Chapter 21 – Weddings of Wolves, Lions and Horses!
Winterfell – 1st month of 278 – week 1 day 3
The wedding of Lord Brandon Stark and Lady Barbrey Ryswell, had been postponed a few weeks, to give people time to make the trip. The Prince Regent and his new wife would be attending and would arrive that morning at Winterfell.
Karlyn had arrived a week earlier with Ser Jaime and the Lannister family, which of course was lacking the Lord Hand and his wife, who were traveling with the Prince Regent.
Her father, Lord Rickard looked over the line-up of his family. Brandon and Barbrey were dressed to impress, and Eddard was standing beside them, dressed in his normal dark clothing, and his hair was combed. Karlyn, stood beside Eddard, dressed in a warm silver dress, with the cloak of his late wife over her shoulders. It was white with silver direwolves decorating it, and the collar was a soft white fox fur. At her shoulder, was Ser Jaime, in his gold and red doublet and pants, with a heavy cloak over his shoulders. Karlyn had, had it made for him. The Lannisters had been quiet since their arrival, and Jaime had been very watchful. His brother Tyrion was further down the line, beside Benjen. Lyanna stood between her sister and youngest brother, and Rickard knew Karlyn had a hand in his youngest daughter's dress. It was pure Stark. And Benjen matched his older brothers.
"You will do." Rickard stated calmly.
A shout from the main gates, had heads turning and Rickard resumed his place at the head of the line. In lines behind him and the children, were the lords of the North.
Through the gates, rode the royal guard and two Kingsguard, and behind them, The Prince Regent, his wife the Princess Cersei, the Lord Hand and Lady Joanna. Then behind them, rode Lord Steffon Baratheon, his wife Cassandra and their two eldest sons, the newborn Renly was not visiting, being kept safe at Storms End.
A mutter from down the line had Rickard praying, Karlyn would control Lyanna. The betrothal between Lyanna and Robert Baratheon was on hold due to the boorish behaviour of the young Robert at Duskendale. And Lyanna was being very vocal about NOT Marrying that Stupid Stag.
And Robert had been very vocal in maintaining the alliance. Ravens had been flying between Storms End and Winterfell and Lyanna had refused to even hear about it. At 11 she was showing her teeth, a true wolf, he had heard Karlyn and Eddard say while Brandon had smirked and called her teeth milk teeth. That had earned him a glower from Karlyn and a snowball to the face from Lyanna. That said, the short time in the capital had done all his children well. Eddard had become independent of Robert Baratheon. Karlyn had dipped her toes into the Game of Thrones and Brandon had learned what it was to be the heir of the north. Lyanna, Lyanna had spent time with her sister and learning from her and Lady Joanna. Benjen had taken to following Eddard around and was looking forward to his fostering. And Rickard knew that Eddard and Karlyn had been encouraging that.
Rickard stepped forward and knelt. Behind him, his children and lords followed suit. "Your grace, Welcome to Winterfell. Winterfell is yours, your Grace" he intoned.
There was the clank of chainmail and then the Prince said "Rise Lord Stark, and thank you"
Rickard stood as did those behind him and he beckoned to a servant who hurried forward with bread and salt as per the tradition of guest rights.
The Prince and his wife partook of the guest rights, Cersei not looking sure until her own twin, standing behind the eldest Stark daughter inclined his head.
Then came the routine of introductions down the line. Karlyn kept an eye on her good sister to be, who had never met the Prince before, having returned North before Duskendale.
Barbrey was trembling as she made her greeting, and Karlyn forbore to roll her eyes. Once the line was completed, it was obvious to Karlyn that Barbrey had no idea on what to do next, so she stepped in. She was the eldest Stark Daughter and had learned at the knee of Joanna Lannister, so she took charge, and gracefully escorted the party inside the Keep while servants raced about in controlled chaos to see to horses and the luggage.
Rickard, with his eldest sons in tow, escorted the Crown Prince and his Hand and Lord Steffon to his solar for discussions. He knew he could leave the ladies in his daughter's capable hands and he hopped Barbrey learned quickly.
Karlyn led the ladies into a warm solar in the guest wing. "Your Grace" She said to Cersei, "We hope that this meets with your approval."
The Room was warm and circular, warmed by a large fireplace blazing in the south wall. Low couches covered in warm colours were scattered around, with three set before the fireplace.
