21. STOLEN HEART
The morning came and she refused to move from where she was. Tywin's arm was around her, and she could feel his warm breath on her nape. His hand rested nicely between her breasts, and she smiled when thinking what people would think if they ever saw the Feared Lord Tywin snoring very lightly after taking such good care of her in the night before.
She calculated that half the morning had gone by, and the day seemed so clear, like the storm had never happened. Catelyn felt a moment of panic thinking that they should have left early that morning, but Tywin looked so peaceful that she dreaded interrupting his rest.
They were as naked as they would have been on their nameday, and they both smelled like her. Catelyn also felt a slight soreness on her lower belly, and imagined that accommodating her lord husband inside her would come as a surprise to her innards. She hoped, in fact she prayed, that his seed would find her hospitable and take root. The night before, she prayed to the Maiden for grace and guidance. Now, she silently prayed to the Mother.
"Oh, Mother. Give me the sign that will guide me back to your embrace. Give me this child to nurture, love, protect and guide."
-Are you awake? -his husky voice asked, planting a kiss on her shoulder.
-For a little while now, yes.
-Are you as hungry as I am?
-Starved. -she smiled, thinking that she had barely eaten on the feast- Shouldn't we be on our way home?
-Not today. –he pushed her hair away from her face.
-Are we disobeying the King's orders? –she asked with a smile, but still not being able to hide her preoccupation.
-You will learn soon enough where true power lays, my love. We are not to be ordered about, you and I.
Catelyn's maids informed her that breakfast had been served downstairs. They helped her to get dressed, in a simple purple gown, that had no corset so she could rest from the weight of her wedding dress. And she would also be presentable if needed. Tywin took care of himself, no servant needed to get dressed in a pair of breeches and a tunic, or to put on a pair of soft boots.
-My lady... -Maise, her favourite maid, called for her, before she could leave for her breakfast- I will keep this on your dressing room.
She referred to the maiden's cloth, and Catelyn still didn't knew what to do with it, but seemed selfish not to give it to her father. She was just very embarrassed by it all, barely recognizing herself. She would love to have that shown to Septa Myra out of pettiness, but that was her maidenhood, her intimacy. She couldn't help but to struggle with it being showcased anywhere.
She ate much more than she expected, and Tywin seemed just as famished. The cold lemonade was very refreshing, and she indulged on its sweetness. Finally he asked if she wished on going for a walk, and so they did.
The castle was still deep on its slumber, almost as if any urgency had dissipated after the wedding being officialised. Catelyn was curious about the state of the feast after the storm, but no signs of it were left on the gardens. However, Genna's decorations on the solar were still very much there, and Catelyn almost wished for them not to be taken away. What was clear was that the party had carried on in the ballroom, and the servants, also having enjoyed their own celebration, were just now starting to clean up the mess. Enya, steadily holding a half smile on her face, was supervising the work, next to the old governess, who seemed to have exaggerated on the wine in the previous night.
-Oh, there you are! -Enya said, coming towards Catelyn and Tywin, and holding her friend on her arms for a second- I wasn't expecting neither of you, but I am glad someone else is awake.
-How things developed after the storm started? -Tywin asked.
-Well... -Enya blushed and smiled- There was too much wine, steadily drunk during an extended period of time, by not that large of a crowd. So a lot of dance happened, the occasional indiscretion...
-Oh, and we missed it!
-But nobody missed you. -Enya stated- It had been a good hour until your absence was noted.
-I told you no one would care. -Tywin said looking at his wife- But tell me something, Lady Mallister... You look very awake, very much unfazed by wine...
-Someone needed to be the responsible adult.
-And Rowan? -Tywin raised an eyebrow.
-Is a very welcome help. -she winked to Catelyn, and took them away from the messy ballroom.
-What is all of this glass shattered? -Catelyn asked.
-Well, people became tipsy.
She was glad that the feast had been such a success, with or without them present. The storm seemed to have been very welcome, somehow. It was nearing noon, and the castle was still as quiet as she had ever seen it.
-I have a couple things to discuss with you, but it can wait. -Enya said- Go enjoy the sun, both of you.
-No, you two go make sure everything is in order. I need to check on my camp, see if things are under control. I must have exaggerated on the amount of alcohol sent there last night. -and after kissing Catelyn on the forehead, Tywin took his leave of them.
