AN: Warning for smut and some violence later on.
Chapter Two
Silas Baratheon
The morning was cool, but bearable. It was the morning of the wedding, and Silas was both nervous and excited. Excited because he was going to become Robb's brother-by-law. He has always regarded Robb as a brother; ever since he was eight when they first met he has regarded Robb as more of a brother than Joffrey. But he was nervous for Cassana, whom he cared for greatly. He remembered once how his mother said that as the elder sibling you cannot help but be protective, or at least close, to your immediate younger sibling. His mother had a younger twin brother, Jamie, who was a knight of Aerys Targaryen's Kingsguard. She had loved him dearly, but he died after he killed the Mad King. The story goes that Mad Aerys ordered Ser Jamie to bring the head of his father, Lord Tywin Lannister, to him after the Old Lion had his men sack the city at the end of Robert's Rebellion. Jamie would not do that though. However, as he stood there shocked by his King's order he then heard the Mad King turn to his pyromancer and order him to burn the city. Jamie had then decided to deal with the pyromancer first, cutting him down, then he advanced on Mad Aerys, who turned to flee. Jamie shoved his sword into his back just as several Targaryen soldiers entered the throne room. They watched as Ser Jamie broke his vows and slit the throat of the Mad King. After that Jamie was fighting the soldiers, who were reinforced by dozens of others. It is said that he killed all of the men, but received a dozen injuries. When the last man fell dead Lord Eddard had entered and watched Jamie fall. He told the Warden of the North what he did and why he did it. He then died of his wounds, and the caches of wildfire were found not long after. Silas's mother said she was distraught when her twin's remains were brought back to Casterly Rock, and she thought of ending her life many times until she gave birth to Silas.
Silas has heard of the tale of his uncle many times, from his mother and from Lord Eddard. Lord Eddard always spoke of Jamie Lannister with a mix of respect and dislike. He disliked Jamie for breaking his vows, as that was not the honourable thing to do, but Eddard does concede that if he did not do as he did then more than half a million people would have been burned alive by Aerys Targaryen's madness. The story of his uncle was going through his head as he entered the hall set aside for the royal family for them to have their meals privately. His mother was sat with Tommen and Myrcella.
"Morning all," Silas said. His siblings greeted him. Cersei looked up from her breakfast and gave him her usual sad smile.
"Morning Silas," she said. Silas sat down beside Tommen after leaning forward to kiss his mother's cheek. "I'm surprised that you're here rather than with Lord Stark's son," she stated.
"He's so handsome, isn't he?" Myrcella asked innocently. Silas looked across the table where she sat.
"Is that so?" he began. "Don't let Cass hear you say that now Cella, or she'll probably send you beyond the Wall as punishment." Tommen chuckled briefly while Myrcella raised her brow and pouted.
"I'm just stating a fact Silas," she said. "Cass is lucky to be getting married to a fine lord like Robb." Silas grabbed his cutlery as a servant brought him his breakfast, which was sausages and bacon with freshly baked bread and boiled eggs. He sliced his bacon and began to eat it.
"I don't know about fine," he said when he finished his mouthful. "But he is a good man. Cass couldn't have asked for a better match." Silas noticed his mother scoff at that. Well, you can disagree all you want mother, he thought. "Personally, I think Grey Wind is far better looking," he japed. Tommen and Myrcella both giggled while their mother gave a small laugh.
"How do they keep those beasts under control?" she asked after a moment of silence. "I'm nervous of Cassana being so close to that damn thing." Silas rolled his eyes.
"They seem kind enough to me," Tommen said. Cersei looked at her youngest son.
"Direwolves are not pets sweetling," she said. "They can tear a man apart with ease when they are as big as the ones the Stark children have." Silas put his knife and fork down on his plate and wiped his mouth with the cloth napkin a servant had placed.
"Those Direwolves are half the size of stallions just now, but they can grow much bigger than that," he said. Myrcella and Tommen both looked at him with wonder in their eyes. "Lord Eddard once told me that a Direwolf can grow as big, and sometimes bigger, than a stallion. Direwolves are very protective of their pack, and the Starks are regarded as part of their pack. Robb told me how last year, when they had a very large band of pirates to deal with along the coast near Karhold, that Greatjon Umber, the Lord of Last Hearth, had challenged him over his planning. When the Greatjon reached for his knife after Robb warned him that he would hang if he went home with his men, which he had threatened to do, Grey Wind lunged at him and tore off two of his fingers, just for threatening Robb. After that Lord Umber just laughed and fell in line." Myrcella's mouth gaped open in astonishment while Tommen sat with childlike wonder.
"Why did Lord Umber threaten to leave his liege lord's son?" Cersei asked. Silas turned to look at his mother.
"Robb said that he was going to hold Greatjon back to use him and his men as a flanking force, while giving Lord Karstark the vanguard. Lord Umber didn't take that very well. Robb later learned from his father that Greatjon was more than likely testing him, to see if he is like a true Stark," he answered. "If that is the case, then he must have passed. Anyway, after the fighting came to an end all of the pirates were captured or killed by Robb and his men. The few surviving pirates were sent to the Wall, apart from those in charge. They…" Silas hesitated, thinking of the best way to put it in front of Myrcella and Tommen. "They met the King's justice." His mother was satisfied by the answer. Myrcella and Tommen just looked at him with confusion. After a minute Tommen sat up straighter.
"But Ser Ilyn stayed in the capitol all of last year," he said. Silas laughed.
"No my little brother," he said. "Here in the North, the lords carry out the King's justice. Being descended from the First Men they hold to not only the old gods, but to the old way. One of the many things they say is that 'the man who passes the sentence should swing the sword'." Tommen looked back down at his plate while Myrcella looked shocked.
"They carry out their own executions?" she asked. Silas noticed his mother wince at Myrcella's revelation. Silas simply nodded to his sister.
