Chapter Text
300 A.C.
His father never cared much for him. It was a truth Theon had years to learn.
Balon Greyjoy wasn’t cruel, which was surprising considering that every ironborn had a touch of cruelty in their blood. No, the Lord Reaper of Pyke simply had no care for his third son and only omega child. They scarcely spoke and, when so, it was short-lived and straight to the matter. No matter how much his mother tried, her efforts were futile, for neither son nor father wished to better their nonexistent relationship.
As long as the two of them stayed far away from one another, the Iron Islands would be at peace from their heated fights.
Although, nothing could stay good for long in these piles of rocks.
“ You’re to marry the Wolf King “
Balon had never been one for knocking or of much respect for one’s privacy. Unfortunately, his younger son had finally understood it when his father had slumbered in, with little care for a greeting, and stumbled upon the naked figure of Theon laying on the bed, drunk and with bite marks over his neck.
Theon still recalled the aches of a cane striking his back, the punishment he received for his indecency.
This time, he had been lazing about on the carpet, surrounded and supported by cushions and pelts. A jar of wine, already refilled for a second time, and a red goblet in his hand. A wooden board beside him, with bits and pieces of grapes and cheese and dried meat. In front of him was the hearth, already lit and surrounding the dark walls of the keep with a gentle orange.
Theon had been having a good time, even if he was being punished. The crime? Balon had not enjoyed how his omega son publicly shamed a young man and, in turn, ruined a potential marriage offer. Now, he was to live in solitude for a moon, with only the servants and occasionally his mother for company.
So it was with much surprise that he saw his father not even a week later and, this time, with a smirk on his face. A happy Balon never made a happy Theon.
“ I thought I was a useless cunt, who had no purpose but to whore and drink to my death “
A set of words that the iron lord used whenever he was in a foul mood or Theon had, supposedly, made a mistake. Or whenever he wished, to be truthful. Theon had long stopped trying to decipher the many reasons for his father’s anger.
The old alpha huffed, leaning heavily against his cane. “ Still are but now you have a better use “
Theon could swear that his heavy steps made the ground shake but it might as well have been the wine’s doing. He had drunk enough for three grown sailors and, yet, he wished he have had more.
“ The Stark pup wants our help and he promised all the gold of Casterly Rock for it “ His smirk grew. It looked odd, unnatural and Theon shivered. He solemnly saw his father happy for anything. He could swear he would be seeing this same smirk in his nightmares tonight. Balon took the goblet from his hand and gave the dornish red a sip. “ If all it takes is to give him a Greyjoy wife, then so be it “
“ I thought the ironborn did not have allies. That we take what we want “ That got him a sneer. Better that than a slap. Balon enjoyed wearing ring upon ring on each of his bony fingers and they caused the nastiest of marks against Theon’s skin.
“ Yes, that is our way. To reave is in our nature but there is also power in knowing when to strike “ Balon began making his way back, leaving the cup on the tablet. Theon finally felt as if he could breathe. “ Had I been a less patient man, I would have declared for independence long before this war “
Theon was left alone without another word.
He spent the remainder of the day drinking even more wine until he fainted on the bed, only waking up twice to empty his belly onto the side. If his mother saw him like this, she would reprimand him while gently cleaning his face. His siblings would taunt him and leave him to his misery.
Forcing their faces out of his head, Theon wished for more wine as he fell back asleep.
Later on, he was woken up with his door being forcefully opened, the sound making his forming headache worsen. Though, he held in his tongue when he noticed it was his mother. Her eyes were rimmed red and he could faintly notice the drying tear tracks on her cheeks. She was pale, paler than she normally was, and she looked mad . Furious even. Theon had never seen his mother like that.
She sat beside him and embraced him, cradling his head on her shaking hands and pressing her lips to his crown. Her once raven hair, now white with age, brushed against his brow and Theon could hear her murmurs as if far away.
“ I’m sorry, my sweet. I’m so sorry “
Theon pushed against her, burying his face against her neck, taking in her calming scent, and began crying like a babe.
He did not know how long they stayed wrapped around each other but Alannys did not push him away and he did not do much else but cry until he could no longer. At some point, Theon must have fallen back asleep without noticing, only to slowly blink away to his mother humming and carefully cleaning his face with a wet cloth hours later. He wanted to stop her, mortified that he had acted so childish earlier but he found he did not have the strength to do so.
“ When do I leave? “
Alannys frowned, her previous rage surfacing momentarily behind her eyes. She softly pressed the cloth against his right eye, forcing Theon to close it. They must be swollen and red from crying so much. Once again, he hopes that his siblings do not see him like this.
“ In a week, perhaps less. Rodrik and Maron will be coming too “
Theon gulped. He did not know how to feel about his two brothers coming along. He closed his left eye when his mother pressed the fabric against it. “ And you? “ He would deny the shakiness in his voice.
The Lady of Pyke gave a watery smile, her own eyes swelling up with a pool of tears as she tried to blink them away.
“ Of course, dearest. I will be with you through it all, I promise “
The omega chuckled. His mother would, at best, only be allowed to stay until the wedding night. After that, she would be required to go back to Pyke. If not, Balon would most likely order it. After so many years living among his family, Theon would be left alone among strangers, especially without his mother. He won’t say it aloud but he does not know life without his mother in it.
Getting no response from her son, Alannys continued.
“ Come, my sweet. You need a bath “
Theon was in a dreamlike state. Nothing seemed real, as if waiting to shatter. Servants prepared the bath and salts and herbs without as much as a sound. His mother slowly undressed him, just as she did when he was a boy and exhausted from playing on the beach. The warmth of the water surrounded him like a wool blanket and his mother’s fingers delicately massaging his temples was enough to lull him to sleep a third time.
The rest of the week was much the same.
Alannys had not left his side, even going as far as to sleep on his bed with him. Theon did not refuse, wrapping his arms around her and keeping his face against her chest. If she was to be ripped away from him soon, he wanted to cherish these moments while they lasted. Balon did not return. Rodrik and Maron did not come either. Only Asha appeared one morning without a warning.
Mother and he had been choosing between his older clothes, which to take and which would stay and which could be reused for newer ones. Both of them looked up when the door opened. Mother smiled at seeing her only daughter but Theon kept his indifference showing. If his sister was here to make his life even more miserable, then she could just leave.
But Asha simply eyed him with an unreadable expression before telling Alannys that Balon called for her. Mother was not too happy about it but she left either way, promising Theon with a confident tone that she would be back soon. When the siblings were left alone, Asha finally addressed him.
“ Thought I would find you crying your eyes out “
Theon side eyed her before turning his attention back to the gowns in front of him. He picked up a dark turquoise gown slashed with gold and frowned. It had been a gift from his mother after his first heat. There had been a nice sentiment behind it but Theon, still in denial, had thrown up when he first saw it. Nowadays, he has no issue dressing to the likes of women but such bright fabrics still make him uncomfortable.
“ I’m afraid I cried all I could “
A black duvet with a grey and white scythe embroidered on either side of the chest. The inside was trimmed with dark fox fur. A gift from last year when he went to Harlaw with mother. He hadn’t seen his uncle Rodrik in years and it had been good to have that cheerful smile of his back. Theon had worn it while there but hid it before they reached Pyke, afraid that Balon would make him rid of it.
The duvet would also stay.
“ Good. I would beat you if I saw you wailing like an idiot “
The omega huffed and tried not to let her words get under his skin. Asha seemed to have a special talent for it.
“ What is it you wish to tell me, Asha? “
The woman went silent, possibly thinking it over before opening her mouth again.
“ You know, this is not as bad as it could be “
She took a step closer. Asha must have been down at the docks, her boots muddied and with the lingering scent of the sea. Theon would have snapped at her, angry that she was dirtying his chamber, if he was not too shocked by her words.
“ You could have always ended up with a Goodbrother or a Botley “ The last got a snarl from her. Tristifer Botley had wanted to marry her before being sent away to Blacktyde. Asha had just wanted a night to relieve her of stress. To this day, Tristifer continued to attempt courting her whenever they met.
