Very sorry for the late upload, went away for the weekend and somehow forgot my laptop.

Hope you enjoy!

Jagare stood still for a few seconds as Tommo and Aeron repositioned themselves behind him. His mind raced with confusion, annoyance and then realisation, before he sighed and turned around with a wave of his arm.

"Nope. Bye luv." Tommo laughed and turned to follow him, but Aeron caught his arm with a pleading stare.

"Jagare…powerful lady. Middle of Dornish city…" Aeron received Jagare's very best 'I will kill you later' glare before turning back to Eyme, who had not moved an inch.

"…You took my horses." She raised an eyebrow.

"Seriously?" He glared at her.

"That steed was for my child. You took it." She snorted derisively.

"I bought that horse for my stables in Yronwood. Not my fault my coffers are larger than yours." It was his turn to chuckle then.

"Yes, because you absolutely paid the auctioneer one thousand dragons for two horses." He folded his arms. "You bought him down to one hundred at most." She shrugged with a smirk.

"Perks of popularity I suppose. And nobility"

"Well, if that's it then-" Jagare started, turning away again to truly leave. But Cam darted in front of him with a worried glance.

"Milady has a proposition for you captain." Tommo snorted with laughter and even Aeron cracked a smile. Jagare stared straight ahead.

"…Who gets to make the first joke."

"I say we make them all at the same time" Tommo sniggered.

"Good idea" Jagare replied with a smirk. "For twenty silvers you get suc-"

"Enough!" growled Eyme, her features contorted with rage. "I could have you strung up in the square by nightfall."

"You know, it's funny how so many threaten us with that. Tommo?"

"Almost gets boring" Tommo replied dryly. "For once I'd like to get threatened with a cheap whore and a flaggon of wine."

"You are a wise man. Now if you'll excuse me, milady, I have business to attend to." Eyme's face had turned a worrying shade of purple. Clearly she was not used to this level of disrespect.

"I'm offering you a deal" Eyme ground out, her teeth gritted. "A proposal that could benefit both of us." Jagare sighed and stayed quiet. He was getting sick of random highborns wanting things from him. He was not a slave, and whatever reward they promised rarely equaled the task in value.

"How exactly would we benefit?" Tommo asked. Eyme folded her arms, her eyes turning black in the light.

"In short, you receive my protection from the forces of the Reach, and in return, you help me with a political situation in Dorne." Jagare growled softly and Aeron quickly spoke up.

"Um, my lady, we may uh- well we might need a little more information than that…is all." Eyme glanced at him for a long moment before turning back to Jagare.

"Not here, too many ears. While I understand your reluctance to make a deal with a complete stranger, will you at the very least parlay with me?"

"Perhaps" Jagare ground out. "When."

"Tonight, at sunset" Cam spoke quickly, eyeing Eyme. "A cove half a league south of the city. It's easy to spot." Jagare glanced at Aeron who nodded enthusiastically and at Tommo who rolled his eyes and shrugged.

"Very well" he muttered gruffly. "Your proposal had better be worth my time though. Dealings with nobility have started to irritate me." Before they could respond, Jagare turned and left, his heart thumping angrily in his chest. Fuck, he hated highborns.

When they returned to the ship, he explained briefly to the rest of them about the meeting that was to come. Apart from Angie, everyone agreed there was little harm if he bought a sizeable guard, which he intended to. Additionally, the ship had fully resupplied, and new cargo was stored on board. The men had satiated their lust in the brothels, and none were too keen to remain in the blistering heat for much longer. As such the ship would anchor in the bay, ready to flee at a moment's notice. He still had a few hours before he was due in the beach, and the anger coursing through his body had to be let out lest it be a danger later. For two hours, he tore the entire crew to shreds. None could match his strength, speed, or ferocity. And he saw the looks of fear from those around him, Tommo, Wendel and Faythe. Lemnos looked concerned, and Aeron was too busy dreaming of Eyme to even notice. But Lyanna looked at him hungrily, like a wolf marking her prey. Just before he was about to call it a day, Aimee and Leyton appeared on deck. Aimee had been shut in her room with her new paints for most of the day, but now she stood nervously behind Leyton, who Jagare noticed was in fully armour.

"My lady" he inclined his head. "How do your paints treat you?" She grinned nervously, her green eyes shining in delight.

"They are amazing captain, I cannot thank you enough for the kindness

"Might I have the next spar, captain?" the knight asked, his expression calm, yet a slight grimness in his eyes. Jagare was panting heavily, and his muscles had began to ache. But he couldn't refuse now, not with the whole crew watching.

