Storm's End 298 AC.
Arianne Martell
The Princess of Dorne was the first to rise from her seat, as the cheers and applause from the stands grew louder as the winner of the Melee, Steffon Baratheon stood in front of the crowd.
Arianne's smile widened as she watched her soon to be husband tie his favor to his wrist for all to see. Her father and uncle Oberyn had big smiles of satisfactions on their faces as they watched the Golden Lion of House Lannister be defeated by a fourteen-year-old boy.
Myrcella and Tommen also rose from their seats and cheered excitedly at their brother's victory, but none as loud as King Robert.
"Did you see that?!" the King boasted. "My son defeated the Kingslayer!" he continued laughing earning angry glares from the Queen and Lord Tywin. "My son! A true Baratheon, showed everyone in the Arena why Ours is the Fury!" he continued to boast and hurried down from the stands, almost tripping several times. Arianne suppressed the urge to laugh at the Fat King's words.
"So, Lord Tyrion." she heard her uncle Oberyn says. "When can I expect payment for the five thousand gold dragons?" the dwarf of Castely Rock looked annoyed and embarrassed by such a question. "After all, a Lannister always pays his debts. Isn't that so?" his uncle's smile widened as he saw the Old Lion's gaze.
"You will have your money, Prince Oberyn, I promise you that." said the dwarf forcing a smile on his deformed face. "A Lannister always pays his debts after all." The little imp tried to sound intimidating, but her uncle just smiled maliciously.
Arianne turned her gaze back to the stands and she like everyone in the stands was surprised to see the King giving his son the title of knight. She looked at the King's brothers to see a look of approval on their faces.
Renly Baratheon was the first to celebrate his nephew's new knighthood by shouting:
"The Knight of Storms!" said the youngest of the Baratheon brothers, who was followed by the rest of the nobles of the Stormlands, the Crownlands, Dorne, the Riverlands and the Vale. Arianne watched her brothers and cousins join in the cheers, as well as her father, her mother, her uncle Oberyn and Ellaria.
"The Knight of Storms!"
"The Knight of Storms!"
"The Knight of Storms!"
Arianne saw the boy Joffrey turn red with jealousy as he watched everyone celebrate his brother's victory and how he won his knighthood for the King himself.
A little while later they came down from the steps, and Arianne went straight to see her soon to be husband.
She found him in a tent with Myrcella and Tommen who had his lion Ser Pounce with him, two of the Stark children were there as well: his squire Bran who was helping him take off his armor, the little girl Arya Stark who was petting Tommen's lion.
"Congratulations Ser Steffon." she said entering the tent, everyone turned to look at her and her soon to be husband gave her a huge smile.
"Thank you, my love." he said coming closer to put his arm around her waist and kissed her, much to the discomfort of the children present. "Although I couldn't have done it without the help of my squire Bran Stark." he said looking at the boy who smiled.
"Well done Lord Stark." she said looking at the boy who blushed to her amusement. "My husband to be, he is lucky to have you as his squire."
"My princess is right." Steffon said giving her another kiss. "Would you like to stay after the wedding Bran?" the boy looked at Steffon surprised. "Now that I'm a knight I'll need an official squire." The Stark boy smiled. "Tommen will also be my squire, but kings, princes and famous knights usually have more than one. I could talk your parents into having you stay at Storm's End. So, what do you say?"
"Yes, I'd love to!" said the excited boy almost jumping for joy but then calmed down. "I mean... yes, thank you for that honor my prince."
Arianne laughed, as did Steffon. "The honor is mine, Lord Stark." Steffon said looking at the boy.
"Can I stay and be a knight too?!" said the Stark girl. "I know how to ride and use a sword."
"Oh really?" Arianne laughed. "Ladies aren't supposed to use swords." The Stark girl got angry.
"I'm not a lady." she said with determination. "And I already have a sword." The Stark boy looked at his sister in surprise. "Jon gave it to me, before he went to the Wall." the girl clarified to her brother.
"Obara would like a new apprentice. Don't you think?" Arianne looked at her husband to be who was thoughtful.
"You're right my love." Steffon said looking at the Stark girl who had a big smile on her face. "Why don't you go tell your parents the good news?" the two Stark children ran excitedly to find their parents.
"My father and uncle were quite happy about your victory." she said
"I imagine so." Steffon said laughing. "The look on the faces of my mother and grandfather were a sign of that." she laughed at that. "But enough of this, let's get changed for the lunch feast, I'm starving." he kissed her.
"Will you participate in the jousts Steffon?" asked the boy Tommen looking at his brother.
"No, I won't, I'm not good enough yet." he said ruffling his brother's hair who smiled.
"Who do you think will win?" asked the girl Myrcella.
"Ser Loras probably, he's the best with the Lance and an excellent rider."
"You say that because you haven't seen my uncle ride." she said smiling looking into his eyes.
Steffon raised an eyebrow and smiled "Do you want to bet, my love?"
"What do you have in mind?" she said wrapping her arms around his neck. However, Steffon seemed to remember that his little siblings were there with them.
"I'll tell you after the feast." He gave her another kiss.
A little while later the four of them parted and went to prepare and change for the feast.
The midday feast was quite good, much to her joy, Steffon ordered the Dornish dishes to be served first.
"I want to make you happy Arianne." He told her and then kissed her on the lips. Arianne smiled at him and then saw the Queen give him a look of hatred and envy.
He is mine now, Your Grace. She would have wanted to tell her to the blond Queen but she only smiled and raised her cup of fruit juice to her. The color of the juice was similar to that of wine, so Arianne hoped that the guests would not notice that she was not drinking wine.
Arianne watched with satisfaction as the guests enjoyed the feast, listening to the music of the minstrels, watching and applauding the tricks of the acrobats and jugglers they had hired as entertainment. Many of the guests, especially the young ladies, applauded with joy and admiration at the tricks shown. The wedding looked like a Royal Wedding, in everything but name.
The gold they had spent had been worth every coin, looking at how beautifully decorated everything was.
Her uncle had suggested to her and Steffon that they make sure everything looked as perfect and luxurious as possible, as a way of showing the Kingdom the power of the union between their houses, so the banners of the crowned stag the red sun spear were waving everywhere. From the look of amazement everyone had, Arianne knew that goal was met.
Her father had given them an approving look from his seat, obviously amazed by the magnitude of the spectacle they were putting on.
Soon after, the guests began to give them their gifts.
Lord Renly was the first, giving her a beautiful Myrish violet silk dress, and Steffon a cloak, gloves and a suit of the same silk with the colors and symbol of House Baratheon.
Both thanked to the youngest of the King's brothers. Steffon gave him a hug and Arianne a kiss in the cheek
Lord Stannis and his wife gave them a set of golden goblets adorned with rubies and a huge golden chalice that was even more impressive. Steffon thanked them both with a hug, showing once again that he considered them to be his true parents, much to the annoyance of the Queen and the Fat King.
Lord Stark and his wife Catelyn gave them two bows made from the wood of a Northern Weirwood tree, as well as two beautiful winter coats, which were made by the eldest Stark girl. The two thanked him for his gifts, the Stark girl turning bright red as Steffon thanked her for the coats by kissing her hand.