“ Careful, sister. If father heard you, he would have you beat “ Not true. Asha was by far their father’s favourite. Even surpassing Rodrik, the heir. Once, Theon would have given anything for an ounce of his father’s attention. Nowadays, he dreads it. “ Either way, what’s the difference between an ironborn or a northerner for a husband? They all want the same thing from me. To open my legs and give them a hoard of healthy sons “
He stood up and walked up to his bed. On top of it were laid various pieces of fabric, furs, wools and tones of blue, green, black and gold. Mother had insisted on having new clothes made for him for the harsh weather of the North. She was using it as a way to distract his mind, along with hers, but all Theon could feel was grief. The death of his freedom was growing near with each passing moment.
He picked up a dark grey cloak with small black fur lining the shoulders. He could see the beginning of a kraken’s head, in golden thread, being embroidered and felt his belly starting to feel heavy. It was his bridal cloak that mother had been finishing with her ladies.
He desperately wanted to throw it to the fire.
“ Might be so but if you play this right, you’ll be able to have more control than you’ve previously thought “ Theon frowned at her, his confusion evident. Asha merely shrugged, fiddling with the axe’s leather handle at her hip. “ Your husband to be is a boy turned king, I doubted he has yet to have a taste of cunt. You could use it to your advantage “
Theon sighed at her words. He doubted the new Stark Lord was anything like her little husband. Qarl follows his sister with heart shaped eyes and does everything she commands, just because he got to bed her once and fell in love right after. Theon pities the boy at times but, on others, he envies Asha for having such a loving, loyal companion.
On those times, he drinks away his envy.
“ I thought I was to marry a grown man. I have no desire to bed a green boy “ He has no desire for marriage at all but the moment he woke up an omega, his fate was sealed.
“ He’s not. Only a year or so younger than you. Some dare to call him the pup. His father had kept him secured surrounded by the walls of Winterfell and now, the first time he steps foot outside his lands is for independence and vengeance “ She kicked aside a nauseous light rose coloured gown. Maron had gifted him as a cruel jest. A mistake on his part. Theon ended up wearing it the next night and bedding an omega whore on his brother’s bed as revenge. He got a beating for that too.
“ Trying to make him appealing to me? Sorry to say but your efforts are futile “ Robb Stark might be the most beautiful man alive, like Rhaegar had been sung to be. It was in vain, nothing could make Theon content with all of this.
“ No, dear brother. There is no way out of this, even if you wanted “ Her words sting when they shouldn’t. It was as if putting salt on a wound. Unnecessary and just cruel but that is how Asha acts. Her presence was already starting to annoy him and because of it he wanted her gone soon.
“ I’m very much aware. Is that all you wanted to say, Asha? Enjoying tormenting me too? “ Her smirk was answer enough. Theon, now feeling irritated, went to push past her when her hand grabbed his arms, forcing him to stop. When their eyes met, her smirk was gone and strange tension was felt. Enough to make Theon nervous.
“ While I do enjoy it, that is not why I’m here “ Something cold was pressed against his palm and when Theon looked down, the shine of a blade appeared. He looked back up at his sister in bewilderment but still clutching the dagger. “ Listen, if this Robb Stark turns to be a bigger cunt than Rodrik and Maron combined, I want you to write me a letter demanding me to come see you. In the way only we both know “
Theon swallowed a gasp. In youth, they had created a language of their own. When Rodrik and Maron were cruel alike to the both of them, this had been their method of planning their revenges without being discovered. Theon still recalled those moments fondly but, as soon as Asha became an alpha, the game turned three against one.
It somehow made his heart both warm and clench that, if things did soured, his sister would, at least, attempt to aid him.
“ The dagger? “ He questioned and her smirk grew, sharp canines showing themselves.
“ Only in case I’m late “
The next time Theon saw his sister was at the bay.
It was his fateful departure from Pyke, from his home and all he’s known. Mother’s arm were wrapped around his and she looked the dignified Lady of Pyke, rather than the worried woman she’s been these last few days. Maron was already upon his Maiden’s Scream, with fifteen ships following it. While they would be sailing upon Rodrik’s Red Ghost and, alongside them, another fifteen of Rodrik’s fleet of thirty ships.
Around them were the arriving banners of their vassals. On his right were the fishes of Botley, the bloody moon of Wynch, twinning waterspouts of Merlyn, Saltcliffe’s nine-headed serpent. To his left uncle Rodrik’s scythe, the black leviathan of Volmark, the ten noose of Myre and Asha’s Black Wind with. Balon had sent letters three days ago and already so many arrived, only for more to be on their way. Theon could not recall Pyke ever being so vivid, so full and he despised he would be missing this opportunity.
Mother was the first to approach Asha, engulfing her in a tight hug. Asha immediately tensed at the contact. She was never one for hugs, caresses or sweet words, and years under Balon’s teaching had made it undesirable. However, for the sake of their mother, she presented a smile.
When it was Theon’s turn, the smile eased.
“ Come visit me soon? I’ll promise to listen all about your raids without whining “
Asha seemed to regard his promise before giving a confident smile, one that also promised immense trouble.
“ Very well. I’ll hold you to your word, little brother “ And then she did something Theon would have never expected. She took a step forward and embraced him, laying his head against her shoulder and her hand atop of his hair. “ Be safe. You’re to marry in the middle of a war. I will not have my brother dead because the wolf pup did not wish to marry somewhere else “
Theon felt his face heat up and his eyes fill with tears at her words. Still, he tried to blink them away. When Asha released him, he coughed a few times, trying to regain back control of his voice. His sister gave him a rare smile, a true genuine one, and Theon felt the need to cry grow stronger. Before he could do so, he decided to end their conversation.
“ Goodbye, Asha “
The alpha chuckled, crossing her arms over her chest.
“ Goodbye, Theon “
Mother wrapped her arm around his once again and further down they went. When they reached the docks, Rodrik helped Alannys up his ship, being oddly gentle with the aging woman in a manner unnatural for a reaving ironborn. While watching the two, Dagmer made his way beside him and Theon could not hide his shock. The man’s sliced smile grew seeing it.
“ Thought I’ll let you leave without saying my goodbyes? “
Theon would eternally blame Asha for leaving him so emotional that made him pull Dagmer, a man twice his size, into a hug. He would also deny he was emotional at all. Cleftjaw let out a quiet chuckle but before Theon could start regretting, the man pressed him closer. The white hairs of his beard tickled against the omega’s nose and the reek of wine was revolting but Theon would forever hold onto this moment until he died.
Dagmer had become an uncle to him, when no blood was shared between them. He had already lost so many uncles of his. Euron to exile, Aeron to the Drowned God, Victorion to hate and silence and even a fourth uncle that he never got to meet. Dagmer was held at a higher status than those four men combined but Theon did not dare say it aloud, only to avoid his father’s warth.
To Balon, Cleftjaw was simply their master-at-arms. To Theon, uncle Dagmer was family first and foremost.
“ Asha promised to visit. You should come with her “ The ‘please’ was not muttered but nevertheless heard and understood. The man’s chest rumbled with laughter and Theon felt like a boy again. When he would run to his uncle after his brother’s cruel words, tears running down his face, and sought comfort in his arms. Dagmer had not taunted him like Asha or scolded him to be a proper man like Balon or cuddled him as if a babe like mother. Instead, he gave him a wooden crafted bow, a beautiful piece of art, and taught him everything he needed to know about being an ironborn.
Theon would be forever thankful for all Dagmer Claftjaw had given him and no amount of riches or glory could ever repay him.
“ Aye, lad. After this whole war ordeal is over, I’ll remind her of her promise and we’ll both go see you “ It reassured him to know he won’t be forever separated from this man. Mayhaps if this marriage turns sour, Dagmer can strike fear into Robb Stark. Theon would love to see it.
Rodrik called out for his younger brother to hurry and, so, Theon detached himself from the master-at-arms. Dagmer smiled, patting his back before guiding Theon up the ship. He ignored the men all around him, running around and preparing the ship to sail. He ignored Rodrik most of all, barking out orders and moving about as if the Lord of the Realm. Theon decided to walked up to his mother, standing at the front, near the bow. In front of them was the vastness of the sea, a scenery Theon was more than familiar with but soon parted with. He would be inland, deep in the heart of the riverlands and, after it, the cold walls of Winterfell and leagues away from any seas.
