Few and Far Between

[Akeira]

Robb Stark smiled at the admiration his father received from the growing crowd at the Great Sept of Baelor. A genuine smile was planted on his face, as he too received praise and gave heartily words of gratitude when he was able. In his peripheral vision, he was able to catch a glimpse of Ned's gentle smile, one that reflected both pride, gratitude, and joy. The young Warden of the North could only hope that his accomplishments could keep bringing such an emotion to his father's face throughout the remainder of his days.





"You look very handsome," The young lord heard, causing him to raise an eyebrow and turn his head in the direction of the speaker. It seems as though his ears did not deceive him, as it was truly Queen Cersei whom had spoken these words. "I won't have to pray for beauty for my grandchildren, that much is certain. Though one can only hope they don't die in the cold." She continued, causing Robb to bite his tongue in fear of lashing out at his future mother-in-law. It was then that he remembered his father's earlier words, beginning to realize their true meaning and pondering how extensive they went. Though he was unsure, there was something about her tone that made him want to see to it that his children saw their grandmother on limited occasions.


Of course, Arya had no problem speaking freely, something that made Robb smile inwardly, despite the seriousness of the situation. He admired her strength and will to speak, something that was very uncommon among the women of Westeros. The blue-eyed groom looked toward his other sister, Sansa, and clicked his tongue very softly, noting her characteristic silence. He raised his shoulders in the silent sigh, as it was in her nature to be seen and not heard when amongst royalty. Despite this fact, he had a feeling that Sansa would truly speak when she reprimanded their youngest sister later in the evening.


Robb's thought were interrupted when the trumpets sounded, his eyes quickly flickering to the large doors of the Great Sept. As they swung open slowly, his heart rate increased, soon revealing his beautiful bride and her father. Rooted at his place in awe, he admired her beauty, which was greatly intensified under the bright rays of the sun seeping into the grand hall and Claryse's beautiful dress. It was a magnificent vision, one he hoped to remember for decades to come.

 

[Sansa Stark]

King Robert faced his daughter at the foot of the Great Sept's altar between the statures of Mother and Father Above, placing his hands on her shoulders and kissing her forehead with the utmost fragility. He was not a gentle man and didn't suffer manners like most esteemed lords or previous kings, but where his daughter was concerned Robert would act the role of a slave if it meant making her proud. The man knew he was vulgar and inappropriate at times, yet Claryse had always loved him anyway, and the two were inseparable since she was born. Now, she was to begin a journey without him, a new chapter in her story, intertwined with the House of his greatest friend and ally. The House of the woman he loved long ago.


"You best take care of her, boy," King Robert said with a teary chuckle to his future son-in-law. "She's the most precious thing I've got. I'll wage war to keep her safe, never forget that."


Claryse was unable to hold back a chuckle, and in wake of her father's confession the girl embraced him tightly. "I love you, father."


"And I, you, little Clara."


Cersei forced herself to look away.

 

[Akeira]

"You best take care of her, boy." Robb Stark heard the great king announce to him in front of the Great Sept of Baelor. "She's the most precious thing I've got. I'll wage war to keep her safe, never forget that." He had continued, bringing a smile of gratitude to the lord's face.


The young Warden of the North could not express his surprise at the small trickle of tears. Stories of King Robert and his rebellion were often unaccompanied by his strong emotion and passion for those he cared about most. There was something beautiful about this relationship that he had not seen before. It was quite obvious that the pair was well attached, however, it was unclear before to how deeply this went. As much as Robb reckoned he would try to keep Claryse and their children away from their grandmother, the same could not be said about their grandfather, a loving father and a fierce warrior.


"I will, your Grace. I will do everything in my power to provide the very best for her." He chanted from the bottom of his heart in response, looking straight into the great King's eyes to show his genuine honesty in that statement. "Should I ever fail, may the gods take out their wrath on me." He murmured, bowing to the King once more and finally meeting Claryse's eyes with a jovial grin.


"You may now cloak the bride and bring her under your protection." The Great Septon announced to Robb sometime later, smiling at the bright couple and at the prospects of this glorious day. In his mind, the Seven-faced God would honor this pair in their newfound life together.


