Work Text:
Eddard Stark awoke with a start, the faint sound of a servant girl setting a silver plate on the table breaking the morning stillness. The scent of freshly baked bread and creamy butter wafted through the air, stirring his senses. As the maid hurried out of the room, Eddard felt a moment of gratitude for the simple pleasures of life in Kings Landing , a stark contrast to the weight of duty pressing upon his shoulders. He quickly consumed the meal, an anchor before the tumult of the day ahead.
Dressed in his sturdy leathers, Eddard stepped outside, letting the brisk morning air invigorate him. The sun hung low in the sky, and he noted with satisfaction that it was still early enough to tackle matters of importance before the day grew chaotic. He made his way to the rockery, a secluded place where he would send a raven to his brother, Brandon. The raven, a glossy black bird, was swift, and Eddard felt a twinge of hope as he sent off his message—a reminder that the bonds of family and duty were inextricable.
As he walked towards the great hall for the Council Meeting, the weight of his badge as Master of Law hung heavily around his neck. In the sprawling chambers, lined with tapestries depicting the history of the North, King Robert sat at the head of the table, his laughter booming across the room. But Eddard was here to earnestly propose beneficial laws for trade in the North, focusing on the bountiful sea that bordered their lands.
“Your Grace,” Eddard began, his voice steady, “if we establish clearer trade routes and fair agreements, we can ensure prosperity for all houses of the North. It is a step toward unity, and more importantly, strength.” The others listened, some skeptical, but Eddard’s conviction held sway—and Robert's enthusiasm for his land had begun to envelop the room.
Once the meeting concluded, Eddard’s mind remained sharp with ideas. He slipped away, taking a hidden path to the King’s chambers. With careful respect, he placed a letter beneath the door; a proposal that would benefit Brandon, acknowledging his role as the King in the North, ensuring that even in silence, his brother’s needs were catered to.
Later, Eddard found Jon Arryn in the courtyard, deep in thought over the matters of state. They exchanged deliberations, sharing the weight of their responsibilities and the importance of the North’s voice in the shadow of the throne.
As the sun began to dip low, casting long shadows across the red marbles of the Red Keep , Eddard made his way back to his personal chambers. He opened the door to his wife's chambers to find Alerie Stark, his wife, nestled in her bed. The sight of her, delicate yet fierce, warmed his heart. “Alerie, I’m here,” he called gently, watching as she turned to him, her smile brightening the dim room.
“I hope the Council Meeting was well, husband,” she replied, the lilt of her voice soothing him after a long day.
Eddard hesitated for just a moment before responding. “It was productive. There is much to be done, but I remain hopeful.”
He Then asked " were where you when I woke ? " She bite her lips then said " I woke early and didn't want to disturb your sleep ." He nodded .
He approached her, taking her small form into his hands, kissing her tenderly. Their kiss deepened, igniting a fire that washed away the weight of his earlier responsibilities. As their garments fell away, Eddard savored each moment, each touch. He traced his fingers along her form, planting soft kisses that turned fervent with desire.
Gripping her waist, he reveled in the softness of her skin. A growl of pleasure escaped him as he surrendered to their passion, losing himself in the warmth and intimacy of their union. Together, they whispered promises, shared dreams, and in that sacred space, they found solace in one another as he thrusted into her .
As Eddard collapsed beside her, breathless and fulfilled, he allowed himself a moment of peace amidst the chaos of their world—a moment reclaimed in the arms of his beloved. In their sanctuary, the world beyond faded away, leaving only the gentle rhythm of their hearts entwined in love.