“ I’ll be going to the cabin, dearest. Do you wish to come along? “
But Theon could see Asha in the distance. Dagmer had managed to join her and both of them were laughing, probably at one of Cleftjaw’s usual jests. He could spot his uncle Rodrik, a scowl on his face as he made his way to the other two. He had been in a war council with Balon and the rest of the men, and Theon knew from experience that Balon only enjoyed hearing his own ideas more than anything. Last night, Rodrik had said his goodbyes to him, assuring him that no matter how much time he was inland, he would always be ironborn. Theon did not know how to feel about it but was happy that, at least, one of them thought that way.
Seeing them now, he wished he was among them. Laughing or drinking or even doing the bloody fingerdance. All three but on a ship heading to his wedding.
“ Of course “
Life upon the Red Ghost was as lively as a ship in the middle of the sea could be. When the men weren’t drinking, gambling or sleeping on any surface. They were adjusting the sails, keeping track of the wind and waves, making sure they were in the right direction and keeping the ship clean. Whatever to keep their minds and bodies occupied. They were not going to a raid but as a show of strength and power. That had been what Rodrik insisted when Theon questioned him on the number of ships for a wedding.
“ Father wanted to make sure the Wolf King understood the power we wield and not to make fools of us “
Theon decided not to ask anything else to older brother.
If Theon was not roaming around the ship, mostly staying below deck in order to avoid the drunkards, he would be with mother and her two ladies-in-waiting she brought along. Sharing stories of their youths, gossiping about other ironborn ladies, embroidering or resting. Theon mostly lazed around, unless his mother called for him.
Meanwhile, the two ladies accompanying the family were seemingly always ready for mother’s call. Lady Amanda Harlaw, a cousin from a distant family branch and daughter of Hotho Harlaw. She has dark hair that she keeps up in circled braids around her head, puffy lips and eyes a murky green. She is of age with Theon and, at first, he thought her to be his future lady-in-waiting but mother denied.
Apparently, no other ironborn lord wanted their omega daughters inland but Balon Greyjoy. Instead, the girls were to keep the company of the future Queen of the Iron Islands and, hopefully, be matched with either Rodrik or Maron, whoever came first. Although, mother would likely put a stop to it.
The other woman was Lady Dorna Sunderley, daughter of the current Lord Sunderley and another distant cousin of Theon. Her hair is sunkissed but dry at the ends, her eyes are a midnight blue and her cheeks still hold its childish fat. She is no older than four and ten, another one looking for beneficial marriage. Theon wouldn’t have minded her presence if the girl knew how to stay silent. She talked more than all the men abroad and there was already some beginning to grow irritated with her presence, he alongside them. When mother whispered to him about the girls’s plans, Theon aloud and almost began to pity his brothers.
Furthermore, he found he preferred his own company most of the time. Especially in nights like this when sleep would not take him and the need for a walk was far too great. He would go close to the bowstrip and sit on the edge, feeling the cold wind brush against him and the starry sky keeping him company. Once in a while, he could hear a man or two walking to the other side of the ship to relieve themselves but, most often than not, he was alone with his thoughts.
It was best this way.
Theon had been a mess of emotions these days and had been moments away from yelling at someone. Even mother could be a victim to his anger and he would rather avoid it. She had been nothing but good to him for his entire life and she enjoyed this no more than Theon. Yet, his mind kept looking at someone to blame and, the only one at fault, was back in Pyke, atop of the Seastone Chair.
“ My barrelman is getting nervous seeing my little brother trying to jump into the sea every night “ Theon held in a groan at the sound of Rodrik’s voice. It was the hour of the eel and the man should be either sleeping or drinking, not bothering him. Theon decided to keep on staring at the sea, the firm wood making his bottom ache from sitting on it for so long. Either way, he preferred waiting a while longer, if not to deal with his older brother.
But luck was not on Theon Greyjoy’s side. Rodrik sat beside him, their arms brushing and Theon was proud of himself for not pushing the other back.
“ I thought your ship had no nervous sailors “
The waves rocked them in a smoothing rhythm. He wished it was enough to make him finally sleep. He also wished he was alone but now he had a six and twenty year old man beside him, with a bottle of wine in hand, and ruining his peace.
“ I don’t. I’ll be getting rid of him once we land. Maron can take him in “ He took off the cork with his teeth and spat it down. It disappeared from Theon’s sight and into the darkness before it hit the water. “ or I’ll throw him to the sea. Whichever is the easiest “
Poor bastard. Should have just stayed quiet in his crow’s nest. Rodrik hated being bothered about useless issues and Theon would never be his brother’s priority.
“ What do you want, Rodrik? I don’t know if you’ve noticed but I do not want to be bothered “
If the alpha heard him, he was doing an incredible work of ignoring him. This behaviour used to irk Theon whenever his brothers did it, to the point of tears from frustration trailing down his cheeks. To this day, Theon does not bode well being ignored and left aside. Rodrik took a long gulp before offering the bottle to his little brother. Theon did not talk, still waiting for his brother to go first, but took the it and had a sip of his own.
“ Too bad. As the captain I need to make sure no drownings happen on my watch “
Theon sighed, as if truly disappointed that the possibility of drowning was no longer viable, and took another sip of the wine. It was horrible, bitter and Theon wasn’t entirely sure it was good to drink anymore but he was desperate for some distraction and getting drunk always helped. Although, Rodrik took the bottle from him before he could press his lips a third time.
“ I do have something for you “
Rodrik giving him something? Theon feared it already. He turned to watch his brother with caution and bubbling curiosity. After all, his brother had never willingly given him anything. Rodrik reached into the inside of his leather jerkin and pulled out a small crystal bottle with a mysterious liquid inside. It looked like water but that would make no sense.
“ What is it? “ Theon questioned, eyeing it closer when placed on his hand. He faintly heard the wine splash as Rodrik drank some more.
“ Tears of Lys “
In an instance, Theon’s eyes widened and his hand went slack, causing the poison to drop. Rodrik, an agile man and used to moving fast, was able to catch it before it was out of reach and lost to He Who Dwells Beneath The Waves. Theon’s reaction got him a slap to the back of his head but it was enough to bring him out of his shock.
“ Idiot! Do you know how much coin I paid for this?! I’ll drown you myself if you waste it! “
Perhaps if he was a young boy, Rodrik’s threat would make him tremble like a craven but he lived with the man for years and had more than time to familiarise himself with his yelling. Dismissing his older brother’s reaction, Theon gripped his hand, the same one holding onto the liquid, and hissed back.
“ Why in the Drowned God’s name do you have this, Rodrik?! And why are you giving it to me?! “
He heard tales of this mankiller. That it had no colour, no taste and left behind no evidence of a crime. It was the weapon of women and cravens alike, yet, it was one of the most feared. Quite expensive too, with only few able to acquire it and, so, seeing it in his older brother’s possession aroused many questions. Rodrik groaned and pushed him off of him, taking a moment to make sure the bottle had not broken before pressing it back to Theon’s hand. His nails digging into his palm in a manner, Theon was sure, was a revenge for almost having lost it.
“ Why do you think, Theon? Use your head for once in your life! “
But Theon could not understand. This alone could have been quite the amount of golden dragons and Rodrik had never before even used a copper star on him. Rodrik brought it for him, Theon could not believe it. Ironborn do not buy or give. They steal, they raid. That is their way. Either taking pity on him or having no further patience to wait, Rodrik began speaking.
“ You are truly a lost cause “ The older man sighed and moved closer. This time, Theon did not have the urge to fight his closeness. “ This, “ He pried his fingers open with a strange, distant carefulness. As if he had been this delicate with him once, before both of them grew and hardened to life. “ is simply a way to protect yourself “
And before the omega had a chance to respond or argue, Rodrik continued.
“ I know you have your bow and I wouldn’t be surprised to know if you have a knife or two but, in case this Wolf King turns to be a bigger cunt than Maron and takes them away, then you’ll have this “ The crystal glistened with the moonlight, leaving dots of light across his face. It looked hauntingly beautiful for something so dangerous. “ Just make sure to give him a son or two and then you can kill him without issue “
Theon frowned, not amused by his brother’s comment. He would rather not have to give that king any pups at alll.
