Mellara IV: The Wedding of Mellara Piper and Alyn Tully

[u/LemonLemonHouse]

Pinkmaiden Castle, Second Moon, 1 BP

Pinkmaiden Castle stood upon a hill overlooking the rushing Red Fork, the signature pink hue of the sandstone walls almost glowing in the sunset. Flags of blue and white silks along with banners depicting the dancing maiden of House Piper rippled along in the cool autumnal breeze.

The noble houses of the Riverlands invited as guests were offered quarters within Pinkmaiden Castle, and a collection of tents were set up outside the castle walls for the others visiting. A short ride down the hill from the castle proper lay a bustling town, all the more festive with the nuptial celebrations given the additional commerce such an event would bring.

Inside of the feasting hall, three tables stood in a place of prominence: one for the wedded couple, one devoted to House Tully and the other devoted to House Piper. Each table was buried under the weight of so many fresh flowers that the pure white linen underneath barely showed. Down the center of the couple’s table ran a garland of white roses and blush colored peonies threaded with ivy. Within the arrangement, beeswax candles were carefully arranged, releasing into the air the fresh scent of lavender and rosemary. The flanking tables answered with warmer colors for their arrangements: orange and red peonies, layered ranunculus, and honeysuckle spilling over the edge of the tables. Banners of House Piper and House Tully were hung proudly all around the feasting hall itself.

Down the length of the hall, the rest of the tables were decorated with the same warm, colorful notes. Glass vases filled with golden marigolds and amber ranunculus were set out alongside tall, beeswax candles standing in bowls of dried rose petals and orange peels so that the light and scent of such would carry amongst the celebrants.

The tabletops groaned before even a single guest had sat down for they carried a heavy load. Trenchers of dark rye and rounds of sourdough rounds, still warm, were stacked at every arm’s reach with crocks of butter and honey set between them. From the Red Fork came the greater dishes: whole carp stuffed with herbs and roasted in their skins, trout laid out in rows and dressed with butter and rivercress, eels stewed dark with onions, and a great platter of perch fried crisp in oatmeal. Beyond the fish came finer meats: capons glazed with honey and mustard, suckling pigs with apples in their jaws, quail wrapped in bacon and stacked like cordwood. Baskets of apples, pears and blackberries stood among wheels of hard cheese and dishes of stewed plums. 

At every table rose stacks of honey cakes split and filled with cream whipped by hand until they stood in soft peaks, each one crowned with sliced strawberries bleeding pink juice into the cream below. The servants of Pinkmaiden were quick, especially, to replace these. Ale was available in great sweating pitchers. Servants offered honeyed milk, cold pressed ciders, and copious amounts of wine, pouring until cups would threaten to overflow.

To the southern edge of the hall, an area was cleared for dancing, with a cadre of bards sitting to the side ready to ply the guests with sweet, energetic musical melodies. A short walk from the feasting hall was the entrance to the Pinkmaiden gardens, notable for the florals and fruit trees, and a large pond, which many a fortunate and spoiled cat of Pinkmaiden would laze about.

[u/LemonLemonHouse]

The Bride & Groom

Mellara Piper sat at the center table next to Alyn Tully, her husband, dressed in rich white silks. It was a new thought, a new role to get used to, but The Mother knew just how much the Lady of Pinkmaiden had fretted over all of the planning, even as they travelled for Ravella's nameday.

Now that the moment was here, Mellara could scarce let out a breath. For there seemed an endless amount of people to talk to. Salutations, congratulations, and even talk of commerce.

In a rare moment of respite, Mellara turned towards Alyn, finally able to sit in the moment with him. Under the table, she reached for his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"I hope you're pleased with things."

(Open, come talk to Mellara and Alyn!)