-To the oak? -Enya asked, blushing and knowing that whatever they were to say, it was for their ears alone.
Now, sunk into the freshly laid furs, both girls had too much to tell.
-How was it, finally? -Catelyn knew that Enya didn't wanted details, but she needed to know how Catelyn was feeling.
-It was really something. Painful for ten seconds, and absolutely blissful for the entire duration of it.
-Was he kind?
-The most loving he had ever been. You know we are not strangers to each other, that we had ventured a bit far for an unmarried couple, but last night... We knew we could do anything, that it was all allowed and it was not supposed to be a punishment.
-My experience wasn't as pleasant on my wedding night, and many of the talks we had with the ladies also indicated that you are not supposed to enjoy the first time all that much.
-But it was more than just enjoyable. I also bled, what made things awkward for a little while, and a bath was needed for both of us.
-Oh, that can be so odd. -Enya seemed to remember her own experience- What do you do, with your bed stained and your innards protesting the action? And there's a man there, and yes you love him, but he is still there, half proud and half disgusted by the sight of blood.
-Tywin was just proud, I was the one confused. I hadn't expected that, after all we had already done. It completely evaded me.
-So, what will you do with your maiden's cloth?
-Gift it to my father, I suppose.
-The only person who cared about mine was Septa Myra. I burned mine and never talked about it. Not with Everard marching into war the next morning.
-So much have been speculated about my maidenhood... Tywin convinced me that it is only fair to give it to my father.
-Is also a matter of pride for him that he was your first. No matter what anyone else claims.
-Indeed. I see no harm on that. But to start with, I was very much ashamed.
They kept silence for a while, and Enya, still looking worn out by the feast, lay down with her head on Catelyn's lap.
-I do not care that you are married now, but this is still my favourite place to nap.
Catelyn laughed, making sure to keep Enya's hair away from her eyes. It had been a long couple of days for both of them, ever so busy with preparations, with trying to look their best, making peace with the fact they would be leaving soon.
-I could not have done this without you, sister.
-I know. -Enya closed her eyes and smiled- I wouldn't have done this for anyone else. Maybe Ellie.
-And how are things with Lord Westerling?
-It was a dangerous thing to set his apartment next to mine, Catelyn. Rowan stumbles with words, but he acts very well. –Enya implied, provoking Catelyn to blush violently.
-You didn't! –she covered her mouth, half amused, half mad.
-Of course I didn't! –she exclaimed, awarding her friend instant relief- It was close, however.
She allowed Enya to rest on her lap for the best part of an hour, until she could notice that some more movement could be perceived on the castle. She was also exceedingly tired, and wondered if Tywin felt as worn out as she did.
-I think... -Enya said sitting up and rubbing her eyes- That we will need a couple days to recover from all of this. Unfortunately, it seems we will not be able to do so. The road ahead is long.
They made their way back to the castle, and crossed paths with Edmure and Saera going out for a walk, followed by one of Lady Genna's personal maids.
-Is father awake? -Catelyn asked.
-He is breaking his fast, even though is lunch time.
That was all Catelyn needed, and gathering courage, she went to her tower, pick up the neatly folded parcel and take to her father's chambers. She knocked on the door and peered inside, finding her father and her uncle, still talking about the feast, while finishing their meal.
-Oh, child! -he exclaimed, when seeing her- Where are your husband?
-He went to see if his soldiers are alive after all that wine. -she laughed, taking a seat between both men- How did you enjoy the feast? –she was served with tea.
-It was very good, indeed! -Lord Brynden smiled, making Catelyn notice that he was wearing traveling clothes.
-It was probably the best wedding celebration I have ever seen, my love. -her father promised- And no bedding ceremony, what made it more relaxed.
-About that, I was told that this needs to be given to you. -she placed the parcel on the table.
-Oh...? Oh! -he was also confused by it. That was usually a feminine tradition, and on Lysa's case that was not a thing- This is your...?
-Maiden's cloth. -she said- You shouldn't open on the table, however.
-I don't need to open it at all, my love... -he stood up and went to hug his daughter, kissing her head.
-The High Septon will, though. -Lord Brynden stated.