The Tyrells gifted them two beautiful stallions, one white with a saddle and cloth of House Martell and the other was black with a saddle and cloth of House Baratheon. Arianne and Steffon thanked Willas for the gifts as they knew correctly that it was, he, who brought them.
Lord Yon Royce showed up to deliver not only his gift, but also that of Lord Jon Arryn, who was absent. The Lord of Runestone gave Steffon a suit of gleaming tempered steel armor, adorned with the colors of House Baratheon, while he gave her three dresses in the characteristic style of the women of the Vale. The gift that Jon Arryn sent them was peculiar; they were two exotic birds. One called the Phoenix, which had red feathers and black eyes, which was for Steffon, and an eagle which had black and white feathers, that was for her.
Steffon named the Phoenix, Oryx, in honor of the founder of House Baratheon, which earned him a laugh and cheers of approval from his father, his uncle Renly and a nod from Stannis. But the Princess of Dorne decided to name her eagle Syrax in honor of Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen's dragon.
Tywin Lannister gifted them two chests of gold, while his brother Kevan gifted them two chairs of gold, to be used at tonight's banquet, Arianne thanked them respectfully for their gifts.
The imp gave them a collection of books that were quite rare to find
Then came the gifts from his family, his uncle Oberyn gave him some beautiful gold bracelets in the shape of a snake and Stefon two gold rings in the shape of a crowned stag. While his father gave him a beautiful gold necklace in the shape of a sun, obviously to reaffirm his title as the Princess of the Sun. She gave her father and uncle a hug as well as a kiss on the cheek in gratitude for the gifts.
But the most impressive, as well as unexpected, gifts were those given to them by the King, who approached with two servants carrying two wooden boxes, one larger than the other.
"For you, my son." said the King opening the largest wooden box, revealing a shiny sword with a gold pommel in the shape of a deer.
Steffon looked at the sword in surprise before taking it. "This is Valyrian steel." Steffon said and all the guests watched in amazement.
"Yes, it is." The King said smiling. "This sword was given to me after I took the Iron Throne, but it was always more of an ornament to me. You know I've always preferred my war hammer." he said this last with a laugh. "Who better to wield this sword than a Prince of House Baratheon who not only became a knight at fourteen, but did so by defeating the Golden Lion of House Lannister." At this last, Arianne heard a laugh from her uncle Oberyn.
The Lannisters did not seem happy with this, the Queen and Lord Tywin were upset by the Fat King's comments, while the brat Joffrey looked like he wanted to protest his brother receiving a Valyrian Steel sword, The Queen also looked like she wanted to protest, while Lord Tywin looked at the situation with curiosity and a hint of discomfort. The imp just seemed amused at the situation. He's already drunk. Arianne thought.
Steffon took the sword and looked at it then got on his knees sticking the sword into the ground as if he was about to make an oath in front of his father. "You honor me. I swear that I will defend your name and your tradition. I will work every day of my life to protect and strengthen the power of House Baratheon. I will be worthy of you, father. I promise."
Arianne smiled and noticed that the face of the Queen and her twin the Kingslayer were nervous at this statement. While Lord Tywin had a look that was difficult to decipher.
The King just laughed at his son's words. "Damn it, boy get up and give your father a hug." Steffon did so and hugged his father.
"The best swords need names, so what will you name yours?"
"Stormbringer." Steffon answered without hesitation, admiring the sword in his hand. Once again, his uncles nodded in approval, as did the Stormlords.
"That's a good name for a sword." the King said and then took another smaller box and opened it revealing a beautiful Valyrian steel dagger. "My son's chosen bride also deserves a gift."
"They say that the women of Dorne know how to fight so I don't think that would be an inappropriate gift for a Dornish princess." the King said awkwardly.
Arianne looked at the dagger and had to add that it was just as beautiful as the sword that Steffon had received. This is Valyrian Steel too, she realized. "I thank you for this wonderful gift, Your Grace." she said and the King nodded.
Steffon led her back to their seats, she looked at her family, she could see that her father and uncle were pleased, not only by the King's gifts, but by the awe-inspiring effect they had had on the guests.
After the midday feast was over, everyone returned to the outskirts of the castle, to watch the Jousts. This time Steffon sat next to her on the royal steps, holding her hand, to which she smiled and gave him a kiss, earning another annoyed look from the Queen, as well as a growl from the brat Joffrey.
Arianne heard the excited murmurs from everyone present, especially the Stark children who seemed quite happy, apparently having never witnessed a tournament before.
As the jousting began Arianne watched as her uncle Oberyn quickly knocked Patreck Mallister off his horse. Ser Barristan, Ser Loras, Sandor Clegane, Thoros of Myr and the Kingslayer also won in the first round. With Sandor Clegane not only knocking down his opponent, but killing him as well, who was none other than Ser Boros Blunt of the Kingsguard. Steffon had a strange look of satisfaction on his handsome face.
Did he order the Hound to do it? She wondered, as she watched Steffon's uncle Stannis smile slightly at what had happened. The King and Queen had a strange look on their faces, as if they wanted to say something, but didn't. She saw that the brat Joffrey had a look of satisfaction on his face, apparently deeply enjoying the bloodshed.
Arianne turned her eyes to the Arena and saw Ser Brynden Tully defeat his opponent, who was a knight from the Westerlands. As did Thoros of Myr who defeated a knight from the Stormlands. The Blackfish won another round by knocking his opponent off his horse, Ser Arys of the Kingsguard. While Ser Barristan knocked down Thoros of Myr and Jaime Lannister knocked down Sandor Clegane after five attempts.
Arianne saw the Tyrells celebrate the victory of Ser Loras Tyrell after he knocked down Ser Balon Swann on his seventh attempt. The Dornish princess tensed as she realized that the next match was between her uncle Oberyn and her former lover Ser Gerold Dayne 'Darkstar'. Ellaria seemed slightly nervous, while her father had his characteristic impassive look on his face. Steffon noticed her nervousness and squeezed her hand and kiss it, to which she thanked him with a small smile.
Her uncle's confrontation with the knight of House Dayne was fierce, neither of them was able to take down the other, until after the eighth attempt the Red Viper of Dorne took down the Darkstar. Arianne felt relieved for a moment until she noticed that Gerold Dayne refused to lose and made a sign to his squire to hand him his sword, her uncle found this amusing and got off his horse to take his characteristic spear and thus, the two most dangerous men of Dorne faced each other in combat.
Both his uncle and the Darkstar moved with impressive fluidity, with Gerold living up to the name Dayne due to the fluidity with which he handled his sword, his uncle Oberyn was not far behind and moved with his natural skill, dodging the blows and returning them with the same intensity, for a moment Arianne thought that her uncle was playing with him, his cousins just limited themselves to smile with satisfaction. His uncle Oberyn finally moved his spear in such a way that he managed to disarm Ser Gerold, but he refused to give up and took out his daggers, not that they were of much use to him since the Red Viper managed to dodge his attacks and then cut his neck with a cut of her spear. The crowd gasped at this, his cousins smiled with satisfaction, Steffon was surprised, while Ellaria was relieved; Arianne looked at her father who only limited himself to nod to his brother in approval. And for some reason Queen Cersei had a disappointed look on her face.