They all sat in silence and finished their breakfast before going to their separate chambers. Silas, however, went outside and wandered around the courtyard, watching the small folk as they went about their business. Even though there was to be a wedding today it was still business as usual in Winterfell. Silas walked to the entrance of the godswood, where he saw his father and Lord Eddard go.
"Father, Lord Eddard," he called out. Both men turned and saw him approach. "Going to oversee the final preparations?" His father gave a wide smile.
"Aye," he said. "Just going over a few things here and there with Ned." Lord Eddard cleared his throat. Both father and son looked at him.
"I was wondering Robert if I could talk to Silas alone for a minute?" Eddard asked. Robert looked between his friend and his son before he nodded.
"I'll see you at the heart tree Ned, but don't take too long," he said. "Those trees make me nervous." The King walked into the godswood while Silas and Eddard took a quick stroll.
"I just wanted to say that I am grateful for your handling of your brother Joffrey," he said as they walked. "I was beyond angry when Cat told me what he said to Arya." Silas nodded his head.
"It was what he deserved Lord Eddard," Silas said. Eddard smirked.
"No formalities now Silas," he said. "You've told me often enough how you can't stand them." Both of them chuckled.
"Too true Eddard, too true," Silas said. They continued to walk in silence for five minutes, walking past various trees as they did. When they came to an old oak tree Silas broke the silence. "What else did you need to speak about?" he asked. Eddard sighed before removing a scroll of parchment.
"This came for you last night," he said. "From someone called Frieda?" Silas took the parchment from him, broke the seal on it (which was of a small bird in a ring of quills) and read it.
To Crown Prince Silas of the House Baratheon,
I have done as you have asked in regards to the Old Falcon's death. You are correct in assuming that his death was not from old age. The Spider has also been investigating and come up with the same conclusion. All evidence we come across points to the Mockingbird, who you have already suspected. Whatever he is up to, I cannot say, but I shall keep my eye on him as well as his lady love's sister, who seems to be connected to her husband's end somehow. I don't know how, but I'm certain she is linked. I've sent a letter to the Quiet Wolf as well, telling him of my suspicions and to not trust his wife's sister.
Forever your loyal servant,
Frieda of Flea Bottom
P.S. Do give my regards to your sister on her wedding to the Young Wolf.
Silas lowered the letter and rubbed his forehead. This is something that he had feared. So it is just as I thought, he realised. He looked back up to Eddard.
"You have received your letter?" he asked. Eddard nodded his head. "What I'm about to tell you must stay between you, me and your wife. I know that Lady Lysa has sent word to her, probably accusing someone of murdering Jon Arryn." Eddard's eyes went wide.
"How…" he started. Silas raised his letter.
"Frieda is a spy who works for Varys, but she reports everything to me and Cass as well," he answered. "I have been looking into Jon's death. He was poisoned. By whom, I'm not totally sure, but I have reason to believe that Petyr Baelish is behind it. He is up to something, but I'll be damned if I know what exactly." Eddard looked down, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Lysa told Cat that your mother's family are responsible for Jon's murder," he said when he looked back up to Silas. Silas nodded his head in understanding.
"Makes sense," he said. "After all, it's no secret that you can barely stand my grandfather for what he did twenty years ago." Silas noticed Eddard's eyes darken at the memory of the sack of King's Landing. "Stirring up tensions between the Houses Stark and Lannister is a sure way to start a conflict, perhaps even a war."
"But why would Lord Baelish do that?" he asked. Silas shrugged his shoulders.
"The slimy fucker has always been up to something," he said. "He is known to spread lies around the city for his own ends. One lie that you will not like is in regards to Lady Catlyn." Eddard tensed up at this.
"What lie is this?"
"That he took your wife's maidenhead many years ago," Silas answered. Eddard looked shocked, but that quickly turned to anger.
"That is definitely a lie," he said, his voice laced with anger. "I saw her virginal blood on the bedsheets after we…" He trailed off there, before calming himself. "Forgive me, but that is something I'd rather not discuss with anyone else."
"I understand," Silas said. Looking at Eddard he could tell that he was considering bringing harm to Baelish. Before he could speak Silas spoke further. "It is true that Littlefinger has bedded Lysa Arryn, when she was still Lysa Tully, but he has definitely not bedded Lady Catlyn. Even I know that your wife would never dishonour herself in such a way. But regardless there is nothing to be done just now." Eddard looked back to him.
"If Lord Baelish has murdered Jon then he must be brought to justice," he said.
"I agree, but we need solid evidence first," Silas said. "My Uncle Stannis is also looking into Littlefinger's activities. Frieda is looking everywhere she can as well. But for now we only have suspicions, no evidence." Eddard looked down defeated. "We can't say anything yet, not even to my father." Eddard looked back at him, looking like he was going to protest, but after a moment he nodded his head.
"Very well Silas," he said. Both of them stood still for a moment before Eddard straightened himself and began to walk away. "I'll need to speak with Cat about this, let her know what you have told me. For now though let's go and find your father. He won't like being left alone around the weirwood tree." Silas chuckled as he followed Eddard to where the weirwood would be found.
Jon Snow
Jon walked with the other guests into the godswood. He was feeling a little bit uncomfortable, and not just in the fancy clothing. He hated wearing fine clothes at the best of times. However, he was uncomfortable because of the King's announcement two days ago. He did not expect that. On one hand it meant that he would get to spend time with Arya and Bran, as well as Sansa and Silas. But on the other it meant having to be extra vigilant. He knows that he is lucky in how he is treated in Winterfell, with him being a bastard. But even Jon knows that most bastards are treated with scorn, especially by highborn, and it is worse in the south than in the North, with Dorne being the only exception.
As Jon walked up to take his place he saw Robb stood next to their father. He was dressed in fine woollen trousers that were grey in colour, and had a dark grey doublet on as well. His auburn hair had been trimmed recently, as was his beard. Lady Catlyn wanted him to shave it off completely, but Robb put his foot down.