“ How kind of you, brother “ Theon brought the poison closer to his chest and sighed. Another way out, just in case . Theon enjoyed the thrill of the danger at times but, even he knew, this marriage was no game. His family, his house, all of the ironborn were dependent on him to make this success. All to avoid more unnecessary death. One sacrifice for the safety of thousands.
He turned to Rodrik and was surprised to see his brother staring back so intensely, a swirl of unreadable emotions under his brown eyes. Rodrik, much like Asha and Maron, was not one made to be close to others. He was born and bred to be an heir, a successor, a lord after Balon and, now, a king in the future. Rodrik was for the seas, for long moons spent sailing, raiding, conquering and then coming home a victor, with boats filled with treasure and goods.
But, somewhere in the back of Theon’s mind, he could recall a young, long haired Rodrik. Not even having reached manhood, holding onto him on the shallowest part of the bay and, with a tremendous calmness, teaching him how to swim. Theon missed that brother, on days when their meanness was particularly vicious. On others, he wished Rodrik had never once been good to him.
He took the wine bottle from his brother’s hand and resumed drinking.
“ And you, “ Theon asked, staining the back of his hand red as he cleaned his lips. “ when are you to marry? “
Rodrik groaned and took the bottle back and, in one full swing, drank the rest of the wine. Theon did not whine but, had he known his brother would finish it all so quickly, he would have drank some more. He could understand his brother, in a way. He also tried to steer away from any marriage discussions. He hadn’t been bethroned for ten years, not from lack of attempts from Balon, but his luck had been bound to run out one day.
Once Theon was well and wed, he was no longer an issue for the Lord of Pyke and he could focus on other issues. Especially in regards to Rodrik’s future wife or lack of. In the past, a man of six and twenty with no wife or children to speak of would not be a worry but they were heading to war and anything could happen. Rodrik could die, Maron too and Asha. All three and without descendents, there would be a dispute for power. Balon would take no risks, Theon is sure of it.
Theon would not be surprised to hear of a bride for the King’s heir soon. Asha was married, he was on his way to be and Maron had three saltwives. However, Asha drank moon tea and Maron made his wives drink it, proclaiming he had no patience for children as of now. Theon had trouble envisioning either of them with a family of their own.
“ If you wish for my opinion- “
“ I do not “
“ Lady Patrice Orkwood is quite the beauty but do not ask her to sing for you. I nearly became deaf. And Lady Gysella Goodbrother has the biggest breasts I’ve ever seen, though her sister Gwin’s are firmer “ Rodrik sent him an incredulous look, Theon gave him an innocent smile in return. “ On the contrary, do not choose Lord Blacktyde’s sister. He would gladly commit kinslaying, rather than letting her marry a Greyjoy “ Baelor Blacktyde’s father died on a raid, one he had done with Balon. Baelor has never forgiven Lord Greyjoy for it.
“ And, do tell, how do you know all of this? “
Rodrik knew. Just as the whole of the Iron Islands knew that Balon’s omega son was too wild to contain. No matter how many times he locked Theon in his room.
“ Do you truly wish to know? “
The alpha eyed him up and down before looking away with a sigh.
“ No, better not “ Without a second thought, Rodrik threw the now empty bottle forward. They didn’t see it land, the lack of light being no help, but the wet landing echoed throughout the eerie silence of the night. Rodrik turned around and stood up, Theon wasted no time in following his brother. He should hurry back, for mother must be worried. These days, that was all she did and sleep had been difficult for her too. Whenever they laid down, she would keep a grip on him, afraid he would be taken from her side. Theon fears for her health when she returns back to Pyke.
“ See you on the morrow “ But instead he turned to gaze upon his brother. Rodrik already looked tired and the real fighting had yet to happen. Theon couldn’t help but feel the same. “ and thanks for the gift “
Rodrik’s frown of annoyance was a nice reward for the end of this night. No ironborn enjoyed being labelled as soft hearted and giving gifts was just another way of saying it.
“ It isn’t a gift “
He wouldn’t be able to see the omega’s smirk but, anyone who knew Theon, understood it was a natural trait of the ironborn. “ Whatever you call it, brother “ He shouted back, already making his way down and to the room he was sharing with mother.
He slept throughout the rest of the night without issue, a first time since setting foot atop of the Red Ghost.
They were greeted with the weirwood and ravens banner of the Blackwoods, the fishes of the Tullys and the grey wolf of the Starks. The welcoming party did not appear big, twenty or so men but Rodrik had brought thirty of his own alongside. He rode at Theon’s right, mother to his left and Maron to her other side. The golden kraken of the Greyjoys held high and proud. They were here as guests for an alliance but Theon couldn’t forget they needed to remind these high lords who they were.
The sight of their fleet of thirty ships made the inlanders nervous, Theon could see it in the way they frequently glanced at the sea and how their guards tightened their grips on their swords. They were not pleased with the ironborn’s presence, to have the tormentors of their shores walk into their territory with no care, but they could not go against their king.
When the two parties were face to facce, a bay mount stepped forward. It’s rider was a woman with fiery auburn hair and blue eyes. She looked like a proper highborn lady. Face with all the right sharp angles, a wool dress of grey and white and her cloak with the direwolf of Winterfell displayed proudly. Discontentment and judgment burning furiously in her eyes. In an instance, Theon knew who this woman was and wished to throw himself to sea.
She presented herself as Catelyn Stark, the wife of the late Eddard Stark and the mother of the King in the North. ‘His good mother’ He shuddered at the traitorous thought. Theon gulped, praying he’ll have as little time with her as possible. Beside her was an older man, on his blackened steel was the fish of the Tullys but in black. His cloak a vibrant red and blue. Theon could see the resemblance between the two. The same eyes, the straight nose, the expression of hatred.
Dread began setting in his stomach. His mother grabbed his hand and smiled encouragingly.
He felt anything but brave.
“ I hope your journey went well, my lords, “ She gave his brothers a courteous nod of the head before that cold stare landed on him and Alannys. Theon hoped she did not notice his shiver. “ my ladies. I hope you are not too tired, Ravenhall Tree is not far from here and we should reach it before sunset “. A boy behind her shifted nervously, three ravens embroidered on his chest with black thread. It was no surprised that they were unwelcome guests to the Blackwoods.
“ And where is this Wolf King? We’ve not sailed all this way to meet with his mother and bannermen? “
Rodrik used the same tone when he killed a defiant thrall or a fool brave enough to insult his name. He once used it on Theon. When he was too young to learn how to swim and nearly drowned. Thankfully, Rodrik had been there but when his brother threw him on the sand, he threatened to kill him himself, if Theon dared to go to the sea again. The omega didn’t venture near the bay for two moons afterwards.
The men’s faces hardened and the tension thickened in the air. A fight breaking out here and now would not do well for either group. Lady Stark tightened her hold on the reins and responded with a calm but firm voice. Theon found her strength and bravery admirable.
“ The King is in Riverrun with his counselors and advisers. He meant to be here but the council has dragged. Instead he sent me, hoping you would not take offence and know he highly honours your arrival “
Maron groaned. He looked bored and he lacked the patience for much. Boredom and impatience, for Balon’s second son, were a dangerous mix.
“ The Lady of Winterfell is not the same as the King “ Which is true but probably not the best time to say so. This Robb Stark was also not very smart. The man should have counted himself lucky for having the aid of the Iron Islands, Theon could not recall his people ever allying themselves with anyone but themselves. The Wolf King should be here and not back in that water fortress.
“ Let us go “ Came Alannys’s sweet voice. She spoke with confidence, as if addressing young boys and not a party of battle hardened men and experienced raiders. Maron looked away, like he was ashamed, and Rodrik dared not say anything against the woman who birthed him. Lady Stark looked strangely relieved. Theon held his mother’s hand tighter. “ I’ve been at sea for weeks and am tired. It is best that we make haste “
The inlarders went ahead, guiding them through the wooded path. They rode in silence, even the ever talkative Dorna was eerily quiet. Theon’s thighs ached, the leather of the saddle causing red burns. Back in the islands, the omega was used to walking anywhere he wished or, if it was far enough, embarking on a ship. He has ridden a horse before but was not overly familiar and he was now suffering the consequences. They rode for quite a while until a castle, coated in moss, began appearing.
