Arrax and Meleys were bored with their father and respective mothers away. Naturally, that meant the two would fly over the Bone Mountains or the Elysian fields, but not this day. Having explored everything in the vicinity of their home, the two dragons decided to go on an adventure like the two children they actually were.
Through the bond they had with their mothers the two dragons made the decision to follow after them, sneakily. Or as sneakily as a multiple ton killer machine that can spew fire could be. That means not at all.
Despite that both dragons' journey was relatively peaceful, if you didn't count the many herds of sheep or other cattle they attacked to get a meal. At home that wasn't a problem, the two just had to land near and a good sized meal would be given to them by the shepherds, who knew the procedure.
While not at home Arrax and Meleys were told by their parents that they could hunt to their hearts content.
Beginning at Atlantis, both dragons flew over the Dothraki Sea, which is were they found the most playmates. Sadly, these were very fragile and couldn't play for long or as hard as the two draconian siblings wanted. On the plus side was that their new toys were edible, but did not taste as good as a fat roasted elephant, sheep or cow.
From the Dothraki Sea out the journey continued over the Forest of Qohor and Hills of Norvos, followed by Andalos, the Narrow Sea, where they hunted for fish and finally westerosi shores. Their bond guiding Arrax and his sister like a compass to their parental figures.
Finally, after a few days of travel the two dragons arrived at their destination.
Do you think father will be happy to see us? Arrax asked worriedly. He knew father loved both of them, but they had been forbidden to travel with them to Westeros for reasons the dragon didn't fully understand.
Meleys resisted the urge to roll her eyes. Of course! Why wouldn't he?! she countered, not really knowing why her brother was always so worried. He loves us and will do so even more when we surprise him! the she-dragon had it all before her mind's eye. They would arrive before all, fast as can be. Then their parents will be happy and proud that the two had found them and praise the draconian siblings. She herself would earn more praise for having thought of such a plan, obviously.
If you're sure. Arrax said, still a bit unsure about the whole thing.
This time Meleys did roll her eyes, retorting. I am! deciding that her brother could use some cheering up as they arrived at the large castle, she proposed. How about we make sure father hears us? seeing that she had her brother's attention the she-dragon explained her plan, to which he agreed.
Both dragons inhaled a huge lungful of air and roared as loudly as they could. The moment they landed Meleys was sure that nothing could go wrong.
A second after the roar was heard, silence reigned supreme. Silence's reign was cut short as noise overthrew it in a bloody coup and scattered the ashes into the four winds.
Only one word could accurately describe the state inside the Hall of a Hundred Hearths.
Chaos, with panic as a close second.
The only people not screaming in fear or running around like headless chicken were Harry's group, Oberyn, the older blond man at the table with the many blondes, the prince of the Iron Throne and the king himself, who cackled in glee.
Said man jumped out of his seat and raced towards the entrance. A feat in itself, considering the man's condition. An impossibly long beard and equally long finger-nails coupled with a gaunt body didn't make an intimidating figure. Nonetheless the man evaded all of his Kingsguard to get outside, followed closely by his son.
Harry did not see that, but was already on his way outside together with the rest of his group. The chances that this were any other dragons than their own was slim to none. Haste was made and he together with his companions were first outside, seeing Meleys together with Arrax sitting directly at the entrance.
Slitted yellow eyes focussed on them the moment they stepped out of the great hall. Long reptilian tails with spikes thumped onto the ground in excitement upon seeing their parents, followed by the two draconian figures racing towards Harry.
Screams ripped through the air as the people behind them saw two big dragons come towards them and, from the looks of things, rip into the foreign man.
From Harry's perspective it was a different story.
Father! Meleys and Arrax exclaimed happily, bouncing over to him much like cats would. Two overgrown, scaly cats that could squash a man easily.
Before Harry could say anything he was already on the ground with two over-affectionate dragons licking his face. He sputtered and it took a while for him to get them off of him. Though, when he did he saw his group was surrounded by knights armed with spears. Knights that were shaking in their boots with a grip on their weapon so loose a child could've knocked it out of their hands.
What are you two doing here? Harry asked, trying to sound stern, but the twitch of his lips and the twinkle in his eyes gave him away.
The answer he got was what he expected. We wanted to surprise you! Meleys responded, purring as Harry scratched the dragon under her chin. Harry wasn't truly mad at the two. Not that he could be mad at them for being children. Big, dangerous and scary children, but children all the same.
