Asha IV courtesy of Sensfan90. Thank you for your contribution ! =)

(The Stepstones: 298 AC) Asha IV (by sensfan90)

"What is the tally Wynch?"

"All the brigands accounted for, Shepherd and I will take our ships to Planky Town at first light."

"Good give our friend my regards, do not forget the wine or bloody drink it." The knight from Iron Holt grumbled but nodded nonetheless. Good, the matter was too important for such a simple thing. Looking out the window she shook her head at the difference.

Bloodstone had changed greatly in the years since she had last seen it. The seas were calmer, sailors less aggressive and even a few merchants were freely setting up shop. The land had come a long way from the lawlessness of her youth. The decrepit tavern she had remembered even looked as if it would not be out of place in Gulltown or White Harbor. A private room and a decent selection of food and drink. Really her fifteen-year-old self would have found it preposterous. The only thing that unnerved her choose to clad themselves in red. They seemed to be everywhere nowadays and spreading every year. Turning her attention to the latest pilfered book from the Fire Nation she could not help but question it. "The Battle of Sozin's Pass, rather bloody interesting."

"Never heard of it captain, name sounds aight wrong too." Drumm nibbled on his chicken but his eyes told her he was just as interested. A few members of her would be fleet were even less subtle.

"It was the greatest naval defeat in the history of the Fire Nation. A large and illustrious unit of their iron ships had found a major enemy stronghold along the coast of some fucking kingdom I never heard of. From what I read it was the primary base from which all enemy ships were supplied for a thousand miles. It had one interesting geological feature, however." A good number of the crew had turned to her at that, Fire Nation ships were damn near invincible.

"Come on Asha don't leave us wanting." Smirking at Botley's impatience she let them wait just long enough to be uncomfortable before chuckling.

"The natural harbor had a choke point between two inlets which naturally created a strong defensive position. After a short skirmish, the Fire Nation fleet managed to pass through with ease. Surviving officers noted it all seemed disturbingly easy. Sure enough, they triggered a landslide behind them."

"How much bloody dirt did they move?"

"The book does not say Botley and considering the technology the Fire Nation is known for I gather it was not as difficult as it seemed for their enemies as we might think. Regardless trapped in the entrance to the harbor the enemy sprang into action, fighting from every angle."

"Aye, chaos among the sea. Each Captain fighting to avoid ramming another ambushed everywhere, and I am sure they had scorpion like weapons in hand." Drumm took a long drink of ale after adding his own two coppers to the discussion, she wavered her hand up and down slightly in reply.

"More or less, though I find it troubling they so readily published such a failure."

"Think the tale is a farce Lady Greyjoy?" Baelor Blacktyde sipped his ale slowly after he spoke, his mind like usual more focused than the average Ironborn. She had come much to the same conclusion at first.

"I thought of that I admit, but frankly I see it as akin to the Butcher's Ball or Battle of the Lakeshore. Skill and numbers mean nothing if you find yourself outmaneuvered. It's a lesson taught to younglings to crush hubris." Finally sipping her ale, she noticed Volmark signaling at the door. It seemed their guest had arrived.

"Alright everyone, leave the room but stand guard like we discussed. No fucking screw ups you hear?" Her crew left without a word except for Baelor. Her brave knight it seemed had concerns, she would find it cute if it were not so unnecessary.

"I have to ask Captain, Bloodless Codd is a name despised by every Captain in the isles. Why the hell are we waiting for the scum?"

"Tom Codd got the name bloodless because he likes to make his coin and spoils through trade and less violent methods. It worked pretty fucking well. He is probably one of the richest men in the isles and his crew is probably the only Ironborn vessel where every sailor can read. He has been a favorite of my n"uncle for years. The man has ears all over Essos and the many islands in between. Where do you think I learned of those two-bit pirates we killed?"

"An information broker? Captain, they have those in Oldtown, more likely to sell you out the first chance they get, for a better prize."