"Of course, ser. Your weapon?" Leyton unslung a large halberd from his back. It had a longer reach than Jagare's axe, but much less power. They took their stances, and almost instantly Leyton struck at him. Whirling the halberd around, he swung long strokes, forcing Jagare backwards. He grunted and waited until Leyton swept upwards, then forced the halberd down with a block. Leyton countered by slamming into Jagare with force, sending him back further. He quickly raised his axe to counter the follow up strike, but they were slow enough for him to dodge. Bringing the axe round in a large arc he deflected the halberd away, the weight taking Leyton's body with it. He followed up with a lightning fast strike with the butt of the longaxe to hit Leyton's wrist, and a swift kick forced him to drop the weapon. With a growl, Leyton drew his longsword. Plain, yet strong castle steel. The bout continued for a couple more minutes until Jagare realised that the swings had anger behind them. Or maybe not as strong as anger but...annoyance. Irritation. The duel ended when Jagare slipped up in his defense, allowing Leyton to catch the axe head in his hilt, and jerking it quickly out of his hands. In a burst of anger, Jagare rolled and came up with his dagger resting on a chink in Leyton's pauldron while his sword was pointed directly over his heart.

"A draw then" Jagare muttered, tilting his head with a question in his eyes. But Leyton did not answer, merely nodding his head and lowering the sword.

"Well fought cousin, and captain" Aimee smiled, colour returning to her face. "The gods have gifted me with great and powerful protecters." Jagare gave a slight bow, then left to strip off his armour. His head still pounded from anger, but the breathless rage he unleashed earlier was gone. Not a very diplomatic trait.

"Talk" came a voice behind him, as he hung the armour on its stand. Tommo and Wendel stood behind him, faces writ with worry.

"Talk yourself" Jagare growlled. "Pretty menacing threat you made to the bard earlier."

"I'm angry, yes" Tommo muttered. "For the same reasons as you I'm sure. But I don't take it out on those who have the power to kill us."

"That's because you can't!" he barked, pulling off his sweat stained tunic. He stretched his sore muscles and hissed slightly in pain.

"If you want to take on the entire nobility of Westeros, alone, then be our guest. But you endanger every man and women on the ship when you do." Wendel's voice was steely calm, but a new fierceness had grown in it of late. His time on the ship had strengthened his resolve, and now, he broke through Jagare's angst.

"I know" he muttered softly. "But all my life I have let the insults and mistreatment pass me by. Now I finally have the power to-"

"No, you don't" Wendel cut in. "You don't have the power, you have one warship and around four hundred men, who have little experience of land combat. We would get slaughtered by any decent lords private guard!" Wendel moved forward as Tommo bowed his head. "Time, Jagare, take your time. Build up our fleet and our fighting strength. One day after our travels are complete, we can settle somewhere. One day we will have true power, but today is not that day." Jagare looked around wordlessly, unable to respond.

"One thing you learn when travelling on the road for moons on end Jagare, is how to pick your battles." Tommo met his gaze, his eyes full of quiet concern. "We've been lucky till now, very lucky. And every fight we've picked, we've won. Somehow. That won't last forever. I know that Lyanna made you promise to never swear to anyone again, but to move up in the world, you may have to break your promise." Before he could respond, a knock on the door was heralded by Xavi, who told them the meeting was nearing.

"We will discuss this further later" Jagare murmured, pulling on his northern leathers. "But...thank you."

An hour later, Jagare stood waiting on a secluded bay south of the city. The sun was just starting to touch the coastline in the distance, and dark clouds from the narrow sea were drifting towards them. Naturally, no rain would fall, but the ominous presence made him shiver. He had dressed in his old travelling leathers to give him familiar comfort, but it did nothing to alleviate his anticipation of the meeting. The ship was on immediate notice, and if they did not return before the sun had set completely, a small invasion would be launched on Dorne's shores, and the Yronwood party would be slaughtered. Although his nerves were on edge and his mind racing, he had a company that he knew he could rely on. Tommo, Wendall, Lemnos, Aeron, Cragg and the rest of his guard stood fully armed and armoured, as well as a score of his finest Ironborn warriors. Though he doubted anything would come to blades with the Yronwoods, he had been told there were other forces at play and could not be too careful. Much to Lyanna's protests, he had been adamant that she did not follow them to the parley. Her belly had grown large and Wendall, Aimee and an old Ironborn who claimed he once served under a Maester all agreed she was due soon, and it would be detrimental for the babe for her to move around to much. But his mind was not on the babe at the moment, but the Dornish, and what Tommo and Wendel had discussed with him.

"Where the fuck are they" Tommo muttered.

"Dornish are always late" Aeron mumbled, looking dully at the ground.

"Unless their raiding camps" Angie hissed. "Always on time for that."

"Quiet" Jagare spoke hoarsely. "Their coming." Soon enough, just as the wind chill set in, a small torchlight appeared in the distance. No banners were flown on either side, the meeting secret as night. His fingers instinctually tightened around the throwing axe on his belt, and he started moving towards them. He heard the soft rumble of Lemnos from behind him as he made a comment on Dornish tardiness, met with a gritted grunt from Cragg. Aeron however was walking forward with a certain intensity, and although his eyes showed worry, Jagare was hesitant to believe it was due to the potential death they could be dealt by Dornish soldiers. In the distance, he could nearly make out the small form of Eyme Yronwood leading her score of men. Back on the ship he had spent a little time researching the Yronwoods. For once, Angie's hatred of the Dornishmen was a huge help. None of them knew much about the political situation in Dorne, but Angie had been very vocal in his dislike for the Yronwoods.

