Chapter 28

Nysa removed the hood of her cloak as gasps and murmurs erupted in the hall. "Lord Walder Frey, I am Queen Nysa Stark, Queen of the North and of the Trident. And I have come here in behalf of my husband to apologize for...

"You are either very brave or very foolish to be here, your Grace," Lord Frey interrupted her.

Nysa was considering those two characteristics seriously right now. She had never felt so scared in her life - not even when Ser Jamie was standing over her, ready to command his guards to end her life, not even when Arya had disappeared at the crossroads, not even when she had traveled to Karhold to assist Lady Karstark, not even when her brother had left her in Winterfell and went South with Lord Stark to fight the Ironborn rebellion. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she stood behind Olyvar. It was certainly a brave thing to do. But Gods, this was a foolish thing to do, also.

She took a deep breath and put on a confident smile - at least the most confidence that she could muster. "On the contrary, to treat with a Lord such as yourself," she replied, "it is no foolish feat. I consider it a privilege to be shown the hospitality of the Twins," she looked around and gulped. "I am sad that King Robert had decided to skip over the Twins on his journey South. I would have longed to see this castle, this amazing, strong..."

Lord Frey scoffed before leaning back in his chair. "Were those sweet words the reason why the King bedded you?"

"I must say that I do not know his exact reasons," Nysa answered. "We argued when he announced that he would wed me. And though it is no business of yours, we still disagree about our marriage."

"Oh, do you really," Lord Walder snorted.

"I have confessed to him and will admit to you that our actions were foolish. It was wrong to dishonor you and your House. You supplied him fine knights," she looked around and saw narrowed eyes and judging faces, "very fine knights to fight for him. Some of your sons have suffered imprisonment, injury or even death. And he repays you by betraying your trust," Nysa said with an irritated tone. "And I am to be this man's Queen?"

Nysa made a sound of disgust. She wasn't certain if she was going a bit overboard with her theatrics.

"You seem to be living comfortably. You even look to be with child."

She smiled then and touched her stomach. "Aye, I am."

"Which is another reason why I think you are foolish for coming here," he noted, leaning forward and staring her down. "You would risk the life of your unborn child so easily?"

"There is no risk," Nysa commented, looking around again with a small smile. "I know that you or none of your kin will cause harm to me. You have no evil thoughts behind your mind - no," she shook her head and nervously laughed. "Though I can suspect some of you probably did," she turned to see Black Walder smile wickedly at her. "I know that no one would act so treasonous - not the honorable Lord Walder Frey," she looked at him, "and the mighty House Frey."

"Flatterer," he commented.

"And if it is a risk to apologize to you, to mend what was broken and hold you to such honor as the other Lords under the King then I will endure it. You are Lord Walder Frey, you are a proud man - one who is not likely to be crossed. I know the strength that is here. That is why I have come."

"What do you propose? That I take your words as sincere regret? That I allow my sons to continue fighting for your husband who broke his promise to me?"

"In all honestly, I do," she replied.

A few of the Frey men began to shout obscenities at her. It was then that she noticed a few had moved to stand by her side, one of them was Perwyn and the other was Jared. She recognized the others but at the moment their names escaped her. Her heart beat wildly in her chest and she blinked her eyes rapidly to stay strong, stand upright and certain. Nysa tried her best to reign in her fear and turned back towards Lord Frey.

"You misunderstand me, my Lord. Has Olyvar not explained that to continue this alliance, I will make an agreement of terms with you?"

Lord Walder put up a shaky hand to silence his sons. Nysa waited with bated breath as he considered her. His eyes were distrusting. She wondered if he could see her fear growing. Her fingers twitched with heat. She tried to calm down, counting her numbers and saying the noble Houses of the North in her head - a trick she taught to Jon to do when he lost his temper. The fear was adding to the heat crawling through her. She didn't want to use the fire - not here, not now. Surely Lord Frey would kill her then.

"I take it your husband does not know of this venture?"

"He does not," she answered.

"Then why come here," he barked at her. "Why decide to settle his disputes with me?"

"I became his Queen. And as such, I should assist him when he needs it," she responded. "And I know how it feels to be slighted by a man who doesn't keep his word. I feel for your daughters, all of them. I think about her and her woes every night," Nysa added. "To know such heartache," she attempted to look grief-stricken. "It was despicable to bring shame to your daughters. It will haunt the King and I for an eternity to know that..."

"Enough," he said before chuckling. He then turned towards a few of his sons. "Sweet words and a pretty face," he nodded towards Nysa, "and she claims to have sympathy for my daughters. Ha!"

Nysa smiled politely as he studied her.

"I understand you have my son Stevron with you," he stated. "You have a quite a few of them with you actually, nursed them back to health in Harrenhal."

"Yes, my Lord."

"They choose their King over family," Walder snorted again.

"They are angered as well by his Grace's actions but..."