"I'm twenty years of age, more than a man grown," he had said calmly. "The beard stays unless Cass tells me otherwise." Arya had laughed at that, and gotten into trouble as she was meant to be at her lessons. That was a couple of days ago now. Robb looked calm, but Jon noticed his brother's hands were shaking slightly. Their father, who was dressed similarly to Robb, put a hand on Robb's shoulder and spoke quietly to him. Jon had to resist the urge to laugh. He looked around at the other guests. To one side of the gathering were the guests who came from the south. Silas stood wearing his House colours with pride, his younger brother Joffrey in Lannister red (and still sporting a bruise on his right cheek). Their mother was dressed in a thick red gown with a fur cloak, which Jon realised had the golden lion embroidered repeatedly around its edges. Princess Myrcella stood beside her younger brother Prince Tommen, both wearing black and gold clothing with thick red cloaks, but their cloaks had the black crowned stag of Baratheon embroidered on them. To honour the Houses of both of their parents, Jon thought. Behind them all was Tyrion Lannister, dressed in Lannister red and with his face clean shaven. Jon had gotten to know Tyrion over the duration of the royal visit and has grown to like him. Other southerners were behind the royals, some Jon knew, such as Ser Lukas and the Hound, others he did not know.
Stood around Jon were his fellow northmen. He was stood behind Bran and Rickon, who wore their Stark colours proudly. Sansa, Arya and Lady Catlyn would be stood next to them when they arrived from Cassana's guest chamber. Theon stood beside Jon, dressed in a black doublet and heavy brown leather trousers. He had been clean shaven as well. He was currently running his hand over his jaw.
"Stop worrying Greyjoy, it'll grow back," Jon said to him. Theon shot him a glare.
"How is it that I have to be shaven and you and Robb don't?" he asked bitterly. Jon smirked at him.
"Because we have grown proper beards, not the fluff you normally show," he answered. Theon rolled his eyes and continued to run his hand over his jaw, looking all around the godswood as he did. Jon looked behind him to the other Northmen around. Greatjon Umber, the Lord of Last Hearth, was stood talking to Lord Rickard Karstark of Karhold. Ser Wylis Manderly of Whiteharbour, who was representing his father Lord Wyman, was laughing at some jape along with one of the knights sworn to his father. The Lord of the Dreadfort, Roose Bolton, stood stern faced as always while Lady Dacey Mormont of Bear Island conversed with her mother, Lady Maege, the ruling Lady of Bear Island. Many had come to Winterfell over the last few days when Jon's father sent out the ravens to the lords of the North about the King's visit and the wedding. Some of the lords had brought their daughters as well as their eldest sons. Lord Karstark's daughter stood beside her brother while their father grumbled. Jon remembered that Lord Karstark had wanted to join his House with House Stark by marrying his daughter to Robb, but the girl had failed to charm him. That was quite a few years ago now, and from what Jon learned she was now set to marry the heir to Hornwood. Both of Ser Wylis's girls had travelled with their father, looking all around Winterfell and chatting happily with Jon's siblings whenever they could. However, the youngest daughter of the Greatjon, Lady Sophia, had taken to standing close to Jon. The young Umber had taken an interest in Jon, despite his bastardry. He had to admit that she was pretty enough and had lovely brown hair that came down to her waist, but he was wary of earning the Greatjon's ire. Sophia did not seem to care.
"My father has no prospective husbands for me to choose from, so what does it matter if I lost my maidenhead outside of marriage?" she had whispered to Jon earlier that day. "Plenty girls lose their maidenheads while horse riding, and I love my horse riding. Or rather," she paused as she stroked her hand down Jon's chest, "I just love riding." She was certainly forward with her advances, and quite shameless with it. Now Jon stood a few feet away from her as she stared longingly at him. Jon felt his cheeks blush at the attention.
Just as Jon was getting uncomfortable Lady Catlyn arrived with Sansa and Arya. Jon's father looked her way and shared a smile with her. The women took their places, and soon all the other guests took their places as well. The Septon who would oversee the Andal ceremony stood just a couple of feet away from the weirwood, glancing at it nervously. Not used to Northern traditions yet, Jon thought. Probably looks down on our ways as being heathen. Jon's musings were interrupted when Arya stomped on his foot.
"Did you hear me stupid?" she demanded. Jon looked at her blankly, and Arya rolled her eyes in response. "I said do you think father and the King will allow the bedding ceremony?" she said in a hushed tone, obviously trying not to draw her mother's attention, although the disapproving look that Lady Catlyn shot her told Jon that she was not quiet enough. He cleared his throat before answering.
"I'm sure Robb won't give people the chance to let it happen," he said. Arya nodded her head.
"Good," was all she said as she turned around.
"I hope so, it's such a barbaric tradition," Sansa said, who must have been listening in. Jon smirked at the look of shock on Arya's face. Before anything else was said all other talking ceased, and everyone turned to look behind them. Jon heard Theon gasp as he turned, and when he saw Cassana he understood why.
Cassana Baratheon walked up to the weirwood tree, her hand linked through her father's arm. His black and gold clothing was a stark contrast to Cassana's dress. She was standing tall, her black hair styled in an elaborate southern style with plaits and braids. Her hair was held up, exposing her neck to the elements. Her white wedding dress was thick and heavy, with Myrish lacings on the sleeves and bodice. Her blue eyes seemed to sparkle, and her maiden cloak fluttered behind her. Her smile was big, and brought out her natural beauty. She walked up alongside her father, who had a smile as he walked to the weirwood. They stopped several feet away from the weirwood, and Jon watched as his father stepped forward.
"Who comes before the old gods?" Jon's father said, beginning the ceremony.
"Cassana of the House Baratheon, Princess of the Seven Kingdoms, a maid, true and noble," the King said in a loud and clear voice. "She comes to seek the old gods' blessing. Who claims her?" Robb stepped forward so he was stood beside his father.
