15Part Four
Snafu's Notes: So where did the idea of The White Wedding came from? The Four Feathers, primarily the dance scene between Heath Ledger and Kate Hudson. As I had been watching Game of Thrones earlier, I first imagined Richard Madden and Oona Chaplin in their place, before switching to Sean Bean and Michelle Fairley. That's how the story started. As for the 'Wild Bunch' idea, I was inspired by the A-Team film.
Parts of this chapter originated from The Westeros Chronicles, of which this story falls under. Oh, and Cersei and Ned's dialogue comes from the series in which Ned finds out about her kids, but with a twist.
Stark Manor, nighttime – the night before the wedding.
Dinner at the Stark household was to Captain Edmure Tully, an organized form of chaos. An organized form of chaos with Eddard Stark at its head, and his sister at his side, unlike the occasional fistfight he had seen while visiting Roslin and her own family at the Twins and the attempts by Walder, Lothar, Black Walder and Stevron in trying to maintain order.
Six kids. Seven if you count his godson, Theon, who Ned was hosting while he attended school with the others at King's Landing Preparatory Academy. And Benjen Stark of the Westeros Police Department. Compared to what he had seen whilst visiting Roslin at The Twins, this looked almost...normal.
Edmure marveled at his brother-in-law's efforts in keeping a resemblance of order in his household. Only this time, it was the night before his sister and brother-in-law would renew their wedding vows in a private ceremony. And it was a full house, aside from himself and Roslin Frey, who were sharing a room, but Ned was also hosting the Greyjoy brothers – Balon, Aeron and Victation – along with Yara Greyjoy, Robert Baratheon, Jamie Lannister and their respective families. Also present was Rhaegar Targaryen, his wife Elia, and their children, Rhaenys and Aegon. Rhaegar's parents and siblings were back at the hotel, having dinner with Tywin and Joanna.
Balon's other brother, Euron, was overseas in Essos, a career military man, and would not be able to make it to the wedding. He did, however extend his congratulations to the Starks.
However, Olenna had allowed Margaery Tyrell to sleepover at the Starks, much to Sansa's delight. The granddaughter of the Queen of Thorns sat at the table beside Sansa, while Rhaenys Targaryen sat on the opposite side.
Joffrey Baratheon was also on his best behavior. Despite his sociopathic tendencies, he did admire his famous uncle, the Prime Minister of Westeros. Gendry Baratheon sat beside him, enjoying the festive air.
Barristan Selmy and Jon Arryn were also present, the former staying in a hotel, while the latter was being hosted at Stark Manor with his wife – Cat's sister – and son.
The dinner party was outside in the backyard, Ned standing over the grill, wearing an apron which had the words DON'T SHOOT THE CHEF emblazoned on the front. Cat had bought the apron as a joke.
One of Ned's talents was that he knew his way around the grill. He could cook a mean steak, a secret family recipe that his dad had taught him. Tyrion Lannister, who owned a bar and grill in King's Landing, often pestered Ned about the recipe. Even Cersei Baratheon, during one of her visits to Winterfell alongside her husband and brothers had to admit – albeit grudgingly – that Ned Stark could cook.
Ned and Cat extended the invite to Tywin and Joanna Lannister, but both had respectfully declined the offer. Oberyn Martell and Ellaria Sand, however, accepted when Cat had asked the pair to come. The Red Viper and his bastard paramour sat next to Rhaegar and Elia. As Ned continued to work the grill, which had an assortment of food on it – steaks, lobsters, even several kabobs – Jon Arryn and the others was busy retelling some of their past exploits from his place at the table.
Sandor 'The Hound' Cleagne, the bodyguard for the Baratheons, relaxed in a pool chair, nursing a beer. A tall man, not as tall as his brother, whom he hates with a passion, but imposing. The burned half of his face, courtesy of said elder brother, helped in intimidating anyone dumb enough to mess with the Baratheons. He was bodyguard to the Baratheon family, mostly to Cersei and her children, warily watching the five direwolves from the corner of his eye.
"Mr. Cleagne?"
The smell of food had reached him before Sansa's voice broke him out of his reverie. Sansa stood before him, holding a plate of kabobs and another beer in her hands. "Here. Dad said you might be hungry."
Sandor accepted the food and drink with a nod of thanks. "Much appreciated, little bird," he growled. Sansa returned to the table as Sandor dug in.
Meanwhile, Tyrion Lannister was standing on a chair, watching as Ned cooked. The Stark patriarch had several steaks on the grill, and Balon had brought over a couple pounds of shrimp and lobster. So now, Ned was grilling steaks, lobster, and various kebabs. "You sure know your way around a grill, Ned," the Imp noted.
"Flattery will get you nowhere, Imp," Ned replied as he took a slice of lemon and squeezed, spraying several lobsters with its juices. "And no, I'm still not giving you my steak recipe. You'd have a better chance of stealing the Martell's Dornish rum recipe."
"You wound me, Ned. Besides, I'd leave that to the Tyrells. Not to say that Olenna has tried and failed in the past. At least tell me your secret as to how you get the food to taste so delicious." As Tyrion didn't eat meat, he sure loved the veggie kabobs that Ned was serving.
"The trick is to slow-cook everything. Something I learned from my dad when he wasn't fawning over Brandon. Pass me that tray."