"Second most powerful family in Dorne, they rule the Sands and the Northern Red Mountains. Cruel fuckers as well, all those that live in the mountains are. Sweep down over the mountains into the Reach and the Marches to burn, raid and pillage anything in sight." Although a slight bias source, Angie was not wrong about the Yronwood's power. There had always been a bitter rivalry between them and the Martells, something that Jagare felt he might be caught between extremely soon. The two parties met just as the sun touched the horizon. Camerlron came forward first, his expression taught and serious. He wore a simple tabard and coat, with traveller's furs and riding boots. Over his shoulder he carried his lute, as well as a short sword at his belt, a dagger and wineskin. Looks like he had underestimated the cocky bard.

"Captain Snow, we thank you for meeting with us. We know that time is short so-"

"I've given this meeting one hour" growled Jagare, his fist twisting over the handle of his axe. "So, make it quick." Cam's face tightened somewhat, and his expression darkened.

"We are not some sellsword party in a tavern, I speak for the most powerful lady in Dorne-"

"And what gives you the right to speak for her, bard" barked Cragg. "Maybe it's different in Dorne, but where we're from, nobility speak for themselves, instead of hiding behind arrogant cockroaches that think they can sing." Jagare laughed cruelly as Cam's face reddened.

"No man speaks for me" came the purr of the cloaked figure next to him. She gently brushed past Cam and waved him away. "I understand you race against the sun as I do, so I shall make this quick. I wish for your help Jagare Snow, and in return, I will reward you beyond your wildest dreams." Jagare glanced at Tommo who smirked.

"Let me guess, you wish to use our men for some scheme" spoke Wendall. "I'm afraid you are unlikely to gain our support if so."

"And you then give us some barren land you think is our 'wildest dreams'" rumbled Lemnos. "With mostly due respect, piss on that milady." He watched Eyme's eyes twitch and widen slightly before relaxing. Her gaze turned towards him, seduction clear in her eyes.

"You let your men speak for you so often, Captain?"

"Aye, I do" he chuckled. "I trust these men with my life, and we are all of the same mindset." He turned out towards the horizon and pointed.

"Out there, is our wildest dreams. Seas of untold adventure…and freedom." He looked back towards Eyme, and his eyes narrowed. "Not a grimy castle, sworn to some up jumped pompous prick of a lord who never worked a day in his life. All of those on my ship has joined me to escape their captors, their lords, and their fathers…all of us are free. And we will fight till the death to keep that freedom." He then smirked at her and folded his arms. "But by all means, make me an offer!" There was silence for a few moments, Eyme looking up at Jagare with a calculating expression.

"I wish for the freedom of my people, Captain Snow" she spoke softly. "The Martell's have grown corrupt and powerful, and I wish to dethrone them." He saw many of the men in her party tense and look towards her in shock. It was a very bold statement to make...what was stopping them from reporting her treason and collecting the reward...honour, he supposed.

"I have no wish to engage myself in Dornish politics. Not fond for politics at all."

"You would not have to deal with any of…that side of things. I simply require you for your men's fighting prowess." He frowned.

"And what makes you think that my ship even has such fighting men? We are merely a trading vessel after all." Cam snorted in derision.

"You thought we would not look past the cargo you offloaded. Your ship is the only one of its kind. A warship, that can hold almost five hundred men. Meticulously designed by the Greyjoy's and then later repurposed by a bastard captain from the North."

"Aye, and maybe it's filled to the brim with cargo" snarled Jagare. This bard was irritating him.

"Oh, but it's not. As I have already told milady here, your men assisted in the defeat of the Rowen scouting force sent into the Westerlands. In fact, I believe the battle was only won because of your men." He grinned at Jagare mockingly. "There are only so many ships sailing the southern waters with a crew of like yours." Jagare felt a wave of cold anger rising inside of him. One motion and his bowmen would send arrows into each of them.

"You pose as a bard...but a spymaster is what you really are. A dishonourable insect." The bard bowed his head in appreciation.

"It's true, I deal in the less honourable shadows of the realm. That does not make me dishonourable though. I will fight a duel as any man would, and I have a code.

"A code?" snorted Tommo. "No man that deals in secrets and lies can have a code worthy of any gods." Cam plucked a string on his lute.

"No better than the man who kidnaps a High Lord's niece, or the one who seduces a queen to steal her ship." Jagare's insides froze and he was ready to give the order to draw arms. But before he could respond, Wendel spoke.