There was some murmuring after that, mostly among the Dornish bannermen, but the jousting continued. Ser Gerold Dayne's squires carried his body.
Ser Barristan faced Ser Brynden Tully, the two most veteran men in the tournament, though neither rode as such, they had six matches, with each of them winning three. In the end Ser Barristan took the victory in the seventh. The old knight of House Tully greeted his rival respectfully and congratulating him on his victory.
The next match was between his uncle and Ser Loras Tyrell.
"Who do you think will win?" Arianne asked her betrothed curiously.
"Ser Loras." he answered without thinking and Arianne looked at him raising an eyebrow.
"I was hoping you would have more faith in your future uncle by law."
Steffon smiled. "Believe me my love, if there is one thing the Knight of the Roses is good at, it is knocking people off their horses."
"Well said nephew." Lord Renly said with a smile giving his nephew a pat on the back. Meanwhile, the Knight of Flowers passed by the stands where the Starks were sitting and gave a red rose to the red-haired girl, who thanked him with a huge smile and at the same time she blushed.
"You say that, but the roses don't look very convinced." Obara said.
Arianne turned in the direction of the Tyrells, to see that her cousin was telling the truth, the Queen of Thorns and the Golden Rose of Highgarden had a squinty look on their faces. Apparently, they were afraid that the Knight of Flowers would end up like Willas Tyrell. Not that they had much to worry about as the Tyrell knight took down their uncle Oberyn on the fourth try, earning him a loud applause not only from his family but from all the young noble girls.
The Knight of Flowers' glory was short lived, as he was taken down by Ser Jaime Lannister in the next round. Arianne noticed that Steffon seemed upset at this, and then saw that he watched with determination as the final Joust between Ser Jaime and Ser Barristan.
The Kingslayer rode well and Arianne noticed that he had a look of determination on his face, apparently still angry at losing the Melee to a fourteen-year-old boy. Still the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard refused to give in.
The lances broke on the first attempt, while the Kingslayer broke the Bold's shield on the second, as well as the Kingslayer's shield on the third. At the end of the fourth attempt, both knights went all out, but Arianne noticed that Ser Barristan's horse was faster, the Bold's lance hit the Kingslayer sending him flying from his horse, the Queen let out a groan at this, while Steffon smiled in satisfaction and King Robert laughed much to the anger of the Lannisters and the amusement of the Martells.
The crowd cheered at Ser Barristan's victory, the old knight smiled and then looked at Steffon who nodded in approval. The Lord Commander of the King's Guard took the crown of flowers and rode towards her.
"Princess Arianne on this most special day, I name you The Queen of Love and Beauty." The old knight said as he placed the flower crown on her head, to which Arianne thanked him and held out her hand for him to kiss. Her family smiled with approval just like Steffon smiled at this and took her in for a kiss, to which the crowd applauded once again.
With the Tourney over, it was time to prepare for the wedding ceremony, so the Princess of Dorne parted ways with her soon-to-be husband and followed her mother and Ellaria to help her prepare for the ceremony.
Storm's End 298 AC.
Doran Martell
The time has come. Thought the ruling Prince of Dorne, Doran Martell, in just a few moments his daughter and heir would marry Prince Steffon, forever uniting House Martell and House Baratheon in marriage.
Doran Martell would never have thought that both houses would join in a matrimonial alliance given their history after the Rebellion, but Steffon Baratheon had convinced them to join together to overthrow and unmask House Lannister.
The wedding itself had been a spectacle worth beholding, the different dishes served, tasty wines, expensive ales, as well as the decoration and the hired entertainment, made it look like a royal wedding, in all but name. According to Oberyn, the Prince of Storms had spent his own gold to celebrate such an event. In the same way, he had given Oberyn a chest of gold for when the time came, to go to King's Landing and sit on the Small Council. Where had all that gold come from? It was a question Oberyn had promised to answer later.
During the midday feast, Doran watched as the Prince of Storms was loved, not only by most of his family, but by all of his bannermen and lords from other parts of Westeros. The way he interacted with the members of the families, whose Houses were sworn to the Baratheons, toasting, chatting and joking, demonstrated the unwavering loyalty they had, which he had earned over the curse of the years. Helping their lands become richer and their pockets filled with gold must have helped a lot in that regard.
His charisma is the same as that of his father and his uncle Renly. Doran thought. That was something he had already noticed for himself when he met Prince Baratheon in Dorne seven months ago. But the Prince of Storms knew how to use his charm much better than his father and his uncle.
Dornish bannermen also enjoyed the spectacle of the wedding. Doran watched proudly as his daughter led her husband to be, to interact with the Dornish lords. Their disdain for the Baratheons, or at least Steffon, was softened after Doran ordered that the mutilated Gregor Clegane and Amory Lorch were crucified alive and made sure all of Dorne knew that Steffon Baratheon had handed them over to Dornish justice.
Doran smiled as he recalled the sight of both men, they had been castrated, their eyes, ears, teeth and tongues gouged out, their bodies burned with a red-hot iron repeatedly, and then both had an extremely hot iron shoved into their anuses.
Even that was not enough to make up for what they did to Elia and her young children. He thought melancholy and sadness.
Queen Cersei's face during the celebrations was one of pure hatred. According to Oberyn, the Lannister woman, she has done nothing but scorn the union between her son and Arianne. Doran enjoyed her discomfort.
Soon she, their brothers and his father they will all pay.
The tournament had also been quite an interesting experience, not only because of the victory of the Prince of Storms in the Melee but also because of the deaths that had occurred. Two knights of the King's Guard had perished, one at the hands of a Dornish knight and another at the hands of Joffrey's Hound. Dorran noticed that Steffon had a look of satisfaction on his face at that. Did he order the deaths?
The death of Gerold Dane at the hands of Oberyn was a more complicated matter, the Knight of High Hermitage was not very popular among the Daynes, due to his violent temper and cruelty, but even so his death could bring problems. I will speak with them after the wedding. Doran decided.
The gifts that his daughter, Prince Baratheon, had received were magnificent. Each one was a token of the respect they felt towards their respective Houses.
The wedding had been a perfect example of where the young Baratheon prince's loyalties lay; defeating and humiliating his uncle the Kingslayer in the Melee, embracing both of his paternal uncles when they gave him their wedding gifts, and kneeling before his father, swearing to defend his name, as well as the honor and prestige of his House.
The King's giving Steffon a Valyrian steel sword only added to his legitimacy to the Throne, he thought, smiling. As did the Valyrian Steel dagger he gave his daughter. The faces of the Queen and her spoiled bastard son were a sight to behold as the two watched the true Baratheon heir receiving such gifts. He thought with a laugh as he and Oberyn entered his daughter's room. Areo followed as always behind him, holding his spear steady, while a servant pushed his wheelchair.
The first thing he saw upon entering the room was his wife Mellario and Ellaria. His daughter was looking at herself in the mirror and she was a true wonder to behold. She was wearing a white silk dress with glittering gold, her hair was loose but perfectly curled, the necklace he had given her was on her neck as were the gold snake bracelets which were on her arms.