Tyrion complied. As Ned piled on what remained of the food onto the plate, Rhaegar was entertaining the others with stories of their past exploits. "Between Robert and Balon, those two caused more fights overseas than Oberyn combined."
"I resent that remark, Targaryen," Balon sniped, his tone playful. "Robert started more fights than me. By my count, he's started ten more fights than me. Good times, by the way."
"Nine," corrected Robert. "That last fight in Asshai didn't...didn't count."
"Just don't tell your brother or that red woman of his that detail," Ned said as he and Tyrion sat back down at the table. "Besides, Jamie started that fight in Asshai with those jokers from the local temple."
Speaking of Stannis, Ned had extended the dinner invitation to him and his family, but Stannis had respectfully declined, as he, Mellisandre, and his daughter were at a small gathering in of the followers of the Lord of Light in Winterfell.
"Rhaegar was the diplomat out of the Bunch," Jamie said. "Seeing as how he is now Prime Minister, it was no surprise. Had he been a lot like Oberyn, he could talk a septa out of her dress."
"Not that my brother has done that already," Elia said as she took a sip of her wine, while Oberyn grinned.
Tyene's mother, Lemore, was a septa Oberyn had met in the past, having made her residence in Dorne. She was devoted to the Seven, but behind closed doors...she gave him a run for his money when it came to sex. He still hooked up with her on occasion. One thing about the Red Viper was that he tried to keep his bastards' mothers (save for Obara, as her mother died years ago) in their lives. It was a miracle in itself that Lemore wasn't excommunicated for her carnal activities with Oberyn.
"And our host is the opposite," Balon said, looking at Ned. "A rugged Northern man who is a major player in the game of thrones."
Ned shrugged his shoulders. "My wife likes a bit of spit and dirt in me."
Cat scoffed. "A little?" she repeated. "You took me out for coffee one night, still in your combat fatigues after returning from combat exercises."
"And yet, you said nothing when we had an impromptu date at Highgarden's flower gardens, while you were still in your hospital scrubs," Ned reminded his wife.
That shot Cat down. "Oh. Right."
Cat remembered that date. Ned was in King's Landing on business and had met up with Cat on the way home. Instead of taking the high-speed train from King's Landing to Riverrun, where they would take the northbound train to Winterfell, they instead took the train to Highgarden, where Ned took her to the famed gardens. Cat loved flowers, so much so that he had a greenhouse built for her on the grounds of Stark Manor, where she would spend time tending to the flowers on her days off.
During their date, they had ran into Olenna Tyrell, who was enjoying the day with her granddaughter, Margaery. The conversation was polite enough, seeing as how Olenna was mentoring Sansa and Margaery was Sansa's friend, with Ned suggesting that Olenna could have Highgarden Brewery brew a domestic blend of coffee, thus giving Westeros a domestic blend of coffee to compete with that of the Summer Islands.
Jon Arryn watched as his former subordinates bantered and argued with one another with a smile on his face as the tray was passed around. Just like old times. He could not be any more proud of his men, regardless of their antics, or the fact that they sometimes wanted to make him pull his hair out.
"I'm surprised that both your parents did not want to attend this dinner," Ned said to Rhaegar and Jamie. "We had plenty of room."
"Dad said that he had an 'old score to settle' with Aunt Rhae," Jamie replied as he speared a slab of steak from the platter and placed it onto his plate. "That and you know that Oberyn doesn't like the Lannisters much."
(Cue the theme from The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly for this scene)
Meanwhile at a hotel in Winterfell...
A trickle of sweat ran down Tywin Lannister's head as he stared down Rhaella Targaryen, the former's face focused, intense, while the latter held a hint of amusement. For seven full minutes, the Lannister patriarch and the Targaryen matriarch were locked in a staring contest, while Aerys Targaryen, Olenna Tyrell, and Joanna Lannister watched in silence in the background.
For nearly four decades, it irked Tywin to know that he could not beat Rhaella in a stare-down. Rhaella was the reason why both Rhaegar and Visenya were immune to his glare. Rhaella looked somewhat amused as her violet eyes bore into Tywin's gold-flecked green orbs.
Tywin had been practicing, staring down his children, even Kevan himself. Joanna, as always, was immune to his stare.
Rhaella kept her cool, not blinking as she stared into Tywin's eyes.
Then Tywin's concentration broke, and he blinked.
(theme music ends here abruptly via record scratch)
"Damn it!" he cursed, pounding the table with one fist. Rhaella had won again.
Aerys said nothing. He simply raised his hand and both Olenna and Joanna grumbled as they slipped several bills into his hand. "You bring shame to the family name, husband," Joanna mock-scolded her husband.
"Again," Tywin snapped in Valyrian.
"Fine. I'll humor you," Rhaella said, also in Valyrian.
Aerys sighed. "Give up, man. You may be good, but you can't beat Rhae in a staring contest."
"Thanks for the support," Tywin sniped. Forty years and Rhaella beat him every single time.
"I like where I sleep, and the couch is bad for my back," defended Aerys.
Back in Stark Manor...
This time, it was Ned who was entertaining the guests with the story on their mission to the Summer Islands, a detour which led to a hostage situation, which was followed by a helicopter chase from the Summer Islands to the Dornish coast. And Balon had just gotten his pilot's license.
"Oh, come on," joked Balon. "My flying isn't that bad."