"You want us to perform the Sharrock tactic, don't you?" His voice sounded surprised, excited, and nervous all at the same time. Jagare glanced at Wendel with a curious look, as did everyone else in the group. Eyme's eyes however lit up, and she grinned at him.

"Your man is smart, and he knows his history. What is your name?"

"Wendel Mormont" he replied, his voice harder and more serious again. "And what you ask of us is suicide." Jagare frowned and looked back at Eyme.

"I don't know about no Sharrock thingy" spoke Tommo. "But I trust Wendel enough to know if he says it's suicide, we aren't doing it."

"Aye, agreed" Jagare muttered. "If all you want is to use my men as spear fodder, then you better find a sellsword company that's dumb enough to take it on." He turned to leave but Aeron grasped his arm.

"Jagare" he muttered. He wrenched free and glared at the man.

"No" he hissed. "You are not letting your fucking cock kill our bloody men and then yourself."

"I'm not talking about that!" he whispered fiercely. "I would never lead my men into a bloodbath, you know that!" Jagare conceded a nod to that point, they both cared greatly for the lives of their men. "All I'm saying is that there are other things to be bargained for here. We could still gain something from this meeting." Jagare looked at him carefully.

"You're sure?" He nodded fiercely.

"Just give it a bit longer, I have a gut feeling." He rolled his eyes at that but turned back to Eyme.

"Very well, speak your piece." He saw her eyes resting on Aeron with an interested look before she snapped back to him and smiled.

"Thank you, captain." She looked at the rest of his men. "The Mormont boy spoke correctly. I am basing my plan on an old, legendary tactic used by Ser Sharrock Mooton. He was a minor bannermen of the Lords of Maidenpool at the time but wished to take over. He hired a team of bandits to create a fire in a nearby village, drawing out the men, and then sent another group of bandits to attack the town. When the Maidenpool men returned to defend their people, Ser Sharrock arrived under a banner of friendship but turned on his liege lord, and in the surprise attack, they were victorious. And now, the Lords of Maidenpool are-"

"The Mootons" muttered Wendel under his breath.

"Exactly" Eyme smiled. "And soon the history books will write the Yronwoods as Princes and Princesses of Dorne."

"Martell's, Yronwoods, fucking Dayne's it doesn't matter" Jagare snarled. "Because it sounds to me like we're the fucking distraction and will have the entire Martell guard sticking their spears up our asses." Eyme was silent for a few moments and then chuckled. Then giggled and finally broke into laughter. He saw Tommo and Wendel exchange looks and heard Cragg sigh behind him.

"You-you are too smart Jagare Snow. I underestimated you" her laughter calmed, and she smirked at him. "Unfortunately, you are right, I think that a sellsword group will be better suited to my needs." Jagare gritted his teeth, his clenched knuckles white.

"Well, if that is all, my lady." She shook her head and smiled.

"I still do have an offer for you, Captain. One that could profit us both."

"And how many of my men will I be sacrificing for this one" he growled. She shook her head.

"None, I simply require…passage."

"Passage?" asked Aeron quickly, his head shooting up. "To where?" Her eyes flickered to him and she smiled.

"Myr, sellswords are more likely to fight if they see their employer in person."

"And their gold" rumbled Lemnos. "You're not stupid enough to ask for ours, so why not take your own vessel?" She looked up at the city and frowned.

"I cannot travel in the public eye to one of the free cities, it will raise too many questions. Dornish are suspicious by nature. Martell's even more so and suspicious of Yronwoods even more than that. I shall need covert and well-protected travel." Jagare thought for a moment and spoke aloud to Wendall.

"How long will the journey take."

"A quarter moon with favourable winds, a half-moon at the most." He glanced around at the group looking for their opinions. Each would give their own sign. Aeron as he expected was pleading yes with his one good eye, Lemnos looked distrustful but not absolute, Wendel seemed unsure, and Tommo just shrugged and tapped his sword. He had a point, if it all went badly, they could just kill her.

"Who would be accompanying you, our cabins are limited after all."

"Only myself, and Camerlron here, we will not take up much room." Jagare narrowed his eyes at that.

"The bard as well? He irritates me." Eyme scoffed and rolled her eyes.

"I'll make sure he shuts his mouth; now do we have a deal or not?" Jagare gazed at the setting sun. Halfway down.

"You have gold to pay them?"

"A chest or two should suffice, I'll have them brought to the ship."

"I'll keep them stored in my personal stores. They'll be well guarded."

"You have my thanks."

"What about payment, how much do you offer? Smuggling a potential princess is worth a lot of gold." She smirked at him and clicked her fingers.

"How about one thousand coins worth." He heard a nickering and his heart leapt as one of her men bought forward two foals. Not just any, however, but the ones she had outbid him for earlier. The very same horses.

"You knew…" he muttered as he stroked the flank of one of them, dusty brown with coal-black hooves and tail. She chuckled and pulled up her hood.