Well, you certainly did. Harry responded, cracking a grin. His hissing not heard over the noise made by the others.
In a way he was glad and when he felt the emotions sent to him correctly, his wives as well. The charade could stop now and they could freely admit to being Mages. After practising magic for years openly, after hiding it for so long at home, expect in combat, made to hide it again was like he was locking a part of himself away, as if he had one arm bound behind his back.
They could've hidden behind illusions easily, but Harry and the rest refused to accommodate and hide who they were now. They had done that in their old world enough. It wasn't as if these people could harm them severely with their methods, now that they were alert and ready.
Only the behaviour towards Harry's group would change to open distaste or fear, depending on the person. Though, Harry wondered why it hadn't already, but counted himself simply lucky.
Westeros was truly different from Essos in how they viewed magic. The first to encounter their magic was Davos. He took it surprisingly well, but Harry knew the man feared what they could do. Only his sense of duty and right kept Davos from fleeing.
Then there was Ros, who still couldn't be comfortable around them and just stayed because she literally had nowhere else to go. Maybe also a little fear mixed in.
Oberyn was a different case altogether, but he had admitted to having practised some magic or at least tried it together with Marwyn. So, the dornishman really did not count. Ellaria simply followed Oberyn's lead.
Then there were Arthur and Ashara Dayne together with Lewyn and Elia Martell. All four had been terrified. If flight or fight would've been an option, the men would've fought and the women fled. Only the instincts to protect and being outnumbered stayed the Kingsguard's hands and prevented the two ladies from running.
The invoking of Guest right had been crucial in convincing them that their intentions were benign. Actually, Harry doubted that the knights trusted them even after that and would've refused, if not for the danger their charges had been in. Now, the law at least kept them from attacking as long as Harry and his group stayed peaceful, which he had every intention of doing.
Guest Right was also what he counted on right now. By the laws of the gods his group was protected. Anyone going against that would be as bad as a kinslayer, if not worse. Harry could be an oathbreaker and more and still couldn't be harmed by them, because they accepted him as a guest.
At least Harry hoped the rumours about the Mad King were exaggerated, because even a king would be hard pressed to win back his people's loyalty, if he offended the gods to such a degree and showing at the same time he couldn't be trusted in any way.
So, when Harry and his eight companions were surrounded by spears and swords the last Potter said, after he stood up. "Is that really how you people treat guests, who ate and drank beneath your roof?" his voice was clear and loud due to the application of a weak sonorous charm.
The atmosphere was tense with his group ready to fight and obliterate any opposition, while said opposition was busy gathering their wits. A shrill voice came from the masses, shouting. "I demand you let me go at once!" followed by "Out of the way, peasants!"
From the throng of people parting like the Red Sea the mad king Aerys emerged with Rhaegar and a very reluctant and wary Kingsguard in tow. The king seemed entranced by the dragons, with his son not much better, despite concealing it to a degree.
After a good thirty seconds of staring Rhaegar broke his gaze off from the beasts and upon the peculiar group standing before the two magnificent dragons. Remembering his manners, he walked towards them with Arthur in tow. Knowing his father won't do so at the moment. "I didn't know we had guests from Essos visiting the festivities." it was obvious they weren't westerosi from the clothes alone, if not for that then the features were a dead giveaway. Rhaegar didn't know from which part of Essos they came, but it definitely was far east, maybe Asshai.
Now that Harry got a good look at the prince he could say that the man was indeed handsome, but he also seemed, dreamy? Behind the sadness in his eyes there was something that reminded Harry of a quirky Ravenclaw he had met and talked to a little in Hogwarts. "Indeed, Prince Rhaegar. My group and I just wanted to spend a nice vacation and experience the typical westerosi tourney." Harry commented as casually as he could.
"I am sorry, but you have me at a disadvantage. You know my name, while I do not know yours or the ones of your companions." the prince said with a raised brow and curiosity in his eyes.
Still not relaxing Harry retorted. "We would gladly give them, but first I would like your men to lower their weapons or does guest right mean nothing here?" a challenge clear in Harry's unique eyes, daring the prince to deny them. Should Rhaegar do such, then... well, the Iron Throne would need a new prince.