Robb nodded and smiled reverently, turning toward his left where a banner-man of House Stark was waiting with the cloak. It was a cloak of onyx, white, and grey, made of the finest furs the North had to offer. The material was thick to represent the cold North and the warmth it would provide. He took the rich cloth from the banner-man, thanking him wordlessly with a nod before turning back toward his betrothed. Stepping closer to her, Robb took the cloak in his calloused hands, gently draping it on Claryse's shoulders with a beaming smile.

 

[Sansa Stark]

Claryse was an independent girl, known throughout the realms for her gentle yet headstrong attitude and her aura of triumph where most women would falter. She was well-prepared for anything the Gods would throw at her, or so she thought, but to see Robb and her father exchange promises of protection and happiness for her well-being made her heart swell with joy that no manner of independence could bring her. She squeezed her father's hands and watched him walk away, standing beside Ned Stark to the right of the altar.


It was just her and her husband now.


The princess couldn't contain her beaming smile, as radiant as the sun's rays just outside the Great Sept. She shredded her maiden cloak carefully and allowed Robb to cover her in the colors and sigils of his House, and she felt the wolf's blood begin to howl and course thick in her veins. Robb looked so handsome, all dressed in onyx and silver to match the cloak he'd just placed over her shoulders. Long before the High Septon gave the instruction to do so, Claryse had taken his hand. The white ribbon was wrapped loosely around their entwined palms, and the exhilaration of knowing the Seven had blessed their marriage was almost overpowering, even if Robb was born of a different faith.


"In the Sight of the Seven, I hereby seal these two souls, binding them as one for eternity. Look upon each other and say the words."


She turned to face her dear Robb Stark, a little smile warming her face, and softly she began to speak.


"Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger. I am his and he is mine, from this day until the end of my days."

 

[Akeira]

After placing the cloak around his wife's shoulders, Robb stepped back with a beaming smile, looking down at Claryse. He was barely able to contain his excitement and warmth, despite the majority of King's Landing and their families watching the pair. He chuckled softly when Claryse took his hand without instruction, clasping his calloused hand with her smooth, porcelain hand. He held onto her hand tightly, not wanting to let go anytime soon. He only hoped that he would not have to.


"In the Sight of the Seven, I hereby seal these two souls, binding them as one for eternity. Look upon each other and say the words."





These words made him grin, as he turned away from the High Septon and turned toward his beloved Claryse. Gazing at her softly, his grin slowly disappeared and was replaced with a genuine smile of awe at her beauty and grace. The smile remained on his face, even as he begun to speak.


"Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger. I am hers and she is mine, from this day until the end of my days." He chanted loudly with a warm smile, only looking at Claryse and forgetting the others in the Great Sept.

 

[Sansa Stark]

She squeezed his hand under the silk of the ribbon, reciprocating his joy. Claryse loved him. It was obvious in everything she did, every look she cast towards him, every smile, every laugh, every step or breath or word she spoke. The princess could only wonder if he felt similarly, or when would be an appropriate time to make such a confession.


"I now present Lord Robb of the House Stark, Warden of the North, and Princess Claryse of the Houses Baratheon and Stark, First of Her Name, Jewel of the South and Lady of Winterfell. May the Old Gods and New watch over your life together." The High Septon stepped aside, all eyes falling on the newlywed couple in preparation for the kiss that would bind them eternally.

 

[Akeira]

Feeling her porcelain hand grasp his under the silk of the ribbon, Robb could not help but clutch her hand more. Only having known her for a short amount of time, it was clear to the Warden of the North that he loved Claryse. What had begun simply as a tour of Winterfell soon blossomed into more, as he found himself feeling more found of her with each passing day. The way she existed brought joy to his heart, as he thought highly of her smile, her elegant laugh, and her very good-natured words. Her fervor produced the same in himself and much more.


Upon hearing their presentation, his eyes twinkled gentle, glancing at the crowd for a moment. Robb turned again toward his wife and stepped a bit closer to her. He gazed down into her beautiful eyes for an instant, raising a calloused hand to cup her chin very gently. Searching her eyes for approval, he smiled gently and leaned in, his eyes closing more the further he leaned. Just inches away from her lips, he eyes closed completely and he closed the gap between them, gently pressing his lips to hers.


It was at the time, he truly experienced bliss.

