The Young Wolf and the Golden Rose: A betrothal meeting between Houses Stark and Tyrell.

Robb Stark sat dutifully beside his Liege Lord and father with his mother Lady Catelyn on her husband's left. Across from them sat the members of House Tyrell, Lord Mace Tyrell. His wife Alerie Tyrell, formerly of House Hightower. Mace's mother, Olenna Tyrell, née Redwyne, otherwise known as Queen of Thorns. Finally, his daughter, Margaery Tyrell, the Golden Rose of Highgarden. Her beauty rivaled that of former queen Cersei and his cousin/adopted sister Lyarra Stark. Robb tried to remain respectful by not having his eyes linger for too long, but he keeps glancing at her. She wasn't the Golden Rose for nothing.

Margaery smiled to herself when she felt Robb Stark's gaze. She has long gotten used to the stares the moment she reached womanhood. From highborn to lowborn, many have been drawn to her natural beauty. But the way he keeps fighting to keep his eyes away from her was kind of cute. She wanted him to see her, to want her. That's the whole reason for this meeting her father requested from Lord Stark. A marriage betrothal between Robb Stark and Margaery Tyrell. Naturally, Lord Stark remained skeptical, but chose to honor her father's request.

"First, allow me to say that you've recovered quite nicely since the Lannister coup." Mace Tyrell stated as servants brought food to their table.

"It was a trying few weeks, I'll admit. I'm just grateful I'm still alive." Eddard said, glancing at his wife for a moment as their hands touched beneath the table. "Had King Daeron not invaded in time, they'd have killed me and my daughters. I consider it lucky."

"Indeed, and speaking of daughters, your eldest, or rather, your niece, has become Queen of Seven Kingdoms. Congratulations. Long may she reign." Mace toasted to them with his broad grin. The Starks returned the gesture with more muted reactions.

"Though I must say, you really fooled an entire country with that little white lie." Mace stated, not in a condescending tone as his mother glared at him.

"It was the only I could protect my sister's child. You would do the same for your children if someone targeted their heads just for being born in a powerful House." Ned stated, unsmiling yet polite as he regarded the Tyrells warily.

Mace nodded as he glanced at his daughter with paternal affection. "I would. I won't deny that." He sighed as he sat upright in his chair, "I also can't deny that I'm getting older, and my children are fully grown. I had high hopes that your niece the famed Winter Rose of the North, and your trueborn daughter Sansa would marry into House Tyrell. They are both beautiful young women who deserve only the finest Highgarden has to offer. But alas, the Winter Rose has fallen into the Dragon King's hand."

Ned remembered that betrothal offer all those years ago when his two eldest daughters received marriage offers from North to South. "I never meant it as a slight, Lord Tyrell. I only wish for my daughters to have comfortable matches."

"I hear your daughter Sansa's betrothal to the false-heir Joffrey has been annulled." Mace began with an expectant smile, "She's growing into a fine young beauty like Lady Catelyn. It is with a humble yet hopeful heart that your daughter joins our family, have her experience the true beauty of the South, and become the Lady of Highgarden."

None of the Starks looked surprised, but they did turn to each other, a silent conversation within their eyes. "You wish for an alliance between our Great Houses." It was Lady Catelyn who stated.

"That is correct. It is through our children that we can create a prosperous future. My son and heir, though he is crippled in his left leg, he is still a fine gentle young lad." Mace stated with a fond smile as he thought of his son.

"I hear he's rather studious and is a breeder of hawks, hounds and horses." Robb spoke for the first time, "Even if he can't become a knight or use a sword, I can respect him for his intelligence. He would no doubt become a great leader of your House and the Reach."

Mace gave the boy a proud nod, "Such kind and wise words from you Robb Stark."

Robb didn't smile, "My little brother is also a cripple. I myself have hope that he can still make a good lord."

"How does he fare? Your little brother." Margaery asked, watching Robb with sympathetic eyes.

"His mood is improving, slowly. But physically..." He shook his head.

"It's a miracle he's still alive." Margaery said with a small smile.

"Starks are hard to kill." Robb stated with a slight smile and added, "As are Tyrells with their thorns. Never pluck a flower that can stab you."

Lady Olenna gave an impressed nod, "The boy's wiser than he looks. You raised him quite well." She said to Eddard who allowed himself a small smile on his stony face. "Thank you, Lady Olenna."

"So, about the betrothal between your daughter and my grandson? Will you accept the match?" The Queen of Thorns asked, taking charge of this meeting.

