A divergence after Blackwater.

It is said that two souls, whether kin or strangers, old or young, friend or foe, may be 'kindred'. These souls are thought to be bound in some way, their paths wound by Fate from the same thread. Many never realize this, but some choose to follow the thread, whatever may come. Until. - This is a Blackwater departure AU, with the goal of character realism and a slow-burning plot.

Sandor Clegane embarks on a quest to find his brother, while Alayne of the Vale awaits the next twist in her tragic tale. Updates: having seen her idyll shattered after Gregor's return, Sansa is forced to navigate courtly politics amidst the new powers rising in the realm. FINISHED.

After the Hound deserts the Battle of Blackwater, he finds his place on the ocean as a sailor. He'd heard the tales of mermaids, said to be dangerously beautiful and deadly if you got too close. He'd never believed them, but then he began to hear strange noises below deck...