 

[Sansa Stark]

The kiss was as innocent as it was gentle, and though perhaps it lasted a bit too long to be appropriate, it mattered not to the princess. When the lips of North and South met under the gaze of all the gods, the Great Sept erupted into joyous applause and shouts of congratulatory glee. Claryse found herself blushing as she pulled reluctantly away, giggling despite herself, so absorbed was she in the happiness Robb and their families had given her. Even Cersei managed to spare a few seconds of applause, for while she knew the Starks were her enemy, the smile of her first-born seemed to lay waste to any premature hatred for her new family.


At least, for now.


The royal reception was to be held in a grand courtyard near the gardens of the Red Keep. Robert had ordered flags and sigils of the Stag and the Direwolf be hung and waved in every corner, on every table, near every entrance and exit so the fresh-forged, regained alliance between Stark and Baratheon could be celebrated and made public. All around the stone center wedding guests filed in as groups, chattering to themselves and laughing, drunk on the boisterous occasion. It was one to be sung about. Even Stannis Baratheon, uncle of the bride, found himself smiling in the slightest bit. Claryse would remember it for years to come.

 

[Akeira]

Robb dissolved into quiet laughter when Claryse pulled away, exhaling gently and wishing that their kiss could have lasted longer. He was aware it went on longer than suitable, though for once, he thought not of what was acceptable. In that instant, his being focused only on his beautiful bride and the glorious life she would give him. He could peer into her eyes and see their future, children, and triumphs together. He snapped out of his stupor, and a roar of applause flooded his ears.


Eddard Stark stood proud with Sansa and Arya in tow, clapping loudly in celebration at the beloved union. Through the midst of the festivities, the Hand of the King glanced at Cersei in suspicion, watching her applaud the couple a few times. Though it was customary to clap, there was an element of this gesture that seemed quite off. Unsure what it meant, Ned began to plot once more to discover the truth behind the venomous House.


The young Warden of the North turned to his bride and simpered gently, taking her hand once more and pressing it to his lips in a soft kiss. "I fear I have not told you how breathtakingly beautiful you look, my lady." He murmured to her quietly, running his thumb over her palm softly. "I believe a feast in our honor awaits us. I do not wish our guests become too impatient with our absence." He said with a teasing tone, his eyes twinkling in great happiness. Robb stepped down a few steps from the altar, still holding Claryse's hand and gazing up at her.

 

[Sansa Stark]

Claryse was not accustomed to such flattery, especially when it bubbled in the pit of her stomach and burst, sending waves of heat through her heart, her head, her fingers and toes. It was no longer appropriate to blush. Robb Stark was her husband now and she knew that with the union would come many more compliments, warranted or no, for the years to come. Her smile was just as contagious as his, and as she looked down upon his face the princess felt only joy.


Oh, how long it would last.


"I am beautiful only for you," she told him honestly, stepping down from the steps to bet at his level once more, despite their height difference. "You are strikingly handsome as well, my lord, though that is nothing new in the slightest." The giggle would've been lost to the crowd on any ears but her husband's, and she knew he had heard it when he reciprocated the sound. "Have you ever seen our fathers get drunk together? Because I'm sure we will witness it soon, and I must admit, the thought is rather amusing."


Claryse squeezed his hand a bit tighter, infected by love, infatuated by the glorious future that was in store.

 

[Akeira]

His heart swelled at her declaration of her beauty being only for him, watching her step down to be on his level once more. He looked down at her, still holding her exquisite hand and simpering widely. Robb studied her into her Lannister green eyes with his bright blue Tully eyes, loving their color and the beautiful woman they belong to. "Thank you, my lady. I meant what I said to your father. I promise to cherish you for the rest of my days." He murmured gently, chuckling in return when her light giggle sounded throughout the great Sept. It was truly magnificent, the best resonance he had heard in his entire life.


"Unfortunately, I have not seen the sight. I agree that we will witness it soon, and it will be quite comical." He chuckled, smiling when she clutched his hand a bit tighter. "I'll admit that I have never seen my father quite drunk." Robb stated, raising his shoulders up and down in a light shrug with another chuckle. The young Warden stepped closer to her, pressing a soft kiss to her temple. "I suppose that is suitable?" He asked.