"Fate is strong with you Jagare Snow, and I am not one to disrupt fate." His hand stilled and he glanced at her.

"Fate rules no part of my existence, I am free remember." She laughed heartily at him and shook her head, brown eyes trying to read his own.

"Fate is the reason you are free; you would be wise not to tamper with it. Now, if we have it all in order, we shall accompany you back to the ship." Two of her men walked forward and handed Cam a large bag, which he shouldered. A large, curved sword known as a scimitar was strapped to the side. He handed the reins of the horses to Brik and Merri then turned to face her.

"You always planned to leave tonight, didn't you." She shrugged.

"Who says I had a plan? Now, enough questions, I would like to see this magnificent ship of yours if you please."

"Wait" Wendel interpreted, his face confused. "You have asked us to swear no vows, leave no insurance...nothing. You are not afraid we may slit your throat and take the gold?" Eyme giggled and shook her head.

"Camerlron does not only hear the bad news my dear Mormont. There are many great stories told of our captain, about his honour and bravery. I vow here and now before gods and men to not betray your trust, not that I could even if I wished given how outnumbered I will be. If I have done that then..." Jagare met her gaze, then nodded quickly.

"You have my vow, by the old gods and the new." She smiled at him, warm and comforting instead of dangerous and sultry. She then glanced at Aeron.

"And what is your name." Aeron puffed out his chest impressively.

"Prince Aeron Harlaw, my lady. Lord of Ten Towers and rightful King of Salt and Iron." Eyme walked up to him, linking her arm through his.

"Well, I am sure you have quite the story to how you ended up here then, as well as how you got that…dashing patch. Tell me it." Aeron grinned sheepishly and nodded, walking away with her. Jagare allowed himself a small smile as he watched them. Aeron deserved some happiness. His smile faded as he saw Cam approach him.

"Captain. Might I have a word while we walk?" He thought for a moment and then nodded. Cam was under his command now, if he annoyed him too much, the plank was always there.

"You five, take up the rear" he ordered the Ironborn guards. "The rest of you, take their chests safely with us to the ship." The men nodded and went about their tasks. "Boys" he glanced at Wendall, Lemnos and Cragg. "Go ahead, let us talk." They nodded and continued walking. He started a slow pace with Cam keeping level. Neither spoke for a few moments.

"I feel we got off on the wrong foot" the bard spoke. "I would like to correct that." Jagare looked at him surprised. He could hear in his voice the sheepishness and sincerity. Odd.

"I agree on both counts. If you are to be spending prolonged time on my ship, well" Jagare sighed and held out his hand. "I believe that we should at least tolerate each other." Cam took the hand and gave him a wry smile.

"Agreed. And I'm sure some good music would lighten up your crew's dour mood." Jagare chuckled and nodded reluctantly.

"Lyanna will enjoy it, so I accept the offer. So, tell me, how did you come to serve Lady Eyme."

"I didn't. I'm not sworn to her, simply useful." Jagare grimaced.

"I have a feeling I'm about to hear a story." Cam nodded enthusiastically.

"Oh yes absolutely. I have a knack for knowing things you see. All over Westeros, I have friends. Friends that are very happy to fill me in on the latest news throughout the realms. It makes me useful to those with the need for knowledge. It's how I knew you and your exploits in the Sunset Sea." He grinned at Jagare. "Very good work in the Isles I must say. They tell stories of a phantom northern captain dismantling the entire Greyjoy reign and then stealing their finest ship and killing their queen. As such a threat to the realm as they were, you have done everyone a great service. You're a legend to some and a mysterious villain to others."

"I-I am," he asked, surprised at the revelation.

"Why of course! I have a feeling you will accomplish much more as well Snow."

"And where are you from, Camerlron the Fierce," he asked. "You are not Dornish, Essosi or Northern; but that only narrows it to the rest of Westeros." Cam grinned.

"And I'm bloody glad for it, you lot are too cold the Dornish too hot and the Essosi…well weird as fuck." Jagare chuckled. The bard was funny he would give him that.

"Agreed, but truly. Where are your roots." Cam shrugged and pulled his dagger out of its sheath.

"This is all I have of my parents." The knife was plain and standard, with good firm steel and a worn wooden handle. On the hilt was an inscription, maybe a sigil. But it was worn down and scratched off. "I grew up travelling with wagon trains, learnt to sing, fight, swindle, steal. Everything a young boy needs to know on the Westerosi road. It was the travelling that got me places, I've seen everything from the Wall to Sunspear, from Casterly Rock to Dragonstone. And I know everything in between as well."

"It sounds amazing…" the sort of freedom he and Lyanna always longed for, but one question was plaguing him. But he was scared to ask it. "You say you know of current events everywhere?"