The prince nodded and said loudly and clearly. "Lower your weapons, these are our guests at this occasion!" One by one the weapons were lowered and Harry even heard one or two sighs of relief. Clearly not wanting to fight dragons and lose their lives in the process.
Apparently the king wasn't as far gone as it seemed as he screamed the same when it was already done. "Lower your weapons or I'll have your heads on pikes." as soon as the anger came it vanished when the unhinged man's gaze fell on Harry's group, replaced with a friendly smile or as friendly as it could get on such a face. "I apologize for their rudeness, my friends. Not everyone is prepared to face the magnificence of dragons."
Did Harry just imagine things or had the king a raging boner by seeing Arrax and Meleys? "No problem." Harry waved it off, trying to ease the tension. "It was partly my fault for not keeping a closer eye on the dragons." one look at the two in question had them trying to look innocent. A strained smile was now on Harry's face as he looked at Aerys. "However, I think that they would appreciate a meal in form of cattle or similar." at least the two dragons would get a free meal out of it if Harry read the man before him correctly.
The way the king's eyes lit up with unholy glee coupled with madness did nothing to reassure Harry of the man's mental state. "Of course! Of course!" the good mood evaporated instantly and was replaced by a snarling beast as Aerys called for someone to bring food for the dragons, who watched the proceedings with interest.
The change in demeanour came again the moment both dragons had a few cows to eat, with the king friendly once more. "I am sure you know who I am, but I would like to know with whom I have the pleasure of talking to." while he said that the king observed how the dragons cooked their meal and devoured it with gusto. Most people looked away from the spectacle, but the Targaryens did not.
"Certainly." Harry agreed and introduced himself and everyone of his companions in short order.
A moment after the last Potter finished Rhaegar proposed. "Mayhaps we should relocate this inside for a more comfortable setting."
Aerys concurred, despite looking like he wanted to disagree with his son no matter what. "Excellent idea, lets go inside and may the feast continue!" that was all that was needed to get most people moving away from the dragons, who played a bit with their food and enjoyed the ministrations of their mothers.
Harry followed together with the rest, except Melisandre and Kinvara, who stayed with the dragons. He also gave them instructions for Arrax and Meleys to not eat anyone or destroy anything. As well as giving the terrified boy, who procured the cattle, a few gold coins for his troubles. It took only a few minutes to be on the galleries from where the prince led them to the place reserved for the royal family and guests. Harry doubted anyone would try to harm the dragons. If just to avoid the king's wrath, but to have the two priestesses there would dissuade such even more.
Arriving at the table to sit down were Aerys, Rhaegar and Harry's group. Elia still sat, while the Kingsguard stood around the table. Like a child on a sugar high the king invited. "Please, sit, sit." once everyone did just that Aerys asked. "Anything special you desire? Say the word and it shall be yours." These people were a chance for his family to regain their lost advantage, dragons. Nothing wouldn't be tried to persuade them to tell him how they did it.
Narcissa being more versed in Pureblood customs and navigating the minefield that is aristocracy answered first, inclining her head. "That is most kind and generous of you. However, and i apologize if i sound rude, we simply want to enjoy a typical westerosi tourney, so we do not require nor desire special treatment." While her sisters had the same education as her. Narcissa was reasonably sure Bella's wasn't even present in her head any longer and Andromeda's was rusty beyond imagination. Only Marcella and maybe Gabrielle and Fleur would be any help in such matters.
Aerys immediately waved it off with a disturbing smile. "No apology needed." his demeanour changed once more from mirthful to melancholic, as if he was sad for them. "Forgive me if I sound rude, but do you ladies not have husbands?" The king was curious as to why these women seemed to still be single. Beautiful women such as them certainly wouldn't be unmarried for long. Not to mention that he could use that, maybe propose a marriage to Viserys. The features bothered him less, though only because they had dragons.
Marcella answered, knowing the man probably just wanted to marry one of them off to his second son or such. Not that he could. "We are married." it was said with a small, but smug smile. She would enjoy the looks on their faces "In fact all eight of us are in a polygamous marriage with Harry here." pointing to the man in question also brought the attention of the rest to Harry.
This time Rhaegar interjected. "Interesting, so you are of valyrian descent?!" The prince was curious as to their heritage. He was sure the group had to have valyrian heritage. Otherwise dragons would not obey them. After all, it was a known fact that dragons only bonded with people of valyrian descent, the dragonseeds involved in the Dance of Dragons proved that. Their features weren't matching at all though. Four had partly violet eyes and two silvery-gold hair. The rest was fairly mixed.
