middaeg | [open joint post]

Entry tags:

[open joint post]

Who: Jorah Mormont/Daenerys Targaryen & You (both new and old CR, monsters and witches)
When: During Black City Event
Where: Stables outside of one of the higher class Witch boarding.
What: Dany and Jorah not being subtle in their distaste for the current political climate. General CR building for both new and old, honestly. Dany and Jorah may be willing to both bond strategically with a Witch who can grant them access to better living conditions (and more privacy/privilege). This is a topic we'd like to explore, so it doesn't have to yield a good fit ICly. It's merely a conversation piece! :) If you are wanting to pursue a Bond with these two, please PP

cirilla and

sustain or hit up my plotting post over here! Replies will come from both Dany and Jorah!

Warnings: Nothing really!

[ The city felt dead to her. The life of this city had been taken from it long ago, in a dream she had not been privy to. The fog added a sense of foreboding, sure – but it was the stillness of the Monster's eyes here. It was the chains that so cruelly bound those who had learned to love them, the collars that choked the happiness away until all that was left was obedience.

Jorah Mormont had seen slaves more closely than Daenerys had. He had both sold them and been one himself. There had been a discomfort on many levels for him since reuniting with Daenerys, both out of concern for her state of mind and the guilt of facing a truth he had accepted long ago of past mistakes. Now, he stands at the entranceway of the small stable gate for the partition Daenerys claimed as her own. The hay crunched underneath their feet as they move, their voices certainly gathering attention. No one knew Dothraki, but it was a brutal sounding language, one with punch and distaste clear despite the language barrier.

Dany paced uncomfortably while Jorah held his position firmly. Their foreign language continues for a few minutes, actually: ]

I am told I am a Monster, told I am brought to a dream, yet it feels very real. I am still a woman and I am still awake seeing this injustice. No different than Astapor or Yunkai – no different than Meereen. Do you not see? It is haunting and to stand by when my eyes are already open feels cruel.

I understand, khaleesi. What is it that you think you must do? You cannot become everyone's savior. Not here. Even so, this is a dream. Worrying this much will only hurt you. Possibly make... other things... worse as well.

But what if it is not a dream this time? It feels real – the magic here feels like it did with Lhazareen witch. I –

[ During this argument, there are a few options to get involved!

A. Feel free to interrupt them, they are being loud after all. Prodding them will earn a defensive glare from Jorah and offensive judgy glare from Daenerys. They will engage in the common tongue, however so you can understand them.

B. If instead you stand by and stare/linger around too much – Jorah will notice you first. Brandishing his sword and stepping out of the gate, he may be inclined for threats with Daenerys showing a bit of pity and trying to apologize for the disturbance. They will both ease up when they realize it is one of their fellow Mirrorbound.

Either way, it seems like this is going to lead into you being smack dab in the middle of a disagreement. Stay around, hear both sides – eventually! ]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[Hiccup has been horrified since he got here, the feeling only growing at every turn, every spectacle, every act of cruelty he witnesses coming from witches that are not at all like the witches he's come to know. This can't be Aefenglom, they'd mentioned that, hadn't they? This is somewhere else. So while he knows it's a dream, something in him wonders if it's not just that - if there isn't something else to this insidious nightmare.

It makes him ashamed to be a witch.

He steals a cloak like the Coven witches wear, though he's minus their identifying pin, and slips out on his own the moment he can do so without drawing attention. From there, lost and thoroughly disgusted, he spends his time trying to help. Someone pulling him aside at one point and teaching him a certain rune is a godsend, like knowledge from Odin himself, and from there, his mission is to put it to use as much as he can. That's probably why he's stolen into the stables now, where they've relegated monsters to sleeping (like animals, his inner conscience moans, he wouldn't even put a wild dragon in these deplorable conditions), and he's just... looking for people to help. To break their compulsions. To show that magic doesn't have to be the same as chains or a collar.

Really, though, it's no wonder Jorah pulls a sword on him. Hiccup is sneaking around, hooded in one of their cloaks, and he can't exactly sneak very well with one foot being made of metal. His eyes widen under the hood, and he immediately holds gauntlet-and-gloved hands up, throwing back the hood, hissing in that distinctively nasally voice of his,] No, no, hey, it's- I'm not one of them! It's- Queen Daenerys? [That had been her voice, hadn't it? And he's the man from the festival.] It's me! It's Hiccup!

[ It was hard not to be on high alert. Unlike Aefenglom, where they can still retreat to decompress in the "privilege" of their gifted residences, here they are reduced to livestock. Her pride takes a hit, but there are far more important things to dwell on. Especially when she is at odds with her trusted adviser. Their relationship had changed since his betrayal and since he returned to her service — she values his words more, seeing the devotion clearly now. There will be no orders for him to follow her mindlessly, for she may be the one truly blind now.