"Robb of the House Stark, Heir to Winterfell," he spoke. "Who gives her?" The King stood up straighter.
"Robert of the House Baratheon, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, Princess Cassana's father," Robert answered. Jon's father then turned to face Cassana.
"Princess Cassana, will you take this man?" Eddard asked. It was silent for what seemed to be a long moment before the Princess spoke.
"Yes," she said, her voice calm and confident. The King then walked further and passed her hand to Robb, who took it eagerly. Jon noticed that his brother's hands had stopped shaking. Both Robb and Cassana then stepped up to the weirwood tree and then knelt. They stayed there and prayed for a short time before they then stood up and stepped back. Once they did the Septon stood in front of them.
"You may now cloak the bride and bring her under your protection," he droned. Cassana turned her back to Robb, who then removed her black maiden cloak before replacing it with her wedding cloak, which was all white with the grey Direwolf sigil of House Stark embroidered on it. Cassana turned to face Robb and they held each other's hands. The Septon then took a ribbon and wrapped it around their clasped hands. Jon stood and listened as the Andal part of the ceremony took place. "In the sight of the seven, I hereby seal these two souls, binding them for eternity, one flesh, one heart, one soul. Look upon one another and say the words." Both of them then turned to fully face each other, both smiling. As one they spoke.
"Father, Smith, Warrior. Mother, Maiden, Crone. Stranger. I am hers/his, and she/he is mine. From this day, until the end of my days," they both said in perfect unison. After that they both leaned in and pressed their lips firmly to one another, and the assembled guests clapped their hands in applause as their kiss deepened. Robb and Cassana broke their kiss and then turned to face everyone, both of them smiling wide.
Robb and Cassana led their guests out of the godswood, with their families behind them. Jon stood behind his sisters, next to Theon. As they walked Jon heard Sophia giggling, and looked over his shoulder to see her skipping up to him. Jon heard the Greatjon chuckle, and hoped it was not at him. They walked into the courtyard, and Jon stepped to the side.
"You coming Snow?" Theon asked.
"In a minute," he said. Theon then looked past Jon and then gave him a mischievous grin. Jon rolled his eyes at him as he turned to follow everyone else. Jon and Theon would be sat with the other wards and squires, so it did not matter when he got into the hall. He turned to face Sophia, who had a wide smile on her face. "My lady," Jon said politely. Sophia's smile seemed to get wider.
"Jon," she said. "I was wondering if you would like to dance with me once the dancing gets underway?" Jon mentally chastised himself when he felt like groaning. He looked around for any sign of her father. When he could not see the Greatjon he leaned in closer.
"That would be nice my lady, but I don't think your lord father would approve of his daughter spending time with a bastard like me," he said, hoping it would be enough to send her away without seeming to be too rude. However, Sophia did not seem to be put off.
"My father will be too drunk to care about whatever I do, so long as I don't shame myself in front of him," she said. Gods she's as stubborn as her father, Jon realised. Before he could protest Sophia grabbed his arm and began to drag him into the hall. "Now come on, or we'll be late."
Cassana Stark nee Baratheon
Cassana sat down on the seat next to Robb, exhausted from dancing for the last thirty minutes or so. They had entered the great hall three hours ago to begin the feast. Musicians played their instruments while the servants delivered the food as serving girls poured wine, mead or ale for the guests. Robb had tucked into the first course, as did Cassana, but after the second course they began to eat at a slower pace, spending time talking to one another and holding their hands. Her father had been downing wine as he was wont to do, while her good-father spoke with Silas and occasionally Robb. Her mother and good-mother were sat speaking with Sansa and Arya. Arya looked like she did not want to be anywhere near Cassana's mother, and she could not blame her. Myrcella and Tommen were chatting away with Bran and Rickon, while Joffrey just sat there with perhaps the most bored expression he has ever had on his face. Cassana looked away from him, for fear of making a scene. Tonight was her wedding night, and she would not let Joffrey spoil it.
Just over thirty minutes ago her father had ordered for space to be made in the room for the dancing, and then Cassana and Robb took to the floor to begin the dancing. They danced together for a good few minutes before swapping partners, Cassana dancing with her father while Robb danced with her mother, both of them looking awkward. Then they swapped again, Cassana dancing with Robb's father and Robb dancing with his own mother. Then they danced together again. As they danced Cassana realised that Robb had improved on his dancing, remembering three years ago at her nameday celebrations. Back then Robb was a terrible dancing partner, although Cassana had only laughed when he stepped on her feet. Now he was dancing with more care. After dancing together they again switched partners, Cassana went to dance with her brother Silas while Robb danced with Sansa. Cassana then danced with her Uncle Tyrion (which with him being a dwarf was always amusing), Tommen, and some of Lord Stark's bannermen. Lord Karstark was an average dancer, but he made her smile with his stories. Lord Bolton was a reasonable dancer, but very cold with his mannerisms. Lord Umber, better known as the Greatjon, was quite a lively dancer, and made her laugh. He was her last dancing partner before she decided to sit down. She looked to Robb, who seemed to be exhausted himself.
"Tired Robb?" she asked. Robb smiled at her.
"Just a bit," he said, making Cassana giggle. "You must be more tired than me after dancing with the Greatjon?" he asked. Cassana nodded in agreement.
"Yes, I am," she said. They both sat there for moment before Cassana realised that she had a question to ask. "Hey, why is it that whenever he looks at Grey Wind, Lord Umber gets all nervous?" Robb sniggered before he sat up straighter in his seat.
"Well, did you notice the missing fingers on one of his hands?" he asked. Cassana thought back to when she danced with him and remembered that he was indeed missing two fingers. Robb then explained how he lost his fingers to Grey Wind after saying he would leave Robb and take his men home. Cassana laughed despite herself.
"He just laughed after losing two fingers?" she asked in amazement. They both laughed for a bit before another question came to her mind. "So where was your father while you and Lords Umber and Karstark dealt with the pirates?" Robb let out a sigh before he looked up to her and answered.