"My dear daughter, you are truly a vision." he said smiling at her.
"I don't think there has ever been a more beautiful bride." his brother said smiling at his niece.
She smiled at both of them. "Thank you, uncle." she said looking at Oberyn, then turning her gaze back to him. "And thank you father, for allowing this wedding to take place, even if your reasons are otherwise than my happiness."
Doran became serious and looked at his wife and Ellaria. "The ceremony will begin soon; we would be given a moment alone." They both nodded and said goodbye to Arianne with a kiss on the cheek. The Prince of Dorne looked at his daughter. "I have always wanted your happiness Arianne, as well as that of your brothers. I admit that I have not always shown it; keeping my thoughts to myself, which led to you misunderstanding my intentions towards you and although my expectations in finding a marriage for you have always been based on the desire for justice for our House, it was also my desire that you find happiness with the husband I choose for you."
"Steffon makes me happy father." his daughter said looking into his eyes. "I... I love him." Doran was surprised by that, as was his brother.
Doran smiled at his daughter. "The fact that he brought your mother from so far, shows that he feels the same way about you and will be a devoted husband to you."
"He better be, for his sake." said his brother. "Because if he doesn't, I will keep my promise from when we first met and cut his throat."
The three Martells laughed at that.
"It's time." said Doran. "I hoped to be able to give you to your future husband, but I am afraid that my health would not allow me to do so. So, your uncle will have that honor tonight."
His daughter leaned towards him and gave him a kiss on both cheeks.
"I love you father." she said smiling.
"And I love you, my child." he said and a tear fell from his face.
With that said the ruling Prince of Dorne left the room and headed to the outskirts of the castle where his carriage would be waiting for him. As he left, he saw that many of the commoners were holding what appeared to be flames in their hands, though upon closer look he realized they were lanterns of some sort.
Doran was surprised that his daughter and Prince Steffon decided to marry under the blessing of another religion, but decided to let it pass.
Upon arriving at the place where the ceremony would take place, Doran was surprised by how decorated everything was, once again thanks to Prince Baratheon's wealth. He was surprised to see that many of the guests were also carrying lanterns, but these were more elaborate; as he walked to his seat Doran received one as well and noticed that there were other Red Priests and Priestesses holding flames in the palms of their hands.
Doran took his seat in the front row next to his wife and children and noticed that Prince Steffon was already there, he dressed in a black and gold robe bearing the crowned stag symbol of House Baratheon, with a gold cloak bearing the same sigil. The Valyrian steel sword her father had given her during the midday feast was at her waist, as was the dagger. Arianne must have given it to him to use at the ceremony. Doran thought. He looks not only like a prince, but like the crown prince, carrying such rare and prestigious weapons. Doran smiled at his daughter's wit.
All the guests stood up when Arianne arrived. Prince Steffon had a look of pure happiness on his face when he saw her. Doran smiled in pleasure at that.
Oberyn gave his niece a kiss on the cheek, then handed her over to Steffon, who proceeded to happily take her arm and both of them stood in front of the Red Priestess.
"Your Graces, my Lords and Ladies, men and women of Westeros, we have come to witness the union of Prince Stefon Baratheon and Princess Arianne Nymeros Martell, to see them united under the light and blessing of the Lord." said the Red Priestess Melisandre out loud, starting the ceremony.
Storm's End 298 AC.
Steffon Baratheon
The time had finally come. Steffon Baratheon thought as he looked at himself in the mirror.
After having planned this marriage eight years ago, it would finally take place. Today would be the day that the Baratheon and Martell Houses would join together forever in marriage.
The third part of his plan would be completed today. And although the alliance had been made for political purposes and with the intention of unmasking his mother's family, to destroy their reputation and prevent them from taking over the Government of Westeros, Steffon would be lying if he said he was not happy about marrying Arianne.
In these seven months that they had spent together, the crown prince of the Iron Throne had grown very fond of the Princess of Dorne, he loved her calculating, adventurous personality, as well as her fierce temperament.
When Qyburn had told him and Arianne that she was pregnant a few weeks ago, Steffon had been shocked and scared, but he had quickly taken her into his arms and hugged her, feeling great joy within him. They had decided to keep the pregnancy a secret, so during the wedding Steffon had made sure that only the two of them in particular were given fruit juice during the midday banquet and the evening feast, that way no one else would notice that the bride wasn't drinking wine.
Her passion in the bedroom and her open mind in allowing other women to share the bed with them also delighted him. Steffon laughed at this last thought, drawing the attention of his uncle Renly, who was with him, helping him get ready.
If there's one thing my uncle knows how to do, it's how to dress. Was the raven-haired prince's thought when he asked his uncle for help to help him get ready and make sure he was well dressed for his wedding.
His aunt Alysanne was also with him in his chamber helping him get ready.
"Ready." she said smiling, finishing adjusting his clothes. "You look very handsome dear." she caressed his cheek.
"Not as handsome as me, but handsome enough." said his uncle Renly with a smug smile. "But more than your father at his wedding and of course much more than Stannis." his aunt Alysanne glared at her brother-in-law, obviously annoyed by the comment towards her husband.
"Don't pay attention to him aunt, he's just jealous of my good looks." he said trying to lighten the mood and the three of them laughed.
Steffon looked at himself in the mirror and was pleased by what he saw, he looked good, his hair, instead of being messy as usual, was now combed and somewhat settled. He was wearing fine black clothes and his cloak with the golden stag crown on it, while his new sword and the dagger his father had given Arianne were at his waist. Arianne had insisted that he carry the dagger with him as well as his sword, reasoning that two Valyrian steel weapons made him look like what he truly was: the Crown Prince of the Seven Kingdoms and the true heir to the Iron Throne.
"It's time nephew." said his uncle Renly.
Steffon nodded and prepared to leave the chamber but someone entered: His mother the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.
"Steffon." His mother said with a surprised smile. "I had come to help you prepare."
"There is no need mother." Steffon said seriously. "I already had help and I am ready."
His mother looked at Renly and Alysanne with annoyance.
"Now if you will excuse me, it is time for the ceremony." He said, his mother tried to take him by the arm but he slipped away and left for the outskirts of the castle.
Unlike the other guests, Steffon rode to the ceremony site. When he arrived there, he saw the crowd and the magnificent work that Melisandre and the others Red Priests had done. As he took his place, Steffon noticed that Melisandre and the other Red Priests acted as a sort of honor guard. Thoros of Myr was there too, as he watched the Red Priests Steffon noticed two metal boxes with holes in the sides, burning brightly.
He looked at his family, his father had a serious look on his face. He's still not happy with my choice of bride. Steffon thought. His mother looked sad but Steffon didn't care, as did the look of envy Joffrey gave him as he looked at the sword and the dagger sheathed at his waist. Tommen and Myrcella smiled at him and he smiled back, as did his paternal uncles. His grandfather kept his gaze impassive, while his uncle Tyrion just lifted a canteen that probably had wine in it. He's already drunk. Steffon noticed. Is he remembering Tysha?