 

[Sansa Stark]

He will cherish me. The words resounded within her soul and brought further life to the infection of love pumping through her veins. Claryse felt her cheeks beginning to ache with how much she was smiling, but it was the best kind of pain there was. A happy kind. She wondered if he felt it too, until her husband pressed his lips to her temple in an affectionate kiss.


"More than suitable," she giggled. "We're married now, Lord Stark. I don't think there are any lines you could cross that would be considered unsuitable." Unless he turned cruel, she noted, but that is not in his nature. I know it isn't.


The newlyweds exited the Great Sept with party guests trailing excitedly behind them, all the way to the stone courtyard surrounded by thick, colorful gardens, decorated with the direwolf and the stag. Grey Wind waited for them near the center of the dias under a banner sporting his breed, where bride and groom were assigned to sit. His large ears perked at the sound of the approaching party and he huffed, seeing his father and new mother approaching on the horizon.


He lifted his head to the air, and gave a howl.

 

[Akeira]

When the newlyweds arrived at the stone courtyard, the party guests erupted into large cheers, handing out their blessings to the happy couple. Decorated with the flags and sigils of the Stag and Direwolf, it was clear that this alliance was greatly cherished. Long ribbons of onyx, gold, grey, crimson resonated throughout the courtyard to represent the houses joined through the marriage.


Food adorned all of the reception tables, almost pouring off of them in quantity. The exceptional fowl, consisting of honeyed chicken, pigeon, and capons, looked fresh under the afternoon sun of King's Landing. Apples, blood oranges, pomegranates, and strawberries ripe for the picking laid fresh in gold platters for all those in attendance to enjoy. Fish, biscuits, and cheeses from the finest goats were high in quality, appealing to whomever laid eyes on them. There was fresh game spread throughout every table, slaughtered early and marinated to ensure the best possible taste.


Sweet plum wine and blackberry wine from across the Narrow Sea sat in multiple skins and casks. It was readily opened by servants whom glided from table to table, filling goblets for the multitude of guests upon arrival. The best wine in all of Westeros was imported from the Arbor for the special occasion. It seemed as though it would never run out, as the Seven Kingdoms were truly commemorating that night.


It was truly a feast fit for royalty.

 

[Sansa Stark]

It was enough to simply watch the laughter of the guests, the busy chatter and the smiles accompanied by well wishes. Robb and Claryse sat at the tip of the dias, the center, a position meant for a king and queen had the occasion been any different. Countless knights and lords approached the table where they ate to offer their genuine congratulations and gifts for the journey back to Winterfell, as well as their arrival there. A knight of Lannisport offered golden jewelry to the princess and insisted the sapphires were among the most priceless in Westeros. Ser Loras Tyrell insisted that Lord Stark keep and handmade doublet from the seamstresses at Highgarden. Claryse's uncle Renly had brought in a gilded carriage that would deliver the newlyweds safely to Winterfell. Even Stannis had a gift to offer, and though it was a simple collection of tomes on Westeros's history that the princess had read a thousand times, she thanked him amiably all the same.


And then came Tyrion Lannister.


The Imp trudged up the steps towards the dias where his niece and her husband sat smiling. They seemed to be the paragon of true love, a story for little girls in their beds to dream about for generations to come. The perfect couple, he thought as he watched them kiss and hold hands and be merry. The perfect love. The perfect target.


There was only one way to counter such devious plots.


"Look at you!" he exclaimed, spreading his hands to express his joy as Claryse met his eyes. "You're more beautiful than your mother."


"Uncle Tyrion!" she exclaimed, rising from her seat to embrace him, but stopping as he held up his hand to pause her. "My sweet girl, you mustn't dirty your dress by kneeling to hug me. Though I know you're rather fond of that, spare the dress. I might step on it." He chuckled and took her hand instead, kissing it lightly. "Truly, Claryse. You are beautiful. Robb Stark, you are a lucky man. Shall I present you with your gift now, or wait for a more private audience?"