Ned glanced at his wife who gave him a look of certainty, "He'd be a far better improvement compared to Joffrey."

"Little shit couldn't even wield a sword to save his own arse." Robb muttered under his breath, earning him a stern glare from his mother. "You were thinking about it too. Even their eldest son could beat him in a sword fight." His statement earned him a couple of laughs from the Tyrell family.

Ned hummed as he contemplated their offer, "It wouldn't be a bad match. After everything that has happened, I'm not sure if Sansa is ready for another betrothal."

"That's understandable Lord Stark." Alerie spoke, "I wouldn't blame her after what Joffrey nearly did to you and your family. But I assure you, our son is nothing like him. The complete opposite in fact. Your daughter will want for nothing with him by her side." Alerie said, eyes glowing with maternal pride over her eldest son.

Ned sighed, "I have no objections to this arrangement. I will talk to Sansa about this matter, and you should talk to Willas about this. I trust my wife and son in their judgement, and I'll trust you in the faith you have in your son. But this should be their choice. Sansa is still a child compared to Willas. Once she is fully grown, let's have them meet face to face, and let them choose for themselves and the realm."

The Tyrells turned to each other; it wasn't a complete 'yes', but it wasn't a 'no' either. "That seems fair enough. At what age would be appropriate for your daughter?" Mace asked, since he himself has a daughter.

Ned answered, "When she reaches her eighteenth nameday."

"Very well then." Mace agreed since it was reasonable.

Ned looked relieved then asked, "Was there anything else you wished to discuss?"

Now down to the real business. "Yes, we didn't come here just to discuss a proper match for Highgarden's heir." Lady Olenna began, "There is another match we are offering regarding your son and heir to the North. My only granddaughter, Margaery Tyrell, has come of age, and is unwed at this very moment. She is the pride of all of Highgarden. It's only natural that a child of our Great House marries into another Great House, one that has been around since before the Age of Heroes."

This is it, this is what the Spider warned Ned about the moment Lyarra married the King. Since there were no Targaryen's left to marry, Lyarra's strong familial ties to House Stark makes them a target. They knew their House, mainly their children, will be considered game pieces to get closer to House Targaryen. House Tyrell wanted Margaery to become Queen but was passed over in favor of Rhaegar's hidden heir who Daeron married to avoid another Dance of Dragons. Now House Tyrell is hoping to betroth their daughter and son into House Stark to raise their standing in Westeros and strengthen their ties to the Queen.

However, despite the Tyrell's ambition, from a political standpoint, the Tyrells own the rich fertile lands and are the second wealthiest family in Westeros. The North is strong, and its people have lasted for over 8,000 years. The lands can grow crops just fine, but once the long winter sets in, its inhabitants need as much food to survive the cold. Betrothing Sansa is still possible if she agrees to the union, but here on this very spot, where both parties are of a marriageable age, can truly create a strong alliance. Tyrell has what the Starks need to survive winter. The Starks are the gateway to the Tyrell's ambition.

There is also the matter of protecting their beloved Lyarra. Tyrells are no doubt stung by the very idea of a fake bastard becoming Queen before Margaery barely had the chance.

"We will think about your offer, my Lords and Ladies."

"Why come to me about this Lord Stark?" Lyarra asked as she sat to the right at the head of the table within the Small Council Chambers.

Eddard sat across from his daughter with Catelyn to his left followed by Robb. They explained the Tyrell's offer about wedding Willas to Sansa and Margaery to Robb. Both involving heirs securing their lines and strengthening their ties to the royal family.

"Lya, everyone knows about the rumors surrounding Margaery's desire to be Queen. They were willing to betroth her to Joffrey before Daeron came here. When you were given the crown instead of her, we anticipated the possibility of them wanting to create marriage ties through us to get them close to royal family, to you." Robb explained to his sister who sported both Targaryen and Stark colors.

A sigh came from the head of the table after listening to the Starks. "They make a valid point. We've made it abundantly clear the Starks are our most loyal and strongest allies in Westeros. And with your lack of experience in the South, they will want to take advantage of that." Daeron stated as he leaned back in his chair, relaxed and regal.

Robb whispered to his mother, "How did the King get involved in this discussion?"

"This is a family matter, and like it or not he's your family too." Catelyn sternly stated.

Daeron heard this but chose not to comment. "There are no more Targaryens for the Tyrells or anyone to marry. No one else to try and claim the throne with. The Starks are directly connected to you, and you're connected to me. Marrying a Stark would prove beneficial for them."