Hiccup's arrival doesn't spook or scare her off — Monsters had wafted in and out but none had gotten as close to them. Jorah's proactive stance makes her alert, ceasing her words in fear they can still be interpreted. Unfortunately, Hiccup's garb doesn't make the best first impression. Her heart leaps from her chest but she steps behind Jorah with her hand firm on his shoulder. ]

Stop! He is one of us! [ "Us" as in through the mirrors, not a Monster. ] It's alright —

[ Her words catch her throat, eyes shifting between Hiccup and Jorah awkwardly. ]

Edited (just for organization) 2019-08-20 15:47 (UTC)

[ considering how much he values being at Daenerys' side again, she can understand he must feel strongly about something if he's to even consider risking her faith in him. regardless of him growing frustrated at her pride getting the best of her — and so soon at that — she doesn't have to fear he is going to slack as her bodyguard.

at the first motion of someone approaching the two of them, his sword is already removed from his sheath and pointed at their mutual acquaintance. of course Jorah has no idea who it is. the cloak does enough to obscure him, and he had only met the younger man when he was dressed up against his wishes. just as he's prepared to step forward and bring the tip of his blade towards his chest, Hiccup reveals himself at the right time. his queen's beckoning for him to stop does enough to make him freeze regardless, and he's left tilting his head with a perplexed expression. ]

My... apologies. I could not make out your identity.

[ his weapon is placed back at his hip and he turns to look at Dany with an equally perplexed look, all before glancing at Hiccup once more. ]

You know this lad? Gods, for such a sprawling place, it appears easy to run into familiar faces.

[He only relaxes once the sword is put away, breathing out a quiet sigh and dragging his leather-gloved hand over his face. Beneath the stolen cloak, he's wearing armor, black as night - black as a Night Fury, because it's set with Toothless' shed scales.] No, it's- um, it's fine. I've been... trying to blend in. [He gestures a hand vaguely.] They aren't- welcoming, even to witches, but they, they leave me alone, if I don't draw attention. [He's seen enough of how they treat non-witches to know what a boon that is.

He manages a wry smile at Jorah.] Well, you know, there... there aren't a whole lot of us mirrorbound, compared to natives. It's- we stick together. [His expression is nothing but friendly relief when he glances back at Daenerys. It's good to see them both without that glazed look in their eyes that so many of the monsters native to here have. They may not be obviously monsters, but if they're out here instead of inside the boarding house, he guesses they aren't witches.] We met earlier this month. Any friend of dragons is a friend of mine.

Are you both okay? It's- it's horrible out there.

I do — Ser Jorah, he was the one I spoke of with the dragon.

[ Maybe in their late conversations she failed to mention a name or couldn't properly remember — her sympathetic eyes tries to calm her knight, who seemingly also knows him. Who woulda thought! Which, she does glance to Hiccup as if asking where Toothless was.

Dany gives a courteous nod as she steps close to Jorah's side, hands clasped in front of her formally. ]

We are surviving. We were not harmed and herded into chains, but I fear how long I can say that. [ A cautious word: ] Have you found any word on how to leave this place from fellow Witches?

Right. Perhaps I should have realized he was one and the same.

[ it makes a lot more sense now, that is for sure. Jorah was at first curious on if there were multiple "owners" (read: partners, father/mothers, etc.) of dragons, or if perhaps the only ones were the rare breed of monster he had caught wind of. the thought causes the knight to glance in Dany's direction while she was looking at Hiccup, looking to see if the scales on her neck were exposed or hidden.

her trio of children may not be here, but it begins to grow apparent that she will not be alone. ]

You did well to disguise yourself, friend. Certainly better than your previous attire.

[ don't ask, Daenerys. you don't need to know what he had decided to sign up before meeting with her. ]

[He catches that look from Daenerys, and only gives a slight shake of his head. Not here. Toothless is safe from whatever this nightmare is, and he's glad for it; as much as he'd like the backup, if they treat people like this, he doesn't want to see how they'd treat an animal.

Jorah's comment actually startles a slight smile out of him, but he shakes his head again.] Believe me, I'd rather- I'd um, rather look like an idiot than be wearing one of these. It's... I never thought witches could be like this.

[Aefenglom wasn't like this at all. Was he just blinded to the truth of this land by a mostly-harmonious city? Or is this city the blight on a mostly-harmonious land?]

No word on how to leave so far. It's... I know we'll wake up, eventually, but I can't say when. Something about this dream feels different from the other ones I've been in.

[ Even if it was a double-edged sword, Daenerys feels sympathy. Yes, Toothless is free from the turmoil of this dream, but she could only sympathize with how alone that must be... Dany was as such not long before finding Jorah, after all. Even if she longs for her children, there's a nod of acknowledgment to follow.

Her head tilts curiously at their comments, friendly – more so than she would have known. ]

Do I even need to ask? [ SHE WILL ONE DAY.... But for now? There were far more important things, after all... ] So nothing we do here matters, then. It is waiting.

[ Yes, Jorah has probably been saying this, but hey, she's stubborn!!! ]

The dreams before, were they always of chains and collars like this?

[ it’s easier for eren to meld with the color of a sky so murky, it’s just harder to find a safe place to land. to find any other mirrorbound he knew. to recover, to think, before pulling back the hands of time in this dream and start again (the first time getting put down was an accident. the second time was instigated). everything is rather silent as a dragon jams his bones back to the size of a man before touching down against the earth, a few ways behind the building. no sound is made from such a distance, if only a human sized thud.

by little was he taken down from the sky by force, and from his thigh, just short of his belly protrudes the ugly splinter of a silver arrow’s head to prove it. he’s walked and fought with much less, though. a little bounce in his steps would get him to cover.

he smells, tastes, two people he’s met before the closer he staggers to the stable opening on more human legs (that may as well be losing their shape and skin, slowly through his time here). his hurried frame is almost like a shadow, or a man who has ventured into a pile of charcoal upon first glance once he bolts in, bolts right in. eren looks more monster than either pair, nude and colorful— scales, from blacks to bright oranges like lava paint his body up and down like they would on the fullness of the sister moons. the only difference, perhaps, are the membranes that have grown from his arms and spined elbows, webbing his fingers. with a blade’s tip held to his throat, his arms are held up, and they resemble wings.

he knew both of them— there was no reason to threaten in return, only give them a moment to recognize as he looks between them with huffing breaths, and his wounded limb picked up off the ground. ]

I should get used to your greetings.