 

[Akeira]

Robb Stark truly enjoyed the festivities, as he and his newlywed wife were approached by many knights and lords with congratulations and gifts. It was a glorious experience, one he was glad to share with Claryse. The food was simply divine, probably among the best he had tasted in his entire existence. Even the wine, which he had only sampled in the past, tasted as though it was made from the sweetest grapes in the Seven Kingdoms and beyond. Among the gifts, the young Warden of the North was offered armor, weaponry, and pledges of allegiance from multiple Houses whom had supported the Baratheons and Lannisters alike. He thanked them heartily, agreeing to begin a raven correspondence once they arrived in Winterfell.


When Tyrion Lannister approached the tip of the dias, Robb looked at him warily, remembering his father's earlier words about the Lannisters. He turned toward Claryse, smiling softly and pressing a kiss to her temple to pacify himself. He pulled away when her uncle spoke, chuckling when his wife rose to embrace her beloved family member. Leaning back in his chair, he listened to their interaction, drinking from his goblet of wine with a soft smile.


This imp seemed much different than Her Grace.


"I do believe now would be an acceptable time to present the gift." He responded, glancing at Claryse to see if she agreed with this decision.

 

[Sansa Stark]

"Right then."





With a clap of his small hands, a couple of Lannister guardsmen left the premises of the elaborate feast, only to return moments later with a large object obscured and hidden by a white sheet. Heads had turned in the direction of the stone courtyard where other patrons had offered respects and gifts, but this was unlike any the couple had received just yet and was guaranteed to cause a commotion. It would remain in the memories of the guests in attendance long after the day was over, too. But they had no way of knowing that.


"You have to promise you won't blush," Tyrion warned, holding up a finger and stepping slowly backwards. He watched his niece's face contort in confusion and let her linger there just long enough to satisfy his troublesome nature, and on the count of three he revealed his present to her.


Under the light of the sun, a cradle greeted their eyes.


The infant bed was created in a circle shape with an optional curved base to allow either Robb or Claryse to rock their child back and forth should they desire, urging it to sleep with a built-in woolen blanket for comfort. Within the cradle where a baby would sit rested a small basket of tea leaves, intended to encourage fertilization. The design of the cradle itself was onyx with accents of Baratheon gold and Stark grey. On one end of the cradle, a large, rearing stag was carved into the wood, while the other sported a roaring direwolf. Both sigils were crowned.


"Forgive me if this offends you, Lord Stark. I don't mean to suggest that my niece is with child at this very moment and compromise your integrity or her virtue. but if the gods are good it will not take long. A royal baby needs a place to sleep, no? I thought it would seem fitting enough for our future Princes and Princess of Winterfell."


"There are no princes or princesses of Winterfell," Joffrey spoke immediately. "Only the stag should be crowned."


"By law, all of Claryse's children will be royal, and her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren and so on. We shall have Northern royalty as much as we have Dornish, in the centuries to come. I believe you should get used to that. These are your nieces and nephews we're speaking of! Do you mean to relinquish their royal rights? I don't think the Starks will be as easily opposed as the Targaryens, sweet prince." There was a smile on the Imp's face and laughter from the crowd accompanied him, but it was clear to those who knew of the rivalry between uncle and nephew, between Imp and Lion, that the two were speaking in threats.


"Dragons breathe fire," Cersei chided as she stood by her son.


"Yes, they do. Or they did, when they still roamed the earth. Now they are gone. And wolves have teeth." He chuckled to ease the tension. "Ah, but hopefully the infant will be too small to know how to bite. You'd best watch out, Joffrey. If it is anything like your big sister, I suspect you should run."


More laughter erupted. Cersei looked fit to burst, but that was a part of Tyrion's present to Claryse as well.

 

[Akeira]

"You have to promise you won't blush."


This declaration Robb's eyebrows to burrow in confusion. He stood from the tip of the dias, swaggering forward toward the center of the courtyard where the gift was to be presented. The large object was interesting enough, producing images to his mind of what it could possibly be. Unfortunately, they all hazed together and he had no notion once more. It would only do good to wait until the gift was disclosed.


Upon the revelation of the cradle, there was an eruption of applause from various partygoers. The young Warden stepped closer to the marvelous present, eyeing it sweetly and imagining of a child with dark hair and endearing green eyes laying in it. He ran a calloused hand along the onyx wood, chuckling moderately and admiring the tea leaves in the small basket.