"He was dealing with a problem on Bear Island," he said. "Something to do with increased wildling activity. With him over there it fell to me to assist Lord Karstark, whose lands the pirates landed on." As he finished speaking one of the Northern lords stood up and banged his tankard on the table next to him.
"Well now, I do believe it's past time to put these two to bed," he said. Cassana froze with fear as a few more of the lords laughed and cheered. Of all the things to happen on her wedding night, the bedding ceremony was one that Cassana did not look forward to. She saw the look of embarrassment on Lord Stark's face, and the frustration on her father's face told her that he was not amused. Lady Catlyn looked unimpressed while Cassana's mother just looked indifferent. I'm about to be humiliated and you don't care? she thought. Just as some of the lords started to wander over to their table Robb stood up. Cassana looked up at him and saw the look of cold fury in his eyes.
"And tell me, my lords, which of you shall be the first course for Grey Wind and his littermates?" he asked, his voice loud and commanding. At that Grey Wind and the other Direwolves padded across to them, baring their teeth and snarling at the lords. The lords began to shrink back while Cassana saw her father looking impressed. Out the corner of her eye she saw Arya smirking while Sansa hid her mouth behind her hand, possibly to stifle a laugh. When she looked at her mother Cassana saw the same indifference that she showed earlier, only now she was looking right at her. Their conversation from earlier today played through her mind then.
"You will learn to put up with your husband, but you must not let him into your heart," Cersei said to her. They were alone in Cassana's guest chamber. Cassana was just getting ready to have a bath when her mother came in and dismissed the other ladies. Cassana stared at her mother.
"Robb is nothing like father, mother," she said defensively. She had been expecting this conversation, but it did not make Cassana any more ready for it.
"It matters not my sweet child," the Queen said. "He will take you into bed and he will be rough, like so many men are. He will lay you down and think only of his own pleasure, not yours." Cassana turned away from her mother then. She took a deep breath to calm herself.
"So what am I to do with this wisdom of yours mother?" she asked, with a hint of sarcasm when she used the word wisdom. Cersei just stared at her eldest daughter.
"Spread your legs and hope he is quick," she stated. "There will be pain but there is nothing to be done about that. Just bear it until he spills his seed into you." Cassana scoffed at her mother's words. They had never enjoyed a close relationship, not since Cassana's seventh nameday at least. Cassana stood there, wondering where all this was coming from. Was it spite, or is her mother simply unfeeling? She shook her head to clear her thoughts before she looked over her shoulder to her mother.
"Will that be all?" she spat venomously. Her mother simply nodded her head before she left the room.
The memory of her last conversation with her mother left an unpleasant feeling lingering in her mind. Cassana tried to ignore it, but that was easier said than done. Movement from the corner of her eye brought Cassana back to reality. She looked and saw that her husband was offering his hand to her. She took his hand and stood up from her chair. Robb then looked at the men stood before them and glared at them. The lords all stepped aside, and then Robb led Cassana away from the hall, with Grey Wind and Summer right behind them.
It took them ten minutes to get to Robb's room. Through the whole walk Cassana was nervous. She wanted Robb more than anything, but her mother's earlier words plagued her mind. Robb must have sensed her anxiety because before he opened the door he pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her. They both kissed each other by the door, their lips moving together. After a few moments they broke the kiss.
"Are you alright?" he asked. Cassana nodded her head, but she still felt nervous. Robb sighed as he opened the door and led her inside. His room was large, with a comfortable yet sturdy looking bed in the middle against the far wall. A fire was roaring in the hearth just to the right. Cassana noticed a vanity was placed in the room, close to the bed. "I had the servants place that there for you," he said. "If you ever need anything else, just let me know." Cassana smiled at him.
"Thank you," she said before stepping up and kissing him. Robb deepened the kiss, closing the door behind him before bringing one hand to her face and the other down to just below her waist. As they kissed Cassana felt Robb's hand squeeze her rear, making her giggle despite their kissing. They stopped kissing briefly to gaze into each other's eyes. Cassana saw the longing in Robb's eyes, and felt her own desire increase.
"We don't have to do this tonight," he said. Cassana smiled widely before giving him a quick kiss.
"They will need proof that our marriage has been consummated," she said. Robb gave her a sly grin.
"You're making it sound like a chore," he replied, making her laugh. "Gods I love that laugh of yours." Cassana smiled.
"Are we going to get undressed now or are we just standing here until the Wall melts?" she japed. Robb chuckled as he stepped back to slide the bolt of the door shut, locking them inside. The Direwolves would stand guard outside to deter unwanted guests from lingering. Once the door was locked Robb stepped closer to Cassana.
"Are you sure about this?" he asked one last time. Cassana rolled her eyes.
"Oh seven hells," she muttered as she brought her hands up to Robb's doublet. She began to unlace his doublet, which encouraged him to do the same with her bodice. They both slowly removed each other's clothing, one piece at a time, frequently stopping to kiss each other. Eventually they were down to their small clothes. Cassana removed the last of Robb's clothes and marvelled his muscular body. He had a fair bit of hair covering his chest, but he was well built. He had a couple of scars on the left side of his body and one long scar from beneath his right arm to just below his hip.
"A token from one of the pirates that I fought last year," Robb said when he saw Cassana looking at it. "The cur decided to try his luck with me, but this was the best that he could do." Cassana traced her fingers along the long scar.
"What became of him?" she asked, not sure if she wanted to know. Robb gave her a slight smile before his face went all serious.
"Swung my longsword and took off his head from the jaw up," he said, making Cassana grimace. She shook her head to clear her mind of any gory thoughts. After a moment she looked further down his body, and then her eyes saw his hardened length. Gods he's big, she thought. Cassana blushed with embarrassment before she began to panic slightly. He is so big he will tear into me. Gods what if he… Her thoughts were interrupted when Robb stepped closer and began to kiss her neck. He trailed kisses down to her shoulder, making her shudder.