"Yes it is," Ned, Rhaegar, Jamie, Robert, Jon, Barristan, his brothers and his two children said in unison.
"I sometimes wonder if you got your flying license from a cereal box, brother," Victarion mused.
"Like you can do better," his elder brother sniped.
Elia, Cersei Lysa, Catelyn, and their respective children watched the following exchange. They had heard snippets of Balon Greyjoy's reckless flying, among other things.
"You did stuff no one else should not do in a helicopter. That one gig down in the Summer Islands, remember that? You did a barrel roll..." Rhaegar began.
"...to avoid the rocket fire from the chopper that was chasing us..." defended Balon.
"...and then you pulled the chopper into a high climb and cut the engines..." interjected Jamie.
"...to avoid the heat-seeking missiles that were fired at us," replied Balon. "Admit it, you guys had fun. Need I remind you, it was your idea, Mr. Prime Minister, to lead no Kranz and his goons over Westerosi airspace, where they were promptly shot down."
"Hey, I still have nightmares over that," Robert said.
"That and you puked all over the chopper's cabin," added Ned.
Jamie snorted. "Stunt flying non-withstanding. No wonder Robert hates to fly."
"Like you're the one to talk, golden boy," retorted Balon, "Whose idea was it to climb inside a Buford tank and eject it moments before a missile from a Reaper drone blew up our cargo plane over Valyrian airspace?"
"I admit that was my idea," confirmed Jamie, right before pointing his finger at Ned, "but it was our host who flew the damn thing."
Now everyone had their eyes on Ned, who remained cool under pressure. "It was a spur of the moment. Jamie was manning the guns and managed to shoot down one of the drones, but the shrapnel sheared away two of the parachutes. Had to say that it was one of our more scarier moments."
"I also remember Jamie cackling like a madman as he fired on the drones with that M2HB," added Rhaegar.
Jamie smiled as he remembered that memory, blasting away at the drone while Balon demanded a turn on the gun. Although Ned often wondered where in the hell did Balon get a hold of a horned Northern Viking helmet.
"YEAH! WHAT YOU GOT, BITCHES?! WHAT YOU GOT?! WAH-HAHAHAHAHA!"
"Dammit, Jamie, lemme get a turn, c'mon!"
"And the flying the tank?" Cat asked her husband.
"Hell, Ned did more than fly the tank, Cat," Robert said. "He shot down the second drone. Then he used the main cannon to slow our fall. We landed in a lake, banged up, but still alive."
"That was one of Ned's most redeeming talents," Jamie said. "Coming up with tactics on the fly, pun intended."
"They each had their own specialties," Jon Arryn said. "Rhaegar was the diplomat, Balon was the pilot and engineer, Robert was the muscle, Jamie and Ned were both marksmen, while Jamie specialized in close combat while Ned was the communications expert. And there was me and Barristan, trying to keep them from either killing each other and keeping the damage down to a minimal."
"Guess that explains Bran's affinity with electronics," Cat mused.
"Then afterward, we had some down time in Valyria City," continued Ned. "While there, and we all ended up in a drinking contest. Didn't help any when Oberyn decided to join in when he found out we were all there."
"Hey, you still owe the both of us a rematch from the last time we did that," Jamie said.
"Seriously? That was what, fifteen years ago?" replied the Stark patriarch as he took a pull of water. "Admit it. Robert may drink half of Highgarden Brewery's whiskey stash and I'd still beat him."
"You should try some Dornish rum, if you are so confident," Elia said.
Ned's response surprised Elia. "I did. Twice." He pointed to Oberyn, who was trying to look innocent, but failing miserably. "Your brother supplied the rum for the drinking contest. I gotta admit that you Dornish make some strong rum."
Ned smiled as he remembered that memory, as did Rhaegar and the others. The guys were pissed once the rum was gone, singing 'What Would You Do With A Drunken Dragon.' "Long story short, Jamie, Rhaegar and Balon were hung over as hell, and Robert was emptying his stomach in the toilet. I had a bad migraine, but I wasn't drunk. Oberyn, pardon the expression, was shitfaced. We Northern men are made of sterner stuff."
"And the second time?" Oberyn asked.
Cat shot a pointed look at Ellaria, who tried to mirror her lover's attempts in looking innocent. Elia looked at the woman who she would consider as her sister-in-law. "It was you?"
"It was me."
"Ellaria had snuck a bottle into my bag when Ned and I went on vacation to Old Valyria," Cat explained. "It was raining and we were both drinking it out of the bottle at the little outdoor bistro at the Valyrian Imperial Dragon."
"I know that bistro," Rhaegar said. "I took Elia and the kids there on holiday myself."
"Anyway," Cat said, "that rum, the Valyrian weather, and that song that Elia sung in Valyrian...what was it again, Ned?"
"Thousand Moons, Thousand Waves,'" replied Ned.
Elia smiled. "Rhaegar wrote that for me," she said, giving her husband a small smile. Even now, her husband was still her muse, her inspiration. That and she had a bad habit of going through his poems to use for her songs. So much so that he was known as the Bard Minister amongst the politicians. "I could sing that for you for your wedding."
"Please do," Cat said. "That song is lovely."
Ned cleared his throat. "In conclusion, the rum, the weather, and that song resulted in Rickon being conceived."