[ he’s not one to smile too widely, or much at all, but the words are amiable. arms come down, but in a spread way to balance himself. while he doesn’t know either like long, old friends— he wouldn’t mind their presence, as much as he was invading theirs. it’ll only take a moment. just a moment. ]

[ The tensions were high and it was unfortunate that they would make far more of a scene than they would like to. Daenerys thought she had blended in enough – shimmering scales covered distinctly and only the growing claws of her Ser an indication that something was off. They still seek safety in a Monster stable, hoping no one on either side asked too many questions.

The man was different here – his arrival not exactly welcomed, more startling with Daenerys stepping behind Jorah's charge defensively. It isn't until she hears a familiar voice that her eyes peer over her knight's form. ]

Lower your weapon! [ They've most likely discussed who they have come in contact with since arriving – perhaps in hopes of gathering allies. Daenerys reaches around, one hand on Jorah's forearm. ] He is not a Witch.

[ Clearly, but it is a blanketed safe statement. That is who they should be concerned about. ]

[ how else is Jorah supposed to respond? they are on the defensive. they may still look more human than most others that have been transforming, but they're still monsters. all it takes is them being asked about their lack of Coven clothing, or their inability to produce any of the magics that should be routine. any urgent or sudden movement towards either one of them would warrant a response, and it's lucky his muscle reflexes didn't make him end the life of a man who has apparently had his life ended several times already. ]

I believe that is an understatement, khaleesi.

[ Eren is certainly a unique figure. his piercing gaze alone is noteworthy, the stare he provides empty enough to lose yourself to if one did not have other things to concentrate on. pair that with his worse-for-wear state and it isn't as if he had to guess much. the problem is his trust in monsters is still a work in progress, even if this dream world has shown them to be at the bottom of the totem pole like so many other races and peoples back home. ]

Eren Yeager. I would say it is a pleasure to see you again, but perhaps not like this.

[ he doesn't offer an apology. not this time. Eren's a military man, so he should be able to empathize with someone on post. ]

I hope those wounds of yours do not indicate we should be expecting company.

[ likewise, jorah, likewise. eren’s nod isn’t as slow and curt as it usually is, a rushed set of bounces replaces them not because he was in a hurry, but perhaps recovering from one. pain doesn’t hit as instantly either, not when your blood runs like fire.

but it stings a little, if the small lift in his features speak much. he’ll need a slab of wooden walls to lean on to stay up. ]

Daenerys, [ one deeper acknowledgement to her, half in greeting and half an apology for bursting in on them in less modesty than he could ever have wanted to offer. it helps when he must lift his leg from the pressure, and where arm wings flutter to become the cloak he discarded. ] I lost them, Sir. [ he wouldn’t dare to leave a trail behind, or allow anyone to track him back.

. . . the “sir”, on the other hand, is meant to give respect. ]

It’s— It’s still good, to see any of you.

[ Once the dust settles and her knight's weapon was lowered, Daenerys could feel her heart begin to beat again. With the abundance of chains and collars, she feels vulnerable going to a place dedicated to those bound. However, the stables were their only cover. Their only chance to hide away a little while longer. ]

Come. There's little privacy, but please – rest in this stall.

[ It was almost an order, but he was not devoted to her like Jorah was. Not in the slightest. It takes a lot for her to show restraint, but never kindness. ]

Ser Jorah, please keep your sword at the ready in case he has not lost them. [ Dany's ushering him inside – hopefully enough space for them despite the lack of visual privacy, if their voices are low the hustle maybe none will be the wiser. ] I know no medical knowledge, I'm afraid...

I trust he has. This young man does not give me the impression that he would say something he is not certain of.

[ Jorah will actually disobey Daenerys to a small degree, instead stepping forward and offering Eren a shoulder to help alleviate the weight off of his league. he left the boy hanging long enough, and it isn't befitting of him to let any wounded suffer more than they should. if Eren accepts the offer, he will be sure to guide him towards the stall that his queen had directed them to, helping sit him down before moving to slowly unclasp his gloves one by one. ]

You needn't dirty your hands with this, Daenerys. The problem is cleaning and sterilizing. A stable isn't the most ideal location. Would you like me to try?

[ he is thinking in the moment, and a consequence of his distracted thoughts is that he has exposed the scars on his hands — hands that lead to fingers that have sharpened points for nails. ]

[ he understands both sides, enough that eren does not object to dany’s moment of uncertainty the way a boy would. truth to words only comes with time, and there was nothing wrong with added caution (he’d probably make sure too, at some point). jorah’s back up, nevertheless, is much appreciated and brings certain relief he hadn’t expected to swell.

