrion shouted, and Kailyah turned to do just that, meeting the redhead's intent gaze as she did. Kailyah smirked, arching an eyebrow challengingly, before closing the door behind her.
TLR
When they reached Winterfell, Kailyah was given a brief tour before being led to her room, where her maids were busy unpacking her trunks and hanging her gowns. Maya sent some to prepare a bath when Kailyah arrived, and Kailyah joined her, sorting through her gowns.
"What do you think about this one, Maya?" She asked, pulling out a black gown.
"You may be a bit cold, Princess." Maya hummed, examining the sleeveless halter dress.
"All the better for me, then. We must get used to the cold- as the Starks love to say, winter is coming."
"Well, you'll certainly make a statement. I don't believe I've seen a bit of skin since we passed the Freys." Maya grinned roguishly, making Kailyah laugh. "And we saw far too much there."
"How will you possibly survive, Maya?"
"Looking at Stark's pretty bastard boy might help. He seems shy, he may be a challenge."
"You'll never crack him." Kailyah laughed.
"We'll see." Maya smirked, and Kailyah shook her head, removing her clothes and stepping into her bath, scrubbing the travel off of her skin and cleaning her hair til it shined. She was in her shift by the fire drying her raven curls when her Mother, along with an army of maids, strode in. Dressed in Lannister crimson and gold with her shoulders bared, and her hair braided and twisted on the top of her head, with a crown of antlers with emeralds woven in. She joined her daughter by the hearth and took the comb from her, running it through her onyx curls.
"Your father is still set on leaving you here to freeze in the North," she murmured. "I should wish for nothing more than for you to come home with us."
"But Mother, I have not bled yet. I simply cannot marry until I am a woman." Kailyah batted her eyes at her mother innocently and Cersei's lips lifted into a small, amused smile, running a thumb over her cheekbone.
"That will not fool him for long, my clever girl." Her voice lowered so only they could hear it.
"No, it won't. But Father will have to be sober enough to remember how old his children are before he figures it out, so I should have at least another year to find something else."
"I will not let him abandon you here." Cersei warned. "I will slit his throat myself first."
TLR
She met her siblings and the Stark children in the hall before the feast began, allowing Jasper and Joffery to kiss her cheek before she twirled Marcella, praising her gown and promising her a dance. She then turned her attention to the Stark girls, asking over their dresses and making easy conversation with the eldest over the fasion of King's Landing. Tommon and Rickon were already inside with their Septas, too young still to be escorted with their siblings. The children lined up as the feast began, Jasper escorting a blushing Sansa, Robb escorting Kailyah, Joffrey with a pouting Arya and Bran with Marcella.
The formality of it all died quickly, the Northerners heavy into their cups and her Father not far behind. Robb fit in well with them, but treated her like a Queen, polite and slightly playful. His eyes stayed on her all night, like a wolf stalking its prey. Kailyah wasn't offended, she'd picked her dress for this very reason. A black ball gown that flared out at her hips but remained tight around her bodice and ended just above the swell of her breasts. There was a thin lace over top with delicate lace sewn over it, but the lace was placed to accent her bust, not to hide it. Still modest enough not to be a scandal in the South, but daring for the North. Most of her hair hung freely, just a bit was braided back with gold thread. Her throat left was bare, and she thought it was the right decision when she caught Robb eying it like he wanted a bite.
Robb was a gentleman of course, especially with her brothers sitting next to her, though he lost more of his subtlety as he got farther into his cups. His dear friend, Theon, had none to begin with, though he seemed to be on his best behavior with her Father present. Neither of the boys were near as bad as her Father though, who was rosy cheeked and stuffing his hand under some servants' dress in the middle of the hall. Kailyah glared, disgusted, before noticing Marcella watching with wide eyes. The eldest princess pasted on a smile, standing and taking her only sister's hand in hers.
"Come, Cella, I promised you a dance." The floor cleared slightly when the princesses approached, and the girls twirled happily to a song from Highgarden that they could barely hear over the cheers of the Northernmen. The song has barely ended before Jasper swooped in, stealing Marcella for another dance, the sweet little girl giggling gleefully while standing on the Crown Prince's shoes. Kailyah turned, only to find her Uncle Jaime standing behind her in his golden armor, a small smirk on his lips.