Cersei took a breath of warm air and gave Karlyn a smile. "Yes, it is fine Lady Karlyn" She said honestly. "Warm"
Joanna laughed softly at her daughter's words. "Winterfell is always warmer on the inside than the outside."
Barbery stood awkwardly by the door and Karlyn waved her inside. Barbery dropped another curtsey as Cersei took a seat near the fire.
Joanna studied the woman who was to wed the Heir to Winterfell and then glanced at Karlyn.
Karlyn however moved to sit beside Cersei and hand the Princess a mug of warm wine. "Here" She said to her Good Sister to be.
The door opened and Lady Cassandra entered. Lyanna trailed behind her almost sulkily. Cassandra swept forward and curtsied elegantly to Cersei and then sat with a warm smile to Joanna and Karlyn.
Barbery sat beside Karlyn and watched as Karlyn gracefully served Joanna and Cassandra their own mugs of warm wine. She was out of her depth, and Karlyn had been trying to explain it to her for days, of how to handle this. And she had not listened. Now she sat silent and tried to learn.
Lyanna sat on a couch near the window after curtseying to Cersei and Joanna.
Cersei sipped her wine and enjoyed the warmth that seeped into her form. "Thank you Lady Karlyn" She said softly.
Karlyn nodded "You are welcome Your Grace." She said softly. "A maid will be here soon with food. I understand that the journey was difficult."
"Rhaegar and I were happy to make the trip" Cersei said softly. "He and I were very impressed with the improvements in the north."
"My father and the lords of the North have worked hard to make sure our people are well taken care of. And with the Nights Watch growing, the Prince's Northern Boarders are well protected." Karlyn said softly.
There was a rap on the door and Karlyn glanced toward it. She opened her mouth but Barbery beat her too it.
"Come in" Barbery called out briskly. It was technically not her place but Karlyn let it slide.
The door opened and two maids entered with trays filled with food. They placed them on the low tables between the couches. They curtseyed and left the room.
Cersei had noted the interaction between Karlyn and Barbery and considered it carefully as she and the ladies gathered, ate and spoke of the upcoming wedding. She also noted the silent Stark Sister by the window, who, she knew was absorbing everything.
Lyanna was listening indeed but she was keeping her gaze away from the women in the room. Lady Cassandra had tried to bring her around to Robert, but Lyanna had politely told her that she was not interested.
Winterfell – 1st month of 278 – week 2 - day 3
Candles were scattered through the godswood, and the guests that entered the Godswood, all carried torches to light the way.
Brandon Stark stood beside the heart tree, dressed in his best. Lord Rickard stood in front of the Heart Tree, he would be officiating. Eddard and Benjen stood beside their brother.
The Royals stood with the Starks and the Lannisters joined them. On the other side, the House Ryswell stood with the lords of the North behind them. The rest of the houses filled out the crowd scattered through the trees. And among the crowd, the direwolves of House Stark mingled.
At the gate to the Godswood Karlyn and Lyanna stood and waited for their future good-sister.
Barbrey and her father appeared and walked to the gate.
Karlyn and Lyanna stepped before them and led the way to the Heart tree, both carrying Torches. Once they reached the clearing, they paused and stepped to the side to allow the Bride and her father approach the heart tree where Lord Rickard and Brandon waited.
Once they paused before the pair, lord Rickard spoke "Who comes before the Old Gods this night?"
Lord Ryswell replied firmly. "Barbery, of the House Ryswell, comes here to be wed. A woman grown, trueborn and noble. She comes to beg the blessing of the Gods, who comes to claim her."
Brandon stepped forward "Brandon of House Stark, heir to Winterfell. Who gives her?"
"Lord Rodrick Ryswell, her father and Lord of the Rills" Barbery's father replied with a nod
"Lady Barbery, do you take this man?"
Barbery nodded. "I take this man"
Brandon took her hand and turning with Barbery, they knelt before the Heart Tree, so that the Old Gods witnessed their Union.
Around the crowd, the Northerners lowered their heads in prayer.
Those not of the north followed suit and all paid silent respects.
After a silent moment, Brandon stood and helped his wife to her feet. He then unclasped her cloak which bore the sigil of her birth house, and handed it to Eddard who handed him another cloak. Brandon shook it out and swept it around Barbery's shoulders, cloaking her in Stark Colours.
Then they turned to the gathered crowd. Brandon grinned and swept Barbery up into his arms to carry her from the godswood. And more cheers rose up as people applauded and cheered the couple as they moved down the makeshift aisle and headed for the great hall for the feast.