"Too much information!" Theon jeered from his place at the table.
Yara smacked him on the back of his head.
It was after Rickon's birth that Ned had a vasectomy while Cat had her tubes tied, so there would be no more accidental pregnancies.
"I swear, my head was pounding the morning after," Cat said. "I made a vow never to touch Dornish rum again."
"Lightweight," Ellaria japed, while Oberyn snickered. Even Cersei smiled.
"It it hadn't been for that hangover remedy Ned made, it would have been worse," Cat added.
"Prairie Oyster?" Robert asked. When Cat nodded, Robert took another gulp of wine. "The stuff tastes bad going down, but it sure as hell works."
"If you wasn't renewing your vows, we'd put that to the test," Balon said, taking a bite of the grilled lobster. "See if you can still back up your words after seventeen years. I think the only reason why I deal with you is because you can cook."
"And here, I thought it was my charming personality," Ned replied. "I'm hurt, Balon."
The table erupted in laughter.
Later on that night...
Cersei woke up in the middle of the night to answer nature's call. Robert was still fast asleep, snoring gently. Following dinner, more war stories, and several rounds of cyvasse (with Elia winning most of the matches), and an arm wrestling contest between Gendry and Theon (with Theon losing to Gendry three in a row), it was time to retire for the night.
After finding the bathroom and relieving herself, Cersei couldn't find herself returning to bed. Normally, she would be sneaking into Jamie's room for a midnight tryst, but he hadn't touched her following their last argument years earlier. She was envious of her brother, as his marriage to Brienne was strong, and it produced a daughter.
'Had Jamie not married the Freak of Tarth, Myrcella would have been my daughter,' Cersei thought darkly.
As she was unable to sleep, she did the next best thing. She walked the halls of Stark Manor. It was a habit she had whenever she couldn't sleep. When she was young, she would wander the halls of the Lion's Den. As she walked, she took in the sights of the Stark family home. It was not as big as the Lion's Den or Baratheon Hall, but it did have a homely feel to it. She actually liked it.
Cersei's walking eventually led her to the den. She walked over to the mantle, and inspected the pictures resting there. There was one of Ned and Catelyn Stark, complete with their children, Theon included. It was taken recently, and inside this very room. A family picture, reminding Cersei of the Lannister family photo inside her father's office. The second was that of Ned's old combat unit – consisting of himself, Rhaegar Targaryen, Robert Baratheon, Balon Greyjoy, her twin brother, Jon Arryn and Barristan Selmy, 17 years younger.
Cersei picked up that photo and looked at Rhaegar's image with a look of longing, running her thumb over the image of the man. Even now, she carried a torch for Rhaegar, and still blamed Elia for taking him from her. The second picture was of the old combat unit, only this one was taken recently in front of the House of Sovereigns. The next three pictures made her frown. Another family picture of the Starks, only this time, it was that of Rickard Stark and his four children. Looking at the image of Brandon Stark, she could see why Cat was smitten with him, while Ned looked to be scowling for the photo.
The next photo was one she recognized. Lyanna Stark, age nineteen. She was smiling for the camera, dressed in a summer dress, dark hair pulled into a ponytail, a blue rose in her hand. Robert had the same picture in his office back home, and Cersei would catch him staring at it once in a while when he was supposed to be working.
The last picture made her frown even more. It was her wedding photo, taken on the steps of the Great Sept. Ned Stark was present in the photo, as he was the best man. Catelyn Stark stood beside her husband in her own dress. Rhaegar was also present, as were the other guys from the old unit. Cersei looked at her husband's image and frowned. In the 17 years of marriage, Robert had truly let himself go, going from a handsome, rugged man, to a fat slob. At least Ned, Rhaegar, Jamie and Balon kept in shape, she admitted.
"Trouble sleeping?"
Cersei turned around. Ned Stark stood behind her, clad in a shirt and pajama pants. He was on his way to the kitchen for a glass of water from the kitchen when he came across Cersei inside the den.
"You can say that," Cersei replied mildly. She placed the photo back on the mantle. "You have quite the family, Chairman."
"I know. They make me proud."
Cersei nodded. Joffrey and Robb were considered rivals at King's Landing Prep, Tommen and Bran were friends. Tywin had said that Arya Stark had left quite the impression on him with her mind and wit when she, Myrcella and Ellie Sand stayed at Casterly Rock for the weekend. Cersei considered Cat her friend as they both knew each other since their days in high school.
Cersei once again picked up her wedding photo. "I remember this day...when I married Robert. It was supposed to be the best day of my life. But now, looking back...I'm not blind. I see how you and Cat interact with one another. In a way, I respect her and see her as a friend. But...I'm also jealous. I want what the both of you have."
"Sounds to me like you hate Robert."
Ned didn't flinch as Cersei spun on him, gripping the photo in her hands even tighter. "Hated him? You're mistaken, Stark. I loved him! Worshiped him! Every girl in Westeros dreamed of him, and he was mine." Her shoulders slumped as she looked at the picture of her husband, the man from long ago. "Seventeen years ago, he was mine. Lean, fierce. It was supposed to be the happiest moment of my life. And on that wedding night, when he crawled on top of me, stinking of wine and after what he did...well, what little he could do...he whispered in my ear."