Pyke stood upon three barren islands, joined by rope bridges and old wooden blanks. Mother had always made sure to hold his hand whenever they crossed until Balon proclaimed he would learn to do it on his own, if he still wished to be called his son. With trembling legs and widened eyes, Theon crossed it. What he received was a subtle look of disappointment from his father and an order to start acting like a true ironborn man.
But Raventree Hall was not up above or with swinging bridges and the sea was already far away from its reach. Instead, it had enormous square towers on each wall and, inside, Theon could always spot the white branches of the weirwood. It was as if colossal fingers reaching towards the sky. Theon could not imagine the size of its carved face.
The gate opened and all went inside. There, the home of House Blackwood was indeed busy with life. It brought some sense of peace to Theon knowing that he wasn’t the only one fully ready for the wedding ceremony. He and the rest of the ironborn got off of their mounts, which were taken away by the stableboys, and were presented to Lord Tytos Blackwood and offered their guest rights.
Theon was not fooled.
Ironborn could not care about any rights, they did as they pleased. If these lords needed foolish words to stop them from cutting a throat, then so be it, but Theon knew that would not stop his kin. He hoped that the knowledge that they would be back to sea soon was enough to stop any brawls and quarrels from forming.
Rodrik, Maron and Lord Blackwood immediately went to the man’s solar. The Stark’s mother and a woman, with a grim face and her light hair in a curled braid around the head, approached them. The woman presented herself as Pia, the keeper of the castle, and offered to guide them to their rooms. Lady Stark invited them to tea but a maester, with his chains loudly announcing his entrance, interrupted her. He gave her a letter, proclaiming it was from her son, and the woman quickly excused herself and left.
Theon was glad he wouldn’t be seeing her for a while.
Pia and her ladies led them through long halls with sunlight going through yellow-coloured glasses. It made the cold castle appear warmer, easier to ignore the frowns of the guards along the walls or the curious glances of passing by servants. Ironborn were solemnly seen far from sea and Theon felt like a fish out of water. Unnatural and on a dangerous path.
At the end of the hall, Dora and Amanda were set in a separate room from mother and him. Theon could scream in happiness, he was not made to share a bedchamber with three women at the same time. Mother’s was right across from his, while the ladies were on her right. Alannys promised her youngest to come see him in a bit. Theon nodded but paid her no mind, he wanted a bath and to sleep forever. They said their brief goodbyes and when Theon entered his new bedchamber, he was met with three pitiful looking handmaidens.
They jumped when he entered but quickly curtsied, keeping their eyes low. He rolled his own and ordered them to prepare him a bath. To bring the oils and salts and food, a light meal to settle the hunger for now. When they left, Theon sighed and shedded his cloak and jerkin but kept Asha’s dark against his hip. He laid down on the bed and sighed once again, the weight of exhaustion finally settling in and making him sleepy.
In the back of his mind, he heard the women returning, holding buckets of hot water and the sound of them gently pouring it into the tub. They repeated the motion a few times until one of them, courageous enough, called out to him and confirmed that his bath was ready. “ Leave, “ Theon told them, without sparing them a look as he began taking off his tunic. “ I do not require your assistance any further “. They did not need to be told so again and left the omega to his own.
Theon undressed himself completely, keeping the weapon close to the tub. He noticed a towel being warmed by the hearth but no change of clothes. He should have mentioned it but now, more than anything, he just wished to relax by himself for once. Now naked, he stepped into the tub, hissing as the hot water engulfed his body. Bit by bit, he lowered himself until his back was comfortably against the wood and his hair was loosely behind him. Here, on his own, he could finally take in what was happening.
He was getting married.
He, Theon Greyjoy, the defiant omega son of the Lord Reaper of Pyke, was to wed the King in the North, Robb Stark, the Young Wolf, and be his queen.
And bear his children.
“ Fuck “
It was always there, the knowing of what his future would be like. Yet, Theon always fought against it. He promised to himself when young, that he would be no man’s wife and absolutely no one’s mother. Now here he was, a day from being married, from being a Greyjoy to a Stark, from being only useful for bearing sons.
Theon was a skilled fighter. He had a talent for the bow. One of the best archers in the Iron Islands, Dagmer had said so himself. And while Balon had refused him to allow a ship of his own, Uncle Rodrik had taught him how to navigate the seas. How to command a crew, how to use the winds to gain speed, the right knots for the sails, the right foods for long journeys.
All of it now seemed useless. What use did the seas have for him when he was supposed to sit around and care for children, to command a castle instead of a ship. Indeed, he had the lessons necessary as a highborn omega, much to his dismay. He even once learned how to sing but he will die first before doing so again. He was not made for that way of life, no matter how much he learnt of it.
Theon Greyjoy was no wife, no mother and no Queen in the North.
“ Thinking so much will make your face all red “
Alannys’s honeyed voice brought him out of his thoughts. Theon had wanted to be alone, even if for a bit, but he could not order his mother to leave. She would be heartbroken and he would be swallowed by guilt. She also wouldn’t be here for much longer. His mother, who was always there by his side, would not be with him as a married omega. All he could do for her, for both of them in truth, was appreciate the last moments he had with her before they were separated.
“ No bath for you, mother? “ She grabbed a stool, left behind on a corner of the chamber, and walked up to him. She put it down behind him and promptly sat down, her fingers already playing with the ends of his strands. Theon made no effort to cover himself. His mother had taken care of him herself since he was a babe and, when his first heat occurred, he had been so terrified that only she had been allowed near him. “ I would share but I fear the tub is already too small for me “
“ Do not be silly “ He did not see it but heard from her voice the way her lips pulled into a smile. He felt victorious at having made his mother’s smile. She had been so tired and nervous these days, sometimes even more than Theon himself, that it made him feel good achieving this small victory. “ They are preparing mine. I just wanted to be sure you were alright “
Theon was nowhere near alright but he could not admit it aloud, especially to his mother. “ I’m well, mother. No need to fret, I just need to rest before facing Lady Stark again. She has quite the scary look “. Having that woman as his good mother was going to be a nightmare. Theon was already dreading it.
“ She’s worried for her son. All mothers turn scary when their children are involved “
Mother guided his head back. Theon did not fight her touch, letting her submerge him into the water before sitting up again. His hair was now soaked, clinging to his skin and weeting her gown. Alannys did not seem to mind. She calmly gathered his locks again against his nape before reaching for the bowl of dried herbs and flowers in rose water. Theon closed his eyes and enjoyed being pampered.
“ I think if something were to happen to you or your brother or your sister I would turn scary too “ She chuckled, her fingers did not cease their rubbing against his head. “ I would be worse than Euron and your father combined “. Theon could imagine it, like a fleeing dream. His mother, on her own ship. Eyepatch over her right eye, a wicked grin along her face and a booming voice demanding respect. His shoulders shook as he tried to contain his laugh.
“ Laugh all you want “ She replied, gently letting the water run through his dark hair, making sure to comb away the herbs. “ You’ll understand me and her when you’ll have your own children to care for “
And, as quick as a blink, all his momentary happiness was whisked far away. Mother was quick to understand, offering a sad sigh and her movements slowing down. “ I’m sorry, sweetling. I did not mean to upset you “. Her long fingers caressed his cheek but, this time, Theon recoiled from her touch. None of what she just said was unknown. Nevertheless, having the source of his comfort make him face reality was hurtful.
,
“ No need to apologise “ He whispered, wrapping his arms around himself. The water now seemed suddenly colder and very uncomfortable. “ You’re right. I’ll be having babes soon. Little Stark pups to cause havoc in Winterfell “ His smile tightened, his nails dug against his arms. “ Many alpha sons to rule and few omega daughters to marry off “
Alannys was quiet but her hands continued washing his hair in circled, slow strokes and even if Theon’s anger was rightfully fervent, his mother’s gentle nature would always calm him down. Silence stretched until her voice returned.
“ I pray you have many daughters “ It was above a whisper and Theon had to concentrate in order to properly hear her. “ I would have loved to, had the Drowned God given me. Sons and alphas are for fathers but daughters and omegas are for mothers “. A pair of lips against his forehead made him slump against the tub and her. “ I hope your husband loves them as much and never sends any of them away from you “
His eyes opened in surprise. Her voice grew shaky and watery at the end and Theon wondered how he could ever stay mad at her. The Lady of Pyke was hurting as much as her youngest. Both were helpless to the commands of their alpha kin and were now paying for it. In another life, perhaps, Theon could have been a reaver, just like his siblings. In another life, Alannys would have all her children a heartbeat from her.