"But I assume your pretty words kept them there," he eyed her for a long moment before turning to a few of his other sons. "How do you plan to make amends," he asked. "I would hope that it is a very tempting opportunity for me."

"Indeed, it is. I would seek to replace the marriage that one of your daughters lost. As you know Lord Hoster Tully has passed. Lady Catelyn Stark has been acting as Lady of Riverrun, but it would need someone more permanent, especially when Lady Catelyn returns to the North. Lord Edmure Tully, heir to Riverrun, will need a wife."

Lord Walder scoffed.

"For almost twenty years I've been trying to get Edmure betrothed to one of my daughters," he scoffed. "I doubt you'll have any luck."

"I will. Lord Edmure owes me and the King," she answered.

"No man can compel another man to marry."

"It's a good thing I'm a woman," she smiled and laughed lightly. Lord Walder sighed and rubbed his temple. She looked over at a few of the Freys who whispered and spoke to another. Just now she saw a few women had come out in attendance. When they first arrived, there were only men. They must have come to see her. "Your daughter would become Lady of Riverrun," she nodded to one of them. "Surely that is nothing to turn your eye from, Lord Frey?"

"Aye it is not. But that alone is not enough."

"Not enough," she asked in confusion.

"You give a husband for a husband, but they are not the same. You give me a Lord when you stole marriage to a King. Therefore, you will replace it with five marriages to Lords of great Houses."

"Five marriages," Nysa exclaimed.

"If I am to give that young wolf my sons and grandsons then I want to secure my daughters and granddaughters," Walder snarled. "Five marriages in replacement of the one that had been owed to me," he continued. "And if I recall correctly, I had two marriages that were owed to me," he added, "if we remember the fallen Prince."

Nysa thought a moment and then nodded. "Five marriages then," she confirmed.

"Bring them all out," Lord Walder called before grabbing a rag and coughing into it.

Nysa gulped as the young women began to line up in front of her. "You cannot expect me to choose, do you?"

"I said I wanted five marriages!"

"And I agreed to them, but I would want to know the girls first before they are to..."

"You are to choose now!"

"But I would have to speak to the King," she protested.

"Is it because he'll go back on his word to me yet again?"

"I am the one making this arrangement with you, but the Lords would want to meet their brides first. You yourself stated that no man can compel another to wed. And yes, I am their Queen, but I am sure that they would want proper notification on something so permanent. And the King would want to be sure that..."

"That what, girl," Lord Walder barked. "I do not want a lengthy betrothal. They've cost me before," he eyed Nysa out heavily. "I want five marriages done immediately. I want them wedded and bedded the day your husband comes to retrieve you."

"Retrieve me?"

Walder Frey leaned forward and smiled. "Do you really think that I'm going to allow you to walk out that door, my Queen?"

"Lord Father, we would not want to anger our King," Ser Jared stated from her side, his sword still clutched in his hand.

"Neither would we want to anger our Queen," Perwyn said, remembering the tale of what happened outside of Riverrun.

"And besides, how would I speak to the King about this arrangement," Nysa questioned.

Lord Frey's shaky hand pointed to the other side of Nysa where Olyvar stood before he sat back in his chair and smiled. "We'll send him word by messenger," he replied. "In the meantime, you will stay here to ensure that the marriages take place."

"You're holding me hostage?"

"No," he chuckled, "you're merely a guest in this amazing, strong castle. Something to be considered a privilege - your words, I believe."

She looked down - more so in shame than in fear. She should have seen this coming. If Cersei Lannister had walked into their camp, Robb would have done the same thing - held her as a bargaining chip for Sansa.

"So, am I not going to be allowed to leave?"

"You will," he replied, "once the weddings have taken place. And do not fret about it, my Queen. You'll be given the best accommodations here in the Twins."

Nysa berated herself slightly before shaking her head. Lord Frey definitely would hold her hostage here. Though it would not look like it, that's exactly what this was. Robb wouldn't be pleased - with both the situation and with her. She took a deep breath and tried to keep calm. She knew that if she showed fear, that it would do her no good. The flattery had worked before, she could continue that. But she also needed to keep a leveled head on her shoulders.

"What of allowing the brides to see their intended husbands," she questioned. "You will not even give them time to know one another?"

"And for what purpose," he leaned forward again, "so that they can find fault with my daughters? Bah," he threw the coughing rag towards Nysa's feet, but she did not move. A few girls in front of her did. It made her feel pity for them all. "You think I don't know what they say about my girls," he continued to leer at her. "Do you know how difficult it is to marry them off into great noble houses? Rubbish - the whole lot of them," he waved his hand. "And if I have your Lords come here, they'll only back out of it as did your King."

Nysa tried not to look appalled at the way Walder treated his daughters. She smiled encouragingly at one of them. "Lord Walder, surely there is a hidden treasure among..."

"Flattery has already gotten you an audience with me but not my completely forgiveness," he sat back and looked towards the room. "Well? Line up for her Grace," he commanded as Nysa shut her eyes.