She glared at the picture of Lyanna on the mantle with such hatred that Ned wondered if she would grab it and send it crashing to the floor. "'Lyanna.' He whispered not my name, but that of your sister. Your sister was dead, while I was alive. Even in death, he loved her more than me."
Ned remained silent, allowing Cersei to vent out her frustrations. And then, he understood. She couldn't hate Lyanna, so he was the next best thing, as she was his brother. Then he asked her a question, one which Cersei did not see coming. "Have you ever loved someone – the one who you thought would be the one you thought would be spending your life with, but turns out it was the one who got away?"
Cersei was taken aback. That question came out of nowhere. "What kind of question is that?"
"A valid one. Then again, you don't have to explain, because I can see that you still love Rhaegar." Ned shrugged his shoulders. "You become pretty observant in my line of work, and I've noticed you glancing over at Rhaegar during dinner." He walked over to the mantle and looked at Lyanna's picture. "I'll let you in on a little secret, Cersei. Lyanna wouldn't had married Robert."
Cersei blinked. "What?"
"Robert is my friend, but even he has his flaws," Ned explained. "Lyanna knew about his drinking and screwing different women. By my count, he has five children, two of which are yours. She took me into her confidence, telling me that she knew that he wouldn't remain loyal. When a wolf mates, it's for life."
His eyes moved to the family photo with him and Cat. "You know, it's funny. I never expected to marry Cat, let alone knock her up. Our relationship was originally based on lust, pure and simple. But we persevered. We have our disagreements, but I thank the gods for her every day."
As a trained lawyer, Cersei could tell if someone was lying. But she could find no deceit in Ned Stark. But even she was surprised by the revelations that Ned had told her. She was starting to see the Stark patriarch in a new light. She can see why Jamie respected him, as did the other players (her father included, although he would publically deny it) in the game of thrones.
"Looks like Jamie was right about you, Stark," Cersei said as she placed the photo back on the mantle, her anger waning. "You are full of surprises." She took a breath. "Since we're clearing the air, I'll let you in on a secret of my own. Had it been anyone else, I would not have accepted the post of Master of Laws. I only took it because of Rhaegar."
"I expected as such. You could at least call me Ned," he replied. He then extended his hand. "Truce?"
Cersei looked at the hand, then at Ned. She took his hand and shook it. "Truce."
When Cersei returned to bed, she had the best night's sleep she had in a long time.
Stark Manor - The Day of the Wedding.
Saturday, the twenty-eighth of September. The town of Winterfell celebrated the wedding anniversary of Ned and Catelyn Stark. The hotels and resorts in the town were especially thankful for the business, as the guests from all over Westeros had all but bought out the hotel rooms and suites, from Tywin Lannister to the Brotherhood Without Banners.
Inside Stark Manor, Ned Stark looked at his reflection at the mirror. The tuxedo was custom-made for his frame; the white shirt, black slacks and vest. Robert Baratheon, Edmure Tully, Balon Greyjoy and Jamie Lannister, the four men clad in expensive suits, watched as Ned tried to tie on his bowtie.
"Seven Hells," Ned muttered. "I knew I should have went with a cravat."
"Hold still," Jamie said, walking over to Ned and tying his tie. "You head one of the largest companies in Westeros, saved our asses while overseas, and yet, you can't tie a bowtie?"
"Didn't realize that bowtie-tying was in the field manual," Ned groused. "Let me guess? Your dad taught you how to work a bowtie?"
"No. Brienne." Jamie grinned. "It pays to have a tomboy for a wife."
Ned chuckled. Robert, in the meantime, grabbed the tuxedo jacket and helped Ned into it. Ned looked at himself in the mirror. Then he turned towards Robert and the others. "How do I look?" he asked.
Edmure gave him a thumbs-up.
"Good," Jamie replied.
"What he said," Robert added.
"Like shit," Balon sniped.
Ned laughed.
Catelyn Stark looked at her own reflection in the mirror. She rarely dressed up, preferring hospital scrubs and the occasional evening dress for whatever formal function she would attend with her husband, or the business suit when meeting with Pycelle Memorial's executive board.
But as Sansa and Margaery put on the finishing touches to her dress, even Cat had to admit that she looked stunning. The white wedding dress was custom-made, the designer being a close friend of the Tyrells, one which Sansa had suggested, strapless and hugging Cat's slender form. A pair of satin gloves were on her hands, ending nearly at her elbows. Her hair was done in the traditional Southtron style; braided and bunned (ala Kate Winslet's do from the dance scene in Four Feathers), courtesy of Cersei herself, and decorated with pearls.
Cersei Baratheon and Brienne Lannister watched as Cat looked at her reflection in the mirror. The Master of Laws was clad in a conservative evening dress, hair tied in a single braid, while Brienne, who disliked dresses, opted for a formal business suit (ala Mature's Ellie Driver-inspired costume), and boots.
"You look amazing," Cersei complimented.
"I'm nervous," Cat admitted.
Brienne placed a hand on Cat's bare shoulder. "Take a deep breath and relax. You can perform open-heart surgery with no problem. A wedding should be a walk in the park."
"Between this and the open heart surgery, I'd prefer the open-heart surgery," Cat muttered.
Cersei chuckled. She was just as nervous when she married Robert 17 years earlier. At least this wedding was on the grounds of the manor, rather than at the Sept of Baelor. "As much as I hate to agree with my sister-in-law," seconded Cersei, "Brienne is right. You need to calm down."