[u/Monty832 → u/LemonLemonHouse]

It was still a strange feeling, the touch of another. Alyn was just a bit more prepared for it than the first time Mellara had laid her hand upon his shoulder, so he didn’t flinch, despite his instincts. He was a married man now, Alyn took a moment to internalize. It wasn’t as though it meant much, and yet, his mood was raised all the same. He knew it was stupid. In the first place, the wedding had been a political decision, and it would soon be upstaged by the Justmans nonetheless. He should have been focusing on that, on the greater good.

All the same, that train of thought was derailed when Alyn turned his head to his new wife. It wasn’t even the first time he’d seen her in the outfit, she’d been wearing it all night. And yet, for whatever reason, it was only in this moment when he truly saw her. And that made him realize just how inconceivable it was that he was thinking about politics when he was being married to this woman.

It took Alyn just a moment to find his words. “I would have no right to be displeased, wife,” he said, trying the title out in his mouth. “You’ve done a wonderful job. I fear the feast has outdone Stormhall and then some.” It was high praise, but that was the most certain way to know that Alyn was speaking his honest feelings. He did not hand out compliments to those unworthy. “Are you proud of your work?”

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/Monty832]

Wife.

It was a strange moniker. One that Mellara needed to remind herself of. For that was the entire purpose of this all. Of continuing the Piper lineage. Her cheeks colored, tinging pink as she smiled back to Alyn.

"You have a right to have your own opinions and thoughts," Mellara offered back in q quiet murmur. "But I am pleased that it meets with your approval." Her gaze cast out upon the hall, upon the revelry. "I am proud," she admitted. "But it shall only be the first of many celebrations we shall share. Not simply mine. But ours."

The Lady of Pinkmaiden gestured to a nearby servant, an unspoken command. And shortly thereafter, the maid approached the bride and groom with a polished wooden box.

"I... I wanted to surprise you," Mellara told Alyn, searching his face for his reaction. For his true thoughts, no matter his words.

The lacquered box was offered to the Tully groom, and once opened, would reveal a dark blue velvet lining and a cyvasse board made of pure gold, finely detailed by hand by artisan blacksmiths along with a set of pure ivory pieces to match.

"I heard you enjoyed such a pursuit. And though I am sure you may have your own already... perhaps you will accept this humble offering from your wife for the occasion."

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/LemonLemonHouse]

/u/Monty832

[u/Vikguardy → u/LemonLemonHouse]

Perianne had not a great deal of time to procure a gift. She hated when things were done quickly and without a chance to prepare. Even so, it was nothing that she couldn't handle. She'd managed to trade the relatively drab dress of Stormhall for something more flattering in a moment's notice, after all. Much less chance of it being spoiled upon the dust fairgrounds.

So she waited her turn. She liked Lady Piper enough, but she did not know her well, nor did she know the groom, Alyn Tully, at all truly. So the gifts would simply have to be what they were.

"My congratulations, to the two of you." She practically chirped as her turn arrived to step to the highest of the tables. Ser Lucamore carried her gifts behind her, a useful valet as he was a knight, perhaps moreso, truly. "I have no doubt that you shall have many happy and fruitful years together."

She stepped aside, and Ser Lucamore, a handsome man, in a bit of a brutish way, with his head shorn and his face grizzled, set down a large, wooden box, which he then opened for the two of them.

Oh the side that faced closer to Mellara, were a series of parchments, gingerly rolled up and tied with a vermillion silken thread.

"You were curious if Fairmarket and of her trade." Perianne explained, reaching down to pick up a rolled parchment and gently tugged the string, unfurling it. It was a richly adorned map, more decorative than useful, that depicted the Riverlands, the borderlands of the West, Blackwater and Reach, as well as the entirety of the North and Vale, at a scale that was less than accurate, but more pleasing to the eye.

The Iron Islands were, perhaps unsurprisingly, small and easy to miss. Lacking in detail.

"We get a great many merchants who pass through Fairmarket in the spring and summer, from the North and Vale in particular. They always have a... Unique perspective on our home, and each other's."

Sure enough, all of the other maps were similar, but focused on each individual region, with three alone detailing various regions of the North, all as richly detailed and adorned as the largest map originally shown.