"Sansa would thrive happily in Highgarden if she agrees. I have no personal issue with Willas Tyrell." Lyarra stated since Willas isn't as ambitious according to Lord Varys.

Lyarra contemplated the possible marriage between her brother and Margaery. She's never met the woman personally, but she has caught her stares. There was a hint of envy, but she couldn't sense hate. Yet she also saw interest in her eyes whenever Robb came into her line of sight, the possibilities and benefits to having him as a spouse. She's from a powerful House and is well versed in politics.

"I think you should marry Margaery." Lyarra said, surprising her family and husband.

"My Queen, are you sure that is wise?" Daeron asked as Lyarra gave him a certain look.

"Yes, they have fertile lands to grow food." She turned to her father, "They know, and you know how important food is to survive winter. That's their greatest resource in the Seven Kingdoms. They want to get closer to our Houses, let them." The look in her eyes was that of authority. "Keep your friends close, enemies even closer. And the best way to end your rivals is by befriending them. That's exactly what we'll do."

Robb placed a finger to his temple, "By 'we' you mean me."

"Yes, and hopefully Sansa. Her becoming friends with them should come naturally. Margaery is skilled with politics; she can be a good asset. And brother, I say this with love, but you're better with war and strategy than playing nice with Southern Lords." Lyarra stated, knowing her siblings' personalities and temperament better than anyone.

"I'll pretend that didn't hurt." Robb said with a fake glare.

The corner of Lyarra's mouth quirked up for a moment as she continued, "You can also use this opportunity to keep an eye on her. She wants you to like her, she'll use her-what's the proper word to describe those Southern techniques?"

"Wiles." Catelyn answered.

"Manipulation." Daeron tacked on.

"Persuasion." Eddard nodded.

"Beauty." Robb admitted.

"Hm. Good enough." Lyarra shrugged, "Robb, you should also get her to like you. Since she wants to charm you with her beauty, charm her with your kind, understanding, personality. No manipulation, you're better than that."

Ned turned to his son who looked a little conflicted. "Robb, this is your life. But you also have responsibilities to both the realm and family."

Robb sighed through his nose, knowing what he must do. "If this is the best course of action to defend my Queen, then I'll agree to the marriage." He said with resolve, much to his parents' delight and surprise by his maturity.

Daeron smiled at his brother-by-law, "Then I suppose congratulations on your engagement is in order, brother."

Robb glared, still not used to the man. "Don't start."

Ned stood up with some difficulty due to his leg as Catelyn helped him. "Best we give the Tyrells our answer."

"Of course, we shouldn't keep them." Lyarra nodded as she watched her family leave the room.

"You handled that quite nicely my Queen." Daeron complimented his wife then asked, "Are you sure this is what you want?"

Lyarra turned to Daeron, "It is what needs to be done to pacify them. I'd rather have them as allies. Besides, there's still a chance they, mainly Margaery, will still try to get her bloodline on the throne. Any daughter she bears, she'll raise them with the hope of marrying them to any son we create." She theorized, seeing enough ambition and intent within the girl.

Daeron's mouth quirked into a smile, "You're already thinking about having children."

Lyarra returned his smile, "It is a Queen's duty to have heirs, we still have work to do." She said as she stood up and grabbed his hand.

Daeron's eyes clouded as heat shot through his body at her touch and words. "As my Queen commands." He said as they left for their bed chambers.

Robb walked arm-in-arm with his betrothed as they strolled the gardens. The heads of their families believed it would be best for them to have some alone time while the parents discussed wedding arrangements.

Robb was silent as he allowed himself to listen to his intended speak about her home in Highgarden and how she enjoyed dancing. Loath as he is to admit it, he loved the sound of her voice, it was commanding yet gentle, a voice of a leader.

"What about you? What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?" Margaery asked with her eager smile as she looked up at her intended. No matter what distance she was from him, he's just so handsome and beautiful in a wild yet elegant manner. A rare combination to find in a male.

Robb smiled slightly, "I'm just like every son of a Lord, sword fighting, strategy, archery and hunting. I'm a very boring person compared to what you've seen." He humbly said to his betrothed, being honest, but never boastful.

"I disagree, I hear you fought a Lannister army at the Whispering Wood. Your first victory at such a young age. Against Tywin Lannister of all people. A man who's seen more war in his life long before he was Hand of the King." Margaery stated with an impressed smile.

Robb felt a hint of pride at that as his smile widened. "Tywin underestimated me because I was young, and that was my first battle. I used that to my advantage. But credit goes to my father's bannermen who've fought more battles and have more experience. Their advice and wisdom are what got me that victory."