"Absolutely everywhere. Everything inside Westeros and some parts of the Free Cities as well. For instance, Braavos is about to elect its newest Sealord, and there's a woman in the running! Who would have thought? And that the Durrandons are laying siege to Dragonstone, the final Targaryen outpost. Soon the dragons will be gone from Westeros for good. Of course the Reach and the Westerland's are in a shadow war, and the Riverland's have started breaking into two factions, and still a King is yet to be proclaimed." Jagare's mind was racing. A man like this, who knew everything there was to know about the state of Westeros. If he could get him loyal…

"You have many talents and much skill my friend," remarked Jagare. "I would ask you to name a price. What can I offer to have you join my crew? We could certainly use you." Camerlron laughed heartily and shook his head.

"My loyalty cannot be bought through gold or women or any sort of tangible prize. I am beyond such material delights."

"Then what does win your sword and lute, what has Eyme done to make you lend your gifts to her?" Cam gave him a toothy grin.

"She has a good heart, good intent, and would rule Dorne well. Something that my foster father of sorts told me, whatever we do and however we do it, it should be for the good of the realm."

"The good of the realm?" Jagare asked, almost shocked at the bard's selflessness.

"Aye, captain. The Martells are bitter and vengeful, they see the Reach and Stormlands sending men here and there and decide to invade, suddenly two realms out of balance is now three. And how long before others join the fun and suddenly the whole continent is at war? I do what I do for the good of the realm, nothing more."

"But what can one man do against the great kingdoms of the realm?" Cam looked at him mysteriously, stroking his moustache.

"Why, everything captain. Everything. One word from me and the King of Vale's favourite brothel burns down. When he goes to investigate, a crossbowman puts a bolt through his neck." He grinned wryly at Jagare's shocked expression. "Power resides where men believe it resides. The one thing I remember from my father, and something I will tell every child I ever have. I may not have a keep, or an army, but in King Durrandon were to be seduced by a women in my service...then my influence grows. Who needs an army when you have a King in the palm of your hand." Fuck. This bard was more powerful than perhaps anyone else on his ship…that was terrifying.

"Cam…what do you know about the Nor-

"Jagare! JAGARE!" he turned to see Tommo running full pelt towards him, he reached him and tripped into the sand, coming up coughing and panting. "Jagare…its…the crow's nest…they've seen…" He coughed again. "It's the Greyjoys. Sails spotted on the Horizon." Heart racing, he turned to look at the stretching coastline. Just coming out of the sun's glare, were three ships. Although their flags were indistinguishable, he knew the far eye must have picked them out.

"Tommo!" he grabbed his friend by the tunic and yanked him up. "Get back to the ship and tell them we are coming full pelt. Get everyone ready to sail, we should be able to outrun them with enough time." Tommo nodded and started his sprint back to the ship. "YOU FIVE, HAUL ASS. EVERYONE BACK TO THE SHIP, NOW!" He turned to Cam who had a small smile on his face.

"Action already, oh I am very much looking forward to our voyage captain." Jagare scowled at him and took off running in the direction of the shoreline. When they reached it, the final longboat was waiting for them. All of them rowed with mad fury, the Greyjoy sails slowly getting larger and larger in the distance. Eventually, they reached the ship and hauled themselves up onto the deck. Men rushed around both soldiers and sailors alike. Xavi was ordering the bowmen into position and the crew rushed around hauling sheets and unfurling sails. He spied Eyme standing by the mast looking uncertain and worried.

"Cam! Take Lady Eyme below decks" he grabbed Tommo as he went racing by, yanking him back from going for the wheel. "Not a fucking chance Locke, take these two and get them to the passenger cabins. Introduce them to Aimee and Leyton then get your ass back up here." Tommo groaned but followed his orders, just after he left Faythe rushed up to him with a determined look on her face.

"It's Terran. I can tell from the sail, it's his personal sigil." Jagare nodded, giving her a small smile.

"You stay below decks you hear me, keep Aimee comfortable and don't come up till I say so." The girl nodded furiously and then raced towards the stairs. He ran up to the wheel where Wendel was steering them slowly towards the lee of the land. He took it and stood firm as captain, bellowing to the crew.

"LISTEN UP LADS" he roared as the crew rushed about their duties. "TERRAN WANTS TO COME AND TAKE HIS SHIP BACK, BUT I THINK I QUITE LIKE IT HERE. DO YOU?!" They responded with a roar of agreement. "WELL, THAT'S VERY GOOD TO HEAR, LET'S GET TO IT." Aeron was bellowing orders below the stern deck and Lemnos had taken control of the oars. Soon enough they were powering away from Sunspear. Soon enough he left one of the senior crew at the helm and met with Aeron and Wendel in the chart room.

"We stay clear of the coastal rocks, and sail at a north-easterly bearing until morning. We are in clear waters for now, and when the sun rises, use it as our easterly to start heading North. We will re-navigate when we reach the Stepstones." They both nodded. "Good, by any luck we should lose them overnight, if not we lose them in the islands.