"Princess." Jaime bowed deeply and Kailyah laughed, curtsying before taking his hand and letting him spin her around the dancefloor. They passed Joffrey and an overwhelmed looking Sansa on the way. Kailyah sent him a look on their way past, making his mean little grin fade into the charming one she'd taught him as he started to sooth his frightened little bird. They twirled across the dancefloor a few times before the Princess caught Robb's eyes, never leaving her, even as Theon chattered away next to him. She held his gaze, lips curving up into a challenging smile, until Jaime turned her again.
"That boy is going to get you into trouble, Kailee."
"Worse than I get myself into?" Kailyah grinned, and Jaime just shook his head.
"If you're not careful, you'll be left up here with him. Especially if your Father see's."
"I'd love to see Father try."
"Just be careful, Princess."
"I've never gotten into trouble you couldn't save me from, Uncle Jaime."
"I know, Kailee. And you know I'd never not come save you. I will be rather cross if I have to stay in this frozen wasteland to keep you out of trouble, though."
"I'm sure it will grow on you."
"Kailyah."
"No promises." Jaime moaned and groaned over it, but finished the dance with a dramatic flourish that made Kailyah cackle, recreating the positively obnoxious bow Loras had given her on the twins last name day. As soon as he stepped away, Robb was there, bowing at the waist and glancing up at her with a challenging smirk. She arched an eyebrow, curtsying, and allowed him to pull her close as a Northern song thrummed through the great hall, drums pounding.
"Have I told you how ravishing you look tonight, princess?"
"You haven't, actually."
"Give me a night, I'll write a sonnet." Kailyah threw her head back and laughed slightly.
"Forgive me my Lord, but you don't seem the type for songs and sonnets."
"Aye, we northernmen are better at showing than waxing on."
"Oh? And how exactly would you show a girl their beauty?" Robbs hands tightened in her waist as his eyes trailed over her hungrily.
"I can think of a few ways." His voice deepened, eyes lingering on her lips. Kailyah bit her lip, enjoying watching his eyes darken before pulling away with a deep curtsy, turning to approach her Mothers table, where Lady Catelynn was attempting to distract her from the sight of her husband openly groping another woman. "Mother." she greeted, kissing her cheek before settling into a chair next to her, deliberately blocking her view of the King. "Lady Catelynn."
"Princess." Catelynn nodded at her, and her Mother turned to greet her.
"Did you have fun, darling?"
"Of course Mother, you know I love to dance." Kailyah grinned impishly and Cersei's lips quirked up before trailing down toward her other children. Marcella had begged Jasper into another dance, Tommon and Bran were chatting avidly, and Joffery had just left a blushing Sansa behind. Cersei signaled a handmaiden to retrieve Sansa, who eagerly approached the dias.
"Hello little dove." Cersei greeted after the girl curtsied. "You are a beauty. How old are you?"
"Thirteen, Your Grace." Sansa simpered, staring at the Queen with starry eyes.
"You're tall. Still growing?"
"I think so, Your Grace."
"And have you bled yet?" Here, Sansa faltered, glancing at her mother before shaking her head.
"No, Your Grace." Cersei let her squirm for a moment before continuing with a kind smile.
"Not to worry, little dove, these things take time. Isn't that right, darling?" Kailyahs lips quirked up into an amused smile and she nodded, taking a sip from her goblet of wine. The Queen did the same next to her, and Lady Catelynn glanced between them, logging the similarities between mother and daughter. Quite different in coloring, but the same icy stare, and gentle, slightly mocking smile.
"Y-yes, Your Grace."
"And your dress, did you make it?" Sansa nodded with a proud smile and Cersei returned it. "Such talent. You must make something for me." Sansa beamed before curtsying and taking her leave, and Cersei turned her attention to Catelynn. "I hear we may share a grandchild someday." she kept her eyes locked on Sansa, making it clear it was not her daughter she would be giving to the Starks. Catelynn's jaw tightened but she nodded.
"I hear the same."
"Your daughter would do well in the capitol. After all, such a beauty shouldn't be hidden away up here forever." Kailyah listened to her Mother and Lady Stark chat boredly until she noticed Tommen, nearly asleep at the table, and little Marcella next to him watching the King bury his face in the servant girl's tits. Kailyahs jaw tightened and she delicately placed her cup down, standing and excusing herself. She scooped Tommen up easily, settling him on her hip, and offered her other hand to Marcella, who took it eagerly. They left the hall quietly, and made their way towards Tommon's rooms, pausing when they found their Uncle stumbling through the halls. Marcella lit up.
"Uncle Tyrion!"
"Ah! My favorite princesses in all of Westeros! My, you two grow even more beautiful every moment we are apart! To what do I owe the honor?" He bowed dramatically, making Marcella giggle as she leaned down to kiss his forehead.