"Robb," Cassana moaned when she felt his hands squeeze her rear again. It felt good, she did not know why but it felt good. His hands began to travel up her back before resting on her shoulders. She started to kiss his forehead, and brought her hands to Robb's shoulders. She threw her head back when Robb nipped a spot on her neck next to her throat, moaning at the pleasurable feeling. After a moment Cassana giggled. And then she felt her shift sliding down her body.
As the silky material pooled at her feet, Cassana looked down at her body. She shuddered as Robb looked over her exposed figure. It was the first time that she had ever bared her body to anyone. She felt a little bit nervous at letting Robb see her this way. When she looked up to look at him she saw Robb smiling.
"You're perfect," he whispered as he closed the gap between them. Cassana leant her head back as Robb lowered his head, and they began kissing again. They pressed their lips against each other, kissing harder, more passionately than they have ever done. As they did Robb guided them to the bed, until Cassana felt her legs hit the bed frame. They stood there kissing one another for a little bit longer, their bodies pressed together. Cassana felt Robb's hard length pressing against her thigh while he continued to kiss to her. Soon they parted their mouths to breath, and after a few moments Robb started to caress her breasts, squeezing and kissing them. Cassana gasped and moaned as Robb continued with his ministrations, fisting her hands in his auburn hair.
"Gods, Robb," she mumbled as his kisses travelled down to her navel, the bristles of his beard scratching and tickling her skin as he did. Cassana bit her lip when Robb traced his tongue down to her thigh, before he then started to kiss her there. Cassana cried out with lustful joy as he began to pleasure her with his mouth. "What are you… what are…" she mumbled, but could not get the words out as the most incredible feeling overcame her. She moaned louder as she felt Robb slide a finger inside her. He continued to slide his finger in and out, waves of pleasure washing over Cassana. She began to feel weak at the knees, and she placed a hand on Robb's shoulder when she started to sway. After a few minutes the knots in her stomach unwound and Cassana cried out, her walls tightening around Robb's finger and then she was done. Cassana began to pant as Robb stood back up and captured her lips with his. Cassana giggled with delight when she tasted herself on Robb's tongue. Their kiss was brief though, as Robb stood back. Cassana looked up at him, still panting.
"Not what you expected?" he asked with a grin. Cassana returned his grin, cupping his face with her hands.
"That was incredible," she said as she pulled him down closer to her. She only managed a brief kiss before Robb bent down to lift her up and then place her down on his… no, on their bed. She laughed as Robb lay down beside her, trailing his hands over her belly before grasping one of her breasts. She gazed at him, and she realised that she wanted him now more than ever. All her previous insecurities and anxieties were now forgotten. "I'm ready Robb," she said. Robb leant in closer and brushed his lips against her cheek.
"Truly?" he asked. Cassana looked into his Tully blue eyes, and saw softness in him. Cassana nodded her head. She was ready.
Robb shifted himself so that he could rest his knees between her legs, and then he began to gently parted them. Cassana spread her legs apart for him and watched as he slid his hand along the inside of her thigh. After a brief moment Robb then took his length in his other hand and guided himself to her entrance. She felt wet, and she felt that she was definitely ready. Robb then leant down over her body, bringing one arm to her side to support himself so as not to crush her beneath him. Cassana felt the tip of his length brushing her entrance.
"I'm sorry Cass," he said, his voice with a hint of worry. Cassana nodded her head.
"I know, but the pain will be brief," she reassured him. "And it will be worth it." They looked into each other's eyes again, and Cassana lifted her head up to kiss Robb. As their lips parted Cassana felt his length enter her and break through her maidenhead. She winced at the brief jab of pain and hissed. Robb stayed still for quite a while, letting her get used to him being inside her. Cassana moaned at his presence within her. It felt strange, uncomfortable. But after a short time she was used to him being in her. Robb leant down and kissed her gently.
"Are you alright?" he asked. Cassana nodded her head, biting down on her lip. "If you want me to stop at any point, tell me to, oka…" Cassana silenced him with her lips. She adored Robb for being considerate, but it was getting a bit boring now. When she parted her lips from his she looked at him and gave him a wide grin.
"Just shut up and fuck me already," she said in a voice that could have been commanding if it were not for her wide grin. They crashed their lips together and after a minute Robb began to thrust himself into her. Cassana moaned as he thrust, the feeling of his length sliding in and out was beyond incredible. She pulled her lips back from Robb's and let her moans escape. The sound of her made Robb thrust a little faster. Waves of pleasure now rushed through her body. Cassana arched her back up, pressing her breasts into Robb's chest. They lost themselves in each other; everything else did not matter, only they mattered. She moaned and gasped while he growled and grunted. They moved their hips together, matching each other's pace. Cassana felt herself tighten around Robb's length. She wanted to keep on going for as long as possible. She needed to keep on going. Cassana felt one of Robb's hands slide down her thigh, and then he lifted the leg up above his waist. Cassana lifted her other leg up and then she wrapped her legs around him. When Robb thrust again Cassana felt him go deeper than before. She cried out as even more pleasure jolted her body. Robb was going faster now, and harder. Cassana enjoyed it all. She moaned as Robb thrust further and harder, making her tighten even more until she felt herself near her end.
"Cass," Robb growled out.
"Oh gods, oh gods, oh gods," she kept repeating breathlessly as Robb's thrusts continued. After a while Cassana felt herself reach her end, and when she did she gave a loud, almost ear-splitting shout of joy as she came crashing down around Robb's length. "Oh gods, Robb," she yelled out as Robb gave one final thrust and spilled his seed into her.
They lay there, their bodies drenched in sweat, Robb still on top of and inside her. Cassana panted as she gazed longingly at him. She felt his hand come to her face then, the fingers gently brushing her cheek. Robb rested his forehead against hers, a smile forming on his face. Cassana returned the smile. They just lay there for a long time, not moving from each other.
