Chapter 21

Jon waited for Robb's return impatiently. He should have been one of the men accompanying Robb. He should be there to ensure his brother's safety. Yet, Robb had demanded he stay behind in case something went wrong. Their army needed a commander. The meeting between Robb and Tywin had been well organized, but the tension remained high. Anything could happen in such a volatile situation.

Jon paced back and forth, his mind racing with possibilities. He trusted Robb's judgment, but he couldn't shake the unease gnawing at him. The sun was setting, casting long shadows across the camp when he finally saw the riders approaching. His heart pounded in his chest as he hurried to meet them. Robb was at the front, looking weary but unharmed. Relief washed over Jon as he approached his brother.

"Robb, thank the gods," Jon said, gripping his brother's arm. "How did it go?"

Robb dismounted and gave Jon a tired smile. "We reached an agreement. Tywin Lannister is a shrewd negotiator, but we managed to secure terms that could bring us peace."

Jon felt a weight lift off his shoulders. "That's good news. What are the terms?"

Robb pressed his lips together and pulled Jon aside.

"I would like to discuss them with you in private."

Jon nodded.

"Of course. We can use my tent."

They made their way to Jon's tent, and once inside, Robb closed the flap behind them, ensuring they wouldn't be overheard. The flickering light from the lantern cast shadows on their faces, emphasizing the seriousness of the conversation.

Robb took a deep breath before speaking. "The Lannisters have agreed to all key terms. Firstly, they will release Sansa and guarantee her safe return. In exchange, we will withdraw our forces to the North and agree to maintain our independence without further aggression towards the crown."

Jon listened intently, nodding as Robb continued.

"Then there was the marriage alliance. I will wed Lady Serafina."

Jon nodded again; he had expected that.

"Anything else?"

"Yes. Tywin wanted me to name a temporary heir in case I would meet my untimely demise before fathering a son."

Jon frowned.

"A bold move from their part."

Robb nodded and placed his hand on Jon's shoulder.

"I have named you my temporary heir."

Jon looked at Robb in surprise, his brow furrowing. "Me? But I'm a bastard."

"That doesn't matter," Robb replied firmly. "You are my brother, and I trust you more than anyone else. Our people respect you, and I believe in your ability to lead."

Jon nodded slowly, still processing the information. "Thank you, Robb. I'll do my best to live up to your trust."

Robb smiled, although he seemed tense.

"I know you will. But… There is something else."

Jon raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

"Tywin insisted that if something were to happen to me and you were to become King in the North, you would marry Lady Serafina," Robb said, watching Jon's reaction closely.

Jon's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but he quickly regained his composure. "He wants to ensure that the Lannister influence remains strong in the North, regardless of who rules."

"Exactly," Robb agreed. "It's a strategic move, but it could also stabilize the alliance. Tywin is trying to cover all bases."

Jon nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I see. It's a complicated situation, but if it means peace and the safety of our family, I'll do what is necessary."

Robb's expression softened. "Thank you, Jon. This is not an easy decision for any of us, but we have to think about the future of the North and our family."

Jon sighed. "I understand, Robb. We'll get through this together."

"There's more," Robb said, his tone serious. "Tywin also wants Maesters, one of his choosing and one of ours, to examine Lady Serafina to ensure there are no doubts or ambiguities."

Jon frowned. "To ensure she's untouched?"

Robb nodded. "Yes. It's about maintaining the honor of both houses and preventing any potential disputes."

Jon took a deep breath. "Very well. We need to be careful with every step we take. Tywin Lannister is not to be underestimated."

Robb nodded in agreement. "Indeed. But we also have to move quickly. The sooner we finalize the details, the sooner we can bring Sansa home and secure peace."

Jon placed a hand on Robb's shoulder. "I'm with you, brother. Let's do what we must."

Serafina struggled to comprehend her cousin's words; they were too much for her to process. She wouldn't go back home. She was expected to marry Robb Stark and go to the North with him. She would be examined by two Maesters. She was expected to marry Jon Snow if Robb Stark passed away before she gave birth to his heir. It all sounded very… efficient.

She would have a husband and another one for spare. Of course, no one had asked her if she wanted to wed either one of those men. Why would anyone care about such minor details? Much to her cousin's shock, she broke into a hysterical giggle that soon turned into sobs.

"My lady?" Ser Alton said cautiously.

"I need a moment," Serafina managed to reply before turning her back on Alton.

She needed to calm herself right now. She needed to be strong. What would her father say if he saw her like this? After taking a few deep breaths, she turned to face her cousin.

"Forgive me, Alton," she said, her voice calm and composed now. "Just a moment of weakness. You mustn't tell father."

Alton nodded, his expression one of concern and understanding. "Of course, my lady. Your secret is safe with me."

She nodded, giving him a smile.

"Thank you, cousin. Please, tell father than I will fulfill my duty. I won't bring shame to him or our house."

Alton nodded, his expression a mixture of compassion and concern.