Karlyn watched them go with the crowd and noted that her siblings' wolves moved with her siblings. A weight leaned against her legs and she buried her hand in Ivory's fur.
Thinking she was alone; she closed her eyes. Then a hand came down on her shoulder. She opened her eyes and looked up into the green eyes of her betrothed. "Ser Jamie" she said softly.
"My lady" He said holding out his arm to her. Smiling she linked her arm through his expecting him to lead her after the crowd. But Jamie turned her to the heart tree.
"Jamie?"
"I have been thinking." He said softly. "Father and Mother believe we should wed as soon as possible. Father believes that the King is looking to return from Dragonstone. And believes that there will be a war."
"But Rhaegar would give up the throne to his father." Karlyn whispered. "Surely."
"His father... you saw him Karlyn remember."
She nodded. She, her siblings, Jamie and his, had joined Lord Twyin and Lord Rickard in the Kings chambers while Maesters worked on him. He had been, completely insane to her.
"I doubt the King will accept a peaceful transition back, he has been claiming that Rhaegar is a traitor."
Karlyn leaned against Jamie's side. "And do you want to marry me Jamie?"
He looked at her. "At first… no. When we first met, I would have happily joined the Church."
"Awww" she smiled up at him. "And I would rather have kissed a horse."
His eyes sparked "Shhh your brother will be jealous that you want to kiss his wife."
She laughed and pushed at him. He stepped back with a smile, reaching out he grabbed her hands and pulled her to him. "Karlyn," he said as she braced her hands on his chest. "I will be more than pleased to marry you." Jamie's lips quirked. "A Wolf and a Lion is a fine match. And Father would probably hunt us both down if we both begged off."
"I won't be begging off" Karlyn said as she stood close to him. The warmth of their bodies were warming them both in the cold air in the Godswood.
"Nor I." Jamie said. "We should speak with our parents."
"Tomorrow. Tonight, is for Brandon and Barbery." Karlyn whispered "We will speak with them tomorrow."
Jamie nodded and slid his arm around her waist. "Father will want it to be held at the Great Sept."
"I know" she rested her head on his shoulder. "I will accept that…. If…"
"If?" Jamie asked with a grin. "If what?"
"The Red Keep has a godswood. We can do both correct?"
"Godswood first then Sept." Jamie confirmed with a grin. "Tomorrow, now, we should get to the party. Tyrion has been badgering me about Northern Feasts… I think he wants some wild boar."
But before he turned to lead her out, he reached out a hand and touched the heart tree gently. "Karlyn Stark, I vow, we will be wed, and I will be your husband, in both our religions."
Smiling, she placed her hand beside his on the tree. "Jamie Lannister, I vow, that I will be your wife in both our religions."
Then together, Jamie's arm around her shoulder they left the godswood, Ivory leading the way towards the light and laughter of the celebrations being held in the Great hall of Winterfell.
Kings Landing – 3rd month of 278 – week 2 - Day 1
The High Septon stared at the two men who stood there before him. "Lord Twyin, No, I will not accept this. The Seven is the true faith. If you want your son to marry the Stark Girl, then there will only be ONE ceremony. I will NOT marry them if they marry in that heathen faith."
Jamie, standing beside his father, kept his eyes focused on the Septon. He was considering the situation. Before his father could speak he spoke "Very well" he said coldly. "Then, Karlyn and I will summon Septon Miark from Casterly Rock to perform the ceremony."
The High Septon glared "You won't be able to be married here!" He said stomping his foot.
Tywin smirked "I believe High Septon, that you will find you are incorrect." The Lord Hand commented. "The Prince Regent will be a guest at my Son's wedding and he and his wife, my daughter is expecting the wedding to be held here. Lady Karlyn and my Son will be wed here, and they will be wed in the Godswood at the Red keep, you can either be polite about it or you can learn the hard way." Turning he gathered Jamie will a glance and they left the High Septon behind them, gaping like a fish.
Kings Landing – 4th month of 278 – week 1 - Day 4
The day of the Wedding of Jamie Lannister and Karlyn Stark dawned clear and sunny. Karlyn, dressed in her night shift, stood in her bedchamber in the Tower of the Hand looking out the window. Behind her, her maid fussed about the gown that was hanging on a dress form.