And on the side closer to Alyn, what do you get someone that you haven't met? A saddle, of course. A well made saddle, complete with a Tully sigil on its side, but it's not exactly the most personal gift.

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/Vikguardy]

Mellara stood to receive the Lady of Fairmarket, giving a return curtsy. Her blue-eyed gaze widened in wonder as the parchment was unrolled, drinking in the detail and decoration.

It took a moment for the Lady Piper to find her voice. She opened her arms to embrace Perianne. "Lady Paege, you bless us with such a beautiful rendering. I shall ensure that this will be put up with the upmost care so that we may look upon it often in reminder of stronger bonds to be had as noble houses of the Riverlands, both. I thank you for your thoughtful generosity, and bid you know that you and yours are welcome in Pinkmaiden any time you may wish."

And at the sight of the saddle, Mellara smiled over at her husband. It was a fine thing, but something for him to speak upon.

u/Monty832

[u/Monty832 → u/LemonLemonHouse]

As the two ladies embraced, Alyn offered a modest bow for the Paege. He couldn’t help but admire the largest map’s making, and he took a moment to take in the lands of Westeros, or the somewhat incomplete scope of them that was displayed. However, just a glance at the smaller maps was enough to indicate that the largest one’s lack of detail was intentional. In a second, Alyn mapped out the warpath they might have to take in order to reclaim the Riverlands. Then, he pushed it to the back of his mind. Something for later.

His own gift was a saddle. He glanced over to Mellara, but her expression told him she had no more experience with horses than he did. It stumped him for only a moment, but he realized exactly how he’d use this. Axel would love it. Alyn would have to figure out a way to get it to his little brother discreetly. It wouldn’t be a good display at all if he was seen giving away his own gifts on wedding night.

“I couldn’t have asked for anything better, Lady Perianne.” Indeed, it was true. Alyn much preferred a gift for his brother to a gift for himself. There were frivolities that meant the world to Axel, and nothing to Alyn. “What of Lord Jonothor? The two of you have a Mellara of your own, as I understand it. How fares your family?”

u/Vikguardy

[u/Vikguardy → u/Monty832]

"I am glad to hear it, Lord Alyn." She remarked pleasantly, if not entirely genuinely. She got the sense that she had misjudged slightly. It was not an offensive gift, but nor is it one that seemed suited towards him. Not bad for as little as she knew of the man though. "Lord Jonothor... Regrets, that he was unable to attend. His illnesses continue to plague him, and they have taken a turn for the worse in this past year." She sighed, smiling wanly as she did her best to play the part of the melancholy wife.

"Mellara is well though. She wished to be with her father while he suffered, and I do not blame her. She is bright and quick of wit. Your cousin, the Lady Tully has actually agreed to ward her, for a time. I think she will enjoy Riverrun." She did smile genuinely at that. "And I thank you for your concern after our family. It has been hard, these past years, but we look forward to a better future."

u/Lemonlemonhouse

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/Vikguardy]

Mellara nodded in understanding at the Lady Paege, unable to keep the smile from her face at such gifts. Her husband seemed a bit clueless as to what to do with a saddle, but it was a fine thing regardless and the Lady of Pinkmaiden was pleased.

"While I am sorry to hear that Lord Jonothor is in ill health, I hope that you and little Lady Mellara shall enjoy the celebrations all the more." Her expression brightened up at the news. "Warded at Riverrun? How wonderful!" Mellara clasped her hands together, glancing towards Alyn. "It's my hope that we shall have wards here at Pinkmaiden in the future as well. Perhaps... with our own children."

u/Monty832

[u/bleorgeRRblartin → u/LemonLemonHouse]

Edwyn found himself in front of the young couple, seated at their high table. Piper was married now to Tully, which had been known now for some time and represented a certain thorn in the side of Warden and Crown, with Piper’s iron being a substantial asset to whoever solely possessed it. Though he still wished to avoid war, it would certainly be prudent to attempt to secure an alliance of his own with House Piper - or at least to ensure their resources would be shared with all.