She could not believe that she was to pick five girls out from a group. It made her feel sick.

"Choose!"

Nysa sighed before stepping forward. She could not tell how many of them stood before her. A few caught her eyes as being terribly improper. She stepped towards one of them as the girl flung her blonde hair over her shoulder, exposing her revealing dress. Nysa bit back a sound of annoyance and took a step back.

"What is your name?"

"Amerie, your Grace," she smiled before straightening her shoulders, making her dress drape just a bit further from her body.

"She has been wedded before," Perwyn whispered beside her.

"Bedded numerous times as well," Olyvar murmured. "I do not know how proud Lord Edmure is but I'm certain he wouldn't want Amerie as his wife."

The young Queen took that into consideration before looking up. "You give me a bride who has already been wed," Nysa questioned Lord Walder.

"She is a widow now," he waved his hand. "But she is still young, she'd be able to pop out little Lords. And as you can see she is also one of my fairer ones."

"She is not without her assets," Nysa nodded as Amerie smiled widely. "But I'm afraid that I cannot chose her for Lord Edmure." Amerie pouted at first but turned slightly towards a few other men in the hall. It was obvious that she would not be sad for long. Nysa turned her attention back to the girls and spotted a small head hiding in the back. She took a few steps forward and then let out a huge sigh. "What is your name?"

"Shirei, your Grace."

"And how old are you, Lady Shirei?"

"I am one and ten."

"You give me a child," Nysa screamed turning to Lord Frey.

"I thought that your Lords might like them young," he chuckled. "Gods know I do," he said as he slapped his wife's bottom. Both Lady Joyeuse and Nysa winced as he did so.

Nysa turned back to the girls and cleared her throat. "If you are six and ten or any age under that, you are dismissed," Nysa announced as a few girls released sighs of relief.

"Wait, where is," he looked around. "Right! There you are. Merianne," Lord Walder barked as one girl stopped and turned to him. "I was told that she has flowered," he pointed to her. "She's as ready as the rest of them to take a man between her legs. There is also Alyx and Marissa," he waved the other two girls over. "You three come back to the line."

Nysa looked around the hall and her eyes landed on a woman with a worried look. The woman reached down and took the hand of the woman next to her causing Nysa to think that one of them must have been this girl's mother.

"How old are you," she asked Merianne quietly.

"Twelve, your Grace."

"I thank you, Lady Merianne for being willing to wed. But I will not be able to choose you as well," she gave the girl a reassuring smile as she broke out in tears and rushed away, towards the woman who was worried.

Nysa watched them embrace before looking back at the prospective brides. She was going to need some assistance with choosing a bride, she could see that now. Edmure would want a pretty bride - that's for sure. But she was loath to leave Lady Catelyn's home in the hands of an incapable woman - not someone as wanton as Amerie or as young as Merianne. Now, she felt extremely foolish. She shouldn't be choosing someone else's bride. Taking another glance at Lord Frey, she knew that she had to though. Her life and the life of her unborn child depended upon it.

"Ser Perwyn," Nysa spoke loudly. Perwyn came to stand closer and looked down at her. "Olyvar has often spoke about your sister. He has spoken of her many talents, that she loves to sing and draw."

"She does, your Grace," he nodded.

"Could you," she nodded towards his sisters and nieces.

Perwyn gestured with his hand as the sister in question stepped forward. She was comely. Her hair seemed to be tangled as it sat in a messy bun upon her head. Nysa was sure that if she had tended to it that it would flow beautifully. She was thin. Her eyes were big and wide. There seemed to be sadness behind them. All other thoughts aside, Nysa had to admit that the girl was pretty.

"And what is your name?"

"Roslin, your Grace," her voice was timid.

"Ser Perwyn, you have spent some time with Lord Edmure," Nysa began.

Perwyn nodded. "Yes, and I cannot picture a better man to wed my dear sister."

"And what of Riverrun," she added. "Would its castle benefit?"

Perwyn smiled reassuringly at Nysa before looking back at his sister. "Roslin is also very kind. Lady Catelyn Stark is actually a heroine of sorts for her. I'm sure the two would get along amiably. She wouldn't change much but she'd add beautiful touches to the House."

"And what about you, Lady Roslin," Nysa turned to her. "Would Lord Edmure and Riverrun be acceptable to you?"

"I would never deny my King or Queen," she curtsied very low - almost pleading like.

Nysa put out her hand and gestured for her to stand up. "There's no need for that. If your desire isn't Riverrun, then you can inform me now. The Lords are not the ones making the decision, you are," Nysa nodded to her.

Roslin was quiet for a moment before glancing up at Perwyn. He gave her another reassuring nod which made Roslin smile. "I," she bit her bottom lip, "I accept, my Queen."