(he made sure they wouldn’t follow, by dragonfire). ]

Sir, [ head bow, as if to acknowledge him. to dany, as he adjusts himself to the older man’s aid but with perception and consideration for her: ] I’ll smell anything from far, I’ll keep watch. [ just in case, and to make sure valid concerns don’t fall on deaf ears. either the young man isn’t so bold (or stupid) as to reject either of their offers to compose himself in the stall, though. with his weight being halved on jorah’s account, arm across his shoulder and hooking claws to his armor, he hops along until he can sit. it isn’t bleeding much, almost at all, even— the flesh seemed too dark, scorched around the bit of weapon still embedded. he didn’t want to rip the rest of it out, he might lose too much blood from where it sits, and now was not the time to fade away and wake up where he started.

cleaning wounds, that’s where he draws the line where help is concerned. between them, he shakes his head and one hand, the one that slips away from jorah’s pointed fingers. his hands, they’re probably just as scarred as eren’s, earning a brief glance— though eren’s were blemished by teeth. his own teeth. ]

— Both of you, don’t waste your time. If I burn it or die, it doesn’t matter. [ he’ll— he’ll do whatever he needs to do later. he needs to relay things to them. it’s daenerys that his eyes fall on now, because he told her, that first day they met. it’s mind over matter, here. ] No matter how real it feels, we’re in a dream.

Edited 2019-08-23 14:22 (UTC)

Of course. As you were, Ser.

[ She yields to Jorah's insistence, in part that it was natural to do so but also because his experience eclipsed hers. It was the right thing to do, patient and humble enough to fall back. She allows it.

At the very least, Dany grabs onto the wood fencing that allows 'stalls' for them, on her tip-toes to visibly ensure any neighboring Monsters resting did not get any ideas to join them or leave for unknown reasons. ]

Do we even want to know what happened? [ Her voice is low, a hushed whisper full of disappointment. Not in Eren, no. In the world. He speaks of dying and it hits her chest — hard. A concerned look to both Jorah and Eren as they hobble inside. ] You'll forgive us, but our experience in this dream is limited. You are with like mind of my trusted here in regards to the dream, but...

[ plz don't gang up on her. :( Dreams are weird things for her. ]

How long does this last?

[ there's been an honest attempt at avoiding putting too much time or attention into inspecting Eren out of courtesy, but he encounters difficulty when he is inspecting an arrowhead protruding just above his scales. Jorah makes the natural assumption and comparison upon seeing Daenerys with the affliction on her neck, but he sets aside his concerns about his queen turning into something similar. too many things to fear, not enough time to dwell on it.

it isn't surprising to find the boy turn down his services, but the reason why is. he tilts his head and looks at Eren with scrutiny expressed in his features. ]

But... pain is pain, friend. If you feel it, it is very much real. The least we can do is try to suppress it.

[ he can't begin to try and answer why everyone is stricken with fear over what the witches may do if they find them when the dream makes it all a moot point. it doesn't mean Jorah will allow Dany to be thrown into harm's way. both thumb and forefinger go to pinch at the bridge of his nose as a heavy sigh expels from his chest. he finds a nearby wall to lean on since his services won't be needed. ]

I, too, am curious on what the purpose of these are. Is it manufactured by the witches of the real world? Does no one know?

[ well. what happened. he'll get to that in a moment. his lips purse and he holds his breath in to sit and let jorah look as much as he needs to. he could say the pain wasn't real, but. it may be hindering him. he still— the older man still has his sword at his hip, yes? eren has an idea. ] We'll need your sword.

[ he's thinking to heat the tip and stop the bleeding, at the very least, but only if jorah would trust him on that train of thought. during that, he'll look around for something to bite— a splinter of wood would do, even. ]

This one is more real than the last ones will ever be. [ so it's understandable. even this dream was new to him. finding a discarded wooden block beneath the settled bed of hay, eren inspects, then keeps it at his side, in his hand. ] No one knows who it could be and why, not yet, but we're connected to it. We could be here for days and it's only been an hour.

[ unfortunately— he didn't have substantial answers for their questions, but . . . he did have something. ]

—This is a real place, outside of the Wilde and northwest of the continent. [ he's looked at the continent's map enough, and draws it with his claw in the dirt floor, pinpointing more or less where he thinks it should be, with those directions. ] Dorchacht. Aefenglom is here. [ another circle to the aforementioned destination. ] No one from Aefenglom are part of the resistance parties, so if they're tied . . . It's probably something deeper. [ in his experience: ] Political.

I flew up to get a better view around us— it's a coast. That's when I got this.

[ this damn arrowhead that he's almost ready to pull out thanks to some friendly convincing— he'll just actually wait for a good time though, no bloody surprises. ]

[ It was clear that Daenerys was not a hands-on type of player in this tango. She may command attention, may mingle better than most when the situation called for it – but she heavily relied on her advisers and trusted ones to pertain to specific instances like this. Jorah was no medicine man, but she trusts him all the same. ]

That is unfortunate. [ The passage of time, she interjects. ] The longer this feels, the more likely trouble will find us. More than it already had.

[ Common sense, but she feels the need to state it. To show her anxiousness of feeling caged in something she truly can not help. However, even with however the next series of events relay as far as helping Eren – he gives valuable information, one that pries her from the stall wall to pace around them. ]

I... see. Then do not do that again. [ Don't fly places? Her voice was stern and given how she follows up with a command to Jorah, it is clear that Eren should heed her words. ] Ser Jorah, if he does anything risky, use your judgment to assist or advise against it. Is there any way I can help you both? I can not go storm the Coven and demand an audience, but if this place is far from the city we were originally brought to... I wonder if it exists truly outside of this realm of dreams. We shall see once we awaken.