Sansa Stark was delighted with the gift, clasping her hands together and smiling widely. A little baby would be wonderful, as she was dedicated to being the perfect aunt, taking care of the darling child in the absence of its parents, Maester, or servants. Perhaps Old Nan would be able to enchant him or her with her stories like she had done with the other Stark children of Winterfell. Her sister, Arya, had other reservations, however. She did not fully understand the commotion over the cradle meant for a baby, though it was beautiful. She believed there were far more important things in life.


"I must convey that it does not offend me." Robb began, unsure what title to call the Lannister Imp by. "I too hope the gods are good to us and bless us with a child in due time. I am very grateful for your gift and think it quite fitting for a child of Winterfell. Thank you." He remarked earnestly with a soft smile. Turning to the giver, he clasped his hands behind his back, bowing softly in gratitude for the lovely present.


Robb simpered lightly at the mention of Northern royalty, knowing that Claryse would appreciate her uncle's interception. The Starks and Baratheons would do well with this powerful alliance, their marriage and future children being a symbol of this. It was clear that the Lannisters were keen on keeping their stronghold in the South and Casterly Rock, though others would surely rule in the North.


All the while, Eddard sat quietly in his seat, sipping his wine and observing the tension between brother, sister, and son. He thought it best not to speak at this time, perceiving their judgments based on speech. Seeing Tyrion defending House Stark intrigued the Hand of the King, showing that his thought process was much different than that of his family. Only an foolish man would question another House, thinking it would fall at the slightest touch of war.

 

[Sansa Stark]

Though the Lannisters remained in a state of frustration from Tyrion's grand gift, the rest of the party sailed smoothly into sunset with plenty of music, food, dancing, laughter and other festivities that had the guests in deep chatter long after it had all been drawn to a close. Claryse, thankful that her husband had insisted against a bedding ceremony, began to feel the nerves of what was to come bubbling in the pit of her stomach. Perhaps she had drunk too much wine?





"Ay, Neddie!" Robert called from his end of the dias, laughing something great. "Whaddyou think our kids'll name their babies? I say, Robert Eddard for all the sons and Eddard Robert for all the girls!" His glee was great and it shone on his bright red face, and though the king was clearly quite intoxicated it provided something amusing for those who remained in the courtyard to witness it. "If the gods are good, they'll have the first Edrober conceived tonight! Gods, I remember when little Claryse was a baby. Don't you? Shit. Sixteen years, and here she is, married to a lord and destined to live out her days in that cold place you like to call home."


"Father," the princess chuckled. "You've had too much wine. You should get off to bed before you can no longer walk..."


"Nonsense!" he shouted happily. "More wine, and quick about it, Lannister! Bring some for the Hand, too. We need a long night of reminiscing, aye? It'll distract me from all the noises goin' on up in the that tower you two are going to. What's it called?"


"...the Tower of the Hand, Your Grace," said Lancel Lannister.


"Bugger that! Get some wine like I said, you shit! Gods, your mother was a pig. Go on, now!"


Lancel Lannister ran quickly, much to the king's amusement.

 

[Akeira]

It was quite obvious to Eddard Stark that King Robert Baratheon was quite drunk. Hearing his slurred speech and playful banter, the Hand of the King chuckled quietly, shaking his head at the continued antics of his Grace.





"Whaddyou think our kids'll name their babies? I say, Robert Eddard for all the sons and Eddard Robert for all the girls!"


These statements brought laughter to the Hand, causing him to raise his glass in recognition and drink to the marriage. Though he was not heavily intoxicated, Ned still had enough alcohol in him to loosen him up a bit. It was far more than he had drunk during feasts in Winterfell, yet the occasion called for it. His eldest child would only get married once. Even more so, Robb Stark was marrying into the family of his most trusted friend. It was a joyful event that was not to be forgotten, even if the entirety of his family was not in attendance. "Ah, yes, I too remember when Robb was a babe. Now little Rickon is the young one. The Gods have blessed us with virtuous children."


At the mention of bringing more wine for the duo, Ned Stark chuckled and waved off Lancel Lannister. "None for me, just his Grace." He warned, despite the protests of the king next to him. He watched the Lannister boy scurry away, causing him to simper at the authority his dear friend had. "It seems like just yesterday we were fighting in your rebellion. Now you're the King of the Seven Kingdoms, and I, your Hand." He reminisced with a smile.

