Chapter 23

"Has there been any word about Alina or Naeva?" Serafina asked as she walked arm in arm with her cousin. "Are they on their way?"

Ser Alton shook his head.

"I'm afraid not, my lady. Your father decided that they will travel with the convoy delivering your dowry. I am sure he wishes them to be safe," he added quickly as he noticed Serafina's disappointment.

"My dowry…" she murmured. "Please remind me, Alton, what am I worth?"

Ser Alton hesitated before answering.

"Your dowry is substantial, my lady. It includes gold, silver, jewels, and several valuable lands in the Westerlands. Your father wanted to ensure the alliance is seen as both honorable and advantageous."

"Yes…"

"I heard His Grace arranged two maids for you, are you happy with them, my lady?"

"Yes," she replied, managing a tired smile. "They are sweet girls. I just… I hoped that Alina would be here before the wedding. I know it was unlikely, but still."

Ser Alton gave her arm a reassuring squeeze. "You will see her, and Naeva, soon, my lady. Your father ensured their safety by having them travel with the convoy. It's just a matter of time."

Serafina nodded, though the anxiety still lingered in her eyes. "Thank you, Alton. I appreciate your kindness."

She was feeling melancholic, even though she tried her best to hide it. Everything was happening too fast. It felt like she couldn't breathe. All she wanted to do was scream. Not that she would ever do that, of course. No, she was a good, obedient daughter. And soon a good, obedient wife. She controlled herself and did what was expected of her. Disappointing people who offered her safety had never been an option.

She remembered being a little girl, looking at her father's face. Silent obedience from her had meant a pat on the head and perhaps even a smile from him. Tears from her had meant impatient annoyance and rejection from him. She had learned early on that compliance was rewarded, and defiance was punished.

Alton sensed her turmoil and gave her arm a gentle squeeze. "It's alright to feel overwhelmed, Lady Serafina. You've been through so much, and it's only natural to have doubts and fears."

She managed a weak smile. "Thank you, Alton. Your support means more to me than you know."

As they walked, Serafina tried to push away the suffocating thoughts, focusing instead on the reassuring presence of her cousin. Yet, her thoughts returned to her childhood. She remembered waking up screaming after a nightmare over and over again. She had forbidden her nurse to say anything to her father. He would have thought that she was like her mother. The nightmare was always about her. Serafina had been too young to remember her face, but the blood…

In her dream, her nightmare, she was trapped in a bloody room. She was screaming, but no one let her out. Just like in real life, screaming was useless. No one cared about that. Silence was the only way out. There was always someone holding the key. Deciding what her life would be like. Becoming what the person wanted her to be meant safety, comfort, and stability. It meant survival.

What Robb Stark wanted was the girl he had captured. The girl who had been completely dependent on him. A doll he could play with. That wasn't who she was. He was considerate at least, and he probably would be as long as she gave him what he wanted. The thought of constantly wearing a mask was exhausting, but she didn't see any other choice. At least she would have her own chamber. She could stay there with Naeva as often as her husband would allow that. It was a small comfort, but a comfort, nonetheless.

Then there was the wedding night. Just the thought terrified her, especially after the horrible examination. The humiliation still made her sick to her stomach. She had been exposed and examined as if she were nothing more than a piece of livestock, her dignity stripped away in the process. How could she possibly endure the intimacy of a wedding night after such a degrading experience?

"Ser Jaime seemed to be feeling a little better today," Alton stated after moments of silence.

"I am happy to hear that," Serafina replied. "I will visit him later today."

She hoped her visits could provide some solace to Jaime, who had always been her protector. As they continued walking, Serafina tried to shift her focus.

"Do you know if His Grace has made any further plans for after the wedding?" she asked, hoping to keep her mind occupied.

Alton nodded. "Yes, he plans to travel back to Winterfell as soon as possible."

"I see," she said softly. "I suppose it's for the best."

"Lady Serafina?" Lady Stark's voice called.

Serafina turned to face her soon-to-be good-mother and greeted her with a polite smile.

"Good morning, Lady Stark."

"Good morning. May I have a word with you?"

"Yes, of course." She paused and looked at her cousin. "Would you excuse us, Alton?"

"Of course, my lady," Alton replied, bowing slightly before taking his leave.

Serafina turned back to Lady Stark, maintaining her polite smile. "How may I assist you, Lady Stark?"

Catelyn Stark studied Serafina for a moment, her expression serious but not unkind. "I wanted to speak with you about the upcoming wedding."

"Oh. Is there something you wish me to do?"

Lady Stark shook her head slightly, looking somewhat tense.