Cat nodded. She took several breaths. She pictured herself performing open-heart surgery, and she calmed down somewhat, but it still wasn't enough.
A knock on the door caught her attention. The door opened and Brynden Tully entered, in full military dress. He looked his niece over. "You look beautiful, Catelyn."
Cat smiled. "Thank you, Uncle."
The Blackfish nodded. "It's time."
Elsewhere...
The guests were starting to arrive, Robb noticed. They were being led to the Godswood, where the ceremony would take place. Jon had went on ahead, with Ygritte on his arm. Theon was doing his part in trying to corral both Bran and Rickon into behaving, all the while eyeing Ros, a local waitress working as a caterer for Winterfell Restaurant.
His parents had spared no expense for this event. Aside from Malaquo Maegyr's bakery, who was supplying the sweets, Ned and Cat also hired Winterfell Restaurant for the catering service in regards to the lunch that was being served. He noticed the two vans that Talisa's dad used for his bakery business, and saw the Maegyr patriarch himself, barking out orders, helping unload the assortment of sweets that were to be served during the reception. But there was no Talisa.
He cleared his throat, wanting to loosen the collar of his suit, but he didn't want to embarrass his parents. Not on their wedding anniversary when the eyes of Westeros were on the Stark family. He'd never hear the end of it from his parents or the guys at King's Landing Prep.
So concerned about making a good impression that he didn't notice Talisa walking up behind him, until she cleared her throat.
Robb turned around...and his jaw literally hit the floor.
Talisa Maegyr was a lot like Arya – she was a tomboy. But now, as she stood before him, she was anything but. He knew that she was cute, despite seeing her in jogging pants, shirts, and even dressed as a waitress. But now, she was turning heads as she walked over to Robb. Rhaenys, Sansa and Margaery were shocked as to how well Talisa had cleaned herself up. Even Theon, Aegon and Joffrey did a double-take at Talisa as she stood before Robb as they passed.
Talisa wore a red sleeveless dress which ended at her knees, complete with a pair of high heels. Her hair was done up in a Volantene-style bun (think Excella Gionne's hairdo). A pendant was around her neck. She wore little makeup, save for some eye shadow and lipstick. If you knew her from King's Landing Prep, you probably wouldn't think that mousy tomboy of a Volantene transfer student and the beauty standing before him were one and the same.
"You...you look great," Robb managed.
Talisa smiled. "Thanks. I'm not too big on dressing up, you know."
"You should dress up more often."
Robb extended his arm, and Talisa took it, leading her to the godswood. "Huge crowd," Talisa noted.
Robb nodded. "All of the major players in the game of thrones under one roof," he explained. "They may hate each other, but they have some level of respect for Mom and Dad."
"Father always said that it's pleasing to the Gods to see one honored by both friend and foe," Talisa said.
"Yeah, let's see if they don't wind up killing each other," Robb mused. "How much to you know about the game of thrones?"
"I got the basics from Dad. Your dad's business, along with several others, are jockeying for the position of top business in Westeros. He did worked in Volantene Intelligence before emigrating to Westeros."
"Looks like you're about to meet one of the players now," Robb said as Oberyn Martell and Ellaria Sand approached the young wolf and his date. Oberyn was dressed for the occasion; a business suit sans necktie, while his paramour was clad in a slinky black dress. Behind him, were the Sand Snakes, his eight bastard children, the four youngest were those with Ellaria.
Robb nodded in greeting. "Dr. Martell. Nurse Sand," he responded.
"Honestly, I would have stayed in Dorne, had it not been for the fact that Ellaria is friends with your mother, and that your old man and I go way back."
Robb nodded. "I've heard the war stories. Pretty wild stuff."
"You have no idea," Oberyn replied. He looked at Talisa and grinned. "Ah, you got yourself a Dornish girl, I see. You do me proud, young Stark."
"I'm not Dornish, Dr. Martell," Talisa corrected. "My family is from Volantis."
Oberyn shrugged. "Oh. My mistake. My daughter, Nymeria, is half-Volantene on her mother's side." he introduced himself. "Dr. Oberyn Nymeros Martell. My paramour, Ellaria Sand."
"Talisa Maegyr." Talisa nodded. She looked at Nymeria. "I know her. She works for the Starks as one of their lawyers. She's also a customer at my father's bakery."
Oberyn cocked his head to the side. "Your father is Malaquo Maegyr?"
"He is."
Oberyn nodded. "I met him in the past. Good man."
Ellaria cleared her throat. Oberyn saw it and decided to cut the conversation short. The Red Viper and his group entered the manor and made their way to the godswood.
"So that was the Red Viper?" Talisa asked. When Robb nodded, she added, "I thought he was taller."
Robb chuckled. He extended his arm and Talisa took it, allowing him to lead her through the manor to the back doors.
"Since you're here, there's something I want to ask you."
Talisa looked at Robb. "Oh?"
"I'm actually tired of denying to everyone that we are not dating. Want to make if official?"
Talisa stopped and looked at Robb. "Is this your way of asking me to be your girlfriend?"
Robb chuckled. "Yeah."
Talisa beamed. "I accept."
Robb grinned. "Well...that was easy," he said as the pair resumed their walk to the godswood.