"Your sister also fought in that battle alongside you." Margaery stated, remembering the rumors she heard among the surviving Lannister soldiers who witnessed the so-called bastard cut their men to pieces. "They said she rode atop of a white direwolf and cut through the front lines. Others say she transformed into the white wolf and devoured the Lannister soldiers."

Robb laughed, "That couldn't be further from the truth. Direwolves do grow into the size of horses, yes. But our direwolves are not fully grown yet. While wolf's blood runs through our veins, we are unable to change into such. The most we have is wild tempers we must keep in check." He shrugged, admitting having lost some of his temper when Lord Umber drew his sword at him.

"Then which part is true?"

Robb sighed, "I wouldn't be alive without my sister. I may have come up with the strategy, but it was Lyarra who won that battle when she fought the Kingslayer and subdued him. She's a far better swordsman than me, and much calmer in battle."

"You speak very highly of her, your sister...cousin?" Margaery said, unsure how to properly address her betrothed's family member.

Robb smiled sadly, "To me it doesn't matter who she was born to. We were raised together, fought side-by-side the moment we were able to pick up swords and throw snowballs at each other." This made Margaery giggle softly at the adorable image in her head. "She's been by my side from the beginning, always the voice of reason. I had hoped she'd be in the North forever as my advisor and second-in-command."

"But she can't, she has a far greater responsibility here." Margaery stated as she watched her intended's expression become somber.

They found a stone bench to sit on as Robb sighed, "I don't know how I can leave her here in the South. Direwolves stay together as a pack in order to survive. As its alpha and eldest brother, I must keep all of them safe. My sisters especially."

Margaery gave him a soft smile as she rubbed his arm comfortingly.

"I'm sorry, I'm supposed to get to know you. Instead, I've dumped all of my worries onto you." Robb said feeling ashamed of how weak he seems to her, to anyone for that matter.

"You don't have to apologize." Margaery said, "I grew up with three brothers whom I love very dearly, and they love me back just as much. They no doubt feel the same way you do at the very idea of me getting married and leaving our ancestral home. This also helps me get to know what a loving and protective lord you will be to your people. It's fine if you want to tell me your worries. We'll be married soon, so it's okay to share feelings." She stated, being understanding towards the man who will be her husband.

Robb gave her his handsome and grateful smile, "Thank you."

His smile then fell from his face as he watched hers. "Are you sure you're alright with this marriage?"

"What do you mean?" Margaery asked, confused by that sudden question.

"It's just..." Robb sighed, unsure how to proceed with his explanation, "I know I wasn't your first choice when you wanted to get married. Honestly," He sighed again, "I don't want you to live your life being disappointed."

"Why do you believe you disappoint me?" Margaery asked in exasperation. Honestly, she didn't have any complaints about him. He's not boastful and he doesn't show off unlike the other Southerners. This kind of trait is quite refreshing to her.

"Because I'm not a king." Robb stated, watching Margaery's smile vanish.

Robb looked ahead of him and sighed once more, "I know you wanted to become Queen of Seven Kingdoms. It is a dream every lord's daughter hopes for when they see a prince and a crown. Even my sister Sansa, for a time."

It was Margaery's turn to sigh quietly, "Yes, I did want to become Queen. I was ready for it when King Daeron took back his throne. But he hardly looked at me, didn't even acknowledge me." She admitted, feeling bitter over that first meeting with the Dragon King that ended with her father screaming indignities at his blatant disregard. "Instead, he chose his older brother's hidden daughter, a girl he never even knew or met."

"I take it he hasn't apologized." Robb stated, already imagining his brother-by-law's interaction with the Tyrell's daughter.

"Never really expected him too." Margaery shook her head, "I wanted to have a chance. To prove myself and be the Queen that would be written in the history books that would revive a great dynasty." She swallowed her saliva, "But that honor goes to your sister."

"None of that was Lyarra's fault." Robb told her, not sounding angry. "She never wanted to be Queen. She only wished to protect her family from war. To prevent another Dance of Dragons. And believe me, she was not happy when she learned the truth about her parentage. She thought I wouldn't hear, but every night I listened to her cry herself to sleep over something that was far beyond her control as her identity was destroyed. She became Queen, not for herself, not to be written in the books, but to save everyone from another meaningless war." Robb explained rather strongly, surprising Margaery at the way he defended his sister and sovereign.