A knock on the door, requesting permission to enter. Mother coughed once, cleaning runaway tears from the corner of her eyes before allowing entry. A thrall named Tya, one that had been within their family throughout the years. Her short hair was all white and it seemed that the shadows under her eyes grew in size with each day. Mother pitied her and so kept her close. Theon wasn’t sure if it would have been best to leave her back in Pyke, she may not survive the journey home.
“ Your bath is ready, my lady “ She said in a rough voice. Mother nodded and guided a lock behind his ear before getting up. Theon did not stop her but kept watch of her as she began to leave. She did turn to look at him before leaving him by himself.
“ How about you choose a gown for tea with Lady Stark? I’m sure she would love it “
Theon doubted it but he nodded anyway.
“ Of course, mother “
Mother left him. Tya bowed her head before following after her. Theon could spot the Blackwood handmaidens back in the room, looking at him in a mix of embarrassment and intrigued. He hated them already. Curious pests that did not know when to leave a highborn alone.
“ You heard my mother “ He began, smirking as he saw two of them jump. “ Bring me the dress and one of you come help me out of the bath “. The smallest of the group stepped forward, grabbed the towel and wrapped around his body when he stood up. Her eyes remained avoidant of his lower body but her rosy blush told Theon all he needed to know.
He hoped the northerner servants were not this shy. Ironborn and their thralls bore no shame and if they dared have any, it was ripped off them in a gruesome way. Inlanders had much to learn in that regard.
Tea with Lady Stark was a form of torture Theon had not been familiar with until then. He had faced sermons from the maester, Aeron and Balon alike. His siblings’ relentless pushing and mean spirited jests. A trip to Great Wyk in particularly bad weather, with the sailor chanting prayers for He Who Dwells Beneath The Waves to keep the Storm God away. However, the Lady of Winterfell proved herself to be more of a challenge.
They met in Lady Blackwood’s solar. It was beautifully decorated in worked dark oak, with the windows covered in sea green glasses in square shapes. The cushions were all either in red or black and on the table was a variety of desserts and fruits. Berry tarts, strawberry pie and lemon cakes. Grapes, raisins, figs and blood oranges already sliced open. It was almost ironic, how they were in the middle of war with food being tightly controlled, yet they were eating such fresh delicacies.
Lady Stark sat at the center, her face rigid with her red hair united in a single braid, which ran freely along her back. She somehow looked more tired than earlier. Lady Berena Blackwood, Lord Tytos’s wife, sat to her right. She was a beautiful woman, younger than the King’s mother, with dark blue sea eyes, long nose and hair as dark as night. To her side was her daughter, at seven namesake sat the smiling Bethany Blackwood. She looked like her mother’s painting but softer looking and with a hair full of untamable curls. Theon pitied her for spending her childhood with a war brewing in front of her home’s gates.
Dorna and Amanda had accompanied him and mother. Alannys sat across Catelyn Stark, Theon sat on her right, while the other two had to face the Blackwood ladies. Theon wore the damned light cloud grey gown with silver sleeves of lace and a robe of deep blue, trimmed in light fur.
He hated it.
Theon preferred the low-cut gowns that made the sailors fall when trying to get a look. Rodrik had prohibited him from going near the docks when wearing them. Maron would become furious with his men and then him before throwing him away from his ship and Asha would already be out to sea before Theon had a chance to speak. It was a game of sorts that he had, to make a man humiliate himself by trying to sneak a peek at his chest.
Either way, it would not work with Lady Stark and even might make her hate him more than she already does.
Tea began with an uncomfortable silence, with only a few words being spoken between the three mothers. That was until the Wolf King was mentioned and Theon gulped feeling the weight of all eyes on him.
“ The letter my son sent me says he and his men have departed from Riverrun and, if all goes well, should arrive earlier than expected “ Wonderful, that was exactly what Theon did not want to hear. He forced a smile on his face, when all he wanted was to leave this wretched room. “ You must be excited “ Theon could tell that his soon-to-be good mother did not mean her words but etiquette forced her.
Fortunately, Theon could care less about social rules and, with a smirk promising trouble, he gave his reply. His mother’s arm was already on it’s way to try and stop him, the woman too used to his back talking. “ I’m shaking with excitement, Lady Stark “
A pinch right to his hand made him flinch and nearly drop the cup. Alannys’s heated glare made sure she got no retaliation. Theon lowered his gaze, bringing the porcelain to his lips before looking back at the King’s mother. Lady Stark had her lips stretched in an unpleasant scowl, the lines on her cheeks and on the side of her eyes more prominent, but she did not speak of his insolence. Knowing he would be hearing from mother after this, he decided to try and ease his imminent scolding.
“ And your son, Lady Stark? Could you tell me how the King is? I’m not sure I know much about my husband-to-be? “
The trick worked.
In a blink of an eye, the auburn haired woman began to relax. Her fingers ceased to hold her cup hostage and the corners of her mouth moved upwards to a smile full of nostalgia. Her gaze lowered, landing on the tray of lemon cakes in front of her and Theon could have swore there were tears before that Tully sight was back on him.
“ Robb was born in Riverrun, while I waited for the return of my husband. He’s the first of all five of my children and I’m overjoyed to see him turn into one of the greatest men I’ve ever met “ Unease ran through him. Lady Stark was looking at him but it was as if she was seeing someone else, talking to an entirely different person. He didn’t know what to think or do. “ He’s courageous, fierce and skillful with a sword but he can also be so gentle and sweet. I could not have asked the Seven for a more perfect child “
Theon thought the man sounded terrible but he refrained from commenting, especially as all the ladies’s eyes turned soft and misty at her words.
“ And he might have the Tully look but he is a true northerner. A worthy man to carry the name Stark and to be King “ She sighed, blinking away rapidly to make her tears disappear. Theon wished he had never asked her anything at all. Her gaze focused back on him and her saddened smile flattered slightly. “ Robb is like Eddard, through and through, and, because of it, I can assure you he will treat you honourably and kindly “
She sighed, Theon wanted to join her.
“ This was not a match made of love but of duty. Much like my own “ Dorna and Amanda exchanged a glance and Berena held her daughter’s hand tightly, making the child let out a low whine. Lady Blackwood quietly shushed her. “ Yet, I did find love later on and that is what I pray for you, Theon Greyjoy. That for you and my son to find comfort and happiness with each other “
Theon let his cup back down before he broke it by accident. He thought this must be a cruel jest from the Drowned God. Catelyn Stark would have never wished for an ironborn wife for her firstborn. No a single sane soul would. But now she had to find some peace with it and here she was, trying to form a bridge between them. A crossing by the name of Robb Stark.
Theon wanted to burn it down.
“ Thank you, Lady Stark “ The words tasted like boiled leather against his tongue, he had no idea how he pushed them out. Alannys was relieved with his response, the ladies had small smiles on their lips, Bethany was savoring on a fig and Lady Catelyn seemed satisfied enough to let the conversation sway to other topics.
He stayed uncharacteristically silent for the rest of the afternoon.
They had dinner in the main hall, now joined by the rest of the men. Theon sat between his brothers, hoping their height would hide him from the many stares he was receiving. Rodrik was quiet but did talk every once in a while with Lord Blackwood. Maron made himself busy scaring Lord Tytos’s sons, who had never seen a reaver so up close. He told them of his raids with a sickening grin, with each word they turned paler and paler. Alannys conversed with her ladies-in-waiting, along with Lady Blackwood.
The only one in a similar mood as Theon was Lady Stark. She ate in silence and looked somber, Theon had much of the same expression. By this time tomorrow, he will be married and he has yet to see the man himself.
He excused himself from the table and did not wait for a response before leaving the hall. Theon avoided his bedchamber and decided to go see the weirwood. Not by curiosity, though he could not deny it, but because he prayed it was the only place there wasn’t a soul to bother him.