"Now that we made this official, I'm free for lunch tomorrow," said Talisa.
"I thought the guy was supposed to ask the girl out on a date."
"I'm not like any other girls. You know that. Is one o'clock okay with you?"
"Good for me."
The newly-minted couple made their way to the godswood.
The Godswood.
The guest list read as a who's who in the game of thrones. On the right-hand side, the Stark children took up the first row. Ygritte sat beside Jon while Talisa took a seat beside Robb. Beside them, was Benjen Stark and his wife, Val and their son. General Hoster Tully sat alongside his grandchildren, albeit in a wheelchair, clad in his formal military uniform, as was Edmure Tully. Roslin Frey sat beside him. Brynden's wife and children sat beside the Tully patriarch.
Behind the Stark family, sat the long-serving Mayor of Winterfell, Rodrik Cassel. His sons, Jory and Martyn, sat on either side of their father. Beside them were the Executive Council of Wolf Enterprises - Roose Bolton, Jon 'Greatjon' Umber, Rickard Karstark, Maedge Mormont, Wyman Manderly, and Dr. Jonella Ceryn. Rayna Bolton sat beside her father on his left, while his date, Fat Walda Frey, was on his right. Behind them were the Mormont family, who had been longtime friends of the Starks.
Even the direwolves were on their best behavior as they sat beside their masters.
Stannis Baratheon and Mellisandre sat side-by-side, the red woman in a crimson dress that rivaled Ellaria's own. Beside the pair were Shireen Baratheon and his nephew, Gendry. Robert's other two bastards, Mya Stone and Edric Storm, also made the trip to the North, and were seated by their half-brother. The Tyrells sat beside and behind the Baratheons; Mace and his wife Alerie, the Queen of Thorns herself, Olenna Redwyne Tyrell, her granddaughter Margaery, and her grandsons, Loras Tyrell - with Renly Baratheon as his date - Willas Tyrell, and Garlan Tyrell.
On the left-hand side, in which the front row served as the place of honor for the guest of the Westerosi government. Prime Minister Rhaegar Targaryen and First Lady Elia Martell sat alongside the former's parents, Jon and Lysa Arryn, and Tywin and Joanna Lannister. Jon Connington, the Deputy Minister of Westeros sat alongside the Prime Ministers. Behind them, sat Varys, the Master of Whispers. Somehow, the Pentoshi-born spymaster had managed to acquire a wedding invite, and was seated beside the Master of Laws herself, Cersei Baratheon. As it was known that she disliked her stepson, her own two children, Joffrey and Tommen sat beside her. Cat had offered Cersei to be one of her bridesmaids, but Cersei had politely declined her friend's request.
Petyr Baelish was also present, albeit he had pitched a fit when the wedding invite came in the mail. But it was Tywin who had brought his senior attorney under control. "I know you're obsessed with Dr. Stark, but you will not interfere in this ceremony. Otherwise, I'll hand you over to the Starks if you do," he threatened.
The Lannisters - consisting of Jamie, his wife and daughter, his uncle Kevan and his son, Genna Lannister and Eamon Frey, sat behind the Prime Ministers and their wives. Behind them, were the Nymeros-Martells; Doran and his children, Oberyn and his Sand Snakes, along with Ellaria Sand. They were seated alongside the Targaryens; Rhaegar's twin sister Visenya and her family, Viserys, and Daenerys.
The Greyjoys and the Freys each shared a row. It was known that Balon and Walder did not like each other, but made a silent promise to be at least formal for the event. The Brotherhood Without Banners – the military veterans' organization – had also sent two of its representatives in attendance in the form of Beric Dondarrion and Thoros of Myr, who was kin to Mellisandre.
On the raised dais, stood the elder brother of Aerys Targaryen. Aemon Targaryen was a maester, having refused the position of High Septon several times, opting for a quiet life tending the Great Sept in King's Landing, an amazing feat in itself as he was almost blind. Robert Baratheon stood alongside him, enjoying the position of best man. He had won the honor the night before during their cyvasse game, beating out Jamie, Balon and Rhaegar. Ned Stark stood beside his longtime friend.
A recording of the Wedding March began to play, and the guests rose from their seats. Seconds later, Catelyn Stark appeared. As her father was confined to a wheelchair, it was Brynden Tully who escorted his niece down the aisle.
Ned was nervous, but hid it under his famous stoicism in which the Starks were famous for. He could see that Cat was nervous as well.
The Blackfish led his niece thorough the throng of guests and onto the dais. Cat gave her uncle a kiss on the cheek and Brynden took his seat alongside his own family, as the guest took their seats.
"Dearly beloved," the elderly Targaryen began, "we are gathered here in sight of the Gods of Old and of the Seven, and in the presence of these witnesses, to see Eddard Stark and Catelyn Tully Stark renew their wedding vows, commended to be honorable among all, and therefore is not to be entered into lightly, but reverently..."
From her place, Talisa felt Robb's fingers link with hers. She looked at him and smiled, Robb smiling back.
"...passionately, lovingly, and solemly. Their time together, they have seen their love and understanding of one another grow and blossom, and now, decide to renew their love in sight of all today."
From his place, Jamie felt Brienne's hand slide over his. He turned to his wife and smiled, who returned the gesture. Meanwhile, Rhaella, Joanna and Ellaria did the same with their respective others.