"And when we reach the Stepstones," asked Aeron. "I have no doubt we can fight off any pirates that come our way, but if we come across a fleet we will be trapped from the north and south." Jagare laid a finger on the map and traced it around the broken arm of Dorne.

"Bloodstone?" he looked up at Wendel who was rubbing his beard.

"If we stuck to the western side of the island then we would be in Martell waters, fewer pirates. They wouldn't risk running into a Martell scout ship."

"It would take time out of the trip" remarked Aeron. "Maybe by another half-moon at most."

"Yes, well that gives you more time to court our Dornish friend now doesn't it" Jagare smirked while looking at the table. Wendel laughed and Aeron went red.

"I'm not…averse to the idea…perhaps."

"I am!" Wendel spluttered. "Our rooms are next to each other." Jagare chuckled with Aeron.

"I'm sure. Bloodstone then, we can dock at Estermont in case we run out of provisions, then on to Myr." He looked up as the door banged open. In the doorway stood Faythe, her hair sprawled and face red.

"C-captain" she panted. "It's Lyanna…she is on the birthing bed." His blood turned ice cold and he felt light-headed.

"Bu-but she isn't due for…" his voice was weak and mumbly.

"I…I don't know why she just…has" His brain shut down as he barged past her, Wendel close on his heels. He heard a scream echo through the ship and screamed her name as he continued running. He smashed through the door into their chambers, where she was already lying on the bed, her face red and sweat pouring down. She turned her head as he entered and gave him a pained smile.

"J-Jagare…you're here." He rushed over to the side of the bed and took her hand in his, kissing it firmly and stroking her brow.

"Of course, I am. I'm here Lyanna- I'm not going anywhere."

"Good" she spoke airily. "I wanted you to be here when it happened…I want them to meet their father." His heart swelled with love and affection but was replaced with horror and worry as she screamed again.

"WENDALL!" he screamed at the man who was gathering sheets and placing them at the end of the bed.

"Jagare, I know you are emotional, but you must let us do this uninterrupted."

"It's true" came the voice of Aimee, who had perched herself at the end of the bed looking up at Lyanna. "It will be fine, but you must stay calm." But all Jagare could hear was her screaming and his heart beating fast and hard.

"What about Milk of the Poppy! Something to relieve her pain." The old Ironborn healer came in with a tub of warm water and shook his head.

"Can't be done captain, she needs to be at full strength, and fully awake. She'll just have to suffer through it, as all women do. It's the will of the gods." Jagare knew he was right, but was furious, nonetheless.

"You shouldn't have to feel the pain Lya, it shouldn't be like this for you." She gazed at him, her eyes unfocused and laughed slightly.

"It's okay Jagare. Ale…Alyeth took care of it. The potion…I finished it…" her finger extended to point at the bedside table where an empty glass flask held the last remnants of a purple potion. He turned back to Lyanna confused. "She told me that it would make the babe strong, that it would make them grow to fulfil their destiny…" Then she was screaming again, and clenching Jagare's hand tighter than a wolf's bite. He kept hearing Wendel telling her to push, but his mind was detached, humming in his ears as he watched the woman he loved in such pain, knowing he could do nothing to alleviate it. It could have been minutes, days, or hours, but eventually, the squalling of a newborn child filled the room and he let out a breath he didn't know he was holding.

"It's a girl" squealed Aimee, her voice giggly and excited. "A little baby girl!" Lyanna laughed softly, her face streaming with tears and her chest heaving from the effort.

"Give…give her to me Aimee." She passed her the child and Jagare felt a smile erupt on his face as he looked at his newborn daughter. She opened her eyes and gazed up at him, grey as the stormy skies of the North. Small tufts of brown her popping out from her head.

"She's…beautiful…" And she was. His gorgeous baby girl. But then Wendel was speaking, and Lyanna was groaning, and that groaning turned into a scream.

"Wendel what's happening," he asked hurriedly.

"There's, there's…"

"THERE'S WHAT!" he yelled fiercely.

"There's another child crowning" gasped Aimee, her face growing in excitement. "Twins!" He blinked.

"Twins?"

"Twins!"

"Twins…"

The next birth happened even faster than the first, but that might have been due to Jagare's shock and surprise at the revelations. Twins…

"A boy" exclaimed Wendall, lifting a red shrieking child into the air. "Red-faced and healthy. He gasped with laughter and Lyanna was crying with happiness. Lyanna held their boy while Jagare held their girl, while Wendel made sure that everything was in check.

"Your fine Lya" Wendel spoke, his face slick with sweat and a large smile on his face. "It was the perfect birth, nothing wrong with it." Lyanna looked at Jagare and grinned a tired smile.

"The potion" he spoke quietly to her, and she nodded. "Well, it worked…I suppose I owe Ale an apology." She giggled and nodded.

"Aye, you do." He grinned at her.