[ Whenever that is. ]

[Sheva has a knack for languages, but this isn't one she recognizes. While the loud commotion initially draws her attention, it's the familiarity of the voices that eases her nerves enough that she openly interjects herself. It's interesting that they know one another, but not too surprising. Leon and Chris are here after all.

She's as Jorah might have remembered her, only much cleaner than their first meeting, and with a hooded cloak hiding the bulk of her weapons and feline features. It's clear that she's packing something, or rather, many somethings. Her handgun is the only weapon that's visible and out of its holster, comfortably gripped in her left hand as she steps into view.]

You two are quite loud. [She glances them both over, presumably to check for wounds, collars, and monster-esque features, in that order. While she looks tired and upset, it's evident that she's relieved to see them both.] If it drew my attention, it will draw others.

[ Daenerys was not one to argue without purpose. There's an instance with magic that she feels fearful of — fearful of a power she can not explain. She's had her son and husband stolen by it, seen her dragons birthed by it. There is something personal about this to a girl who has her dreams come true.

Jorah is her voice of reason, of caution. Even when her mind was so focused on one thing, he was not a 'yes' man. He follows orders, yes, but she values his council. His words linger, but she is fired up and at the ready... until she hears another voice.

Daenerys scrambles to her feet — eyes looking through the darkness to the voice calling out to them. Jorah and Dany do a fair enough job passing as human. ]

Lady Sheva. [ Look!! It's a cute name!! ] Are you unharmed?

[ Look, she won't comment on the volume of their argument. Instead, she glances to Jorah with a nod, as if telling him they'll continue the discussion when appropriate. ]

[ in retrospect, Jorah should have perhaps realized that their attempt at remaining conspicuous by speaking in a foreign tongue would inevitably draw eyes on them. oh well. options and space are both limited, and he'd rather have someone curious but ignorant to what they're discussing.

he didn't anticipate that they would summon mutual acquaintances on top of everything else. though coincidental, Sheva's appearance is at least a welcomed one. if there is anyone to offer protection that is more than his sword, it would be the woman strapped to fight an army on her lonesome. by now, it doesn't even surprise him to find that Daenerys knows virtually everyone he has crossed paths with to some degree, assuming he or she hadn't namedropped the female soldier in passing. ]

All is well. It summoned you, and you are a sight for sore eyes... Lady Sheva.

[ Jorah doesn't quite remember saying that title, but he isn't to disrespect her after his khaleesi has dubbed her as such. in terms of monster-esuqe features, the knight seems relatively normal aside from a much thicker beard hugging his jaw as opposed to the stubble she had seen before. if she hasn't seen him in a while, it's likely easy to assume it just grew naturally over time. ]

I trust she would be doing the harming if any witch dared approach her, Daenerys.

[She must have just won the genetic dream lottery for weird monster features.
Hooray.]

Define unharmed. [She comments dryly with a lift of her eyebrow, though that eyebrow started lifting the moment the cute title affixes to her name, gaze flicking over to Jorah when he echos the full name. Otherwise, there's no comment made to correct them, not when there's magical danger afoot and she's keen on keeping them all out of it. It's interesting to see how he defers to her, however, and she tucks that observation away for later, if she even remembers.

Dreams are weird, after all.

A rough huff of a chuckle follows his additional comment. Just one before her features darken slightly. Usually, he'd be correct.]

Magic's not my forte, but I've been holding my own. How are you two handling... Everything?

[Her eyes shift to Dany, lingering a few moments before shifting to Jorah. They both had similar feelings on protecting children, it wouldn't surprise Sheva if they share views on slavery as well.]

Pained. Burdened. I'll even take offended? I have seen it get rough out there, I was merely concerned.

[ Her words were dry in return, mainly one-part tired and one-part frustrations still running high. Dany won't linger on her formal address – some things never change and a lady is still a lady in her eyes. Of course one she had an interesting conversation with applies to such mannerisms. Either way, Dany clasps her hands nervously in front of her, her small stature standing a little bit taller. ]

Handling is quite on-the-nose. There is not much we can particularly do against Witches with magic as commanding as it is. [ They were monsters, after all. ] Ser Jorah found this... stable a suitable enough place to find sanctuary. Tucked away as to not raise concern, but still able to know of some ongoings.

[ It was messy – the boarding house nearby welcomed Witches and bonded pairs freely, but... no, not Monsters. ]

I am thankful for that, at the very least.

Not harmed. Uninjured. Lacking blood loss. Hopefully you are all of those things.

[ look, this tag was being typed up at the same time 'cause someone is a dumb and forgot post order. just assume Jorah and Dany are being cute and said their piece around the same time, which triggers the knight to look over at his queen and offer her an amused look of sorts. goobers.

the situation now is far heavier than standing before a board and talking about swords, armor and guns, but Jorah's retained a sense of humor since their last conversation. it's the only thing they can manage to do to keep spirits high. ]

Aye. We have been able to avoid attention up until now. Perhaps we are pushing our luck with our... energetic conversation.