"I'm taking our little cubs to bed, Uncle." Kailyah knelt so Tyrion could kiss her cheek and rub his nephew's back, who grumbled and snuggled closer to her in his sleep.
"Are you going to bed, Uncle?" Marcella asked, rocking on her heels.
"Not yet, my dear. Between me and your Father, we'll have the whores of Winterfell up the whole night." He grinned roguishly and Kailyah shook her head, amused.
"Enjoy yourself, Uncle." She laughed, rising to her feet and gently tugging Marcella along with her. They made it to Tommen's chambers and Kailyah kissed him goodnight before handing him off to his Septa to prepare for sleep. As they made their way to 'Cella's room, Kailyah let Marcella play with her fingers as she chewed her lip, deep in thought.
"What's on your mind, sister?"
"Why- why does Father do that? Doesn't he care about-"
"Darling, the only thing Father cares about are his drinks and his whores." Marcella's eyes dropped to the floor and Kailyah sighed, kneeling in front of her to meet her eyes. "I am sorry 'Cella. I know it hurts but that is the truth. He does it because he wants to, and Kings don't worry about silly things like consequences or feelings."
"Father doesn't love Mother." The golden haired girl said slowly.
"No, he doesn't."
"Does he love us?" Here, Kailyah hesitated. She had seen the way her Father treated her Mother, she had no love left for him. But Marcella was sweet, and young, and would likely forgive him anything if he showed her the slightest bit of affection.
"I do not know, little cub. I hope so." 'Cella sniffled, rubbing her eyes.
"Will my husband do that to me someday?"
"Absolutely not."
"How do you know?"
"Because your brother is going to be King one day, and he adores you. He wouldn't allow anyone to disrespect you like that and continue breathing."
"I wouldn't want him struck down!"
"Well then you'd best hope that it happens after you have all the children you want, because if I get a hold of him he won't be able to give you any more."
"Kailee!" Marcella gasped and Kailyah chuckled, kissing her reddened cheek.
"How could anyone not love you, 'Cella? That will never happen to you, because not only will Mother or Jasper or I destroy them if they do, but Jasper will find you a good man, and you two will fall in love and live happily. I guarantee it." Marcella beamed and Kailyah smiled again, hugging her gently. "Everything it going to be alright, i promise." She kissed her gold spun hair before sending her to her Septas, making sure to keep her smile until the doors shut.
"That was quite an interesting threat." Her eyebrow arched and she turned to meet Robbs eyes. "You don't seem the type."
"I can be very dangerous if there is a threat to my family. I'm sure that is something you can understand." Robb hummed but didn't comment. "Did you want another dance already?"
"Actually, I thought you'd enjoy something a bit more exciting than a dance. You are far more than the little doe your father thinks you are." Robb pushed himself off of the wall he leant on, sauntering over to the princess, bracing an arm next to her head and leaning over her. Kailyah leaned back, utterly unconcerned, and raised a finger to her lips.
"That's supposed to be a secret, m'lord." Robb smiled down at her.
"Have you ever seen a direwolf?" Kailyah's emerald green eyes sparked in interest.
TLR
"How are things going with the bastard, Maya?" Kailyah yawned delicately behind her hand, blinking the sleep out of her eyes as Maya helped her get ready for the day.
"He's as stubborn as an Ox." Maya growled, making the Princess laugh quietly. "I've seen priests give it up quicker!" She insisted, tugging on her hair as she tried to detangle it. Kailyahs hair hung down to her waist now, and she has inheirited her Mothers thick waves, it tangled ridiculously easily, and Maya complained over it endlessly.
"He is Ned Stark's son."
"Ned Stark's bastard. Everyone has a breaking point, I just need to find his."
"Didn't you say he was a virgin?"
"Mm, the servants say the little Lord and the Greyjoy have snuck down to the brothel before, but never him."
"Despite your talent, Maya, I don't think you will win this one." Kailyah chuckled. "Not before we return to King's Landing."
"We'll see." Maya smirked.
"What else have the servants told you?"
"The Northerners are close, it's been difficult finding anything." Maya admitted. "The younger girls in the kitchen are more willing to talk, they're rather curious about Kings Landing."
"And?"
"They aren't happy we are here. The North is loyal, and the Starks treat them well. They don't trust Lannisters. Or anyone from the South, really."
"Anything about me?"
"I believe you may have impressed them with your little show. I would keep that up, they do not want a delicate little southern Princess. Robb is enamored with you, and so far their people seem amicable. It will be difficult to prove yourself to them."