"Excellent," Nysa walked past Perwyn and embraced Roslin. "You will make a wonderful Lady for Riverrun and Lord Edmure." She pulled back to see Roslin's shock but quickly dismissed it. "We must spend some time together," she insisted.

"Of course, your Grace."

Nysa pushed back some of Roslin's fallen strands of hair and smiled. "Do you love to sew?" Roslin nodded happily. "I never really took a liking to it, but I wouldn't mind sitting with you during this past time while we discuss certain matters."

Confusion showed on the young woman's face.

"House Tully has always served its King - on the Iron Throne or in the North - as Lord Paramount of the Trident," Nysa stated. "I love to hear the concerns of not only the Lords of the Riverlands but also their Ladies. It's important to the future of a Kingdom."

Roslin dropped into another curtsy before going to stand at Perwyn's side.

She barely had time to acknowledge her choice when Lord Frey urged her to continue. "I must ask Roslin, how old are you?"

"Nineteen, your grace."

"Is there a sister a year or two younger than you?"

Roslin looked up and nodded at another young woman, but quickly turned away. Ser Perwyn directed Nysa towards the girl.

She remembered seeing this girl earlier. She had been holding Shirei's hand, staring Nysa in the eyes, daring her to choose their youngest sister. When Merianne and Alyx had come back, she had taken their hands as well. It was obvious that she was comforting the younger girls. Admittedly, Nysa was drawn towards people who showed kindness, protectiveness and fellow-feeling. These younger girls must have been scared and frightened. And yet this sister had stood by their side, bravely looking at their Queen.

"And what is your name, my Lady?"

"Arwyn, your Grace."

"She is the daughter of Lady Annara Farring," Olyvar stated.

Nysa wracked her brain for House Farring and couldn't determine where this girl's mother would have come from or any outstanding features. "She was the third-born daughter of her father," Arwyn answered with her head held high. "Lord Farring is a noble House of landed knights in the Crownlands."

Nysa smiled and nodded. "Now that you mention is, I recall the House. Your grandfather serves Stannis Baratheon, does he not?" Arwyn allowed her eyes to look Nysa up and down. She either wasn't going to answer or was preparing a good argument. Nysa liked her already. "How old are you, Lady Arwyn?"

"Seven and ten, your Grace."

"Would you oppose to..."

"They are more than willing the lot of them," Lord Walder barked.

"I would rather have brides who are willing to marry then those who have done so by your encouraging," Nysa told him before turning back to Arwyn.

"I can answer for myself," Arwyn replied hotly. Perwyn pressed his lips tightly and made to step forward but Nysa placed her hand on his arm to halt him. "I've heard many things about you, my Queen." Nysa smiled at her bluntness. She didn't appear to be rude or disrespectful - simply curious and headstrong. "How you helped my older brothers, tended to them in Harrenhal, how you saved Stevron's life," she smiled and nodded. "You look to be like an honest individual."

"I try to be."

"How do you plan on choosing a husband for me - one that I've never met and one who will never meet me? What exactly is your method for matching me to a particular Lord?"

Nysa understood that Arwyn was attempting to 'size' her up in a way, judging silently her Queen before her. "Well, by simply asking you what is it that you want, Lady Arwyn. Is there anything you look forward to in a husband?"

"A good cock is fine," someone shouted from the back as several of the Frey men laughed.

"What I meant is," Nysa stepped forward, ignoring them, and took Arwyn's hands in her own. "Would you want someone who is in the North? Would you like to stay here in the Riverlands? Or perhaps marry a knight who is sworn to the King," Nysa offered. "I know that Lady Sansa would often dream of marrying a knight," she said in a whispered tone. "I dreamt of marrying a Lord who was a fierce fighter but had a gentle voice," she leaned further in, "one that would tell stories to our children before they went to bed." Arwyn blushed as did a few around her. "Tell me, what do you dream of?"

One her face displayed the answer but Arwyn quickly shook her head and looked down towards the ground - a trait she noticed that majority of the young Frey women did. "There isn't much time to have dreams if you are a Frey."

"On the contrary," Nysa stood tall. "You seem like a Lady who knows what she wants. So, tell me."

"Father has always said that not all of us would be fortunate enough to marry out of the Twins," Arwyn said softly, casting her eyes towards Lord Walder. Nysa squeezed her hands to bring Arwyn's gaze back to her. "I will go wherever it is you desire, as long as I am away from here, your Grace. That is what I have dreamed," she answered, "of being away from here, to see something other than these walls. I don't expect love, but I will demand respect," she added, confident and sure of her desires.

Nysa nodded and then released her hands, taking a step back. "I have chosen the Lady Arwyn," she announced.

"The Lord," Lord Frey questioned.

"Ser Patrek Mallister is looking for a wife."

Lord Walder leaned forward and eyed her evenly. "The heir to Seagard," he said as a few people around them murmured and whispered. "Impossible."

