Pyke

If you're going to go to the Iron Islands, you figure you may as well start with the most significant one. Pyke may not be the largest in terms of size or population, but it is still where the castle of Pyke is located. There is no telling what possibilities could await you there.

You return to the young female captain and tell her "I would like to book passage to Pyke, if it please you, milady."

The female captain folds her arms, observes you atop your horse, and asks "Might I know your age?"

"Six and ten," you admit, "I may be quite young, but I am experienced in many areas, including fishing and sailing."

"Your competence is not in question," she says, "You seem a touch young to be venturing to the Islands all by yourself."

"I realize that," you claim, "But I promise you; I know what I am doing. I once visited the Islands when I was even younger."

"By yourself?" she says, skeptically.

You nod firmly, and you tell her "Yes, by myself. Everywhere I've gone in the last ten years, I've gone all on my own. That is how long I have been without family or friends. That may not impress you as much as it would impress most others. The Ironborn are infamous for overcoming hardships, after all."

"It IS impressive for a greenlander," she remarks, suddenly a little more interested in you. She smirks and remarks "And here I thought those who lived on the mainland were weak and incapable. If you've gotten by all on your own, you must be an exception. But even so... a wise man once said 'words are wind.'"

"If you wish me to prove my worth, milady, I will do so," you declare, "I will not be dead weight; I can be useful."

"That will not be necessary," she assures you. She holds her hand out to her vessel and announces "You may come aboard."

You grin and say "I thank you immensely."

She grins back and remarks "Before I let you join us, I would like to know your name first."

"Brynden," you reveal, "This is my horse, Aerion. Might I bring him with me?"

"Of course," she replies. She then extends her arm out to you. You slowly reach out, take her hand, and shake it. She tells you "My name is Asha Greyjoy, captain of the Black Wind."

You are astonished. This enticing beauty before you is the daughter of Lord Balon Greyjoy? Even so, you don't say anything.

The crew of the Black Wind help you load Aerion into the cargo hold. Once he is secured, Lady Asha leads you back to the upper levels.

"So, where will I be staying for the voyage?" you ask.

"I will take you there now," she tells you.