There was a chill in the air, settling deep within his bones. He dreaded going further north, knowing the cold would only worsen. Mayhaps he could convince the Stark King to let him stay in the battlefield and not be sent to Winterfell as soon as he was done fucking him. Theon shivered and pulled the robe tighter around his body. Perhaps, it's better not to think of his wedding night.
He stopped in front of the giant weirwood tree and tried, and failed, not to shiver again. Theon heard tales of these, that the children of the forest carved faces onto their trunks and thought of them as gods. Theon thought them foolish tales but now, seeing those lifeless eyes dripping red and staring at him, he could understand why anyone would think of them as higher beings.
Up above, holding onto its white branches were hundreds of ravens and all so oddly quiet. They stared at him, keeping their unnerving black eyes on each of his movements. Theon felt like he was being watched by more than ravens but quickly shook that thought. He need not stress himself any further.
“ Shit, it really is blood “
Maron’s sudden voice made him jump, his heart pounding rapidly, but when he turned to look back at his brother, he found the man staring with wide eyes and brows raised at the bloody face. Theon used the moment to compose himself before throwing Maron a frown rivaling Balon’s.
“ Next time you come out of the woods like that, I’ll stab you. I swear it, Maron “ The omega’s threat was brushed aside as the alpha walked up to him until they were shoulder to shoulder. They were nearly the same height, Theon being taller than a proper omega should. He didn’t care much for it but it did make training a lot easier. Even if he had to hear comments about his unnatural height.
Maron’s brown eyes did not leave the weirwood but he did appear calmer. Not even a bleeding tree could keep his surprise and shock for too long.
“ Yeah, yeah. I’m sure if you could, you’ll poke me right now “
Not entirely incorrect. Theon had not held a sword or his bow in weeks and his hands ached to use them. If to do so meant fighting his brother, then so be it. Not like they hadn’t done it many times during their youth and, mayhaps, he would finally win a fight against his brother.
To distract him for his thoughts, Theon turned to face the weirwood again.
“ Why are you here? Should you not be chasing some poor girl or are you even too drunk for that? “ His heated words made no cut to Maron’s pride. Dare he say, they might have swelled it. Maron already had three salt wives from his raids, he would not be against a fourth. Although, mother would be furious if he angered any of the Blackwoods and Theon’s not sure the inlanders would allow Maron to go back unscraped. They were already on borrowed time and the riverlanders would use any excuse to show an ironborn their strength.
“ Mother asked to search for you, said you were not in your chambers and she was getting worried “ Maron shrugged and began to loosen his belt. Theon’s cheeks brightened up as he realised what his brother was about to do. Maron truly had no grace or respect. “ I thought maybe you’ll be a craven and run away but, alas, I found you here “
“ Stop that, you idiot! “ While he kept his eyes on the bleeding eyes, he could still hear Maron watering the poor tree. He took a step aside, just in case. A raven let out a deep croak, the rest remained observant. Theon is sure they too are not enjoying Maron’s doing. How his brother didn’t feel embarrassed with all these eyes on him? Theon had no idea but Maron’s lack of awareness was, at times, impressive. Though, this time it was incredibly annoying. “ The ceremony is going to be here, you idiot! Was there no other place to do this? “
“ No. I need to piss, so I’m pissing “ Short and to the point, exactly how Maron always was. “ And I need to keep an eye on you. Can’t have the little princess running away and ruining all our plans “
How joyous, knowing that if he wanted a taste of his last bit of freedom, Maron would be there to force him back to his misery. What a wonderful big brother that he had been given , Theon thought bitterly, he might rival nuncle Euron with his caring nature .
“ Not to worry, I won’t run away from my duty “ Lady Stark’s words still made his tongue feel heavy and his belly to turn. He wanted to heave them out, from his body and his mind. He distantly heard the sound of Maron moving his belt and then standing beside him once more. Theon decided to take a risk and look at him and was silently relieved to see his breeches back in place but, now, Maron was watching him with confusion evident in his eyes.
“ What’s this? Since when have you cared for duty? “
He didn’t.
Never had and never will. Duty was not part of the Greyjoys, of the ironborn and definitely not of Theon. He did as he pleased, when he wished, and uncaring of the consequences. However, there was a new pressure. One he hadn’t known before and now that he was on the path to becoming Queen in the North, it was insistent at best. He never asked for this, didn’t even have the desire to be a princess in the Iron Islands but now he would be a queen of a foreign land.
“ I’m to be queen and need to act accordingly “ He sighed. If he continued to think of this, he would form a headache. Actually, just speaking with Maron would make any man’s health worse. “ At least that’s what Lady Stark and mother think, but more Lady Stark. She was telling us how oh so perfect her son is and how I’ll desire for nothing when we’re wed “
“ Her son sounds terrible. All men have a rotten side “ Strangely wise words for his idiot of a brother. Theon almost thought he was speaking with uncle Rodrik or Asha. He arched his brow but Maron simply shrugged in indifference. “ There was to be something not in his favour. My bet? His cock is the size of his thumb “
And, once again, Maron is back to his usual self.
“ Hope not. I’ll have to lay with him until one of us dies or I give him a son. Honestly, whichever comes first “
Theon hoped for neither. He did not want to lay with a stranger, especially one he only heard of from others and had yet to meet. For all he knew, the man could be the furthest thing from his mother’s words. He would not be surprised if that turned out to be true.
“ Eh, just for the next few days. Afterwards he could very well perish in this war of his “
Theon frowned. As much as that would take care of his current issue, it would bring many more. If Robb Stark died in battle and Theon had no child of his, he would most likely be sent back to Pyke and married off again to whoever Balon chooses. Otherwise, if his seed took root and the babe was a son, Theon would have to play dowager queen until the boy came of age. If it was a girl, Theon’s not sure where that would leave him.
All outcomes sounded awful.
“ Anyways, I do have something for you “ A sense of familiarity passed through Theon. He observed as Maron reached for a small pouch tied to his belt, took it and threw at his younger brother. Theon bit back a snarky response and, instead, paid attention to his newest possession. With careful, slow movements, he opened it and gasped at seeing the jewelry inside.
The pouch may be small and worn from use but inside was a treasure worth thousands of golden dragons. A moonstone necklace in a silver chain; a golden ring with a diamond; three pearl studs; thin golden bracelets; a golden necklace with a large emerald in the center; ruby and diamond rings in both gold and silver.
He could not believe his eyes.
“ And this one. It could not fit inside it but here “
His eyes landed on a golden tiara filled with pearls and moonstones alike and, in the middle, the biggest diamond he had ever seen. The moonlight reflected on the gemstone shone around them in a beautiful spectacle of light and he could swear the pearls held the faint scent of the sea. Theon could feel his face become warm and his eyes blurry.
“ So? “ Maron inquired, a smirk pulling at the right side of his mouth. “ You can just say it: Thank you, Maron, for the gifts! You’re the best big brother in all of Westeros and my favourite! “
That was not what the ironborn received but two arms pressed around his body. Their bodies collided and Theon could feel himself falling alongside his brother, before Maron stopped them. He let out a curse, damning his younger brother for trying to make them fall, but Theon was too focused on not letting out a sob.
Once, he had a box of his own. A beautiful carved piece of dark wood that held all the jewelry he had acquired over the years. A collection of rings of arbor gold; thin silver necklaces; bright jades studs; rubies the size of eyes for his neck; amethyst gemstones like fallen raindrops on a golden tiara. He had so much and more. They were gifts from his family, uncles, mother, Dagmer, or bought from traders who landed on Lordsport.
Theon paraded himself glimmered in them but he should have known that his decision was a grave mistake. Balon favored the old ways, far too much, and an ironborn only wore the gold for which he paid the iron price for. Theon had been denied the right to be a captain the moment he turned an omega, that meant he was no reaver, that meant he had no right for those possessions.
One night, Balon had stumbled upon him on one of the bridges. Three golden rings on his right hand, two on his left. On one of his ears, two ruby studs with a small moonstone at the end. A large emerald against the middle of his neck. Behind them was the sound of music and drinking. Rodrik, Maron and their men had arrived from a fruitful raid in Essos and Theon had been trying to find a poor soul to warm his bed. What he did not expect was to meet his father during the hour of the wolf.
