Surprisingly, the North

Having decided that it would be better to deal with the most tedious leg of the journey first, Jaime announced that he would take his company to the northernmost region of the Seven Kingdoms. Following Jaime was a small company of loyal Lannister soldiers, 300 men at arms and 50 knights. The gold to hire the men was no issue thanks to the deep reserves of Casterly Rock and Jaime had a few personal friends among his small army to advise him on certain matters. Lyle Crakehall and Addam Marband had been childhood friends of Jaime, which led to them happily agreeing to accompany the Lannister on his campaign.

The North has very little infrastructure and a vastly dispersed population; however, its large landmass is home to a wealth of natural resources that will be abundant for years to come. An alliance or trade contracts with the right individuals could ensure that the Westerlands will never lack for materials that are not natural to their area. When it comes to finding the right individual, Jaime thought about setting a course directly for Winterfell. Although, the Lannisters and Starks have had an uncomfortable history that made the newly free Lannister hesitate. Instead of going directly for the capital of the North, Jaime decided to search for a good jumping off point that would allow him to have several options as to where to continue and avoid moving his host through the dreaded Neck.

It was for these reasons that Jaime Lannister had chartered several ships to take his host to Bear Island. Yes, there is only one noble house residing here, the Mormonts; however, its position off the coast of the North would make for an excellent trading route. Currently, Bear Island is known only for its few fishing markets and the surprising ferocity of female warriors. The correspondence between the Lannisters and Lady Maege Mormont seemed promising. The woman had the expected Northern weariness of all Southerners, especially Lannisters, but it is hard for anyone to resist the temptation of a Lannister investment.

The voyage had taken a little under a month and Jaime was eager to be off these blasted ships and dealing with his Northern hosts. Currently standing at the prow of the one of the three chartered ships, Jaime stared at the large island that was steadily growing closer. Beside him stood Lyle, Addam, and Major Willems. The Major was in charge of the normal Lannister soldiers, which came about as a recent reorganization of the Western armies. Jaime and his father had agreed that the Lannisters should support a larger standing army; however, this army must be disciplined and not burn resources when the land was not at war. The creation of ranks and enticement for advancement in the army assured greater involvement from civilian soldiers. Major Willems was one of these civilian soldiers that showed great aptitude and would have been wasted in the old system that favored nobles.

“Gods I hope they have good food in this frozen hell.” Lyle muttered as the group was finally able to make out the docks awaiting their arrival.

Jaime smiled as he observed sailors rushing to prepare for their landing, “Let’s pray that these Northerners can throw together a decent feast. I’m sure that you all remember the tasks I’ve given you?”

His three companions nodded and reiterated their tasks.

“I’m to evaluate their soldiers and equipment.” Lyle uttered from memorization.

Addam continued, “I will analyze the local economy and what our regions may offer one another.”

Major Willems finished with, “And I will see to the men and ensure that they keep themselves in line. If the opportunity arises, I will set them to jobs that will assist ourselves and our hosts.”

Jaime kept his gaze on the docks that were now within earshot of the ships, but showed his acknowledgment with a thin smile. Nodding to their Lord, Jaime’s companions left his side to prepare for the docking. The Lannister remained at the front of the ship and observed the growing party that awaited their landing at the docks. At the head of the group were several heralds bearing the flags of House Mormont and an armored figure stood at their head.