-He is welcome to it. It will probably enrage him more than please him, as it shows I didn't need to be fanatically dedicated to the Faith to keep myself chaste. Why are you dressed like that? –she asked, not containing herself any longer.
-I will be leaving today. –Lord Brynden responded- Men are needed in the front.
-For battles? –she asked, concerned.
-Squabbles.
-Squabbles that require Riverlanders?
-I promise you, child… -Lord Hoster said, claiming her attention- All is under control. I would not allow your husband to take you there if it was dangerous.
-When are you planning to leave? –Lord Brynden asked.
-I am not sure. Tywin does not seem to be in great hurry.
-In any case, I will give you your orders. –her father announced- As I do not know when I must leave. –it had been quite unpredictable lately.
-Yes, father.
-You need to make a son with him. I know this is easier said than accomplished. But for our House, and for his House, an heir is vital. You will feel the contrived animosity of the Western royalty once you arrive there. The Lords are not outspoken, due to your Lord Husband having proved that he will not entertain being questioned, but they are not happy with his absence. The only reason this is in any way acceptable, is due to the matter of succession in the West. He almost needed to name a suitable heir during the thick of this fight, and his options were considerably low.
-What you ask of me consists only of my duties as his wife.
-Yes, however… -he scratched his beard, looking reflexive and distant for a second- Maybe the image of wife might not be your best option at first. You will leave Riverrun carrying a title Ned and I managed to wrangle out of Robert for you.
-A title? –she was confused, as women holding titles were not very common.
-Well, everyone call you the Lady of Riverrun, now it is official. It can pass down to yours or Edmure's future daughter.
-Father…
-So when you are introduced from now on, you will be Catelyn Lannister, The Lady of Riverrun and Casterly Rock.
"Catelyn Lannister…" she thought, feeling the conflicting sense of loss and belonging at the same time.
-Does Tywin know?
-Yes. I believe he thinks you knew as well. My actual orders for you are very much simple. Arrive there with your colours, Tully colours. Always use your title and his name. You are his wife, but you are also an ambassador for the Riverlands and my proxy, it doesn't matter what happens.
-Yes father. –she bowed her head.
-But most importantly… -he continued- You will swear to me… -he grabbed her little hand- You will be safe and only surround yourself by people you trust. It will be hard at first, so we will rely on him to start. But after what his daughter tried…
-I will be safe. –she promised- I have time to establish myself. I will take my personal Household with me.
-I know you are prepared and that you are capable of dealing with all this. Now go ready yourself. –he stood up, bringing her with him and pulling her into a protective hug- I am the proudest among men. Those are my last orders to you.
She walked out the room followed by her uncle, still managing to see her lord father toss her maiden's cloth on the embers in the fireplace, action that shocked her. Lord Brynden was ready to leave, and promised her that he would remain in Casterly Rock for as long as she required, as he had done for Lysa in the past.
-Thank you, uncle. –she hugged him tightly.
-You listen to me, child. Follow your father's last orders, as you are supposedly meant to follow your husband's order from now on. You may believe you belong to your husband now and that you must obey him. And maybe you must. But when you walk out of here, you need to be the master of yourself. You must remain true to yourself.
-I promise you. –she said- I know what our Words mean and the different ways of honouring them. I will live by those Words as I have always done, changing and moulding myself to whatever the occasion demands of me. And now, by leaving my homeland, my duty on honouring our family goes even deeper. I have to hold myself as a Tully, because I am the product of this House presented to Westeros.
-Oh, child… -he took a deep breath and exhaled a long sight, eyes closed and a slight smile on his face- We have raised you right. –Black Fish kissed his niece on the forehead, said his goodbyes and left.
"Warrior, I beg for your protection. Guard and keep our men –my beloved uncle- with your sword, shield them from harm, point their way home. Take me home."
Tywin returned from his camp not long after that, finding his Lady Wife standing in front of a window and observing a long line of horses make their way on the winding River Road. She smiled, extending her hand and pulling him to herself. Tywin stood behind her after a kiss, looking through the window.
-We will leave overmorrow. –he said after a moment of comfortable silence- You need to select your personal maids, guards…
-This is already arranged.
-We will travel as you like. Light, Fast. With the intention of arriving quickly.
-Yes, my lord. –she smiled.