"A good attitude Blacktyde but I am not so naïve. Harlaw is one of the few castles where he can enjoy his pleasures in his old home without worry. He will not lose such a particular vice over a few whispers. Besides he knows I am smart enough to plan for such things."

"Still there has to be a reason the Ironborn speak such foul things of the man, even for a member of House Codd." She laughed long and heartily at that remark, if only it were so simple. Noticing the queer look in his eye over her loss of propriety she calmed herself.

"There are a dozen tales of why Bloodless Codd is so hated. Some same he was a kinslayer, others a sister fucker and quite a few accuse him of being a greenlander in Ironborn skin. To say nothing of many men who are simply jealous of his riches. I, however, know the truth of the matter."

"Oh?"

"He probably enjoys the feel of a man in bed more than I." This time it was Baelor's turn to laugh loudly. Smirking she finally heard the footsteps of their esteemed guest approach. He had already delivered good information over her first request and she hoped he would be as accommodating for her second and third. Besides if her new partnership continued to be this fruitful she would have quite a bit of coin to spare.

Planky Town

The manse was quite the upgrade over their previous meeting, a good sign she supposed. A well-crafted table with bread and salt provided more so. Taking a sniff at the fine wine by her side she smiled at the choice. Casually and without the previous theatrics or ceremony Arianne arrived in front of her. Clad in expensive silks there was no doubt she was here as a member of her house. "Princess, I was delighted to hear you wished to see me so soon."

"Lady Greyjoy, I thank you for your prompt arrival. I must admit I did not think your suggestion would move so quickly through Sunspear."

"Your father has shown support?"

"No, but he had made no move to limit my interaction with you either. My father is a cautious man, too cautious some would say but not stupid. He left me a few interesting documents regarding the Stepstones and a possible betrothal but little else."

"I assume it is a collection of questions he wants answered. If I take care of them he hears nothing and sees nothing in Dornish seas unless it becomes a problem I take it?"

"It does appear so yes, though recent events may make our mutual interests difficult. My Uncle and a collection of Martell retainers have left for King's Landing. My cousin also received an unexpected offer from Dragonstone. A minor noble house, the Seaworths have been granted land upon Crackclaw Point. They have offered it to Nymeria in exchange for her hand." She paused for a moment before the name registered, the smuggler turned noble.

"A son of the Onion Knight? So, it is a bribe from Lord or Lady Baratheon then. Has your Uncle Oberyn accepted?"

"Provisionally he has granted permission to pursue the matter. He has left the choice up to his daughter, for now, I find myself undecided in this matter. I am sure you can understand why." She did, it was a simple question of pragmaticism over pride. Nymeria Sand was a bastard by birth but a Nymeros-Martell by blood. Some would say that she deserved more than a petty lord's hand. However dynastically she was sixth in line for inheritance and that assumed no children in the future from her various relations. To say nothing of a trueborn cousin within Dorne pushing for the claim. Perhaps Arianne planned her marriage to someone already, girls were still pieces to marry off even in Dorne.

"So, the Firelord has turned her eyes south it seems."

"At the very least we must assume she has some designs on Dorne. If we wish for our partnership to flourish we will have to be more aggressive in building support. I have three points of interest on which we can do so." Nodding she poured wine for both of them as the Princess took out a trio of parchments to discuss.

"The first problem is a simple one, a group of bandits have been harassing the Dalt lands around Lemonwood for the past few months. They clearly have friends in Planky Town as the brigands always managed to escape by sea. If anyone can find a raider within a busy port it is an Ironborn."

"One of our lesser known talents, the reward?"

"An open bounty is on their heads as well as a generous prize from House Dalt themselves. My father wants them dealt with, I want the Ser Andrey and Ser Deziel to owe me a favor in the future." Nibbling on her salted bread she figured the goal was simple enough.

"Of course, you will refuse the prize from House Dalt themselves and simply take credit publicly as a show of support. The men and women of Lemonwood are already sworn to House Martell but you want them to answer to you personally or lose face."

