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THESUN hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over Winterfell as guests gathered in the courtyard for the wedding of Lady Juniper Martell and Rickard Stark. The air was crisp, tinged with the scent of pine and the sweetness of autumn flowers that adorned the makeshift altar. Eleanor Targaryen stood among the guests, her heart swelling with anticipation as she watched the two families unite in a bond forged through love and loyalty.
Lady Juniper, radiant in a gown of rich orange silk that shimmered like the sunset, stood beside Rickard, who wore a simple but elegant tunic of deep navy, the Stark sigil emblazoned on his chest. The contrast of colors was striking; Juniper's fiery beauty complemented Rickard's calm strength perfectly. Her thick brown curls framed her face, while her green eyes sparkled with happiness as they locked onto her groom's steady gaze.
As the ceremony began, Eleanor felt the warmth of the gathering; laughter and whispers mingled with the soft music of lutes and harps. Lord Rickard's mother stood to one side, her expression a mix of pride and sentimentality. The old gods seemed to watch over them, the weirwood tree standing tall behind the couple as a witness to their vows.
"Dearly beloved," the officiant began, his voice resonating through the crisp air, "we gather here today to witness the union of Rickard Stark and Lady Juniper Martell."
Eleanor watched as Rickard took Juniper's hands, his thumb brushing over her knuckles in a gesture that spoke volumes of his affection. "I promise to protect you," he said, his voice steady and deep, "to stand by you through all storms, to cherish you in all ways, and to love you fiercely until the end of my days."
Juniper's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she replied, "I vow to stand with you, to share in your joys and your sorrows, and to love you wholly and truly, for now and forever." Her voice was soft yet firm, carrying a weight of sincerity that echoed through the gathering.
The guests exchanged smiles, the warmth of their words creating an unbreakable bond that enveloped them all. Eleanor felt the joy radiating from her friend; Juniper was a vision of happiness, and seeing her so elated filled Eleanor with hope.
As the couple exchanged rings—an intricate band of silver for Rickard and a delicate piece of gold entwined with small sapphires for Juniper—the crowd erupted in applause, their cheers ringing through the courtyard.
"By the old gods and the new," the officiant declared, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."
Rickard leaned down, his expression tender as he captured Juniper's lips in a sweet, lingering kiss. The moment was electric, the crowd cheering louder as they witnessed the sealing of their love. Eleanor clapped along with the others, her heart swelling with happiness for her friend.
As they turned to face their guests, Juniper's smile was infectious, lighting up the entire courtyard. "Let us celebrate!" she called, her voice ringing with joy, and the crowd roared in agreement, ready to revel in the festivities.