"I do enjoy a challenge. What do they say of the Starks?"
"Ned's wife despises his bastard. She does not hide it well. She favors Sansa, and does not approve of Aryas wild side. Sansa is practically a Southern Princess herself, she wishes to marry Jasper or Joffrey and go South. Brandon wishes to be a knight, either to the Night's Watch with Jon or a part of the Kingsguard. Rickon is as wild as they come."
"And Robb?"
"They say he is a good man. They respect him."
"Hm." Kailyah hummed. "Any news of Kings Landing?"
"Nothing of importance, except Alys says Lady Arryn and her son have left for the Vale."
"Alys is going with them, yes?"
"Yes, but Lady Arryn left anyone else from Kings Landing. She's increasingly paranoid."
"Then I'm glad that you were able to recruit her early. She's from the Vale, isn't she?"
"House Melcolm, a minor house there. You told me to seek her out. You always seem to know who to look out for."
"I've always been lucky. But Lysa Arryn has always been off, it wasn't a hard guess."
"Petyr Baelish saw her off. It was apparently a long goodbye." Kailyah hummed, mind racing, but glanced up when a knock on the door came.
"Enter." A young, Northern maid stepped inside, curtsying.
"Good morning Princess, Lady Stark and her daughters have invited you to join them for tea." Kailyah turned, smiling sweetly as she met the young blondes eyes.
"Thank you…"
"Elsie, princess."
"Thank you, Elsie, I would be happy to join her." The young girl beamed happily, giving a slightly clumsy curtsy before rushing off. "This should be fun."
"Try not to traumatize them too much."
"No promises." Kailyah chuckled, before meeting her handmaiden's eyes in the mirror. "If you're tired of failing with Jon, spend time with the Greyjoy boy. He's spent ten years with the Starks, no one knows them better."
"Yes, Princess." She finished getting dressed, in Baratheon colors of course. It was one of her favorites. It was a long sleeve black dress with gold floral details. The sleeves hung low off her shoulders, cutting sharply across her chest and leaving her neck and shoulders bare. Her favorite part was the long slit in the skirt, and the black wool leggings underneath. Her curls hung around her waist freely, and Maya placed her favorite tiara on top of her head. Renly had it made for her on her sixteeth birthday, naming her princess of the Stormlands. It was a delicate thing, dainty gold antlers woven together over into a point. Once Kailyah was ready, she left, making her way to Lady Starks solar.
"Princess Kailyah Baratheon, my lady."
"Princess! Thank you for joining us." Lady Catelynn and her daughters stood, curtsying, though Arya did so with an annoyed frown.
"Thank you for inviting me, Lady Stark." Kailyah smiled, taking her seat. The Starks waited until she was seated to retake their own.
"Please, princess, call me Catelynn."
"Then you must call me Kailyah, please."
"How are you liking your stay so far, Kailyah?"
"It's been lovely, it is far warmer than I thought it would be."
"We have pipes through the walls that vent steam from the underground hot springs. I used to explore them when I was-"
"Arya!" Sansa hissed, cutting her off. The little girl glared, but hunched into herself under her mothers stern look. Kailyah however turned to her with a kind smile.
"That's rather ingenious. It's warm enough in Kings Landing that we don't need hot springs, but we have tunnels underneath the Keep I loved exploring when I was your age. I also used to hide there when I didn't want to attend my lessons, my Mother threatened to have them sealed off." Kailyah winked at her, and Arya's silver eyes lit up, spine straightening as she gave the Princess a shy but genuine smile.
"What's Kings Landing like?"
"Loud. Busy. There's always something happening." Kailyah chuckled. "I think that's why I'm enjoying the North, it's rather peaceful here."
"It certainly doesn't feel that way some days, with all my children running about." Catelynn jumped in, reaching over to pat Sansa's hand. "At least I always know this one is behaving."
"It's hard to have fun while you're sewing all day." Arya muttered under her breath.
"You don't like to sew, Arya?"
"It's useless!" Arya whined instantly, and Catelynn's cheek reddened as she opened her mouth to scold her daughter, but Kailyah beat her to it.
"Oh? What are you wearing then?"
"I know it's for clothes, but I just- don't get it."
"I understand, it took a long time for me to get the hang of it, and I wasn't exactly interested in learning. It is an important skill to learn, especially for future ladies. Winter is coming, after all." Arya grinned slightly, nodding along. "My Uncle Tyrion told me a story once. Two great Houses had gone to war. One house had attacked the other's army, and killed their Lord. Most of their soldiers were wounded, and they retreated inside their fallen Lord's castle. The opposing army expected the Lady to cede the castle to them, after all, it was only ladies and wounded soldiers in her keep. Do you know what she did?"