[ he points a finger at Sheva's hooded attire soon after, following up with a question: ]

Unless you have gained more muscle since our introduction, I do not believe the cloak is doing you many favors. Surely you are grabbing more attention than without it?

[ Daenerys has one as well, but she isn't packing shotguns and handguns. he is also ignorant to Sheva's new features as well. surprise, surprise. ]

[Well at least they're absolutely ready to partake in a game of Scrabble, or maybe even complete a crossword. ]

I've had better experiences. [She admits, a bit of apology in her voice as to the earlier harshness of her tone. It's not directed at either of them, but she's not looking to offend her renfaire friends.] But, I've had worse too. I don't intend to go down without a fight.

[The mention of 'Ser Jorah' earns an amused glance towards the knight, but it's not unkind.]

Good call. [She glances back to Dany, assuming she's otherwise in charge of the situation.] But what if I told you there are safer locations, if you can promise not to aid the assholes encouraging the slavery and mistreatment of monsters and those who help them?

[Because firing her weapon earlier had marked her as an enemy of the system, as part of the protests. It's also taught her a few things about this place and its like minded individuals in the process. They aren't alone.

Then Jorah points out her cloak, and her jaw sets. Glancing beyond them and cocking her head ever so slightly to listen out beyond their immediate radius, Sheva waits a few moments before reaching up to pull back her hood and reveal the very feline, very monstrous features. Her eyes are more like a lion, nose longer and more feline shaped, and her ears are elongated back into a soft tip. There's a fine sheen of fuzz on her ears that fades when it reaches her face. Then there's the sharpness of the teeth that peek out when she speaks. Aside from slightly longer nails, the rest of her seems unchanged.

It's not so unbecoming on her, what with her skin tone and already hazel eyes, but it's clear she's not comfortable with the fact that she's a monster.]

You tell me if it's doing me any favors.

[ Her nose scrunches up at Jorah's words, more impish than she knew him to be – but it was hard to tell if it was intentional. She isn't quite as amused as Jorah, but there is a small smile she cracks soon after.

Three people stuffed into a stable stall could garner attention on a normal day, but when their foreign tongues settle – it was actually normal? The stalls nearby housed multiple monsters, resting their bones 3 or 4 to a stall. At least she is thankful for the added company if they do raise suspicion. ]

Then we count it as a blessing. [ None of them hurt, she means. The woman stands taller, hands clasped in front of her as she speaks cautiously. ] Safer..? Are people sheltering us in the dream?

[ She narrows the focus, not to the monsters already so content with their chains and collars. Daenerys cares about the implications of this dream, of this world – but it was hard to focus on their 'own' and the ones already living this life. Her eyes glance hopeful to Jorah, always eager to seek his council on if trusting others could benefit her. They've gone through this road many times – but perhaps this will be different from Qarth and the Second Sons.

When Sheva uncloaks, her hand shoots up to clutch to her collar, keeping her own deformation hidden. It was odd – the woman she vividly remembers sharing words with was there, but her face sought out more like a creature – a cat, she believes? Perhaps something else.

She remains silent, not wanting to offend. ]

[ don't give him that look, Lady Sheva. you're one of them now. wear that title with pride. among other things, apparently, but that'll be a little bit later. ]

I cannot see a benefit to us encouraging or helping them. We are—

[ Jorah stops himself from continuing, not wanting to presume his queen's consent regarding their mutually accepted condition. regardless, the two of them could be as human as they were in Westeros and they would still find many problems with the injustices this city suffers. as problematic as Aefenglom was for their plans back home, they at least promoted ideals that Dany pursued herself. this place was far too similar to Meereen. it takes everything to restrain the Targaryen from trying to sit it ablaze.

as Sheva goes to pull the hood off, the look of surprise on his face is as apparent as the new features that grace her own. he tries to avoid making it too apparent when his eyes glance over towards Dany, noticing how quick she was to hide her own transitioning features. Jorah is even more grateful of biting his tongue when he did; if there's anyone that will bring her secret to the grave, it is him. his own changes have been subtle enough that he doesn't even have to be concerned with hiding anything, so he merely offers Sheva a sympathetic look. ]

I retract my statement and apologize. Your changes... they appear to have happened quickly. Is that the dream's doing or have you been like that— [ he wishes he could word it as if it didn't sound like she had a disease, and the wince shows as such: ] —for a while now?

A shared dream, it seems. [That much she's gathered at this point. The fact that they aren't alone is why Sheva eases her voice into a lower volume, and as soft as she can manage with the rough emotion in her voice.]

There's an underground railroad of sorts. [She pauses, realizing that neither will likely pick up that reference.] There are those working against the system. They're local, organized, and well hidden.

[At Dany's reaction, Sheva doesn't shy her gaze away, almost staring the woman down after her attention briefly shifts to Jorah, not with any sort of aggression towards the breaker of chains, but with the goal of not hiding the truth of her situation, of their situation. The reactionary motion to her collar speaks volumes, as does Jorah's hesitation.

Her ears shift a bit as she listens to their surroundings, beyond their little stable of monsters. It's all still a lot to process, even down to the amount of information she's receiving from some of the physical changes she's experienced.]

The dream. [The BSAA agent answers simply as she replaces her hood, adjusting it just right to allow them some vision of her face while protecting her from prying eyes outside of them.] I was here, and I had them... I've been avoiding reflective surfaces. [There's no effort to hide her bitterness on the matter.]