-I believe that with all sorted, we should just retreat to our chambers and rest?
-I believe so.
But rest was not what happened. Laying together after all the activities from the previous night was almost not possible. Every kiss was more intense, every touch was more intimate, and before they thought anything of it, Catelyn had Tywin between her legs, moving so quietly that was impressive it felt so good. She didn't need any apex, but she very much ached for the intimate contact. Yes, she was a bit sore, but it had nothing to do with what they were doing now. It was gentle, soft, full of kisses and caresses. When Tywin neared his orgasm, Catelyn just observed his expressions.
-I love you... -she said, when he poured himself inside of her and took her lips for a kiss.
-Oh, darling... –he panted- I promise that I will not pounce on you every time we are alone together, that I will get used to be your husband, but today it is still too much of novelty after moons of wait.
-I am not complaining. -she kissed him- I enjoyed our love making just as much as you do.
-I do not believe it is possible... -he smiled, tucking her against his side, accommodating her head on his chest, and falling asleep almost instantly.
Lord Hoster had personally chosen Catelyn's new private guard. Fifty men, young, loyal and adventurous. They all sworn their swords to her, in a ceremony on the great hall the day before their planned departure. All wearing shinning silver armour, with dark blue capes, lined in red. The Tully trout on their chest, and brand new iron swords to complete the vision.
Tywin observed her small figure standing in front of her Father's Great Seat, facing fifty knights of the Riverlands, delivering a heartfelt speech of gratitude and kinship. She was dressed in dark blue, embroidered in silver. Her hair braided richly with a beautiful amethyst band adorning her head. By her sides, her father and brother. She took that Seat for the last time.
Sir Lothar Bracken, the Commander of her Guard, called men to show arms. The sound of fifty iron swords being removed from their sheaths filled the room.
-Lady Catelyn Lannister, born Tully of Riverrun, Lady of Riverrun and Casterly Rock, Child of the Trident, the Heart of the Riverlands!
He smiled, as judging that by her expression, she did not expect all that praise. Cheers and applause followed the salute. He had never really experienced that kind of send-off before, not even the Targaryen celebrated their children that much. In his case, he had only penned a letter to Cersei ordering her to Kings Landing to marry Robert and left her not much long after.
-You still don't understand. –Enya side-eyes him, with a sly smile, standing next to him on the galleries- All of this… This is not an empty display of power or support. She cared for some of these men in the war. If not, their fathers and brothers. This room was an infirmary. When things got dark, she housed their mothers, wives, offspring. She broke bread with them. If you think that her Northern two men guard was loyal… Just look at them.
The men marched out, directly to their horses, to cover ground before their Lady. After them, twenty members of her household lined up in front of her, and she stood up from the great chair to handle them small gifts as a sign of gratitude for their service. The maids would come with her, but the rest were bowing and muttering their goodbyes. Enya made her way towards the next group to presented before her.
-Lady Winnyfred of House Erenford. –the old governess presented the first young woman to join her as a lady-in-waiting. Tywin still hadn't met them, but could tell, even from a distance, that this one enjoyed eating, looking plump and healthy- Lady Annora of House Shawney. Lady Petra of House Bracken. Lady Aella of House Whent. Lady Saera of House Frey. And Lady Enya of House Mallister.
They bowed their heads and curtsied at the same time, as if they had rehearsed it. She did the same, and walked down the steps to great them individually. Tywin wondered if she knew them, but it was clear that she did. Each Lady brought their own personal servants and would be protected by Catelyn's personal guard. After being presented as part of her court, they also left, joining the rest of the Household on their way to Casterly Rock, led by Genna. Enya, however, returned to where Tywin stood with her future husband.
-Are we to expect a vibrant court or a sensible one? –Tywin asked.
-It can be both and much more. –Enya replied, holding Rowans arm- What this court will be at all times, my Lord, its trustworthy.
-Good. –he answered, observing the event slowly come to an end.
He joined his wife as she walked around saying her farewells to some minor nobility that had come to Riverrun to wish her well. And he watched as she spoke to them, knowing them by name and asking questions about their children or passed situations that she had help adjudicate. Her hand was kissed countless times. He was treated very well, but even if it hurt his ego and self-perception, on that moment he was there only as her husband, as the man who stole the Heart of the Riverlands.