"You could say that." Harry reluctantly allowed. It was a better cover than being travellers from another world. No one, not even Melisandre and Kinvara knew from where Harry and the rest came. It was a good thing the two priestesses weren't even interested in it. Knowing that the two Targaryens wouldn't be content with such an answer, the time to conjure up a bit more bullshit was here. "But I am guessing you are referring to our features not matching the ones of a typical valyrian or people from Westeros in general."
Upon the giddy nod from Aerys and normal agreement from Rhaegar and Elia, Harry elaborated. "I guess it began with Jaenara Balaerys from the Valyrian Freehold and her travel to Sothoryos. She found more than just a land without end, as she described it, but also a civilisation deep in the green hell, isolated from the rest of the world. In her three years staying on the continent she fell in love and had children with one of the purebloods, as they called themselves. Though In the end duty called and she had to return to marry her brother, while leaving her children with the father, the Lord of House Peverell. Whose descendants had the typical silvery-blond hair and blue eyes."
Upon saying that all eyes were on Fleur and Gabrielle, who looked oddly tense for some reason. Harry chalked it up for nervousness by being near to a madman.
"Fascinating!" commented Rhaegar and inquired as his inner bookworm came out. "Although, that does not explain why you have three different sets of features or rather four, if we count you, Lord Peverell."
Harry nodded. "Indeed, but the story is also far from finished." he just so kept from chuckling at the things he made up together with some mental input from his wives here and there, expect Fleur and Gabrielle, who were oddly silent. "Next came two other visitors, who called themselves Daemon and Nettles Black." a grin formed on his face as said the next thing. "Or as you may know them Daemon Targaryen, former consort to Rhaenyra Targaryen and simply Nettles the dragonseed and lover to Daemon."
That seemed to shock them, including the Kingsguard, until Rhaegar spoke up again. "I thought that Daemon died in The Battle above the Gods Eye and Nettles wasn't seen since fleeing Westeros on Sheepstealer towards Essos after Rhaenyra commanded her death for fear of betrayal and jealousy, since she was the known lover of Daemon."
The last Potter agreed. "Correct, but Daemon's remains were never found, unlike Aemonds, who had the sword Dark Sister buried to the hilt inside his skull. The reason was that Nettles had come back to convince Daemon to flee with her, because she loved him. She found him washed ashore at the Gods Eye, heavily wounded but alive. Both fled to Essos after Daemon had recuperated and the Blacks had lost the Dance of Dragons shortly before that." It was possible. Daemon's body was never found and Nettles was never seen again together with her dragon. Both dead people couldn't claim otherwise.
Harry sipped a bit at the goblet of wine to moisten his throat a bit. "Anyway, both Daemon and Nettles knew they would be seen as traitors and most likely executed on sight. A large dragon wasn't helping them to hide or blend in." an amused grin was on his lips, causing Rhaegar to chuckle. Aerys was strangely silent and Elia seemed content to listen, hoping to not draw attention from these dangerous people. "Instead of staying in Essos the duo choose Sothoryos as their destination. No one would look for them there. The continent did not frighten them like it did most others with both being fearless and yearning for the thrill of battle and adventure." Harry thought he gave an acute description of both historical figures. He was now glad to have read that book about Targaryen and Valyrian history a few years back in the citadel.
Another sip of his drink and Harry continued. "After a few months they too found our commune and settled down or rather were forced to, because Sheepstealer was attacked by a horde of Wyverns and died, so they had no other way out of the green hell. They took the family name of Black in honour for the faction they fought for in the Dance of Dragons." Daemon and Nettles having fought for the so called blacks was a nice coincidence. "Their descendants usually had black hair and purple eyes."
This time no one interrupted, being much too enthralled by the made up tale. "Melisandre and Kinvara weren't born into any of our prominent families, but orignate from Essos. Though both had fiery red hair and red eyes from birth."
Aerys was still silent, together with Elia, who just listened intently. Only Rhaegar seemed completely invested in the conversation. "And what of the family you belong to?" it was exciting to learn new things. That these were also new insights into his own family's history was even better. Maesters have long since debated if Daemon had lived or not and here was proof that he did.