The Martells just gave him small smiles and just nodded. Then he heard a gasp and turned his gaze to see Arianne walking with Oberyn.
Arianne looked more beautiful than ever, her white dress fit her perfectly and looking closer he could see small ornaments of the crowned deer on it. Her heart was in her mouth when she reached it and she barely noticed when Oberyn said goodbye to her with a kiss on the cheek. Steffon smiled and took her hand intertwining it with his and Melisandre spoke.
"We are made for love, so much so that we search within ourselves for that side of ourselves that we are missing. Some of us spend years searching for that which will make us complete, others are luckier and find it much faster, and once they do, even the gods watch with joy. R'hllor is joyful today, happy for us to witness how his chosen prince makes his own choice."
"Love is fire, it burns between us, the flame that burns are brighter than all the others in this world. It may start as a spark, but if we are lucky, if we are truly blessed, then it will burn like a raging fire." Thoros said
"Prince Steffon, does the fire burn brightly?" Melisandre asked looking at him and Steffon caught a glimpse of four Priests lifting the metal boxes from the burning fire.
"It does." he said looking at Arianne, whose smile shone as she looked at him.
"Princess Arianne, does the fire burn brightly?" Thoros asked and Steffon held his breath.
"It does." Arianne said
Suddenly the Priests holding the boxes opened them and Steffon and Arianne were utterly shocked to see their contents.
Dragon Eggs.
Steffon and Arianne looked at each other in surprise and then looked at Melisandre who gave them both a big knowing smile. The metal boxes were deep enough for only the two of them to see what was inside.
"You heard it from their own lips, the fire is bright, the love is strong and together the flame will never go out." Melisandre said
Thoros took Steffon's hand making a cut on his finger and then did the same with Arianne, then the Red Priests made them each place their hands on the Dragon eggs, inside the metal boxes. Steffon could feel the heat of the dragon eggs increasing as the blood spilled over them.
"Are you ready to test your flame, to see if the love you feel for each other is worthy, to see if the R'hllor blesses this union?" Thoros asked
"I am." Steffon said
"I am." Arianne said
They both took a few steps towards an empty space while Thoros and Melisandre indicated that they should keep their hands on the boxes, which were placed on a table that was there, while their other hands were tightly intertwined.
"The fire will decide." Melisandre said and watched as Thoros raised his hands and the floor lit up."
Three meters away, the ground began to burn in flames, the heat of the fire reaching them blocking their way. Arianne squeezed his hand tightly and looked into his eyes, they both smiled at each other.
The gasp of the crowd was loud, the screams of his family and Arianne's even louder, but it was too late. He and Arianne had been surrounded by the fire and as he pulled his hand out of the Dragon egg to take Arianne's other hand, they both began to walk. When they were halfway through the flames she was smiling and when they reached the end of it, Arianne wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.
He paid no attention to the noises of the crowd, he didn't know if it was applause, cries of relief, silence, he had no idea. The world had shrunk for him, he had wrapped his arms around Arianne, his lips on hers, his tongue in her mouth and thoughts of what they would do tonight. When they separated, they looked out at the crowd who were all staring at them in awe.
"R'hllor has spoken, the love these two share is true good. Anyone who dares try to come between them should know this: fire burns and our god is the god of fire." Thoros said loudly.
"To Prince Steffon and his wife Princess Arianne." Melisandre said and the crowd cheered loudly.
Steffon looked at his new wife wrapping his arms around her waist kissing her again which made the cheers get even louder. As they separated from Arianne, they both noticed a strange noise coming from the metal boxes, they approached them and saw two baby dragons.
Storm's End 298 AC.
Oberyn Martell
Oberyn, like his entire family, had been in shock when he saw the fire consume his niece and her new husband. The Red Viper of Dorne had feared that his brother would have a seizure, as had Mellario, who screamed at what he saw, although both calmed down after seeing them both unharmed. The applause they gave when they saw them kiss as husband and wife was more of relief than joy.
After the ceremony, everyone headed to the castle, Arianne decided to ride with her new husband than return in the carriage. Oberyn and Ellaria decided to follow her example.
During the feast, Oberyn enjoyed the murmurs of the guests in relation to the ceremony they had witnessed. Each and every one of them had been impressed.
Neither Oberyn nor Doran had overlooked the two metal boxes that the Priests had during the ceremony. He and his brother shared a knowing smile, already suspecting what was inside them, the look Steffon and Arianne gave each other after looking inside the boxes only confirmed it.
As the dance began, Oberyn was the second man to share a dance with his niece.
"I don't think I've ever seen you smile like that, my beautiful niece." Oberyn said as the two danced.
"I'm happy uncle." she said with a smile. "Happier than I ever thought possible."
Oberyn smiled. "I'm glad, but remember that now, the game begins." Oberyn said in almost a whisper so only she could hear.
Arianne smiled back. "I'm well aware of that uncle, I guess that's why you're going to King's Landing after the wedding." she said in the same whispering tone.
Oberyn laughed. "Yes, I will, your husband even told me that he has instructions for me, on what he wants me to do while I am in the capital. But I still have certain details to discuss with your father."
Arianne smiled. The two continued to dance until Quentyn interrupted them so he could dance with his sister.
Oberyn danced with Ellaria most of the time, aside from his niece and his lover, he only danced with his daughters, Princess Myrcella and the Queen who spent most of the time looking at her black-haired son with a look of longing and sadness.
After deciding that he had danced enough, the Red Vibe of Dorne approached his brother who was looking at his daughter, while dancing with her new husband.
"She looks happy" Oberyn commented looking at his brother.
"Yes." he said simply and Oberyn placed a hand on his shoulder.
Oberyn then saw Lord Stannis and Lady Alysanne approaching them.
"Lord Stannis." Doran said looking at the Lord of Dragonstone extending his hand. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, your nephew has spoken highly of you."
"Likewise, Prince Doran." Lord Stannis said shaking Doran's hand. "May I present my wife Lady Alysanne of House Hightower."
Lady Alysanne extended her hand and Doran kissed it. "My lady a pleasure, your nephew speaks highly of you, he is very fond of you."
She smiled "My nephew is a good boy Prince Doran, if he were not, I imagine you would not have let him marry your daughter, ¿would you?"
Oberyn laughed. "You have a sharp tongue my lady, a good sense of humor." She raised an eyebrow "And I must say, you look lovely tonight." Lord Stannis looked like he wanted to speak but someone overpowered him.
"She does, doesn't she?" Everyone turned to look at Lord Renly. "Though apparently she couldn't pass is good sense of humor to my brother."
Lord Stannis gritted his teeth before speaking, a trait Oberyn noticed the Lord of Dragonstone had.
"You've grown bored of talking to the Tyrells, Renly." Lord Stannis asked in annoyance.
"No, they're quite pleasant people and perhaps you would notice if you weren't so blinded by the siege." the youngest of the Baratheon brothers said and Lord Stannis gritted his teeth again. "I decided to join this conversation, after all we are family now."
"Yes, we are." Oberyn said raising his glass.
"I hear you'll be returning with us to King's Landing after the wedding Prince Oberyn." Lord Renly said staring at him.