"I was paying attention Asha when you described how you built your small fleet." Tilting her head at the point she waved her hand to the next request. Bounty hunting was not exactly the first choice for the Ironborn but it was not frowned upon either.

"As you are undoubtedly aware the Stepstones have not been this peaceful since it had a dragon burning invaders. Piracy is at an all-time low and merchants have been rather aggressive in using the quickest route. Quite a few Dornish vessels have been pulling in lucrative contracts since the Baratheon fleet cleansed the area. That is until roughly a year and four months ago when several vessels began disappearing without a trace. Most of the court believe we simply got greedy and forgot the danger of those bloody isles."

"Yet your father deals with an Ironborn, I suspect he has an informant who speaks otherwise?"

"Obviously, you see all these vessels made it to Essos without a problem. They never made it back."

"Pah, A double-dealing Magister or merchant. I hardly think Prince Doran needed my insight for that."

"Perhaps but how do you explain those ships appearing in Oldtown, Lannisport, and Seagard?" Eyes narrowing, she leaned forward.

"Explain."

"It took some time to confirm the ravens but there is no doubt. Veteran sailors swore by their mother's souls that they recognized the ships in the various ports. This is not a mummer's tale among children, battle damage and small details impossible to fabricate were verified. At least seven such instances have been noted." Arianne leaned back in her chair and casually flicked a loose hair of her dark locks. Seemingly now at ease with a small weight off her soldiers from the disturbing tale. She then sighed as she closed her eyes before continuing, "Missing men, stolen vessels, and a conspiracy. Any ideas?"

"Little in truth, such a thing seems barely worth the cost. Stolen vessels are fine but outside of spoils or war you avoid using them in the same seas. Revenge is a powerful motivator for any captain. I know a man who has eyes and ears for such things but he will require a rather specific payment." Making a rather a deliberate shape with her hands she locked eyes, "One I am sure a Dornish noble can provide." To the credit of the Princess of Dorne, she did little but scoff as at her crude gesture.

"An expensive prostitute, really? There is a thing called racism and slander, besides a Princess, must maintain some standards. Questions will be asked if I inquired for such a thing."

"Oh, I am sure one of your cousins at least could find the exact stud I am looking for." She ignored the surprised look and the giggling from the Princess as she finally clued in, plans already forming in her mind. Codd was bloody mercurial and would expect nothing but the best.

"You would be right, very well I will arrange one for your vessel. The final matter if you do not mind."

"The best for last I hope?"

"One that is solely for information and should be rather simple. Bloodstone has seen a remarkable settling of outsiders from Essos. A large contingent of Red Priests seem to lead them. My father simply wants to know whom they serve. He could care less over freed slaves or would be petty kings. He wishes to know if they are connected to the Lady of Dragonstone." She smirked, her contact had setup shop on the same Island, saving her days if not weeks.

"And here I thought this trip would not be interesting. Alright, Princess Arianne on my word as a Lady of House Greyjoy I will endeavor to fulfill these tasks. Any questions?"

"Yes, if you don't mind can promise that once more as a captain? Trusting the word of an Ironborn means more as a sailor than a lady." Blinking at the remark she chuckled, she knew there was a reason she liked the woman.

"Beauty and brains, gods help whoever you marry."

Focusing on the opening door she made sure to remain still as Tom Codd entered their private room. The typical Greyjoy arrogance had to be maintained after all. Besides no reason to give a man known for a hard bargain any leeway in negotiation. He entered casually, a short but well-built man. He was a good deal darker than a normal Ironborn. Years of the Essosi sun combined with hard winds of the sea had formed deep lines in his face. He said nothing as he approached quietly, sitting down for his bread and salt before speaking.

"Captain Codd."

"Lady Greyjoy, I have your information as requested. I thank you for your hospitality, rarely do I get such finery in my deals."

"I am not my father Codd or any of my dead uncles. I can be flexible and kind when the time calls for it."