 

[Sansa Stark]

"Aye, indeed, but what I wouldn't give for the thrill o'those fights. Gods, Ned, do you remember the glory? The bloodshed? The women?" He gave a hearty laugh, pushing away the thought of the only woman that mattered, the one that made all the others so necessary. "It does me great joy to see our Houses aligned again, like they were meant to be. Great joy. I can die a happy man."


"Don't talk like that," Claryse frowned. "You're far from your time."


"Perhaps. But what does it matter to you? Why are you still here and not fucking the night away?! You're my daughter for gods' sake, don't tell me you're a modest one!"


Her father's laughter made her blush, but the statement was quite true. Long had she been yearning for a night with her husband, for a night with Robb, and now that it was upon them there was only excited anticipation and a bubbling desire that could not be quenched.


"Go on. Go, I said! Damn it Robb Stark, if you don't leave my daughter smilin' like a fool I swear I'll cut off that pretty little--"


"Goodnight, father." Claryse kissed his forehead, chuckling, content to see the king so joyous but just as relieved to know he had dismissed her.

 

[Akeira]

Ned Stark simply chuckled at the King's reminiscing, knowing that he too was reliving their illustrious days. Though it seemed only yesterday, much time had passed since then. He raised an eyebrow at Robert's response to his daughter's interjection, pondering how he would have reacted if sober. He looked toward Robb, calling him forward with a wave of his hand. When the young Warden arrived with his hands resting at his sides, his father studied him for a moment, physical features of a young Catelyn and Eddard embodied in the flesh. After a few moments, Ned uncharacteristically wrapped a large arm around his son's shoulder, clapping him on the back for a moment with a small smile.


"Congratulations, son. Your mother and I are proud." He murmured to his son with authority. "I suppose there will be quite the welcoming party awaiting you two when we get to Winterfell." He continued, smiling gently and imagining the grand feast that would probably be served. Odds are it would be as extravagant as the celebration on the day the royal party arrived, if not more so.


Robb smiled gently and pulled away just in time to hear King Robert threatening him, causing him to back away in case he went through with his threat. Though the man was drunk, he could be rather unpredictable, and had all of Westeros at his command. As he dismissed Claryse, Robb stepped forward, placing a comfortable hand on her shoulder. "We should retire for the night soon." He whispered to her gently, a glint of mischief in his bright blue eyes.

 

[Sansa Stark]

"Indeed," came Clarye's chuckle, "before my father decides to embarrass me in front of the whole seven kingdoms."


The farewells were all good-natured and polite, laced with well-wishes and hopes for long reigns and multiple sons. It was the same sort of nonsense Claryse had been hearing all day, and while she cherished each moment of gratitude and appreciation for those who offered kindness, the taste of repetition turned a bit sour in her mouth. It couldn't be helped. Constantly such things were surrounding her. A polite statement was always welcomed but the princess was more than happy to get away from it all. Especially in her new home.


"Shall we?" Claryse questioned with a giddy grin.

 

[Akeira]

Robb chuckled at his bride's mention of the embarrassment her father caused. He truly knew that King Robert would not go through with his threat, unless Claryse was in harm's way. It was endearing really, as the King of the Seven Kingdoms was willing to go to any length to protect his daughter. Such a strong bond was hard to come by, one that the young Warden of the North was glad Claryse shared with her beloved father.


Throughout the farewells, he remained diplomatic, sharing words of gratitude with a soft smile. It was all a grand gesture, as many congratulated the couple on their union, prayed for their health, and wished for multiple sons to bless their family. He responded to these adieus with exchanges of gratitude, sharing warm words in response to those who gave them. A bit tedious at times, Robb knew these were a way to establish ties among the multiple houses residing in Westeros. In times of need and trade, it was these bonds that would win a war.


After the couple proceeded to the edge of the party, the groom looked back toward those gathered, and his heart swelled. It was an amazing sight to see so many there in their honor on the joyful day. Soon, his thoughts were interrupted when he heard his wife speak, a voice as light and delightful as air. At her question, he smiled gently and nodded, holding out his arm for Claryse.


"We shall." He replied with a light smirk, peering into her green Lannister eyes. "I can assure you that there will be no interruptions, and we shall sleep comfortably later in the night."