Harry noticed the change in the prince and thought he maybe judged the guy too early. It seemed that when Rhaegar learned the sadness left his eyes, replaced by a joyful shine in his purple orbs. As if he was a scholar at heart and did not want to be a prince or warrior, found it a burden, but did it because he had to. "Well, I was known as Lord Potter, also a native family."
"You took the name of Peverell from one of your wives instead of the other way around?" Elia asked, for the first time participating in the conversation. Though she seemed to shrink in on herself as Aerys shot her a look.
Harry shook his head. "No, we just travelled under the name of Peverell as a precaution." to give them a better understanding Harry told the three of the war and general situation. How he was the last male with blood from Potter, Black, Peverell and took the remaining women as his wives in accordance with valyrian customs, including Kinvara and Melisandre. He also told them that the destruction of their land was the reason for leaving and how the mixing of their blood caused them to look like they did today.
"Fascinating!" Rhaegar said once more. "Do all people of your homeland have slitted pupils and black sclera? And if so, how did Queen Kinvara and Melisandre acquire these traits, hailing from Essos as they do?" the prince inquired curiously.
Narcissa answered him. "Yes." it wasn't as if anyone would venture into the green hell to prove them wrong. No one without magic or dragons went in there and lived. "You see, in the jungle the canopy of the trees is so thick no sunlight penetrates it. Our people adapted to the conditions, letting our eyes see in the darkness as good as in the light of day, much like a cats. Melisandre and Kinvara got these traits once we incorporated them into the family with a specific ritual."
What they told here wasn't even completely out there. In this world there were the Ibbenese, brindled men, Lengii, shadow men and others. All with features not normally found in humans, like extreme growth of hair on the body, golden eyes or white and brown brindled skin. People from the Isle of Toads even had webbed hands and feet with unpleasant fishlike heads. Inhabitants of the Thousand Islands had green-tinged skin and hairless bodies. They even were recorded by a Westerosi sailor named Corlys Velaryon, also another prominent figure in the Dance of Dragons.
People with fangs and unique hair and eyes weren't so far fetched in such a context. Though, why there were so many different 'races' Narcissa didn't know, but resolved to find out sometime in the future.
Just then Aerys broke his long silence. "Aha, so you are these Blacks!" the exclamation was said as if finding out a great secret. A big, demented grin on the king's face.
"Pardon? Which ones would that be?" Andromeda asked tensely, but also a bit relieved that the prince was prevented from questioning further.
She had hoped that this tourney would be a quiet affair. In hindsight to not use glamours had been stupid of them, however she agreed with Harry on the subject. Hiding their magic was a futile effort. If it came out now or later did not make that much of a difference. Though she cursed herself for letting her anger getting the better of her today. At least poison and assassins were frowned upon here and direct assaults were easy to foil.
The king's face contorted into fury, but it quickly changed to friendly again. Just now remembering who sat before him. A chance for his dynasty to regain dragons. "The ones that were responsible for conquering slaver's bay and most of its surrounding lands." His spymaster, Varys, had told him as much, but not that they had dragons. Aerys would've to see what the eunuch had to say about his failure to get these important facts.
"Truly, that was you?" Elia half-asked and half-stated. She had simply told the rest at her previous table what Oberyn had told her beforehand. She had simply assumed he was joking to get some of his newly acquired friends inside. That was soon discounted the moment she had seen for herself what they were capable off. Now that she wasn't the focus of their anger Elia found them interesting and intriguing. A hundred percent improvement on most ladies at court, who could only gossip, sit still and look good. Not that Elia was required to do anything else. Well, that and birth children. She winced a little at that thought.
Acting surprised Harry said. "Oh? So, you heard of us. Word travels faster than I expected."
Aerys nodded and asked eagerly. "Indeed. Is it true that you defeated the Golden Company?"
Wondering why the mad king wanted to know that kind of information, Harry responded. "Yes, they unfortunately had been employed by the enemy. We did not leave any survivors."
The Mad King's laughter echoed through the hall shortly after, with the man gleefully proclaiming. "Good riddance! Finally those bastard supporters got what they deserved." a bit more laughter came, followed by giggling. "You have my gratitude for that alone!"
Harry understood then. The Golden Company had been founded by Aegor Rivers one of the Great Bastards of Aegon IV Targaryen and half-brother of Daemon Blackfyre, the first Blackfyre. Since day one the mercenary company had supported the claims of the Blackfyre pretenders. Like a few decades earlier in the fifth and Blackfyre rebellion, in which Aerys Targaryen also fought.