"That was…" Cassana struggled to find the right words. Robb simply put a finger to her lips before kissing her. A soft press to her own lips rather than a full deep kiss.
"I know," he said. He began to move but Cassana stopped him.
"Where did you learn to do all that?" she asked. Once she realised what she had asked she wished that she had not. It was a stupid question to ask. At once she feared for what would happen, for what Robb would do. However, Robb simply gave her a sad smile. "Oh, tell me you did not take a whore before me?" she asked. Robb gave her a strange look before he burst out laughing. When Cassana glared at him he stopped and regained his composure.
"Theon Greyjoy, my father's ward," he said. "When you hang around him all you hear about is how he likes his women, and how best to please them. That's all I've ever done is listen to his never ending muttering. So I suppose you could say that he has given me a few pointers, if you will," he said with some embarrassment. Cassana sighed before giving her husband a smile.
"Well, I had better learn what else your Ironborn friend has spoken about when it comes to us women and how best to please us," she said teasingly. Robb just stared dumbstruck at her before he burst out laughing again. It was a sound that Cassana loved. They closed the gap and kissed one another before Robb began to thrust into Cassana again. They made love to each other several times that night, stopping only to get their breath back before doing it all over again. When they were finally spent Robb lay on his back with Cassana sprawled on top of him, with one arm around her back while the other was clasped in her hand. Cassana rested her head against Robb's chest and listened to the rhythm of his heartbeat. Cassana eventually drifted off to sleep not long after Robb had fallen asleep. As she drifted off she realised that she had proved to herself that her mother had been wrong; Robb did not simply take his own pleasure, but had given her near endless pleasure as well. Cassana Baratheon fell asleep smiling, and when she awoke the next morning she would look forward to her life as Cassana Stark.
Frieda, the Lady of Shadows
The streets of King's Landing were nearly deserted, save for drunken inn patrons. Men laughed while women giggled. Down side alleys the sounds of men taking their pleasure with women could be heard, the moans of women be they whores or ordinary common women echoing from said alleys. Every now and then there was a fist fight, most friendly and organised, but one or two were anything but friendly. A man cried out as another slid a dagger into his back when one such fight ended. The killer started to run away, but not before Frieda saw his face. The killer had short dirty blonde hair, cold hazel eyes and a long scar on his left cheek. He was skinny but tall, and when he spoke he had a Braavosi accent. This was the man that she was after. Word in the city was that a Braavosi whose description matched this man's features had been stalking the streets at night, picking fights with men and then stabbing them in the back. Frieda had been looking for him for three weeks now. Any other serial killer she would not take an interest in unless such a fool happened across her. This man was said to have a connection to Littlefinger, so Frieda wanted to have a talk with him; one that would end with the man's death.
As the man ran down an alley Frieda gave chase. She was fast on her feet, and strong despite her small size. At twenty, she was an intelligent young woman, having worked for the Spider for many years, since she was about seven or eight. She was ten when she had been caught by the Crown Prince after she made a silly error while following him. Since then Silas and Cassana have made use of her, and after a while they all began to trust one another. She would not call them her friends, but she trusted them to look after their own. It was what Frieda liked about them; their love and respect for the small folk. She thought about what Silas would do to this man if it were him chasing him. The man knew he was being followed, so he decided to duck into a darker alley. Frieda smiled to herself as she knew this alley. There was only a solid wall at the end with only a window on one wall twenty feet up and another one on the opposite wall at the same level, but with solid iron bars in front of it. The alley offered little cover for hiding. The man had run into a death trap. She rounded the corner and saw no sign of him. She smirked despite the feeling of disappointment. She had hoped for a long chase, but no matter.
"You can't hide forever fool," she hissed as she stalked carefully down the alley. "I've been outrunning the Gold Cloaks since I could walk. I know every nook and cranny of Flea Bottom there is to know. I'm intimately familiar with the Street of Silk, and know my way around the Street of Steel. In fact I know all of this city like the back of my hand, so tell me, how do you intend to evade me?" There was silence for a time before the man responded.
"I don't," came the Braavosi accent. "I'm going to kill you." Frieda chuckled despite the threat. Stupid foolish man, she thought.
"Is that it? No 'I'm going to fuck you bloody before I slit your throat'? No 'I shall disembowel you and tear you heart out and devour it before you die'?" Frieda was answered with silence. She laughed again, this time it was a wicked laugh that unsettled many people. "I've been dealing with idiots like you for a long time, but I must admit that I have never met someone so bloody dull." As she spoke she saw sudden movement to her left, and a brief flash of metal in the moonlight. In one swift motion Frieda jumped back and spun her body around, slashing out with her short-sword as she did. Her blade sliced the man's arm from elbow to wrist, making him drop his dagger. In the next instant she stabbed the point into his left knee, forcing a scream of pain to escape his mouth. She kicked his other knee and then slashed his calf muscles on both legs, forcing him to the ground.
The man moaned in pain as Frieda kicked his dagger away from them. The Braavosi glared hatefully at her, his face contorted with anger. She stood five feet from him and knelt down before him, smirking at him. She held her sword in her hands, one on the grip while the other gently held the blade itself.
"Well as hunts go I must say I am beyond disappointed," she said to the man, who grimaced in pain. "I've chased down more livelier foes then you." The Braavosi spat at her, but the spittle flew past her head. "Well that was rather wasted effort now, wasn't it?"
"Ah, go fuck yourself," he snarled. Frieda giggled, which seemed to annoy the man as he tried to stand back up.
"Oh I might just go and get fucked after we're done here," she said when he gave up trying to get back onto his feet. "I would love to have a big man pound me and get me all wet. Hunting gets me all excited, and I sometimes need a release." The Braavosi looked at her with a look of astonishment.
"You're crazy to talk of such things in this present situation," he growled out.