"Yes, our 'nephew' suggested to Jon Arryn that I be given a place on the council to prove that Dorne is back in the Royal fold." Oberyn said with a smile and emphasized the word nephew earning a strange look from the two Baratheons and the Hightower woman.
Both Baratheon brothers shared a look as if they knew something they didn't, Lady Alysanne also noticed that, as did Doran, they looked like they wanted to say something, which seemed strange to them considering that a moment ago they were arguing.
Were they pretending to not attract attention? Oberyn wondered.
The five then turned their gaze towards the main hall when they saw Steffon standing there alone.
The five then turned their gaze to the centre of the hall when they saw Steffon standing there alone.
"My Lords and Ladies I thank you all for coming," the Prince of Storms began. "But now I would like you to give me your attention and listen as I dedicate this song to my new wife."
"He can sing?" Oberyn asked in disbelief and surprise.
"Oh yes, he has a beautiful voice." Lord Renly said with pride and a smile. "The maidens of the Stormlands and the Westerlands melted for him, many asking their fathers to betroth them to him. Some Stormlands bannermen even sought me out trying to arrange a match between Steffon and his daughters." The youngest Baratheon said that last bit with a laugh, as if the thought of marrying his nephew to a simple lady from the Stormlands amused him greatly.
He had already planned to marry Steffon to someone else. Oberyn realized. The Golden Rose of Highgarden. He thought, remembering what Steffon had told him and his family about his uncle's relationship with the Tyrells.
Oberyn and Doran were shocked at this and then watched as Steffon received a harp. Prince Baratheon sat on a chair and began to play the harp, playing the song: Jenny of Oldstones.
High above the halls of the kings who have gone.
Jenny would dance with her ghosts.
The ones she had lost and the ones she had found.
And the ones who had loved her the most.
The ones who had been gone for so long.
She couldn't remember their names.
They spun her on the old wet stones.
She left all her pain and sorrow behind.
And she never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
They danced through the day and the night.
Through the snow that swept the hall.
From winter to summer and then back again.
Until the walls crumbled and fell.
And she never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
And she never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
I never wanted to leave.
High in the halls of kings gone by.
Jenny would dance with her ghosts.
The ones she had lost and the ones she had found.
And the ones who had loved her the most.
When Steffon finished all the guests applauded loudly, Lady Alysanne wiped a tear from her cheek and Oberyn noticed that she was not the only Lady to do so. Many young ladies were crying because of the emotion conveyed in the song, young women like Margaery Tyrell, Sansa Stark, Shireen Baratheon; Even Queen Cersei couldn't hold back her tears and applauded loudly at her son's performance.
Arianne, who was also crying, approached her husband and gave him a strong kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck, which generated even louder applause. That wiped the smile off the Queen's face.
Oberyn looked at Doran who seemed more than pleased by this, as did Ellaria and Mellario. Oberyn also noticed that his daughter Tyene had a longing look on her face as she looked at Steffon and Arianne.
Is she in love with him? Oberyn wondered, knowing that his daughter had shared the bed with Steffon and Arianne numerous times and that she had warmed up to him much faster than her sisters; but decided not to give it much importance, trusting in his daughter's maturity to stay firmly by Arianne's side as always.
The rest of the wedding continued pleasantly, Oberyn and Doran continued talking with the Baratheon brothers who despite the awkwardness that their history in the Rebellion could have caused, got along quite well, with Doran commenting that Steffon looked a lot like his grandfather after whom he was named, Stannis agreed with him, while Renly was curious to know more about his father whom he had never met.
The Old Lion just remained in his seat, he stood up only to dance with Arianne, Mellario, Princess Myrcella and the Queen, for the rest of the feast he was just watching from his seat and only spoke to his brother Kevan and his sister Genna.
The King spent all his time drinking and talking with Ned Stark, by the way he spoke to him Oberyn would swear that he was in love of him, something that Doran agreed with. But the best part of the wedding was at the end, when someone made the terrible mistake of wanting to announce: "The Bedding Ceremony." that caused something that none of those present at the wedding would ever forget.
Storm's End 298 AC.
Steffon Baratheon
After the ceremony the Prince of Storms headed towards the castle with his new wife, both riding horses. Steffon enjoyed the amazed looks everyone gave him and Arianne after having witnessed such a unique ceremony.
During the feast Myrcella and Tommen attacked him with questions about how he and Arianne had survived the fire, to which he just smiled and told them it was because his love for Arianne was genuine and was blessed by the God of Fire, this only confused his young siblings.
The two blond children had also asked them what was in the metal boxes that the Red Priests gave them. Their mother also seemed interested in this and looked at them waiting for the answer. Steffon and his new wife looked at each other and it was she who answered.
"That's something you'll see another day." Arianne said smiling at them. "But you will see it I promise." This seemed to be enough to satisfy the curiosity of his sister and brother.
After eating and drinking a bit, Steffon decided to lead his wife to the center of the room to dance.
"Would you do me the honor of having the first dance? My dear wife." Steffon said as he stood up and extended his hand to Arianne.
"It would be a pleasure my dear husband." Arianne said smiling taking his hand and standing up.
And so, the newlyweds made their way to the dance floor and the singers and bards began to play louder.
"Have I told you how beautiful you look in that dress?" Steffon said as he held Arianne in his arms and the two danced with their faces just a few inches apart.
She smiled. "A couple of times, though I never tire of hearing you say it." She gave him a short kiss on the lips. He smiled and stared into her deep black eyes as they moved to the beat of the music.
"I love you, Arianne." Steffon said, lost in his wife's gaze.
Arianne smiled and leaned in to kiss him again, a much deeper kiss with her tongue entering his mouth. "I love you, Steffon." she said with a beautiful smile, after they broke away from the kiss, they both continued dancing staring at each other with smiles on their faces, at the same time other guests joined the dance floor.
During the dance Steffon danced with numerous ladies, all of whom gave him interesting conversation. Only Ellaria and Mellario, Arianne's mother was brief in their words. The first one telling him that he was now married to the most beautiful and beloved woman in Dorne and that she expected him to treat her as she deserved, also telling them to be careful. Apparently, Oberyn told him about our plans, or at least part of them. Steffon thought. Mellario once again thanked him for bringing her and giving her the opportunity to be present at his daughter's wedding and asking him to please take care of her. Which Steffon promised he would do for the rest of his life.
While dancing with his sister Myrcella, Steffon noticed her sad.
"What is it?" he asked looking at her. "I thought you would be happy to be able to witness the whole wedding show."
"I am." Myrcella said with a small smile and Steffon couldn't help but smile at how pretty she looked. She has all of our mother's beauty but none of her nature. "It's just that after the wedding, Tommen and I will return to King's Landing, while you..." knowing now what his sister's annoyance was, he decided to interrupt her.
"You will not return to King's Landing." he said and she looked at him in surprise. "Don't you remember what I said in the tent, after the Melee? Tommen will stay here to serve as my page and squire. As will you, to be Arianne's lady-in-waiting." She smiled for a moment, before speaking again and having a worried look on her face.
"But mother..." she started to say but once again Steffon didn't let her finish.