"He informed me himself," Nysa replied looking at Arwyn. "He said he'd want a wife with a strong mind and your daughter here has a sense of confidence and bravery that I'm sure she'll need to become the future Lady of Seagard and wife to Ser Patrek. I have confidence in her abilities and," she smiled at Arwyn as the girl lifted her head higher, "it appears that she has confidence in her abilities as well."

"Argh," Lord Walder groaned. "You call it confidence, I call it stubbornness. Her mother was just as stubborn. Couldn't keep her mouth shut, always wanting to state her opinions. I don't need opinions in the bed and I'm sure Ser Patrek will agree."

"Well, I am more than sure that he'll like Lady Arwyn's personality all the same."

"Good. Now the other three," Lord Walder shouted.

She was loath to be choosing the brides for the Lords. She had decided who Lady Arwyn would marry, but to force the others into such an arrangement. In her letter to Robb, she'd demand something once she spoke more to the girls.

"The other three," Lord Walder urged Nysa to continue.

Good Gods, she wished she had brothers to... Nysa paused and thought about it. Taking her time, she finally decided on who she was choosing as the groom. He would not argue with her - though she knew he'd be upset about it. If this girl was going North, she'd have to be strong - both in mind and body.

"If my memory serves me correctly, you married a Lady Crakehall," Nysa questioned.

"That is right," Walder nodded. "But what does..."

"The Crakehalls are a great House in the Westerlands," Nysa answered. "I've seen the physicality of House Crakehall, their knights are mighty. In the North, one needs to be mighty. Do you have a granddaughter from Lady Crakehall?"

Lord Walder moved his hands and the girls seemed to shuffle around. It appeared the numbers were cut in half then. Nysa's eyes widened for a moment before she calmed herself. She spotted a lot who looked young. Despite being young they were depressed looking. Nysa was sure that some of them, if not all, felt the same as Arwyn. They did not want to live behind these walls much longer. She remembered the stories that were told to her from Jayne.

She approached a girl whose hair was not in a messy arrangement upon her head. Instead it flowed to her side, looking as though it had not been cared for in a while. She remembered that this girl was young but had flowered and thus Lord Frey had called her back. Before she could feel pity for the girl, Lord Walder chuckled.

"All your daughters will have been wed if the Queen chooses her, Merrett," Lord Walder nodded to his son.

"Three daughters married," the man she assumed was Merrett Frey lifted his cup as the wine splashed out of it.

"She has not given her answer," Nysa reminded them.

"But she'll agree, right girl," Lord Walder affirmed as the girl gave a small nod.

"What is your name," Nysa asked her.

"Marissa, your Grace."

"And what do you dream of, Marissa?"

She thought about it for a moment before looking up. Her lips moved upwards before she looked back down again. Nysa placed a hand under her chin, causing Marissa to face her again.

"Tell me," Nysa requested gently.

"I would not be against going to the North with you, your Grace. I," she paused and her whole face seemed to light up then. "I do not desire to run a large House. My mother grew up in Castle Darry," she looked at Nysa with appreciation. "She said it was rather large for her Aunt to take care of. I do not know if I could do the same."

"Well," Nysa smiled, "then my earlier thought has proved well indeed."

A grandmother from House Crakehall and a mother from House Darry - more than likely a relative from young Lord Lyman. Nysa took a step back and looked towards Lord Walder.

"I will take Lady Marissa as the third bride. She is to become my sister," she looked at Marissa as a few people gasped and murmured around them. "House Cassel is small," she looked back at Lord Frey. "I understand you may not particularly like that. But my brother is all that is left. With the death of our Uncle, Ser Rodrik, he left only his daughter Beth. The King has talked about giving my brother a lordship once we return North - perhaps Greenhall, which is what I was to be given as a bride. And if that idea still haunts you, may I remind you that as the Queen's sister by law, she'll hold some power in the North."

"A wife to a small House," Lord Walder snarled.

"If it pleases you, I will also take Alyx, Merianne and Shirei with me," she nodded towards the three girls. She would reveal later that Bran and Rickon were still alive and that perhaps one of them would be chosen to become a Stark princess. "They are still young, but perhaps in a couple years, I can find a suitable match for them. That could count for the fourth marriage that you desire when in truth, I am giving you two more."

"You'd take them to the North?"

"I know they will not wed anyone now, but the North will need families - will need to rebuild after this war. As Queen, I'll ensure they're properly looked after before they wed. As for now they can help to care for the young prince or princess that is to come," Nysa placed her hand on her stomach. "And I'm sure Marissa would need company on the road. There are far and few ladies in between."

"So be it," Walder agreed.

Nysa paused and thought of another thought - so quickly, that she knew this would top the deal. "As for my fifth marriage, I will like to arrange for the son of Ser Danwell to wed a young woman in my charge."

"Oh?"

"We cannot let all the girls have their fun. And I think you would like this alliance," Nysa smiled.

"Bring forth Oswell," Walder called for him as Nysa saw a handsome but shy young man step forward. "This is Oswell Frey, the only son of Danwell and Wynafrei."