From then on the conversation was muted until it was time to retire for the night. Despite the king wanting them to sleep in quarters inside the castle, Harry and his group declined, citing not wanting to be a bother.
The moon was up and shining in half his glory as Harry's group went back to their tent. Harry supposed Melisandre and Kinvara were back already and was proven correct when he saw Arrax and Meleys sleeping near the tent on a large patch of unoccupied grass. Their bodies generating such heat in the cold of night as to literally steam.
Once he entered the tent he saw Fleur and Gabrielle's shoulders slump visibly. Harry couldn't stop himself any longer. "What is up with you two? Since the beginning of the feast you haven't said much if any at all."
Both tried to look as if nothing was wrong, saying as much. "Nothing! We are fine, just tired." Gabrielle insisted, which wasn't convincing because of her exhausted appearance despite not having done anything strenuous today.
Harry's flat look showed him unconvinced, sighing he said with a bit of mirth. "That is my line." followed gently by "Besides I can see your exhaustion quite good. So, please tell me what is it that has you in such a state."
That shattered their resolve. Both couldn't keep it to themselves when these soulful eyes were looking at them with such warm and honest concern. Tired sighs escaped their mouths and both sat down at the table. Fleur began. "We just wanted to give you the holiday you wanted." upon his confused expression she elaborated. "Surely, you must've seen the differences between Essos and Westeros by now."
"Yes." Harry answered, still confused by where this was going.
Gabrielle picked up, while Fleur summoned a glass and filled it with water. "Well, we sort of... kind of... used our Allure to befuddle and confound people around us." As full Veela it was possible to adjust their Allure to do other things than attract, though she had hoped not to get caught doing it. She knew how much Harry liked to have a normal holiday. However it was fact he would never have such, just like he himself would never be normal. His birth as a magical alone made that impossible.
Utterly lost Harry asked. "Why?" what the last Potter not expected was to be laughed at. With a raised brow he inquired. "Care to tell what is so funny about that." the laughter wasn't mocking or such, but amused as if he had said something funny.
"Nothing," Andromeda commented as she got her giggles under control. "I just forgot that you weren't raised in the magical, aristocratic, pureblood society like you should have and never learned the dos and don'ts of it."
She had held Dumbledore responsible for it. He had been responsible for that insult called education at Hogwarts. Potions, Divination and History of Magic aside, not once was the magical viewpoint or traditions shown, but muggle studies existed. Useless as it was it at least existed. No such thing was there for pureblood customs. Books on it were stuffed into the restricted section for whatever reason. Not all of those had been horrible or outdated, some were even extremely vital, but were forced into obscurity by oblivious muggleborn. With constant influx from the muggle world the magical one adapted muggle customs like Christmas and Easter over time and ingnored their old "barbaric" customs and forgot their roots.
Voldemort wouldn't have had half the following if not for Dumbledore. The old goat had done single-handedly more to hinder his own efforts and rally the purebloods behind a single leader than anyone else. He had been the one to talk about heavy reforms in favour of muggleborn. It was only talk as she knew now, but that was enough to get most Purebloods against him.
Though, Dumbledore also had failed Harry personally by not teaching Harry his responsibilities. Andromeda also knew the man had used the clout of House Potter to further his own goals, citing acting in Harry's stead. Just like he had done for her own House after Sirius had been imprisoned. That were but a few of the reasons she had killed him besides his general incompetence in handling his positions and leading impressionable Nymphadora to her death.
Andy came out of her musings, which showed that she was indeed older than she looked, to hear Narcissa explain. "I first thought it was some kind of mistake on my part, but the use of their Allure explains it." she said inclining her head towards the Veela. The modified Allure would let people still see them, but the perception wasn't concentrated on their features. The victim would only remember having seen beautiful women, as long as he or she wasn't a trained magical or possessed considerable willpower. Eddard Stark and the man she had rescued from the three squires seemed to be the only cases of such. Together with Oberyn and Ellaria, but those two already knew their group.
However they still would've been confounded to a degree, as evident in the fact that Oberyn whipped out poisons at a feast upon them just asking for it.
Still a bit confused Harry repeated "What?" growing a bit annoyed by being out of the loop.
