Part 2

1 day earlier

The entire castle seemed to be chaotic. The King himself was coming to Winterfell and everything needed to be perfect for his visit. At least according to Robb's mother. As far as Robb knew, the King rarely left King's Landing, and almost never came to the North. The last time he remembered hearing such a thing was during Balon Greyjoy's rebellion, before Lord Eddard Stark came home with Theon, Greyjoy's only living son. Obviously Robb had been very young when that happened and he couldn't remember many details.

The King of course had a large entourage with him, at least one hundred people. Soldiers, servants… And his daughter, Princess Jolene. Robb's betrothed. They had never met, but they would be wed tomorrow. Robb couldn't deny that he was nervous. Lord Eddard and the King had arranged the engagement and of course his father had asked for his opinion.

Marrying the King's daughter was a huge honor, but still Robb had hesitated before agreeing to the arrangement. He would have liked to meet the Princess first. According to the King's letters, she was pretty, good-natured and obedient. A good wife. The union would be useful to any House. Robb's father hadn't pressured him, but of course Robb understood his duty to his family. He was his father's heir and the next Lord of Winterfell. There would be no better wife for him than the King's daughter.

"Robb!" Lady Catelyn called. "Robb!"

He was just walking across the courtyard, hoping for a brief moment of peace before the King's arrival.

"Yes, Mother?"

Lady Catelyn hurried towards him, observing him from head to toes.

"Have you bathed?" she asked.

"Of course," he replied, unable to hide his amusement. "Tommy shaved me and cut my hair."

Catelyn bit her bottom lip and touched Robb's curly hair.

"Good. Very good." She paused and smiled at him. "You look very handsome, my son."

"Thank you, Mother. Let us hope the Princess feels the same way."

"Of course she does," Catelyn assured. "What woman wouldn't? She is lucky to have you as her husband."

Catelyn kissed Robb's cheek and hurried to continue the final preparations. Robb sighed and headed towards the stables. Jon was there grooming his horse.

"Hey," Robb greeted his brother.

Jon glanced at him before turning his eyes back to the horse.

"Hey. Big day, huh?"

"Aye," Robb sighed.

"You don't seem very excited," Jon stated.

"I am, but… The wedding is tomorrow and I'll meet her today."

"I understand. Most people would be nervous."

"It doesn't matter. This is the right thing to do for our family."

Jon was quiet for a moment before replying.

"I'm sure she's nice."

Robb hoped so too. His worst fear was some selfish and arrogant spoiled girl. For a moment he envied Jon who was free to marry whoever he chose. What if Robb wouldn't like Princess Jolene? What if…

"Robb!" Theon's voice called as he entered the stable. "The King is coming; Lord Stark is waiting for you."

"Alright, thank you," Robb stated as calmly as he could.

Theon grinned at him and patted his back.

"Cheer up. Tomorrow you'll fuck a princess. Not many men can say that."

Robb huffed disapprovingly.

"Watch it. That's my betrothed you speak of."

"My sincere apologies. Let's go."

Robb looked at Jon.

"You'll join us, right?"

Jon seemed uncomfortable.

"I… I'm not sure if that would be appropriate…"

"I am. You're my brother, Jon; your place is with the rest of our family. Please, come."

Jon followed Robb and Theon outside after a brief moment of hesitation. The courtyard was full of people, everyone had gathered to welcome the royal visitors. Robb took his place beside his father who smiled at him and patted his shoulder. Couple of members of the Kingsguard rode through the gates first, followed by the King himself. He was a big and sturdy man, very different than Robb had imagined. Everyone in the courtyard kneeled as two servants helped the King dismounting. He marched towards Lord Stark and waved his gloved hand.

"My old friend," the King stated as everyone stood up. "You've gotten fat."

Lord Stark raised an eyebrow and glanced at the King's large stomach. Both men laughed and shared a hug. Robb didn't really hear what they were saying; he was looking at the carriage that had followed the King. A servant had just opened the door and three women stepped out of the carriage. They were all wearing cloaks, so Robb couldn't tell which one of them was Princess Jolene.

"And you must be Robb," The King said, making Robb to concentrate on him.

"Yes, Your Grace."

The King shook his hand firmly before looking at Lord Stark.

"You have a fine young man here, Ned, you must be very proud."

"I am," Lord Stark replied.

The King nodded approvingly and turned to the three women.

"Jolene, come here."

One of the women walked over to the King. Her face was pretty; she had dark green eyes, small nose and full lips. Her dark brown hair was up in a plait coiffure and she was wearing a light blue gown under her cloak. Her body was lovely, curvy and womanly. She was beautiful.

"This is my oldest and dearest friend, Lord Eddard Stark," the King said.

The Princess smiled at Lord Stark and curtsied. She had a very lovely smile.

"My lord."

"Welcome to Winterfell, Princess Jolene."

"Thank you."

The King introduced Lady Catelyn next; Robb stared at the Princess until she was suddenly standing in front of him.

"And this is Lord Eddard's oldest son, Lord Robb."

"Pleasure, my lord," she said smiling as Robb kissed her hand. Her skin was soft and she smelled very nice.

"Princess."

She was smiling warmly, so it seemed that she wasn't disappointed with him. And she didn't seem to be nervous at all. That was a good thing, at least so he thought. Perhaps this wouldn't be so bad after all.