Nysa nodded to the young man. "Your father is a very brave knight. I saw fight him in King's Landing at the Hand's Tourney. He's alive and well," she smiled, "still fighting for his King. I was told that your mother is sister to Lady Shella Whent," she acknowledged the Lady beside him, "and with her having no living children, it would be best if Harrenhal stayed in the family. So, as a wedding gift, I thought you - as a relation to Lady Whent - that you would like to take it."

There were further gasps and murmurs that were louder than proclaiming Marissa as her sister.

"Could you really do that, my Queen," Lord Walder asked.

"I'm sure once the war is over that my husband would agree to it. Its castle is not of the North but since Princess Arya and I were the ones to take it, I don't see why not. It belongs to me and her more than anyone else, I would think," she stated stubbornly. "House Frey of Harrenhal," she looked towards Lord Walder and smiled gently. "It does have a nice sound to it. And Ser Danwell has served the King and I well. He is a most loyal and trustworthy knight. Loyalty should be rewarded. His only living son, should be rewarded."

"And the bride," Lord Frey looked intrigued.

"Lady Jeyne Westerling," Nysa answered quickly as Olyvar choked a bit. "She is desirous of a husband, don't you think Olyvar," she looked at him as he smiled and shook his head. "She is very pretty as well," Nysa turned to spot Oswell in the front. "She loves to smile and laugh." Olyvar coughed again and turned around to look at something other than Nysa. "If Lady Jeyne does not desire to become the Lady of Harrenhal, then I will look for another suitable bride for Oswell."

"Another bride," Lord Frey commented.

"I would like Lady Jeyne to have her say in the matter," Nysa responded. She had to congratulate herself on choosing that bride. Jeyne wanted her father released - and this would prove House Westerling's loyalty to the King and to the Queen. At first, she felt upset with having to treat another lady that way. But she remembered Jeyne's smiles being directed towards Robb. Nysa lifted her chin and smiled. "Harrenhal is the gift to Oswell, whomever he shall wed."

"House Frey of Harrenhal, it is," Lord Walder lifted his cup as the hall cheered.

"She's where," Robb yelled angrily.

Catelyn could see the veins in his neck beginning to show. He was beyond livid. Smalljon Umber shrunk back at seeing his King's fury. Next to him, Grey Wind growled and licked his snarling jaw in anticipation of attack. There was a thick air of hatred, disappointment, angry and grief that filled the room.

Ser Stevron worried that she would be harmed and asked to ride there immediately.

Harrion Karstark vowed that he'd storm the Twins if Lord Frey didn't release her.

Jory prayed to the Gods that she was alright and wondered what idiot put such foolish nonsense into her head.

Jayne was in tears as Robb had begun to question her, if she had been the one to give the idea to the Queen. "She didn't tell me of anything," Jayne Bracken cried. "I would have told her to stay back, my King. I would never have sent her there, not by herself."

Next, Ser Merlon Crakehall and his guards were questioned as to their whereabouts. Had one of them thought to kidnap her and have Lord Frey imprison her at the Twins? Then, Robb had Ser Raynald Westerling and his sister, Jeyne come in. No one had dared thought to suggest such an action.

"I want her brought back," Robb demanded. "You tell Lord Frey that if she is not here by sunset on this day, I will bring all of the fury of the North and Riverlands upon his home!"

"There is a possibility that she could be safe," Greatjon said.

"Your wife is smart," Lord Glover added. "I'm sure she..."

"If she were smart, she wouldn't be at the Twins now, would she," Robb growled and took out his sword as he begun to beat one of the chairs to pieces.

"Leave us," Ser Brynden announced hotly as Robb grunted and cursed in anger.

They'd allow Robb to get his frustration out but once he had his sensible thoughts back, they'd work on a way to get Nysa back. All the while, everyone's thoughts were on that one important question - what had compelled her to do something entirely foolish?

Nysa had seen the way other women in the Twins fight for her attention. She sighed audibly when she noted that several of them were named Walda in the hopes of having Lord Frey's blessing. Because with so much of them, he hardly ever remembered their names if it was something else - Roslin had told her. She spent the first two days primarily with Roslin, Arwyn and Marissa - getting to know them, their likes and dislikes. And of course, discussing their future husbands.

She would break her fast with her table surrounded by all the Ladies in the Twins - married and unwed. And there was always a young girl found in her lap, pointing out unimportant things to the Queen or smiling anxiously as the Queen brushed and braided their hair. To her shock - and horror - many of them had never left the Twins. And from the stories she heard from Jayne - some of the Frey men would visit the younger women's beds. She was certain she knew which Freys those were - the ones with leering suspicious eyes.

As always though, Ser Perwyn, Ser Jared - along with a couple other guards - had been there to protect her.