Balon had warned him, then and there, to never show himself dressed like an essosi whore again or he would regret it. A rare, kind offer from his father. One Theon did not realise the seriousness of. The next two nights he wore his golds and silvers to his heart’s desire, on the third he found his box opened and empty. When he comforted the guards, they told him Balon had come in and rid of all his jewelry, and when Theon finally talked with his father, he was simply reminded of his words.
Theon cried all night and did not leave his room for a week. One of the few joys in his life was to be able to pamper himself in silks, myrish lace and linen; in rubies, pearls and diamonds. All that was left was a ring with a ruby on its center, an emerald on the left and a diamond on the right. A gift from a blue haired, young boy aboard a ship from the Free Cities. He had promised Theon that they would wed when he returned, bringing so many riches that the omega’s father would have no choice but to accept. Theon thought him a lovestruck fool but did not voice it. Yet, at that moment, he wanted nothing more but for the boy to return and take him away.
After that night, Theon never dared to wear the ring again and had decided to leave it back on Pyke.
Now, here was Maron offering him back a precious gift from his past. He thought it a dream but the heavy weight on his hand assured him that it was indeed real. He clinged to it, promising that this one Balon would not take away.
“ You’re not my favourite but I might be compelled to reconsider it “ Theon rubbed his eyes, the wool of Maron’s tunic gentle against his cheeks. When Maron’s hand went to rest atop of his head, Theon’s urge to cry all over again resurfaced but he held it back.
“ Eh, as long as I’m better than Rodrik, I’ll take it “
Theon couldn’t let him know that Asha was actually his favourite. Asha was probably everyone’s favourite.
Rough fingers mixed together with his raven coloured strands. He recalled once crying on his brother’s shoulder, before Maron turned mean and cruel. A hand against his back, another to his head and his brother’s rumbling chest as his words calmed Theon down. Theon took a step back, did a final clean of rosy face with the back of his sleeve and finally met his brother’s gaze.
“ Thank you, Maron “ Words rarely ever said, he was sure the alpha’s ego must be growing monstrously. He could care less about it. Maron had been kind and the least Theon could do was thank him. “ You are a moron most of the time- “
“ Hey! “
“ but you can still be a good brother. Your gift might be the best of all three “
Maron lowered his hands to his hips, an expression of indignation on his face. Theon smirked in amusement. “ What do you mean other gifts? Who gave you what? “
“ Asha gave me a dagger and Rodrik got me Tears of Lys “ Maron’s loud gasp was enough to bring forward a chuckle from Theon but he did not say a word of his brother’s displeasure. Maron was always in a competition with those other two, uncaring if they agreed to be in it or not, and the man despised losing with a passion. “ But yours is the prettiest. I shall wear them tomorrow “
“ Wait! Tears of Lys?! How did he get it? “
Theon shrugged, as if uncaring of the danger their eldest brother’s gift possessed. He was still as perplexed as Maron but he stopped questioning Rodrik on the manner. “ You’ll have to ask him “
“ Tsk! “ Poor Rodrik, Theon is sure their idiot of a brother will not leave him in peace until he got an answer to satisfy his curiosity, and poor Maron, their older brother will beat him bloody for daring to bother him. “ Well, just make sure you keep these ones safe. I won’t have another beating because of you “
Theon frowned, suddenly very baffled by Maron’s words. “ What do you speak of? “
Maron groaned, crossing his arms over his chest. He had the beginnings of a scowl but Theon could see it was not directed at him. “ You know, when father took away your previous jewelry. He left me with them and told me to keep you from knowing “. Theon had never heard of that. This was sounding as confusing as it was intriguing. He always thought Balon threw them to the sea or melted them.
“ I drank too much once “ Not talking about the hundred other times Maron was so drunk that he fell asleep on the rope bridges. Balon always got so angry whenever it occurred. “ and lost them in a bet. When father found out, he forced me to work under Rodrik for half an year as punishment “ He squinted his eyes, as if their father had appeared from the shadows and was in his usual foul temperament. “ And my ship was finally fixed too, the bastard “
Theon blinked once, twice before the words finally settled in.
Balon never destroyed them, not one. Theon could not understand the motive for such a decision. His father had never been shy to give him, or any of his siblings, a beating for their mischief. So, why do this? Why hide them from his sight? Theon had never felt so bewildered before.
“ I thought he rid of them all “ The omega muttered, tracing the pearls of the tiara with his finger. They were quite big, larger than any Theon had seen before. He already loved them. “ And Asha said you were getting reckless being too long on land, that’s why you went with Rodrik “
“ I’m not surprised, father must have told her to lie “ But why? That was what Theon wasn’t understanding. The reason for keeping that whole ordeal a secret from him. The reason for not destroying his box of possessions right away. While lost in thoughts, Maron must have decided that their conversation was at an end, for he clapped his back and began pushing him away from the weirwood. “ Well, let us go back inside. It’s getting too cold to stay here and I wish to sleep “
“ What? “ Theon tried to stop but Maron’s hand was firm against his back and, so, he relented and began walking beside the other. “ Afraid of getting sick from a little wind? “
Maron glared at him but it was short-lived. “ No but I left Rodrik with mother and you know how she is “. During all this time, Rodrik has been dealing with a worried Alannys Greyjoy, which meant mother must have tried multiple times to leave and search for Theon herself, only to be stopped by her eldest. Then she would turn angry at her first born before apologising and reminding she was too overwhelmed with what was going on. Afterwards, she would try to leave the room again and the cycle would continue until Theon appeared.
He hoped Rodrik does not kill him.
“ Better hurry then “
Alannys was in the middle of an argument with Rodrik when the two of them arrived to her bedchambers. It would seem neither Rodrik or her ladies had been able to calm her down and, at some point, she threatened to banish him back onto his ship if he did not let her out. Rodrik would have loved nothing more than to be back on familiar grounds but his pride and father’s orders would not allow it.
When they entered, Theon began apologizing, promising his mother that everything was well and he had simply gone on a walk to see the weirwood. He did, however, not mention Maron peeing on it. It seemed to have worked and calmed Alannys down greatly. Both Rodrik and Maron used the opportunity to leave and Dorna and Amanda did the same not too long after.
To further ease her, Theon decided to help his mother prepare for bed. He told her about the hundred ravens slumbering on the weirwood’s branches and of Maron’s gift. She smiled, swearing that his brother had a kind heart that he often hid because of Balon. Theon nodded, better to let her live in her illusions than be heartbroken knowing her son could, indeed, be cruel by his own will alone. Still, she was right, Maron could be kindhearted.
Once she was in bed, he left her with a kiss on her forehead and well wishes for a good night. When Theon arrived in his own bedchambers, there was an old woman keeping the hearth alive. He told her to call for the handmaidens as he wished to change and retire to bed. Thankfully, the woman did not take long and, not long after, three handmaidens entered and helped him out of his gown and into his smallclothes. When done, they left by Theon’s command.
Theon went to bed in complete silence, leaving his newly acquired jewelry by the table. Getting under the blankets, the bear furs and shadowcat pelts. He watched as the candle left by the door dripped with wax, each drop running down until a pool began forming on the bottom. He hoped it would help him fall asleep and, after a while, he was proven right. His eyelids began to grow heavy and, soon enough, the ironborn was lulled to a slumber.
He dreamt of a thousand black eyes unnervingly staring at him and with no sound to be heard. There was snow, the whole ground covered by in to the point of reaching his knees. In the distance, the howl of a wolf was heard interrupting the silence like thunder. It was dark, so dark but Theon somehow knew he wasn’t alone.
He was awoken in the middle of the night with bells ringing and men shouting. The sound of hooves was heard by the gates, much like the echoes of drums. A servant girl passed by his door, for Theon heard her voice clear as day. ‘ The King and his party have arrived ‘ She tried to whisper but she must have run here and was panting tiredly. ‘ Go gather the girls, we must get the baths ready ‘ .
They ran off before Theon had time to call for them, to make sure what they said was true. He swallowed and closed his eyes again and waited until Raventree hall went quiet again. It took him too long, perhaps hours, but when he returned to sleep, a different dream greeted him.
This time he was back on that same dark, snowy field but, now, many more howls sang in the wind. Theon knew instinctively that he was surrounded by a pack and there was nothing he could do to stop from being devoured.