"No, I wanted to ask if you have any questions about… the wedding night. I am sure someone has already explained what is expected of you, but since you have no mother or other older women from your family here, I thought I should still ask."

Serafina felt her cheeks flush slightly at the mention of the wedding night. She had anticipated this conversation, but it didn't make it any easier. She took a deep breath and nodded.

"Thank you, Lady Stark," she began, her voice steady despite her discomfort. "I appreciate your consideration. I... I do understand what is expected of me, but I admit I am quite nervous."

Catelyn nodded. "It's perfectly natural to feel that way. The wedding night can be daunting, especially under these circumstances. My son is a good man, though. I am sure he will be patient with you."

Serafina offered a small, grateful smile. "Yes, I am sure you are right, Lady Stark."

"If you have any questions or if there's anything specific you're worried about, feel free to ask."

Serafina considered her offer, but she really didn't know what to ask. The whole prospect of the wedding night loomed like a dark cloud.

"I… I do not think I have any questions right now. Thank you for your kind offer."

Catelyn nodded.

"Of course. If you have any questions later, I will be happy to advise you."

"Thank you, Lady Stark."

Serafina felt even more nervous after Catelyn had left. She couldn't do this. She couldn't. She felt nausea taking over just before she heard Lord Jon's voice.

"My lady, my brother would like to see you…"

She had no idea if he finished his sentence or not, she was going to throw up. Her vision blurred, her head spinning as she tried to compose herself. She barely registered Lord Jon's voice as he stepped closer.

"My lady? Are you alright?"

She managed to shake her head, taking shallow breaths in an attempt to calm the rising tide of nausea.

"I... I need a moment," she whispered, her voice trembling.

"Get the King here," she heard him saying to someone.

"No, no, that's…" She couldn't finish her sentence when she threw up.

"My lady!"

Serafina wiped her mouth with a trembling hand, feeling utterly humiliated. She could hear Lord Jon's concerned murmurs, but her mind was too foggy to make out the words. She barely managed to take a couple of steps before falling on her knees.

"Fetch the Maester!" Jon ordered before kneeling beside her. "My lady, we need to get you back to your tent."

She nodded weakly, feeling the world spinning around her. Before she could respond, she heard Robb's voice, filled with urgency.

"What's going on here?" Robb asked, rushing to her side.

"She's unwell," Jon explained quickly. "We need to get her somewhere she can rest."

Robb nodded, his worry deepening. He scooped Serafina up in his arms with ease.

"Hold on, Serafina. We'll get you back to your tent."

Serafina clung to Robb, her body trembling. She closed her eyes, trying to focus on her breathing.

When they finally reached her tent, Robb gently placed her on the bed. He instructed one of the maids to bring water and a cloth.

"Serafina, I'm here," Robb said softly, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "You don't have to worry about anything right now."

She managed a weak nod, her eyelids heavy. "Thank you, Your Grace."

"Robb."

"Yes, Robb…"

She closed her eyes, feeling beyond exhausted. If she could just rest for a moment, everything would be fine again.

"Well?" Robb asked impatiently as soon as the Maester came out of Serafina's tent.

"The lady will be alright, Your Grace," the old Maester assured him with a smile. "Surely, you know how delicate women are. Their fragile hearts can only take so much excitement. With the wedding and everything…"

Robb looked at him harshly. "You are sure Lady Serafina is alright?"

"Yes, Your Grace. She will be ready for the wedding tomorrow; she just needs to get a little rest."

Robb dismissed the Maester with a nod and turned to Jon. "Did Serafina say anything to you before I arrived?"

Jon shook his head. "Not really. I noticed that she seemed unwell." Jon didn't continue, but Robb could tell that he had something else to say.

"Jon?" he asked. "What is it?"

Jon hesitated, glancing around them to ensure they wouldn't be overheard.

"I think this is all a lot for her to handle. You have treated her well, but she was brought here as a prisoner. The change happened quite fast."

Robb's expression darkened, a mixture of guilt and frustration. "I know, Jon. I wish there was a way to undo the past."

Jon nodded, understanding the complexity of the situation. "Just keep being patient with her. Show her that you care about her as a person, not just as a part of an alliance."

"Yes, I know. I just wish she wouldn't shut me out all the time." Robb paused and sighed. "She is very good at that, you know. Always hiding her real thoughts and feelings."

"Yes, I have noticed," Jon replied and hesitated before continuing. "I'm curious about something. What was it about her that attracted you so much? I mean, besides her appearance."

Robb leaned back, rubbing his temples as he thought about Jon's question.