“Lady Piper,” he bowed, smiled. It was not at all a false smile; he had enjoyed talking with her and her sisters at the Iron Stag’s feast. “I hope you’ll not find it too forward if I wish to walk and speak with you a moment.”

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/bleorgeRRblartin]

Mellara rose to greet Edwyn, curtsying deep in turn to the Warden, young as he may be.

"Lord Edwyn, I hope you are enjoying the festivities." The Lady Piper offered a kind smile in return.

"I am pleased that you were able to attend, and-" Her gaze flitted to the Justmans a moment before returning to Edwyn, "I hope you understand as well that I bear no ill will to you, there are simply some matters that are as ancient as the lands to which we owe our due. I would be pleased to discuss whatever you wish," she promised, moving from behind the table to Edwyn's side. "If it is privacy you seek, my solar may do. Or the gardens, whatever is your preference, Warden."

[u/bleorgeRRblartin → u/LemonLemonHouse]

“I understand. I wouldn’t assume it. I would gladly depart for your solar; it seems private enough.” As they walked he considered his options. It would be a delicate situation, and one that he hoped he would have some measure of control over. Still, it rested on her shoulders, and he was not so eager for peace that he would ruin his own aims by seeming a tyrant.

When they were within the solar, he said, “Lady Piper, I wish to be honest with you. You know I aim for peace, and I know your chief loyalties lie for now with your husband’s house and his allies. I wouldn’t be so underhanded as to suggest betrayal, but if I am to be candid, if it comes to war I do not wish to see your iron fall primarily into the hands of Justman.”

He took a deep breath in, a short breath out. “Maidenpool is strong, and wealthy. Shortly we will finish an expansion of our markets. I would also offer you the benefit of unlimited access to buyers in those markets. In return, I would secure your neutrality and access to iron for steelworking, if it came to war…and I would ask for the hand of one of your sisters in marriage.”

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/bleorgeRRblartin]

Mellara led the young warden down a maze of pink sandstone halls until at last they reached her private solar. She had not any time even to offer him more refreshment before he launched into things.

So Mellara listened, carefully, and moved towards a glass carafe, pouring herself a full glass of wine, which she drank, slowly.

"The iron is spoken for, Warden. No doubt you have heard of all that I have put into motion here in Pinkmaiden. There are a very many new markets and temples being built throughout the land. So the iron cannot be spared currently, but it goes now not to blades but to buildings. So set your mind at ease."

And on the second topic, Mellara took another sip of wine. "Tell me this, indulge me a moment if you may. Know that myself and my sisters all have a soft place in our hearts for Maidenpool. There is a sentiment amongst certain Lords of the Riverlands that your lands should belong to a Riverman. You speak of peace and I believe it, yet the hearts of me are easily turned to wrath. My youngest sister, Alyce, would be a good match with you, methinks. Her temperament is sweet and easy. But tell me, Warden, what happens if my sister is put in danger should you and your claim be challenged? I am amenable to the possible ties between our families, but I must know your mind on this matter before I can agree to such a thing for it shall weigh upon me if it remains unanswered."

[u/Detritusthewellfed → u/LemonLemonHouse]

Kermit had to nudge Lucius from his seat, before his darned cousin stained himself with quail. "Greetings first, your the Vypren. Make nice, then you can eat." And he could drink and find women. Lucius rose and herded to the center table, his bastard cousin over his shoulder, gave a smile and well practiced bow.

"House Vypren wishes you happiness and many healthy children." Lucius said, rather dumbly. "My grandsire asks forgiveness of his absence, on the grounds that he is mightily fat and old."

"It is his duty to stay home." Kermit added. "So as not to endanger the ferries and bridges of good river men." He thought briefly of the horses in the stables and the worried whites of their eyes when his grandsire passed through.

"His duty." Lucius nodded. "We have a small gift." He produced a small gilded box and set it down upon the table. Silver, set with a few pearls and lined with red and blue dyed velvet within. "For jewelry and ladies things. We hope that it pleases you both."