"Mother no longer has a say in the matter of your care or Tommen's." he said staring at her. "She proved it by letting Joffrey mistreat you all this time. So, from now on you and Tommen will stay with me under my care."
Myrcella smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck to give him a tight hug and a kiss on the cheek. Steffon also gave her a kiss on the cheek and they continued dancing.
His next dance partner was Tyene who looked at him with desire as always.
"You look very handsome tonight, Steffon." The blonde Sand Snake said.
"You too." Steffon replied and it was true. Tyene was dressed in a beautiful blue dress that brought out her blue eyes, she wore a gold snake necklace around her neck and her hair was much longer than it had been when Steffon had first met her. "I'm sure you've attracted more than one glance tonight."
This seemed to please her as she gave Steffon a smile that he swore was seductive.
"As flattered as I am, there is only one man I am interested in sharing a bed with." she said looking deep into his eyes Steffon was going to speak but she didn't let him. "But don't worry, I'm sure Melisandre can keep me company tonight. You and Arianne deserve to spend your first night as husband and wife alone." With that said she gave him a kiss on the cheek passing very close to his lips, she also caressed his face before going to dance with Tommen.
Then he danced with Nymeria who teased him and congratulated him for getting two snakes to fall in love with him. Which surprised him. They only danced one song and then she went to dance with Edric.
Is Tyene in love with me? He wondered, remembering his previous conversations with Arianne, he realized that seemed quite likely, but decided not to think about it for now.
His aunt Alysanne then danced with him, congratulating him and telling him that she was glad to see him so happy. Although she did look worried when she saw Edric dancing with Nymeria, which amused Steffon.
He then danced with Oberyn's four youngest daughters, who blushed as they danced with him. As did Sansa Stark when he told her how pretty she looked in that dress, although she then looked at Joffrey with longing and dreaminess.
Poor girl if only she knew what a monster her parents had betrothed her to.
Arya Stark also danced with him. Steffon enjoyed the girl's complaints about having to wear a dress. He managed to cheer her up by telling her that tomorrow he would speak to her parents so that she and her brother could be welcomed at Storm's End.
His next dance partner was Margaery Tyrell, who Steffon had to admit looked beautiful. She was wearing a golden dress adorned with silver roses and was wearing a beautiful necklace of golden roses. He also watched Arianne dancing with Willas Tyrell in the distance, which bothered him a little.
"Congratulations on your wedding, my prince." said the Golden Rose of Highgarden, with a smile and courtesy that always surprised Steffon.
"Thank you, my lady." said Steffon smiling. "I hope you and your family are enjoying the celebrations."
"Yes, everything is beautifully decorated, like something out of a fairy tale." she said trying to sound surprised, which made him laugh. "And the wedding ceremony was impressive. I've never seen anything like it, not even my grandmother." those words were sincere. "I didn't know you followed the religion of the Red God, my prince."
"I have a very open mind when it comes to religion." said Steffon and Margaery looked at him with interest. "Furthermore, I find the Faith of the Seven to be the most hypocritical of all. Many Septons swear allegiance and yet are seen parading in brothels, as are the maesters. Especially our dear Grand Maester Pycelle who enjoys the company of prostitutes." that made her genuinely laugh.
"I must say I was quite surprised to hear of your engagement when I first heard it my prince." she said after a moment, this was her second song, it seemed the Maid of Highgarden had no intention of letting him go. "Especially considering the proposal you made to my father the last time you were in Highgarden, my prince." she looked at him with a strange look, as if she was asking for a reason or explanation. Is she disappointed...?
Steffon smiled in amusement "Your father rejected my proposal. According to him he had other plans for you." He said and pointed at Joffrey who was dancing with his mother, Margaery had an uncomfortable look on her face. "So, I went ahead." She seemed lost for words. "From your look I suppose you already know what kind of person my brother is. Don't you, my lady?"
"I heard rumors." she said simply, trying to downplay it.
"You take your brother's words as mere rumors, my lady?" He asked her and she didn't know how to respond. "Well, I assure you that they are all true. Perhaps you should turn your attention to someone else." Steffon turned his gaze to Edric who was dancing with Myrcella and Margaery did the same. The Rose of Highgarden was about to speak when someone interrupted them.
"May I dance with my husband?" Arianne asked with some annoyance in her voice and Steffon wanted to laugh.
"Of course, princess Arianne." Margaery said separating from him. "My prince." She said bowing and headed off to dance with her brother Garlan.
"I leave you alone for a moment and the rose is already trying to stab you with its thorns." Arianne said grabbing him possessively as they danced.
Steffon snorted. "Well, you did look pretty comfortable dancing with the heir of Highgarden." he said raising an eyebrow.
"Are you seriously trying to make a scene of jealousy?" Arianne said laughing. "We only danced one song, while you danced three with his sister."
"Who's acting jealous now?" he said, laughing and raising his eyebrows. Arianne didn't say anything, so Steffon decided it was time to give her his other gift. "I'll show you that you have nothing to worry about, my love." He gave her a kiss and asked her to return to her seat.
He then ordered the music to stop, so all the guests returned to their seats.
"My Lords and Ladies, I thank you all for coming," he began. "But now I would like you to pay attention and listen as I dedicate this song to my new wife."
He ordered two servants to bring him his harp and a chair. When they did, he sat down on the chair and began to play the harp and recite the song Jenny of Oldstones.
When he finished, all the guests applauded loudly, and Steffon felt proud to see many young girls wiping away their tears. Arianne walked over to him, wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply, she also had tears streaming down her face.
"Now do you believe me?" She nodded with tears still streaming down her face and kissed him again.
The musicians started playing again and the dancing continued.
As Steffon continued to dance with his wife, someone interrupted them.
"I want to dance with my son." His mother exclaimed, giving Arianne a fake smile.
"Of course, Your Grace." Arianne said smiling, kissed him and headed off to dance with her brother Trystane.
The two began to dance and Steffon noticed his mother's eyes were red.
"Were you crying mother?" he couldn't help but ask.
"That was a beautiful song." she said wistfully instead of answering his question. She won't admit weakness in front of me "The melody reminded me of someone else. When things in my life were different."
Prince Rhaegar. Steffon noticed. She was still crying for her lost childhood love.
She stroked a lock of hair from his forehead. "I didn't know you played the harp." she said with a smile caressing his face.
"That's because you don't know anything about me, mother." he said trying to pull his face away from her touch and that wiped the smile off her face. "You never bothered to get to know me, to you I was always just a younger version of my father." Steffon said trying to contain his anger, this was one of the reasons he avoided dancing with his mother, he didn't want to cause a scene.
She had a guilty expression on her face, but Steffon didn't care. It's too late for that.
"I was wrong." she admitted, which surprised him. "Can you forgive me?" she said with a hopeful smile on her beautiful face, caressing his face.
She really is the most beautiful woman in the Seven Kingdoms. Steffon thought as he looked at his mother whose wine-red dress was adorned with flower petals as well as lions and had a beautiful gold necklace on her bare neck with round lions on it, her bright golden hair was perfectly combed and adorned. Even her green eyes were still bright despite having been crying. She is stunningly beautiful on the outside, but she is full of hatred, resentment, anger, jealousy and greed on the inside.