[Compared to most, Ozymandias' observation of the goings-on in this world has been exactly that: observation. It is not as though he is blind to what is happening so much as he does not feel compelled to become involved when it does not concern those he has come to know. Regardless of how terrible, cruel, and cold this world may be, it is but a world of a dream. He can only truly recognize the suffering of the other mirrorbound to be a true and real experience. The rest... Well, he will see and learn more, he feels, to not allow any sense of undue emotion to cloud his judgment.]

[But that is not to be a mentality shared by all. Especially not those unaccustomed to these dreams. Hence why Ozymandias is not particularly surprised to hear a familiar voice sounding so incensed and impassioned.]

[Although he does not recognize the second voice, he decides to follow the sound of the harsh, angry tones until he happens upon them. Though he glances in the direction of the man she's speaking to, Ozymandias' attention shifts quickly to Daenerys for the moment.]

I am relieved to see that you are still yourself, Daenerys, but I worry if this spat continues at its current volume, someone else will come looking for you and your companion.

[ Figures that Dany's first rodeo in dream-world sharing was this. It pulls from dark places she hoped to shed light upon. It fans the flames of vengeance, for seeking justice as it was the sustenance to keep her going another day. There is truth in dreams — even if it is small. Eren called them omens, Dany calls them possibilities.

She's fired up, on a high of uncertainty and anger. Jorah takes the brunt of it, bless his heart. Her words were cut short when someone interrupts — someone she has conflicted feelings on.

Dany's form stands up, straight and tall instead of the slumped girl taking shelter in the hay. ]

Ozymandias. [ A respectful, nod of his head. She realizes with his words that they were getting rather loud... The safety of their own language not hiding their distaste. ] I — I am thankful it was simply you, then.

[ Her eyes look to Jorah, nodding towards him. ]

King Ozymandias — [ It was mostly for Jorah's implication. So he can know why Daenerys acts more formal now. Whether it is out of respect of her own desire to act Queenly. ] — Ser Jorah Mormont, a member of my Queensguard. I selfishly have found someone from my home world shortly after we parted ways.

[ he accepts the role of punching bag with as much honor as expected of someone like him. that doesn't stop him from rooting his feet to the ground in an attempt to make Daenerys see clearly. prior to his departure of Meereen, he had made note that his queen was beginning to grow more and more emboldened to act on emotions. her emotions, not of others. Jorah wasn't there to see the fallout aside from the assassination attempt, and that in itself was enough. there would be none of that here.

Jorah is mid-speak when Ozymandias makes his appearance, Daenerys' sudden straightened, formal posture enough to make his muscle memory move to do the same. his brows furrow in the other man's direction, scrutinizing him before the words king even rolled off of his queen's tongue. ]

Your grace.

[ a courteous bow is given, not believing for a moment that the royal title is of question. if Daenerys is of the understanding that he is one, then so shall he. ]

A king and queen in a stable. Not the normal locale for either of you, I would imagine.

[When Daenerys directs his attention towards Jorah, Ozymandias studies him a moment. It's obvious that Jorah is older than his queen and Ozymandias' apparent age, which Ozymandias deems to be a good thing for Daenerys to have at her side as age is often a marker of both experience and wisdom. Ozymandias feels it is likely the former is true of Jorah given his place as a personal guard for Daenerys. No doubt, it seems, he has proven his worth countless times on the battlefield. As for wisdom, Jorah appears to possess some based on the heated exchange between the two of them, knowing well enough not to cave to his queen's heated emotions while knowing his place to weather them all the same.]

[But if a soldier's wisdom is the beginning and end of Jorah's is unknown. For now.]

Far from it, Ser Jorah, [Ozymandias admits with a laugh.] What is it that brought the two of you here?

[He looks between both Daenerys and Jorah now, the question being truly posed for the both of them rather than Daenerys alone.]

[ It was awkward for her. Out of respect to the stranger who had still shown her kindness, she does not question his status as King. It would be bold of her to demand only she can be called such regal titles — especially when their worlds were all far and different from one another.

Daenerys does not fall in line like a subject, she stands tall as Ozymandias' equal and proud as a Westerosi Knight. ]

...We are unable to find refuge elsewhere. The boarding homes we've come across encourage bonded pairs or Witches. We are neither.

[ It was an unfortunate truth and both of them can see the bitterness in her eyes. ]

Ser Jorah found this place, which I am thankful for. It is something.

[ Jorah is but a humble man, so he accepts any scrutiny that may come from foreign eyes. it has happened in the past, it'll continue to happen now. most would likely assume he is past his prime and not worthy of being Daenerys' direct adviser, let alone the one thing that can separate her from encountering harm. the look on Ozymandias' face is noticed, but he doesn't respond with provocation, arrogance or offense. he stands tall, body motionless with hands tucked firmly behind his back. ]

Something is correct, though I do not want for us to remain here any longer than we must. Hence our, ah, spirited conversation.

[ he won't divulge much on said specifics without his queen's permission, and moves his attention to her as if wondering how much she is looking or willing to discuss with her fellow king regnant. ]

I take it from my queen's words and your lack of exotic features that you must be a Witch. Perhaps you will not mind my asking, but have you been able to learn more of what is going on here as a result?

[Daenerys' explanation makes sense. From what Ozymandias has observed, even if a Monster were to act independently, it would be with the permission or command of a Witch; thus, calling into question just how independent of an action that really was. He glances again at the surroundings, and the description of it as being something certainly seems apt.]