"What?"
"She called every seamstress in the castle."
"Why?"
"Their healers were overwhelmed, there were too many who needed help. The seamstresses had steady hands and tight stitches, so they were set to work sewing up the wounded, while any soldier who could stand held the castle. Because of the seamstress' help, their men healed, and returned to the field, fighting for their Lord and everything he stood for, under their Ladys direction."
"I've never thought of it like that." Arya murmured, eyebrows furrowed in thought.
"Do you enjoy embroidery, princess?" Sansa asked eagerly.
"I'm afraid it's not my favorite, I don't quite have the patience for it." She winked at Arya, and the little Lady giggled, trying to hide it behind a scone. "You seem very talented, Lady Sansa. Your dress was lovely."
"I made this one too!" Sansa preened, smoothing her baby blue skirt. "Your dress is beautiful, Princess."
"Though you may become a bit chilled, here. Perhaps Sansa could make you a shawl." Catelynn cut in.
"That would be lovely, thank you." Kailyah patted Sansa's hand before returning her attention to Arya, reveling in the small frown that came across each redhead's features. "So, Arya, if you don't enjoy sewing, what are your hobbies?"
"I like riding! And archery! I'm really good!"
"Arya!"
"It seems we have a lot in common, Arya. We will have to ride together sometime."
"Yes! Do you like archery too?!"
"Don't be stupid, lady's don't wield weapons!" Sansa scoffed. Kailyah arched an eyebrow at her.
"I do, actually. Throwing daggers are my favorite, but I am not bad with a bow. We will have to have a contest soon."
"Throwing daggers?" Kailyah smirked, launching into an explanation, showing Arya the thin scars scattered across her fingers, and even pulling one from its sheath inside her boot to show the girl. She enjoyed the scandalized mother and daughter duo, and while the Princess went along with it when Catelynn tried to change the subject, she continued to indulge Arya's many questions, allowing the girl most of her attention. Sansa grew visibly more frustrated as her attempts to gain the Princess' favor were constantly upstaged by her sister, though Kailyah made sure to give her and her mother enough attention so that she wouldn't appear rude. While she enjoyed messing with them, she still had a job to do, and she intended to see it through.
A.N. Guys I an actively avoiding watching house of the dragon because I know I'm gonna get a new idea for a fic and I have way to many projects I'm working on (I have another GOT OC and a Hunger Games OC and a OUAT OC, plus my other stories and a request I'm really struggling with) so I'm trying really hard to focus and finish something and instead my brains like nope lets think up two more GOT OC's
So I might start writing one of them as a short story with a bunch of time jumps just to get it out of my head, let me know if you'd be interested in reading one of these or which one you'd want to read first-
A Stark OC- Ned and Catelynns eldest daughter was sent to King's Landing and married to Jaime Lannister after he was released from the Kingsguard to settle Roberts debt with the Lannisters. When her Father and siblings come South with her, she's determined to keep them alive in the snake pit that is Kings Landing. (Follows the plot but has a few big changes)
Another Baratheon OC- Cersei and Roberts only trueborn daughter was fostered in the North at the tender age of five, with only occasional trips to the capitol that she came to dread more every year as she became comfortable in the North. Upon Jon Arryns death, her family comes North to see her wedded and take the only Father and siblings she's known South. When they took Ned Starks head, she fights alongside her husband to save her goodsisters, and to keep her place as Queen in the North (jumps off track around season two when she starts making big changes)
A Lannister OC- set in Roberts rebellion. Tywins eldest and most loved daughter navigating politics in a world where one wrong move could have you burned alive (Keeping this one vague, I have a buncha ideas and this becomes very AU so I don't want to spoil anything)
Also I dont know if I've mentioned- I've always pictured Jasper's faceclaim as either Toby Regbo (Francis from Reign) or Bradley James (Arthur from Merlin). I've always pictured Kailyah as Adelaide Kane (Mary from Reign) and used her dresses as inspiration for Kailyahs, but lately I've been picturing Bruna Marquezine (Catarina de Lurton from God save the King) when imagine Kailyah grown up while I'm writing the epilogue, so you could use either. Also I have a Pintrest board for her- you can look up Kailyah Baratheon (or Kailyah Baratheon Epilogue to see her and her children and neices and nephews) to see it