"Aye course you are, why else would the Snakes see to trust you?" She slowly slipped her hand into her chest at the remark, her hidden dirk within her fingers. "Do not be surprised, Ironmen are more pathetic than most. Bribing a few words out of them is not hard at all from their greedy mouths. Still, your crew and friends are a better lot than most and I actually needed a favor or two to confirm. Impressive for someone so young." Relaxing slightly, she leaned back, fingers at the ready.

"The ships Codd, what do you know?"

"Volantis is making too much money from the Firelord to risk supporting pirates. Even those whose houses contain envious souls would not partake in such a thing at this time. The Three Daughters' know they have spies in every alley and manse, so that leaves but three options."

"Braavos, Pentos and Slaver's Bay. I think we can agree the children of the Harpy are the least likely."

"Agreed, it is simply a matter of logistics. Too far to sail. Unfortunately, I could list at least four keyholders and six cheese and spice mongers who could profit from such a thing. My money though is on Pentos, your friend said they were only spotted on the Sunset Sea. Titan ships are far less frequent in the area versus the other children of Valyria."

"Still not a question of why or a hard lead. I will need more if you wish for more lucrative business"

"I will ask around, someone wants ships that lead back to the wrong place. Figure I won't find the one pulling the strings but only so many puppets can do this kind of thing." Slowly moving her hand from her chest she composed herself. So far, her mission for the Princess of Dorne had gone swimmingly, now for the final part.

"What do you know of the Red Priests within the islands? They kept to themselves as I took anchor but they made no secret of their power either." She tensed as Codd paled slightly at her words, that was rarely a good sign. A broker such as himself would know not to give anything away.

"Fuck, I knew someone would ask about that eventually. They started to show up years ago, right about the time of the Butcher. Problem is even for these fire lovers they are confusing. I see ravens, ships, and people go every which way. They could be an extension of the cult growing on Dragonstone or even the Red Harlot's crazy lot. Hell, they could simply be acolytes of the Red Temple, Stepstones is a nice little spot to buy and sell children."

"That is not exactly helpful."

"Listen Asha these fire lovers are every bit as dangerous as the Drowned men. A lot of them gave up on common sense a long time ago and few if ever talk. You learn more from what they don't say or do than how they actually fucking act. Having said that there is one thing I figure they are interested in." Codd got up and opened the closet, steeling herself she was incredulous as he pulled out a lute. He sat it down right beside them, playing loudly. Whatever he knew meant no eavesdroppers from his men or her own crew.

"I can't say for sure because he was always a clever and dangerous man but the Crow's Eye may be alive."

"The maddest of my family alive, truly?"

"Unlike the rest of the Iron Fleet, I figured the prick survived the rebellion. Our ships were crushed but most had at least some survivors. No one ever spoke of the Silence in any such fashion after the attack on the Westerlands. Eventually, someone with a heavy Greyjoy look made a stink here years ago. Big money was on the table, a dragon egg if you would believe it. Then the Flaming Stags showed up and it all went to hell. Scuttlebutt says he died for real after getting his ass kicked. Some fierce woman if the tales are true. Either he has the stranger's luck or he is just as cowardly as he is sadistic but the whispers are increasing over his apparent life. If nothing else someone is using a ship that appears remarkably like his own around Valyria and the Basilisk Isles."

"Well as entertaining as that was I have but one question, why did he want the egg?"

"You misunderstand Asha, the egg was the price he was going to pay."

A small shiver of fear moved through her at those words. "Who or what could be worth a dragon egg? Not that I would believe for a moment Euron would keep to his word."

"Now that is the question of which rumors abound. The greatest rumor being of surviving Targaryen royalty. The last child of former Queen Rhaella. A girl, if words be true, named Ivory."

"Targaryen royalty?" The question was why, what the hell did he possibly have to gain?

"Well then Tom, it seems we may have a problem."

"How so?"

"They say my dead uncles were mad to support such a war like the rebellion. They say my father was madder for ever thinking he could win. Euron they all agree he was the maddest of them all. Unfortunately, they also said one thing that separates him from his siblings."

"Oh?"

"The man is not stupid."