"I know you won't, Lady Serafina." He paused for a moment before continuing. "Your father was planning to offer Princess Myrcella, but…"

"Myrcella?" Serafina interrupted. "She is just a child. No, father did the right thing."

Alton sighed softly, relieved by her acceptance. "Yes, he believed it was the best decision."

"So, when am I expected to wed Robb Stark?" she asked after a moment of silence.

"I am not sure; the arrangements will take some time. It shouldn't take longer than a couple of weeks though."

Serafina nodded.

"I see."

"I will stay here to represent our house, so if you need anything, please, do not hesitate to ask."

"Thank you, Alton," Serafina replied, managing a smile.

With that, Alton took his leave. Serafina stood still, feeling the weight of the empty tent around her. The reality of her situation pressed down on her, but she knew she had to stay strong. She had to get accustomed to the idea of being Lady Stark, and possibly Lady Snow, if fate turned unkind. Despite everything, she couldn't help but admire her father's skills as a strategist. The silence was suddenly broken by the entrance of Robb Stark. She curtsied, just like so many times before.

"Your Grace."

She was in complete control again and her voice and movements were composed. He hesitated, as if he expected her to break down or attack him.

"Please, call me Robb," he murmured.

Serafina straightened, maintaining her poise. "Very well, Robb," she replied, her voice steady. "Is there something you need to discuss with me?"

Robb nodded, his expression serious. "I wanted to speak with you about the arrangements. I understand this situation is... difficult for you. But I assure you, I will do everything in my power to make sure everything will go as smoothly as possible."

"I appreciate your concern," Serafina said, meeting his gaze. "But I understand the necessity of this alliance."

Robb took a deep breath. "Yes... I want you to know that I will do my best to honor this alliance. And… I would like to hear your terms."

"My terms?" she repeated.

He nodded.

"Indeed. If there is anything you wish from me, feel free to ask."

She considered his words, choosing her answer carefully.

"Alright. I have been your captive here, but as your wife, I expect to be treated with proper respect."

"Of course," he assured. "There is no need to even ask that."

She nodded.

"I also want my handmaiden Alina from Casterly Rock, as well as my sand cat Naeva to accompany me."

Robb nodded thoughtfully. "Your handmaiden and your sand cat will be brought to you. You have my word."

Serafina felt a small sense of relief. "Thank you, Robb. I appreciate your understanding."

Robb took another deep breath. "Is there anything else you wish to ask or discuss?"

Serafina hesitated, then spoke. "I would like to continue my studies. I have a passion for learning, and I would like to have access to the libraries and any resources available."

Robb smiled slightly. "You have my permission. We have a modest library at Winterfell, and I will ensure you have access to anything you need."

"Thank you," Serafina replied, feeling a bit more at ease. "And... I would like to have my own chamber."

Robb's eyebrows furrowed.

"That is not really customary in the North…"

"I will share your chamber whenever you wish me to," she cut in. "I would just like to have a small place for myself."

Robb considered her request for a moment, then nodded. "I understand. I can arrange that for you. You will have your own chamber where you can have your privacy and space for your studies."

Serafina gave a small, appreciative smile. "Thank you, Robb. That means a lot to me."

"You're welcome, Serafina. Is there anything else?"

"Well… Perhaps I shouldn't stay in your tent before the wedding. Although I heard I will be examined by two Maesters."

Robb nodded thoughtfully. "I understand your concern. It would be more appropriate for you to have separate quarters until the wedding. I'll make arrangements for you to have a private tent." He paused, his expression turning more serious. "Yes, the examination by the two Maesters is part of the agreement. It's to ensure there are no misunderstandings or accusations from either side. I want to assure you that it's only a formality."

Serafina nodded, trying to maintain her composure. She had expected that after her captivity, but the thought still made her sick to her stomach.

"Are you aware of how such examination is performed in a situation like this?" she asked, managing to keep her voice calm.

He was clearly surprised by her question.

"I… I am afraid I don't know the details."

She smiled at him politely.

"Well… You will be there, of course, as my future husband, as well as your brother as your heir, my possible future husband and a witness. There will also be two witnesses of my father's choosing as well as the Maesters, of course. I will lay down, open my legs and let the Maesters confirm that I am still a maiden and that I am not with child."

Robb's face flushed with discomfort and anger. He was clearly struggling to maintain his composure.

"Serafina… I'm sorry you have to go through this," he said quietly. "It's humiliating and invasive, and if there were any way to avoid it, I would."

His words didn't offer her much solace, but at least he recognized the humiliating nature of the whole process.

"I'll make sure it's as dignified as possible. I promise you, Serafina, that I'll do everything in my power to ensure your comfort and respect throughout this process."

She nodded, knowing that she should be grateful. As she had once said to Jaime, Robb Stark wasn't a cruel man. At least not anymore. Yet, she couldn't help but feel bitterness. He had captured her, kept her prisoner. Made her live in fear. Humiliated her. Hadn't that meant anything to her father? Of course it hadn't. She had always known that she couldn't choose her husband. She would just have to deal with other people's decisions.