"It's hard to explain," he began. "From the moment I met her, there was something about her presence that drew me in. She has this inner strength, this resilience. Even when she was our prisoner, she held herself with such dignity and grace."

He paused, trying to find the right words. "She's intelligent and sharp-witted. During our conversations, I could see glimpses of her true self, someone who is fiercely loyal to her family, someone who's been through a lot but still stands tall. There's a depth to her, a complexity that I find intriguing."

Jon nodded, understanding his brother's fascination. "It sounds like you admire her strength and character."

Robb sighed. "Yes, but it's more than that. I just… I want her. Every part of her. I want to be the one who sees her behind her mask. I know I can't force it, but sometimes I wish that I could. And yes, I know how wrong that sounds."

Jon looked at Robb with a mixture of empathy and caution. "It's natural to want to be close to someone you care about," he said slowly. "But you're right, you can't force it. Trust and intimacy have to be given freely, and that takes time. Especially for someone like her."

Robb nodded, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "I know, I just… I feel like I'm constantly careful around her, trying not to push too hard but also wanting her to know she's safe with me. It's exhausting."

"She's probably feeling just as exhausted," Jon replied. "She's in a foreign place, surrounded by strangers, expected to marry a man she barely knows. It's a lot to handle."

Robb sighed again, ashamed by his needles complaining. "Yes, I know you're right. I just… I wish she would let me show her that she's safe with me."

"She will," Jon said firmly. "But it's going to take patience. Keep being kind to her, keep showing her that she can trust you. Over time, she'll see that you're not just another person trying to control her life."

Robb nodded, absorbing his brother's words. "Thank you, Jon. You're right. I need to give her time."

"The wedding is tomorrow though," Jon pointed out.

Robb sighed heavily. "I know, and that's part of what's making this so difficult. There's so little time for her to adjust, and it's all happening so quickly."

Jon was quiet for a moment before replying.

"I'm sure you can be considerate tomorrow. And maybe after the ceremony, things will settle down a bit."

"Yes…I wish I could have arranged her sand cat here before the wedding, I know that would have made her happy."

Jon frowned.

"Her what?"

Robb gave a small, rueful smile. "Her sand cat. It's a kind of pet from Dorne, I believe. She has one back home. They're small, wild-looking, and very loyal. Serafina's is called Naeva. She requested the cat to accompany her, along with her handmaiden."

Jon nodded thoughtfully. "I must admit that I'm curious to see this creature."

Robb chuckled softly.

"You and me both, brother. Serafina has a fondness for animals. She enjoyed petting Grey Wind."

"Where is he?" Jon asked. "Perhaps she would enjoy his company."

"Yes… He's probably roaming around camp," Robb replied. "I'll bring him here. Maybe it will lift her spirits."

Jon nodded in agreement. "It's worth a try."

Robb turned around, calling for Grey Wind. The direwolf appeared quickly, his large form moving gracefully through the camp. Robb patted him affectionately before leading him to Serafina's tent. Her maids stared at Grey Wind in horror.

"He won't harm you," Robb assured. "Leave us, please."

The maids hesitated but eventually complied, casting nervous glances at the direwolf as they exited the tent. Robb gently approached Serafina's bedside, Grey Wind padding softly beside him.

"Serafina," he said quietly, not wanting to startle her. "I brought Grey Wind. I thought his presence might comfort you."

Serafina opened her eyes slowly, her gaze settling on the large direwolf. A faint smile appeared on her lips as she extended a trembling hand towards Grey Wind. The direwolf moved closer, nuzzling her hand gently with his nose.

"Hello, Grey Wind," she whispered, her voice still weak but tinged with warmth. She looked up at Robb, her expression softening. "Thank you, Robb."

Robb knelt beside her, watching as she stroked Grey Wind's fur. "I hoped he might help you feel a bit better."

She smiled.

"He does, but I am fine, truly. I apologize for all the trouble I caused."

Robb shook his head. "You don't need to apologize, Serafina. This has been a lot for you to handle, and you're doing the best you can. I'm sorry I couldn't arrange your handmaiden and sand cat here before the wedding."

"No, no, it's fine," she assured. "I am fine. Thank you for your kindness, Robb."

Robb squeezed her hand gently. "I just want to make sure you're comfortable here. If there's anything else I can do, please let me know."

Serafina nodded. "Your concern means a lot to me, Robb. Thank you."

He smiled at her, then glanced at Grey Wind. "I'm glad Grey Wind could help. He is not this affectionate with anyone, you know."

Grey Wind gave a low growl, resting his head on Serafina's lap. She stroked his fur, smiling warmly. That was a genuine smile. Right now, it felt like a huge victory.