"Leave us" he muttered to the three in the room. "Tell them the birth was successful, and that we want some time alone with our children." Then it was just them, and for a while they just lay, holding each other and their babes. Eventually, the silence was broken.

"Well, you know what we must do now" whispered Lyanna with a smile. Jagare nodded. He was holding his finger in front of his daughter's face, watching her grab at it with her tiny fingers. "I have one for him, it just…"

"Came to you" he spoke softly. "Like a dream."

"Exactly…"

"So, what are you thinking for him." She was silent for a few minutes then smiled at him.

"Alaric." Alaric, it sounded right. And so did…

"Alys." Alys and Alaric. Their children. Their two perfect babes.

"They're perfect. But…Alys and Alaric…Snow?" He shook his head, cradling his daughter closer to him.

"I won't let the stigma of bastard affect them. The laws and customs of Westeros do not apply to us anymore. We can choose our own names now." She cocked her head and smiled at him.

"Yes, I like that. So, what shall our new name be?" she asked. Jagare thought. He thought for a few minutes, long and hard about their journey. About their past, present and future.

"A bastard of the North, captaining a ship. A ship that has travelled through the stormy seas of the Westeros. Snow. And Storm. Snowstorm. Jagare Snowstorm. Lyanna Snowstorm. Alaric Snowstorm. Alys Snowstorm." She sighed and lifted her hand up to caress his cheek, stroking along the lines of stubble.

"I guess we have a name for the ship as well." He chuckled and kissed her on the forehead.

"Aye, that we do." A while later she handed Alaric to him and then turned over to get some sleep. As he sat there, he gazed down at the two slumbering forms in his hand and started speaking without thinking.

"You two don't know it yet, but you will be loved more than you could ever possibly imagine by us. We will protect you, fight for you, laugh with you and love you till our dying days. You are both the loves of my life. Everything I have. And everything I am. It's yours. Forever." He kissed them both on the forehead and then stood from the bed. He law the babes down in the bed with their mother and then walked outside. Immediately he saw Tommo, leaning against the wall, his sword drawn and planted into the deck. 'That poor bugger' he thought. He was standing there for all four of them.

"Tommo" he spoke quietly. His head shot and his face looked gaunt and pale.

"Jagare" he hissed. "Is it okay? Did the birth go well? Wendel looked flustered and hot and-

"Wendel was just exhausted my friend, the babes are fine. And so is Lyanna." He grinned at his friend when he saw his eyes widen. "Yes, my friend, babes. Twins, a boy and a girl." Tommo whooped and pulled him into a tight hug which he gladly returned.

"Oh...oh, wow. Incredible…what are their names?"

"Alaric, and Alys" Tommo snorted and Jagare punched him playfully on the arm.

"Quiet you" he grinned. "You keep your sarcastic and dirty japes out of my children's ears." They both laughed and Tommo pulled out a wineskin, offering it to Jagare.

"To Alys and Alaric…"

"Snowstorm" he added. "Jagare Snowstorm, and the name of the boat as well." Tommo laughed again.

"Fucking finally, you bastard. Now come, the crew wants to hear." He wrapped his arm around Jagare and dragged him towards the deck. The night wind was blowing fierce, but he didn't feel the cold. Everyone was gathered on deck; sailors, soldiers, and passengers. Everyone. When they noticed him, they all fell silent. He stepped to the rail and placed his hands on the wood, looking at the crowd.

"The gods have blessed me with twins" his voice carried, strong and heavy over the deck, every word reverberating through the sails. "I have been given a daughter…AND A SON!" The deck erupted in cheers from the men as he threw his hands into the air. The sound must have carried over the water for miles, even to the Greyjoy ship behind them. "My children have been born on the sea! They have been born in salt and wind. They are children of the ocean, and one day shall be the greatest seafarers in the Known World!" Another round of cheers echoed through the ship; the men riled up by his words. "I now ask of you to swear. Swear to me, your captain, and swear to your gods. Swear that you will protect my children against all who would see them harm. Will you do this for me!" The cheers sounded once again, roars of approval from the men. "WILL YOU SAIL UPON THIS SHIP? SAIL UPON THE SNOWSTORM AND FIGHT AND DIE FOR YOUR BROTHERS!" The roars grew louder. "WILL YOU SAIL UNDER YOUR CAPTAIN, JAGARE SNOWSTORM, AS WE EXPLORE THE FAR CORNERS OF THIS EARTH AND FIND RICHES UNPAROMOUNTED, BEFORE COMING HOME AND CLAIMING WHAT IS RIGHTFULLY, OURRRRSSS!" The loudest cheer sounded yet, and Jagare joined him for it. He felt a soaring elation as the cries washed over him. A loving respect for every man and woman on the ship, and the safety that his children would be protected. 'This is my ship' he thought. 'My crew, my men, my friends…my family'. His true family.

Got goosebumps writing that one!

And so the family is complete and the babes are born. The potion will have slight side effects however...

Feel free to comment!