"I am jealous of her." Margaery sighed, "She was so beautiful on her wedding night. It's no wonder they called her the Winter Rose. The way the King looked at her," She shook her head, "I don't think he's ever looked at any woman like that. I knew I couldn't compete." She acknowledged. Though it stung, she wants to gracefully accept her defeat.

"If it's any consolation, Lyarra was hoping you'd be Queen instead of her." Robb said, surprising Margaery.

"She did?"

"Yes. When Sansa was betrothed to that little shit Joffrey, she hoped you'd visit King's Landing and get him to break the engagement and free our little sister." Robb explained, remembering the dread each of them felt at the very idea of Sansa being married to that little monster. "And when we finally learned the truth about Lyarra's parents and what Daeron wanted from her, she suggested you to be his Queen and partner because of your skills in Southern politics."

"She really said that?" Margaery was shocked and flattered upon hearing that come from a rival.

"Yes. She's very honest and loves the North. But unfortunately, King Daeron was adamant about having her as his wife to keep others from claiming the throne through her bloodline. So obviously we failed." Robb said, still feeling bitter towards the King for corralling his sister into becoming Queen.

Margaery was silent after listening to Robb's confession. He also wanted things to be different, to keep his family safe from people who wanted to hurt them. "You're making it difficult for me to hate her. I feel humbled knowing she considered me worthy." She sighed her admittance, finding her envy towards the new Queen diminishing.

Robb chuckled, "Good, that means I haven't been a shit brother." This got Margaery to laugh. Though his language was crass, she didn't mind it.

"No, you most definitely are not. And you're definitely not gonna be a shit husband." Margaery stated, feeling herself relax after releasing all her pent-up feelings.

"Thank you." Robb said before he asked again, "Are you sure you're okay with being my wife? There is still time to refuse. We both have duties to our families and the realms, but this is also your choice." He offered, wanting to give her the only chance to have her own happiness, even if it's not a crown.

Margaery felt something inside her flutter at his considerate words. He was offering her a way out, to make her own decisions that isn't just about obligations. "I don't mind the idea of being your wife. You're very different from everyone. I don't know if it's because you're from the North, but I feel you are the right one for me." Margaery honestly said to Robb.

Robb had to smile at that. "The North is different. We don't have the beauty and splendor Highgarden boasts about. It's not as warm either." He then smiled fondly as he thought of his homeland, "But the cold winter makes you appreciate what others take for granted. A warm hearth and the closeness of family. It's one of the main reasons why House Stark ruled the North for 8,000 years. We are hardened for the sake of surviving winter. It's not a place Southerners enjoy."

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but your mother, Lady Catelyn, was a Tully, a Southerner just like me." Margaery reminded, "Yet seeing her now, can you honestly say that Southerners aren't capable of adapting to the cold North and finding joy in the winter."

Robb couldn't find the right words to counteract that statement.

Margaery took his hand and held it tenderly. "I know what is expected of me, of every noble's daughter. We're still young, but we can learn together. With time, I believe you and I can grow to love each other the way both of our parents did."

Robb gave Margaery that beautiful smile, "I would like that as well. I do want to give this a try. I also believe we can work together to lead House Stark as a united front. You know people better than I do, especially those in the South, that kind of insight is remarkable in a leader."

Margaery smiled at the Young Wolf, "Even if I can't be Queen, I want to be happy living with you as your wife and helping you however I can, if you'll have me."

Robb brought her hand up and kissed her soft knuckles like a gentleman. "I am all yours my lady, from here on and 'til the end of my days."

Margaery felt that fluttery feeling return as she gazed into the soft and kind eyes of the Young Wolf. Even if this was for political alliances, she wants to enjoy her marriage with a respectable man who won't see her as an heir producing noble. Robb Stark is most definitely not like the Southern nobles who saw her as such. Since the moment she saw him at the King and Queen's wedding, she felt deep down that they can work together, not just for the benefit of their Houses, but for themselves.

She brought their joined hands to her face and rested his fingers on her cheek. The coolness of his skin felt nice in the almost unbearable heat in King's Landing.

"And I am yours my lord." Margaery vowed as she relished the feeling of his hand on her flesh.

Robb felt as though something awakened within him as he admired the smooth softness of his betrothed's skin.

This moment of intimacy made them realize their wedding night cannot come any sooner.

I know this one didn't have much Lyarra and Daeron, but I wanted to give everyone some sweet Robb and Margaery time since I established in earlier chapters that they are married. I wanted to give a little backstory on how they became a couple. I'm sorry if any of the characters are a bit ooc, I did my best.

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed it.