"Would you like me to give you some privacy?" he asked. "I can leave if you wish to rest."

She looked at him and shook her head.

"No, you don't have to do that, but I believe we need a chaperone."

Robb raised an eyebrow.

"You don't believe in Grey Wind's ability to protect you from any inappropriate behavior from my part? You are insulting him, my dear lady."

She let out giggle and quickly covered her mouth, looking somewhat guilty.

"Apologies. Of course, I trust his ability, but my father might not."

Robb chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "I suppose your father would indeed be quite skeptical."

She nodded, her fingers still gently stroking Grey Wind's fur. "Yes, he's always been very particular about propriety."

Robb leaned back slightly, his expression thoughtful. "Then let's make sure we follow the rules."

Robb stood up and walked out of the tent. He frowned when he saw no sign of the maids. Only the guard he had stationed in front of the tent was there.

"Have you seen Lady Serafina's maids?" he asked.

"Yes, Your Grace. I believe they were called to Lady Stark's tent in a hurry." The guard paused and cleared his throat. "I heard Lady Stark's maid mention some sort of issue with Lady Arya's gown."

"I see," Robb replied, trying to hide his amusement. "Could you find my brother then?"

"Of course, Your Grace."

Robb nodded his thanks to the guard and returned to the tent. "Jon will be here shortly," he informed Serafina. "It seems your maids were called away to deal with a problem involving my sister's gown."

Serafina smiled faintly. "I hope it's nothing too serious."

Robb chuckled softly. "Knowing Arya, it's probably something that requires immediate attention. She has a way of causing quite a stir."

Moments later, Jon entered the tent, his expression curious. "You needed me?"

Robb nodded. "Yes, we need a chaperone, and it seems Lady Serafina's maids were called away. Do you mind staying with us for a bit?"

Jon shook his head. "Of course not." He paused and glanced at Serafina. "If that's alright with you, my lady?"

"Yes, my lord," she replied. "Thank you."

He nodded, settling into a chair nearby. "It's no trouble at all."

Robb relaxed a bit, focusing again on Serafina. "Is there anything else I can do to make you more comfortable?"

She shook her head. "No, everything is fine. Thank you, Robb."

Robb smiled warmly.

"No need to thank me. But I would love to hear more about Naeva. Jon and I were just discussing her, and neither of us has ever seen a sand cat."

Serafina's face brightened slightly at the mention of Naeva.

"Naeva is very special to me. She's not just a pet; she's a loyal companion. Sand cats are quite different from regular cats. They're small, with a wild appearance and tufted ears. They're incredibly agile and intelligent."

Robb leaned forward, intrigued. "She sounds fascinating. If I recall, you mentioned that she was a gift from your father's friend?"

"Yes, he brought her back from one of his travels to Dorne. She was a gift for my nameday, and we've been inseparable ever since. She has a fierce spirit but is very affectionate with those she trusts."

Robb nodded, smiling.

"I can see why you miss her."

"Yes," Serafina nodded, a touch of sadness in her voice. "I do miss her. But I am happy to have Grey Wind here. He must be a wonderful companion."

Robb's smile widened as he looked at Grey Wind, who was still comfortably lying beside Serafina.

"He is. Grey Wind has been with me since he was a pup. He's more than just a companion; he's part of the family."

Serafina continued to stroke Grey Wind's fur, finding comfort in the direwolf's presence.

"It's amazing how animals can bring so much comfort and loyalty. I'm grateful to have him here with me."

"Direwolves are special creatures. They're loyal to a fault and incredibly protective. Grey Wind will keep you safe." Robb paused and glanced at Jon. "My brother has a direwolf as well. His name is Ghost."

"Oh. Is he here as well, my lord?" Serafina asked.

"Yes," Jon replied. "He never goes far. And as I said to my brother earlier, I'm curious to see this cat of yours, my lady."

Serafina smiled at Jon's interest. "I hope you get the chance to meet Naeva soon. She's truly one of a kind."

Robb nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Once she arrives, I will ensure she's well taken care of."

"Thank you, Robb," Serafina said sincerely. "I was hoping to prepare the chamber you so kindly promised me in Winterfell to meet her needs. Sand cats are not very fond of the cold, I'm afraid."

Robb nodded, understanding her concern. "Of course. I can make sure your chamber is warm and comfortable for both you and Naeva. Winterfell may be cold, but I will do everything I can to make it feel like home for you."

She nodded, offering him a grateful smile. He smiled too, gently taking her hand in his. He hoped that she would eventually feel more than just gratitude towards him. It would take time and patience, but she was worth all the effort.