[His gaze returns to Jorah when he speaks.]

They do not treat me as unkindly as I am sure they have treated either one of you, but they still regard me with suspicion. It's obvious to them that I am not a native to this city, and they care little for anyone who does openly not share or practice their beliefs.

[He pauses a moment.]

Unsurprisingly, the Coven here keeps their secrets closely guarded even from a Witch.

[ From palaces to fortresses to stables suitable for mares – Daenerys thought apartments were bad at first, but now this seems to be quite low on her list. It is hard not to be judgmental, but she pushes it aside in favor for safety. Jorah would never let her live it down if she spoke otherwise – she did survive the Red Waste after all.

Her hand lifts up, a nervous bite to her thumb as she realizes it was all of the mirrorbound treated with suspicion or the same hatred. Ozymandias was social enough from their brief encounter to not raise any suspicions on her end. Yet, here he is having complications. Interesting. ]

Do they wish to know more about you, where you come from if not their city? [ Ozy did catch her attention with that line, though. Shutting people out for being different surely does raise a question – that they understand their way of life is not common to others, even Witches. Her gaze lifts to Jorah. ] So our very own Witches can not do much... I am at a loss of what we can do except wait until our eyes open and we awaken from this nightmare hopefully without collars bound to our necks.

[ It's so clear how the words fall from her mouth, venomous and bitter. ]

[ Jorah rather enjoyed the apartments! perhaps he enjoys any set of four walls so long as they didn't contain less than five feet of walking space at this point and isn't a proper judge. stowing a queen away in a stable is a less than ideal approach to acting on her behalf, however, and disappointment is clearly shown on his face as he restlessly scratches at the scruff of thick facial hair hugging his jawline. ]

I see. [ he looks down at his pointed fingernails momentarily before tucking his hands behind his back again to keep them hidden from view. Jorah had thought his changes were at the very least subtle, but it's growing apparent that he doesn't fit the description of a Witch. ] Being helpless and confined at our own choosing is not how I would like to spend the rest of our time here, however long that may be.

[ there's a pause of his own as he considers something, glancing at Ozymandias for a few seconds before lingering his eyes on that of Daenerys. he chews on the inside of his cheek before speaking. ]

Perhaps I can go find somewhere better. Leave you in the care of your friend if he does not mind. I would much rather continue our argument somewhere more private.

[Ozymandias looks over to Jorah for a moment.]

I mean no offense, but it seems unlikely you will manage better without a Witch involved. [While true that Ozymandias has heard whispers and observed signs of a form of resistance, he cannot imagine such a movement to have even modest accommodations, let alone one befitting a Queen and her guard. To those participating, he imagines, that it's a small price to pay in the face of their goals. For some, it may not even truly be all that different from what they've been accustomed to depending on the Witch that lay claim to them.] That is, of course, assuming that you are not caught and added to the auction block. I cannot imagine the natives of this city reacting well to you wandering about the city let alone seeking better shelter than this.

[However, he is not Jorah's sovereign.]

Daenerys, the decision is yours.

[He looks to her.]

If it is a risk you would desire for him to take, I would lend him some of my magic to disguise his appearance enough that he might pass visibly as a Witch. It wouldn't allow for him to more easily resist a command or prevent a Witch from detecting the spell, but if he's careful or, at the very least, able to resist without drawing attention to himself, a glamour should reduce some of the risk.

But I advise against it, [he says with a small shake of his head, earrings swaying with the motion.] There are some things worth such risk. This simply isn't one of them. Unless an opportunity presents itself, I believe both of you are better off making do with this.

[He doesn't imagine that's likely what either one of them wants to hear. Jorah is no doubt quite sincere in his offer to seek something better for her (perhaps even for himself, but that's difficult to judge at this juncture), and Daenerys likely has little tolerance for any of this. She's already clearly and justifiably agitated with the situation as it is. But simply not wanting to hear something is not reason enough for it to never be said. Though a Queen staying in a stable like this is is an indignity, it is a better indignity than some of the alternatives and certainly greater than the potential loss.]

[ For the most part, she remains silently. Weighing the benefits of allowing Jorah to do what he does best – gather information for her. This was far from the first time he's left her in an unknown city to tend to his own matters, fortunately betrayal was not on the menu any longer.

If the stables were all they could find in a haste, she fears there is nothing else unless they fall victim to collars or make friends with the wrong people.

Ozymandias' words do hold true, far blunter than she is use to. They were wise for the moment, enough to tell her what she would need to hear. Weighing the benefits, weighing the risk – she speaks firmly: ]

No. Ser Jorah, you are to remain by my side. I will not have you at risk, even under the guise of illusion, being placed in chains. I appreciate the offer, Ozymandias – but I do not believe we can sacrifice her own anonymity at the moment. You are correct.

[ He talks her down and she commands her knight without regret. ]

We are to remain here, safe. Until this dream takes us back to the waking world.

[ She feels like a fool for being so bothered, like a child frustrated it rained so she could not go outside to play. It seems so simple, so easy to accept but it pains her. Maybe in a way neither man can feel.

Her posture stiffens and she looks to them both. ]

Were there other Witches curious of the noise in this stable...?

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oh and clearly hiccup > dany > jorah for order in the thread

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