"A situation of your own doing, let's not forget," she pointed out as she raised her blade and pressed the tip against the man's left shoulder. She pushed her blade into the man, drawing blood and making him wince in pain. "I know you are being paid to kill people. I must admit that I'm impressed at the man in question. Paying a mad dog killer to kill people who cross him and letting you run loose to do as you please. Very smart. Well, almost." Frieda pressed her sword further into his shoulder, and soon the Braavosi began to cry out.
"Littlefinger pays me to kill people who are a threat," he said. Frieda smiled at his foolishness. I didn't even need to do much to get him to confirm to me who his employer is, she thought. The man looked back to her and saw the smile on her lips. As he opened his mouth to speak Frieda withdrew her sword from his shoulder, blood spurting out from the wound. He yelled in pain and tried to lunge at her, but Frieda was ready for such a move, and so she threw herself to her right. When she rolled back onto her feet she heard a dull thud as the man fell onto the ground.
"So pathetic," she muttered as she stood up and wandered over to him. She put her boot on his back and pushed him back down into the filthy ground. "You are going to tell me why Littlefinger wants you to kill people and why he wants particular folk dead." The Braavosi gave a dry laugh.
"I'll tell you nothing, because I get told nothing save for names and times," he said. Frieda smiled.
"That'll do for starters," she said.
For the next hour Frieda interrogates (or rather tortures) the man. He holds out for a time, but every man has his breaking point. Soon he tells Frieda what she wants to know, and it is very little. Littlefinger has been using his victims for money and influence, and has them killed when they either outlive their usefulness or prove to be troublesome for him. He seizes their assets under the pretence of seizing assets to pay for outstanding taxes and debts or some other ludicrous reason that he can spin, and when that is not enough he sends the Braavosi to rough them up and convince them to pay. He confirms that he is a hired thug as much as a hired blade. Frieda smiles at his answers, but still it is not enough. She pushes her gloved fingers into another of the wounds that she has inflicted upon him and wriggles her fingers inside him, causing him major discomfort.
"Please, mercy," he cries out. Frieda frowns with disappointment as she knows she will not get more out of him. She has got some names from him but not much else. The names of lowly lords within King's Landing and around the Crownlands. It is not a lot to go on for her investigations, but it will have to do for now. Time to end this before a patrol arrives to investigate my handiwork, she decides. "I've told you everything I know," the Braavosi whimpered. Frieda pulled her fingers out of the wound and leant down to him, shushing him as he continued to whimper.
"It's alright now," she cooed. "You have done well my good man." She leant down further to his face, her lips a fraction of an inch from his cheek. "I believe you when you say you've told me everything." Her voice was calming, almost gentle. When the Braavosi seemed to relax she sat back up, and when she did she glared at him. "But it is not enough to save you," she stated coldly, her face hardened. As the man's eyes widened she pressed her sword to his throat.
"No…" he managed to get out before Frieda slid the edge of her blade across his throat. Blood gushed out of the open slit, and started bubbling from his mouth as well. The Braavosi gurgled and gasped as his blood ran out from his opened throat and his mouth. She sat straddled over him for a minute longer, as she had been for the last ten minutes of her interrogation. When the man finally stopped gurgling she stood up, looking down on him. His chest no longer rose or fell. He was dead. Wiping her blade Frieda walked away, leaving the body to be discovered in the morning. As she walked away she hoped that it would not be a child to discover him.
Frieda wandered the streets for another couple of hours, seemingly minding her own business while observing her surroundings. All around the city was quiet, but then again it usually was during the middle of the night. Frieda kept walking until she came across her destination; an inn near the road leading from the Iron Gate, perhaps a dozen yards from the square where all of the roads in the city met. She entered the inn's back door, shrugging off her coat and passing it to one of the innkeeper's daughters to clean. She tossed six silvers to her to clean her coat and the gloves that she had stashed within; the girl knew what she did and helped her whenever she could. It helped Frieda that the girl was a mute so she did not need to worry about her telling anyone what she was doing. After ensuring the girl set about her task Frieda entered a small room and took her boots, tunic and breeches off before replacing them with a dress more commonly found on tavern wenches. She then entered the main room and began to help the innkeeper with running the inn.
"You took your time Petal," he said, addressing Frieda by his nickname for her. Frieda gave him her most sweet and innocent smile.
"One of the patrons from last week cornered me," she lied easily. "He was all charming and kind, and when his breeches dropped I just had to help him pull them back up. Although it did take ten minutes to get them back up." The innkeeper rolled his eyes before picking up an empty tankard and cleaning it quickly.
"Well try not to fuck anymore of my patrons tonight please," he asked. "I don't want my inn being treated like some blasted whorehouse." Frieda gave him a toothy smile.
"I only do that with the best looking patrons," she said sweetly. "And I always do such stuff away from here, so stop worrying." She picked up a tankard of ale and passed it to the man who was clearly waiting for it.
The rest of the night (or at least the next hour) was quiet. A few Gold Cloaks came in while off duty and a couple of ne'er do wells showed up. One man who stood out was wearing brown robes and sat by himself. He was alone for a short time before another man joined him, this one wearing simple rags. They conversed quietly for a couple of minutes, but Frieda got some snippets of their conversation. She knew straight away that it was Varys in the robes, but she did not know the other. They talked in hushed tones, but Frieda learned very little. What she heard was about events within the Red Keep that she was already aware of, such as the appointment of Lord Stark as the new Hand and the arrangement of a rather expensive tourney to honour his appointment. The only thing that caught her attention was talk of a 'dragoness in the east' that had been found recently, but just as quickly had vanished. That can only be the last Targaryen that they are on about, Frieda thought. She learned no more than that for the rest of the night. The two men then left shortly after, Varys first, then the other. The rest of the night was long and dull. When the last patron left Frieda retired for the night and sat down in her room. She pulled out her sword and hid it beneath her pillow before laying down to get some sleep. Before Frieda drifted off to sleep, she thought of what the next day would bring, and whether or not she will be one step closer to bringing down Littlefinger and exposing his lies and plots.