"No, I can't." he replied turning his face away once more. Steffon could swear that his mother had tears in her eyes, but he was unable to be moved or feel sorry for her. "But you shouldn't be sad mother, I will stay here now. Away from King's Landing, away from you, which is just what you wanted, when you decided to leave me in Castely Rock when I was six years old. Remember? Enjoy the rest of the night mother, and remember that you have a room all to yourself here in the castle, so no one should bother you." With that said, he gave her a kiss on the cheek and stepped away, she tried to grab him but Steffon pulled away once more.
Steffon went to find Arianne who was dancing with Tommen. He laughed at the red face of his plump blonde brother.
Steffon told Arianne to leave the feast and head to her chambers to which she agreed.
The two of them grabbed their glasses and hit her with a knife to get everyone's attention.
"My lords and ladies." Arianne began. "My husband and I thank you for joining us on this very special day." Steffon smiled; he loved the way the word husband sounded on Arianne's lips. "We will now retire to our chambers, feel free to enjoy the feast and the music."
"What about the bed ceremony?" a shrill voice asked and Steffon's mood evaporated, he already knew who it was.
"There will be no bed ceremony Joffrey." Steffon said trying to contain himself.
"Oh, where is your respect for tradition brother?" Joffrey said laughing and moving from the table walking towards them. His mother must have noticed the annoyance on his face because she tried to grab Joffrey. While his grandfather had a calculating look on his face. "Come on take the bride my lords." he was now mocking them. "My ladies grab my brother he is not heavy."
"There will be no bed ceremony." Steffon said with an authoritative tone looking at Joffrey and the male guests who had started to stand up.
"There will be if I command it." Joffrey said in a defiant tone, his mother called out to him but he ignored her.
"You have no authority here." Steffon said and he could swear he heard Oberyn laugh.
"I am the crown prince; I can do whatever I want and if I say that..." Joffrey never finished speaking because Steffon threw his metal cup at him hitting him right in the nose.
"AHHH!" Joffrey screamed lying on the floor covering his bleeding nose. Gasps of surprise and shock filled the entire room. Steffon saw his mother try to get up from her seat but his grandfather stopped her forcing her to sit back down. He looked at his father who had an embarrassed look on his face.
"My lords, I apologize for the behavior of my ill-born brother." said Steffon and Joffrey managed to get up red in fury.
"YOU CANNOT HIT ME AND TALK TO ME LIKE THAT!" Joffrey roared. "I AM THE CROWN PRINCE AND..." Steffon again didn't let him finish and threw Arianne's glass at him with more force, hitting him in the nose again, making it crack, making Joffrey scream again.
"You're just a brat, coward, cruel, stupid, sadistic and spoiled. Nothing more." Steffon said and all the guests remained silent observing the scene. "That's the kind of people my brother is, my lords and ladies. In case any of you had any doubts." Steffon approached Joffrey. "Perhaps some time in the cells will teach you some manners. Guards!" Soldiers in the colors of House Baratheon began to approach. But someone did it first.
"There's no need to do that, my prince." said his grandfather, Steffon didn't know when he had stopped.
"He disrespected me in my castle, he disrespected my wife." Steffon said through gritted teeth, his grandfather was very wrong if he thought he would tell him what to do, espeially in the Baratheon castle.
"Your brother is clearly drunk."
"He's not, he's just stupid." Steffon said and heard his uncle Renly and Oberyn laugh. "So stupid that he thinks he can give orders in someone else's castle."
"I CAN DO WHAT I WANT, I AM THE CROWN PRINCE." Joffrey shouted again who stood up again and Steffon regretted not having another drink in his hand.
His grandfather seemed to have had enough of Joffrey as well, because he was the one who spoke to him this time.
"Aerys also liked to spend his time saying that he was the Crown Prince and when he became King, he did the same." his grandfather said with an icy tone. "But that didn't stop half the Kingdom from rebelling against him for his stupidity and madness. Your brother is right, you have behaved in a rude, disrespectful and unworthy manner for someone of your position. And any man or young man who has to shout 'I am the King' or 'I am the prince' is not a true King or Prince. You better understand that if you ever hope to rule one day."
His grandfather turned around and began to walk away hoping that Joffrey had understood his point, but his imbecile brother only stood defiantly with a bloody nose, twisted eyes and a red face of anger and shame.
"You talk a lot about Aerys, but the truth is that you were afraid of him grandfather." Joffrey said and his grandfather turned around, with an icy look that tried to contain a burning fire.
"Joffrey apologizes to your grandfather." said his mother scared getting up from her seat.
"Why?! Everyone knows it's true, it's even said that grandmother preferred King Aerys over him!" Joffrey spat and his mother's face turned horrified. He didn't say that. Everyone must have thought the same, because the room was absolutely silent, even Oberyn had a look of complete shock on his face, as if he didn't believe what he just heard. "My father won all the battles, he kills prince Raeghar, he took the crown, while your father, mother hid like a coward in Castely Rock!" Joffrey looked at the guests. "A strong King behaves with audacity, he doesn't ..." once again Joffrey didn't finish speaking, but not because Steffon threw a glass at him, but because Lord Tywin gave him a strong punch in the face knocking him to the ground leaving him unconscious.
His mother tried to run to him, but his father's warning look made her sit back down. His grandfather looked at two Lannister guards made aasigal to them so they got close, then two Lannister's who carried Joffrey away, the Lord of Castely Rock looked at his black hair grandson, the Baratheon prince just raised his eyebrows and made a gesture with his face saying 'I told you so' to which the Old Lion just nodded. He finally understood.
The Lord of Castely Rock simply returned to his seat and poured himself a glass of wine
Steffon motioned for the musicians to play again; the room slowly regained the murmurs of the guests.
Steffon went to Arianne who seemed unable to believe what she had witnessed, he looked at his mother and observed that she was extremely uncomfortable in the presence of her father. Oberyn had a satisfied smile on his face and raised his glass to him and Arianne congratulating them.
Steffon and Arianne headed to their chambers ignoring the murmurs of the guests.
"Well, that was..." she began to say while Steffon locked the door. But Steffon took her by the waist and kissed her deeply making her gasp.
"I don't want to talk. I've had enough of that for today." she said separating from the kiss.
"What do you want to do then husband?" She asked with a seductive smile, to which Steffon kissed her again. The two continued like this, kissing and undressing until they fell on the bed completely naked, so they gave themselves over to the love, passion and hunger they felt for each other. Deciding to ignore for now the events that took place today and what that would bring about, as well as ignoring the two baby dragons that were asleep in the metal boxes that were in the corner of the room.
Author's Note:
Hello, once again I apologize for the long wait, I'll try to be quicker with the next chapter. In the next one we'll see the reaction to what happened at the end of the wedding and the consequences that will bring, as well as the Baratheons, Lannisters and Martells making their own plans.
I also want to thank the author Alperez16 and his fanfiction: The Dark Prince and the Golden Lioness which is where I got the elements of the marriage ceremony for Steffon and Arianne, made by the Red Priests followers of the Lord of Light.