On the third day of her visit here, she decided to do some 'cleaning'. Nysa walked through the halls and asked where the paintings had been put. The place looked rather plain. She insisted they all be put back up. As the sun was high in the sky, Nysa walked into the gathering hall and pulled back the curtains and drapes.

"What is going on," Lord Frey coughed hysterically.

"It's no wonder your ill, you're not letting any sunshine into this place," Nysa hurried to his side and attempted to treat him like a toddler. He enjoyed the attention and on one occasion had his wandering hand slapped away from Nysa's backside. "Come, come, Lord Frey," she smiled politely. "I thought we could open the drapes and let some light into the castle. Don't you think it's beautiful Lady Joyeuse?" She looked up at his wife.

The young woman went to answer but was silenced when Lord Frey began to speak. "I don't want to hear what she thinks."

"Well, I do," Nysa turned around and smiled up at the current Lady Frey. "And a happier wife makes for a happier life, Lord Frey."

"Women," he muttered, trying to get up from his chair. Nysa helped him and hooked her arm around his as they walked down from the high table and into the middle of the hall.

"I like the light," Lady Joyeuse replied.

"So, do I," Nysa nodded. "Besides, Lord Frey, there are to be four weddings here soon - two of which are kin to the King and Queen. We must open this place up. Present it as a proud and strong castle - the Twins," she replied as she noted that Lord Frey smiled a bit smugly. "I wager we could make this place rival that of any feast I've seen at King's Landing. What do you think, Lady Joyeuse? Will you show me the grounds around the castle?"

Nysa made sure that they hurried away. Lord Frey barely had any time to realize that the two women had left him standing there.

Ser Perwyn who had designated himself as Nysa's personal guard until King Robb came had chuckled slightly at seeing the bewildered expression on his father's face. That was until he turned back to the windows - sunlight dancing over the water and smiled. Nysa was changing something here. Perwyn didn't know what it was but there was a change.

Jory sighed and shook his head. Of all the hotheaded things Nysa could have done. Olyvar Frey had returned - but not with the Queen. This time, five hundred of the Frey soldiers had accompanied him. In the room sat Ser Arwood Frey and Ser Tytos Frey - two of Lord Frey's grandsons. Lord Frey allowed five hundred men to return and the other fifteen hundred men would as well - once the King agreed to the Queen's terms.

Jory was sure that the only one who probably would agree to the marriage might be him.

He looked over to Ser Patrek and Edmure Tully who both remained quiet on the matter.

"At least you know the name of your brides," the King said. "I was not given such a luxury."

Edmure Tully stood up. "Yes, but at the very least I should be offered the same choice you had," he looked at Robb. "I'm not going to let that old ferret choose my bride."

"It's a good thing then that it is the Queen who chose your bride," Catelyn turned in her chair towards him. "And I'm sure my brother meant no disrespect to one of his own bannermen."

"Roslin was hand-picked - as were the others," Ser Arwood assured, "by the Queen."

"I don't care that she picked the bride herself. I want to choose my own wife! My answer is 'no' and it will continue to be. And in time, he'll bring me a bride of my own choosing."

"You'll risk war and our freedom for chance at a prettier wife," Catelyn censured her brother.

"Not to mention, our Queen's safety," the Blackfish added.

"How is she," Robb turned to look at the two Frey knights.

"When we departed, she had been spending her days with the intended brides - getting to know them," Ser Arwood answered. "I would like to say that she is well looked after. There are a few of my cousins and Uncles who guard her, my King."

Robb nodded before glancing at the table. "Overall, she is well?"

The Frey moved his head up and down in response before offering a kind smile. "But you do know the implication of her being held there, your Grace?"

"Of course, I do," he replied. "Your father is a proud man and I'm glad that he's offered us this opportunity to make amends," he nodded to Ser Arwood and Ser Tytos. "As long as the Queen is safe, we'll fulfill our side of the arrangement."

"You mean my side," Edmure questioned. "I'm the one who's getting the losing end of this bargain."

"You owe it to your Queen," Robb told him.

"Don't you remember your heroic engagement where you promised to make amends to the Queen," Ser Brynden leaned forward. "Here is your chance," he laid the letter down.

"And what about the two of you," Catelyn asked, looking at Ser Patrek and Jory Cassel.

"I trust my Queen," Jory nodded. "Is it true, what my sister says," he turned towards the Frey knights, "my bride is the granddaughter of a Crakehall and her mother is from House Darry?"

Ser Tytos nodded in response. "Two strong Houses. The Queen said that she would need to be strong if she went North. And that Ser Patrek would desire his wife to be of strong-mind," he gestured towards Ser Patrek. "Lady Arwyn is brave and doesn't put up with foolishness of any kind."

"You spoke to the Queen about finding a wife," Edmure turned to him. "I didn't even know you were looking."

"I said it in passing," Ser Patrek smiled. "I'm surprised that she took note of that. But it is true," he looked at Ser Tytos. "My wife would need a strong mind to put up with me."