"I do believe that Chairman and Dr. Stark have their own wedding vows they would like to recite?" Aemon said.
Ned and Cat turned to one another, Cat mouthing the words, "You first" to her husband.
"Catelyn...Cat...these past seventeen years have been a blessing to me," Ned began. "While our marriage was one of convenience, we had built upon it, and now it is solid as a rock. You are my partner in life, my partner in crime, my partner, my confidant, and my best friend. For seventeen years, I've cherished our union and loved you more each day. Regardless of our trials and tribulations, I will always trust and respect you. I will laugh and cry with you. I have and continue to love you through good time and bad. I give you my heart, and my love, and will continue to do so as long as we both shall live."
From his place, Oberyn whispered, "Smooth, Stark." That remark earned him a sharp elbow to his side from Ellaria.
Aemon turned to Cat. "Dr. Stark."
Cat was nervous at first, but after a smile from her husband, began to speak.
"Eddard...never in my wildest dreams did I see myself where I am now. Wife and mother to five wonderful children...and Jon," started Cat. "We have seventeen wonderful years together, and despite everything, I would not trade it for the world. You are my friend, my lover, and my husband. I have been yours in times of plenty and in want..."
Littlefinger frowned at that.
"...in times of sickness and in health. I have been yours in times of joy and sorrow, and in times of failure and triumph. I promise to cherish you and respect you, to care and to protect you. With these people as my witness and in the sight of the Old Gods and the Seven, I will comfort you and encourage you, and to stay with you, for all eternity."
From her place, Joanna whispered to Tywin, "That is so sweet. Wish I said that during our wedding."
"..." Tywin remained silent, but nodded.
Aemon turned his head to Robert. "Rings?"
Robert went into his pocket and produced Ned's wedding band, made of pure gold, and Cat's wedding ring, consisting of a golden band with five diamonds in a row. Ned took Cat's wedding band and slipped it onto her ring finger, saying, "I give you this ring, as an eternal symbol of my love and devotion to you."
Cat did the same, taking the wedding band from Robert and placing it on Ned's ring finger. "I give you this ring, as a symbol of my eternal love and commitment to you," she said.
"If anyone here has good cause not to see this couple joined as one, speak now, or forever hold your peace," Aemon intoned.
Given that Littlefinger had an obsession with Cat in the past, everyone expected him to object. But Tywin's threat had kept him in line, hence he still remained in his seat, sulking.
"What has been brought here, shall no one tear asunder," Aemon concluded. "By the power invested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife." He turned to Ned and smiled. "You may kiss the bride."
The guests erupted in applause as Ned kissed Cat. The direwolves howled. Ellaria Sand wiped away several tears as she applauded, happy for her longtime friend and boss. Even Oberyn applauded, as did the Sand Snakes and the rest of the Martells. Tywin and Joanna Lannister also stood and applauded, a rare smile on his bearded face. Even Stannis Baratheon applauded and smiled, as did Mellisandre, which goes to show that even the red woman enjoyed a good wedding.
As Rayna Bolton clapped, she turned to her father, who was also applauding. "Dad? Are you crying?" she asked.
Roose quickly wiped away the moisture on his face. "Something in my eye," he quickly replied before resuming his applause.
The reception would be held inside the Ballroom inside Stark Manor. Ned and Cat went on ahead, greeting the guests.
As the guests chatted among each other, walking on the walkway which led back to Stark Manor, Tywin and Joanna Lannister walked together, Joanna's arm linked with her husband's, a smile on her face. Tywin had his signature scowl, but he was enjoying his wife's company.
"Can't say that you're not enjoying yourself," Joanna said.
"I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't," her husband replied. "You were right, Jo."
"I know, husband. I know. Aside from the fact that you once again failed to stare down Rhaella, it has been a wonderful experience."
"Sure. Feel free to take a stab at my ego," Tywin grumbled.
"Oh, it's my job, dear. One that I'm very good at."
'No argument there,' Tywin thought.
As the Lannister couple approached the back doors, they saw Rhaegar, his father and Jon Arryn standing in front of Arya Stark. The youngest of the Stark daughters was holding a digital camera in her hands, trying to get a group photo of the four men.
Rhaegar looked up and noticed the Lannister patriarch. "Ah, Uncle. Come and join us. Young Arya wants to take a picture of the Prime Ministers of Westeros."
Tywin was about to object when Joanna unlinked her arm and gave her husband a light shove towards Rhaegar. "Humor him, dear," she said.
Tywin shrugged his shoulders and walked over to Rhaegar and the others. After a moment, the four men – one current Prime Minister and three former Prime Ministers – were in place for the shot.
"And three, two one..." Arya counted down before taking the picture, the camera making a soft CLICK as she depressed the button. The second photo was that of the Prime Ministers with their wives. "Thanks! I'll be sure to send each one of you a copy!" she said before running into the house, Joanna noticing with amusement that Arya had on tennis shoes underneath her dress.
"What a lively girl," Joanna mused as she watched Arya off, noting that she was wearing tennis shoes under her dress.
Tywin nodded. "Bright, as well," he added, remembering their conversation back when Myrcella hosted a sleepover at the Lion's Den. "She's a spirited one, alright. Focused. I can see why Myrcella is friends with her."
The Lannister patriarch and his wife followed the guests inside the Ballroom.