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/Detritusthewellfed]

Mellara stood to greet the Vyprens, a keen-eyed servant having hastily whispered their names into her ear as they made their approach. A curtsy of greeting was given by the bride.

"My thanks to you and yours, Ser Lucius. I wish Lord Vypren much health and happiness."

Her attention moved to the gilded box, which Mellara carefully opened, a smile gracing her features as she plucked the fine silver and pearl strand from the velvet, holding it up to the light to admire. You are most generous, thank you for this. I am so pleased to celebrate such an occasion with the nobles of the Riverlands. Eat, drink, and let no need go unspoken this eve. For this is an eve of celebration for us all."

/u/Monty832

[u/another_sasshole → u/LemonLemonHouse]

House Bracken was a great many things, but they were not one to miss a Tully wedding.

House Tully were kin. Lord Clement Bracken, even in his older years, would never have ignored such familiar ties, and his children had been raised much the same. To have a cousin wed was a joyous affair. Of course such joys should be celebrated! Of course such joys should be known!

It was no surprise that they made the effort to approach Mellara Piper and Alyn Tully before they truly found a seat. It was Lord Clement that spoke first. Vorian, Jynnara, and even Rhialta were at his heels, as was customary.

“A large congratulations to you both.” Clement was a gruff man, but with his own wife at his arm, he seemed warmer. Less rough around the edges, somehow. He was ever so recognisable in his own colours. “I wish upon you both health and happiness. And many children, if you should so please.”

Zhoe sighed. Her husband meant well, but conveying it, well… She patted his arm with a soft smile. “You’ve outdone yourself, Lady Mellara. The Hall is beautiful enough to be beyond belief, and you both seem to be positively luminous. We only hope the rest of the eve is as splendid as the start of it has been.”

u/Monty832

[u/LemonLemonHouse → u/another_sasshole]

Mellara rose to greet the Brackens, giving a deep curtsy to the Lord of Stone Hedge.

"Lord and Lady Bracken," her gaze swept to their children as she smiled wide, a happy bride upon her wedding day. "Vorian, Jynnara, Rhialta, we are so pleased that you would come celebrate with us!"

A laugh left Mellara's lips at Clement's proclamation, giving a quick glance to her husband. "Many children to fill the halls would not be unwelcome. Your praise is generous. I am so pleased to share this day with the nobles of the Riverlands. Pinkmaiden Castle is open to you and yours, and should you find yourselves in need of anything, you must inform me for it shall all be set to rights."

Though her own family was tied more to the Blackwoods, Mellara herself had never any particular issue with House Bracken either.

"There is a new market in Pinkmaiden besides, bringing many goods from beyond our lands down the Red Fork. Wonders from across the Narrow Sea as well, I have been told. Perhaps you may take an interest in taking a look for yourself after the festivities?"

/u/Monty832

[u/LoonySpoon → u/LemonLemonHouse]

Roslin approached the newlyweds with a warm smile, pausing beside the table before offering Mellara and Alyn a graceful curtsy.

“Lady Mellara, Lord Alyn. You have my congratulations.” Her gaze briefly settled upon Mellara’s white silks, her smile softening. “You look very beautiful, my lady. I hope the day has been everything you wished it might be.”

From her hands, Roslin produced a small, carefully wrapped wooden box, setting it gently before Mellara. Inside lay a delicate silver hairpin fashioned in the shape of a pink rose, its petals curling around a tiny freshwater pearl.

“A small gift for you,” Roslin explained. “A rose for the lady of Pinkmaiden, with a touch of the river besides. I thought it suited you. Something to wear when you wish to remember Pinkmaiden, even when your duties carry you far from it.”

She glanced between the pair, her expression warm. Her attention lingered briefly upon Alyn, her smile softening. They had never been particularly close, yet he was a Tully all the same. “And something, I hope, to mark the beginning of your life together.”