"Nysa knows that I need to win this war, we all do, in order to have peace," Robb looked at Edmure. "If we don't do this, and do this now, we're lost - all of us," he clarified.

"The Lannisters came through the Riverlands swiftly," Ser Brynden added. "You are their liege Lord," he reminded his nephew. "You need to do what is right to protect them."

Edmure thought on it and sighed. "Write back to our Queen, tell her I accept."

Jory looked away and caught Lady Catelyn's eyes, a small ounce of pride in them at the mention of how Nysa had met with Lord Frey, how she had negotiated the terms for peace, how she had chosen the brides for Edmure, Patrek and himself. She thought more so than just their pretty face. It was a dangerous and foolish venture, but also diplomatic and brave - something she was born to do.

"Tell me more about King's Landing, my Queen," the young Ryella Frey bounced up and down, her little hands holding onto Nysa's dress as she sat down with the other Ladies while they did their sewing.

Her mother - who was also with child - chastised her the first time she had spoken up at dinner with their Queen. But Nysa welcomed her questions, welcomed every little question that any child would ask her. They asked her about the North, about House Stark, about the King's direwolf they heard so much of. They asked about her travels through the Crownlands and hiding with men from the Night's Watch.

And as much as they loved to hear about her tales, she showed interest in theirs. She spoke to women who had been wed to Lord Frey's sons - asking about the Houses they came from. When mentioned that she had seen a certain knight or guard from their House - they'd smile in appreciation. Their smiles widened when Nysa could remember their words and sigil. Ser Perwyn noted that she took a personal interest in them. None of them were just another member belonging to House Frey - not to the Queen.

"Ser Perwyn asked me for a kiss before his joust," Nysa whispered loudly causing a few of the women to blush and giggle.

"She declined," Perwyn quickly spoke up, smiling at the memory and realizing that this tale of King's Landing was about the Hand's tourney.

"If I remember correctly I did place a kiss on your cheek, Ser Perwyn," she turned to him, looking scandalized.

"A knight will win the battle when a Lady bestows him with a real kiss," he replied, sending a wink her way.

"However true that may be, I refused to give him a real kiss. If I did, he would not be walking now," she said teasingly as they continued to giggle. "My brother Jory," she cast her eye at Marissa, "would have seen and at that moment he had his lance at hand. I think he'd run Ser Perwyn through with it, don't you think?"

Perwyn smiled as he heard their laughter. He had not heard much of it here at the Twins in such a long time. But here they were - this group of women, smiling, happy and enjoying themselves.

"Your brother participated in the tourney," Merianne asked, casting a glance at Marissa.

"He did," Nysa smiled at Marissa before turning her teasing look towards Perwyn. "He advanced through his matches. And in one of those matches, he unhorsed Ser Perwyn."

"A good thing then that I did not get a kiss," Ser Perwyn smiled as the other ladies giggled.

"I heard from my husband that all the men advanced quite well," one of the Ladies began. "If your brother faced Ser Perwyn, does that mean he won?"

"He lost in the semi-final to the Mountain."

"Wow Marissa, your betrothed fights as well as any knight," Perwyn heard one of the woman proclaim as Marissa's cheeked reddened more.

"But you got the Mountain in the end, right," another little Frey girl bounced in front of the Queen.

"My brother fought him first," Nysa answered. "So, I'm afraid that I owe that victory to him," she smiled.

"Was Ser Patrek there at the tourney," Arwyn questioned.

"He was," Nysa answered, "his father entered the joust and is a decent fighter. You'd have to be to defend the mainland against those sneaky Ironborn," she smiled and reached out to tickle one of the young girls in front of her who squealed and ran behind their mother's dress. "I don't remember Ser Patrek participating. Though, he could have been in the archery contest. I should have dearly loved to watch that."

"You enjoy archery," one of the Frey women asked. Nysa had seen her around, but she hadn't enjoyed sewing and would often protest in accompanying the ladies. "My name is Tyta, your Grace," she stood and curtsied. She was rather tall and had a slim but muscular build. Nysa thought of Lady Dacey Mormont then. "I don't care much for sewing but I do love archery."

"As do I," Nysa smiled. "Perhaps you could show me the yard when there is time, my Lady?"

"That's out of the question," Lady Leonella stated.

"Why not?"

"Because my Lord husband wouldn't allow any of his daughters or granddaughters into the yard," Lady Joyeuse answered.

"It's no place for a woman to be," Lady Beth - Alyx's mother - replied as they all quieted down.

Nysa snorted and went to stand.

"My Queen," Perwyn tried to stop her, but she continued through the room. "My Queen, where do you think you're going," he questioned.

"To practice archery with Lady Tyta," Nysa gestured for her to stand.

"This I have to see," Arwyn stated as a few of them got up from their seats - sewing abandoned and followed their Queen down to the yard where several of their brothers, cousins and various male guards looked about in confusion at seeing the women entering.