Mira and Lady Joanna had put their heads together and with the seamstresses of Kings Landing, had gotten the gown created. When Cersei married Rhaegar, her gown had been beautiful, white with red and gold inserts. And Lions and Dragons embroidered all over it. It had been the most beautiful gown Karlyn had ever seen. Even her gown for that wedding, as a handmaid for Cersei had been beautiful. But this gown, her wedding gown, had stopped her breath.
It had a silvery blue underskirt with a lace white overskirt. The bodice was embroidered with wolves and lions in silver and gold threads. And the sleeves were tight fitting and trimmed in gold and red, the colours of the Lannister house.
Her father had brought, her mother's maidens cloak with him and her siblings when they arrived earlier that week. She took a breath, turned and smiled at Mira. "I am ready."
Mira grinned and clapped her hands and summoned maids in with water for the prenuptial bath.
===Godswood, Kings Landing===
6 hours after dawn, Jamie dressed in clothes of resplendent red and gold, stood with his father and younger brother beside the Heart Tree in the Godswood in the Red Keep. He knew that this was only the first part of his wedding, but he was eager to see his future wife.
Lord Umber had been chosen by Karlyn and Jamie to do their ceremony in the Godswood. Normally it would be done at night, but they chose to do it before their wedding in the sept.
There was movement at the gate to the godswood, and His sister, Princess Cersei appeared with Lady Lyanna ahead of, his bride.
When Cersei and Lyanna parted, Jamie got his first look at Karlyn.
Her hair was down, and pinned back from her face by jewelled combs, and her gown was form fitting under the silver and black maiden cloak of House Stark. It covered her but he could see the peak of Silver, blue and white. He would see it better in the Great Sept.
Rickard and Karlyn stopped before Lord Umber.
Lord Umber spoke "Who comes before the Old Gods this night?"
Rickard Stark replied firmly. "Karlyn, of House Stark, comes here to be wed. A woman grown, trueborn and noble. She comes to beg the blessing of the Gods, who comes to claim her?"
Jamie, remembering his lines, stepped forward "Jamie of House Lannister, heir to Casterly Rock. Who gives her?"
"Lord Rickard Stark, her father, Lord of the North and Winterfell" Rickard replied with a nod
"Lady Karlyn, do you take this man?"
With a smile, Karlyn nodded. "I take this man"
Jamie took her hand and turning with Karlyn, they knelt before the Heart Tree, so that the Old Gods witnessed their Union.
Around the crowd, the Northerners lowered their heads in prayer.
Those not of the north followed suit and all paid silent respects.
After a silent moment, Jamie stood and helped Karlyn to her feet. He raised her hand to his lips and smiled. "I shall see you shortly in the Sept" he whispered as they turned and led the group from the Godswood. At the gate of the Godswood, he bowed and with the rest of his family, and the royal family left Karlyn and her family to head to the Sept.
They would depart in procession and Karlyn and her family would follow.
Lyanna helped Karlyn into the Carriage minutes later while their brothers mounted on horses with their father.
==Great Sept of Baelor==
There were crowds of smallfolk outside the Great Sept, they had gathered in months before to witness the Prince's wedding to Lady Cersei, now they gathered to witness the joining of two great houses.
As Jamie and his family arrived, they cheered and he followed his parents up the steps with Tyrion beside him.
When they reached the top of the stairs, another cheer went up and Jamie turned as his sister was helped down off her horse by Rhaegar. His lips quirked. Rhaegar had made sure Cersei knew how to ride better since their marriage.
Quickly he headed into the Sept, leaving the Royal couple to the adoration of the smallfolk.
After the Royal couple had made their way into the Sept and taken their seats, the rest of the guests took theirs.
Septon Miark, from Casterly Rock, stood at the alter with Jamie and Twyin beside him. A cheer from outside, signalled the arrival of the bride and her family.
Minutes later, Lyanna, Benjen, and Eddard entered the Sept with Brandon and Barbery behind them. They moved to their seats at the front of the audience.
Jamie looked towards the entrance and his lips curved.
Karlyn, on her father's arm walked down the steps into the Sept proper. Her lips were curved into a matching smile.
As she joined him in front of the Septon, they turned together, and faced their future.
Authors Notes and review Replies
Wolfviking: A war of sorts, and we shall see who survives it.
Xenocanaan: Cersei will not be a problem for long. And, I think most of her issues stemmed from being married to Robert Baratheon. If my husband called out another's name mid intimate moment, I would poison him as well.