So Narcissa elaborated. "Well, our looks alone should've been enough to cause them to distrust us on sight." when Harry still not understood she said. "Harry, we are in a medieval kingdom full of superstitious people, which was what forced our ancestors to invent the Statue of Secrecy and go into hiding in the first place." slowly she saw a light-bulb go on over his head. "What do you think people, who treat their own countrymen with distrust, do to outsiders looking like demons in their eyes?"
The rhetorical question was left unanswered. Dornishmen, Northmen, Crannogmen and Ironborn were all viewed with some distrust in the main part of Westeros, though in the latter case it was for obvious and justified reasons. In Essos people were used to odd looking people. The Warlocks of Qarth, Ibbenese and others for example. One variant more wouldn't cause quite such a ruckus.
Gabrielle snorted and tried to glare at Melisandre and Marcella simultaneously. "Nothing good, but some people didn't make it easy for Fleur and me by talking about things like gelding, which the befuddled people believed at once!" at the beginning they could have participated in the conversation, but later it grew quickly more stressful and exhausting. It wasn't even a normal Confundus, but much more subtle, affecting even Harry and the rest to a degree through the bond.
Marcella scoffed and crossed her arms. "Don't act all high and mighty, birdy. I wasn't the one to attack the guards of the princess!" an imperious flick of her hair later she continued. "Besides it would serve to keep men away from us, when they believe the gossip of us gelding them by annoying us."
Melisandre had her own opinion about that. "I agree, these lowly insects should know their place in comparison to Harry!" she said passionately with Kinvara nodding, both looking at him in worship.
Narcissa rolled her eyes, ignoring the bickering women. "Anyway, that we are foreigners does not help matters." she had seen how foreigners were treated. Some like exhibits in a zoo others with contempt, depending on where they came from or how they looked. "Another thing is our, for their standards, scandalous state of dress." pointing to the revealing dresses of Fleur and Gabrielle in particular and their own as well. Showing so much leg or cleavage was frowned upon, not that Narcissa cared anymore what others thought of her. "Normally we wouldn't have been allowed close to these nobles like this, even with Oberyn's invitation. It would've been an insult towards the other noble ladies." much like Ellaria's presence, though she too had been able to stay because of the Veela's effect. Typically they together with the paramour would've been seen as whores by the noble ladies, as evident by the little girl who had called them such.
Just because it was accepted back home for powerful wizards to have multiple wives didn't mean it wouldn't create socially awkward situations or looked down upon by other people.
It wasn't even worth mentioning what the reaction towards Davos and Ros would've been.
Harry rubbed his forehead half-asleep and at the same time trying to pay attention. "Anything else?"
Narcissa pretended to think. "Yes, technically I and the rest of us except you spoke out of turn with the king. Women in such a society were only allowed to speak when spoken to and no one had done so to us." Elia had done so too, but she was the princess. Though, Aerys obviously didn't like the woman. Sure, Narcissa and the rest were practically royalty as well, but they were in Aerys country.
"The respect these people have towards us probably took a nosedive once they heard our army consists of only women." not that there was much respect to begin with, but still. As galling as it was, this society saw women as a possession and commodity, to be bartered away for more influence and prestige. Just like her own marriage to Lucius and Bellatrix's own to Rudolphus had been.
"Is that why the king seemed ready to explode at various points of the evening." Marcella asked. There had been a few times where she thought the man would blow up.
Shrugging Narcissa replied. "Could be, but the man is mad. A large number of things exist that could've caused his behaviour. From one of his erratic mood-swings to something imagined." that the prince not once reacted in any way towards his father's behaviour meant either he wasn't better in the head or used to it. "Anyway, only his interest in our dragons kept him from going ballistic and demanding them from us. The man is crazy, but he also knows that a dragon only ever accepts one rider, no on else. Only when the rider dies can another mount the dragon."
With her head tilted to the side Kinvara asked cutely, her eyes big and innocent "What does prevent him from trying to kill us and taking them for himself?" she had zoomed out somewhere in the evening and daydreamed about Harry, that is until her baby Arrax arrived.
This time Andromeda rolled her eyes. "Didn't you listen?" Andy took the blank look on the priestess' face as a no. "Harry invoked guest right. We are protected as long as we are under the host's roof and do not kill or harm anyone." a look towards Melisandre and Bellatrix made clear whom she suspected of slipping and 'accidentally' kill someone. All the while thanking all the gods in existence that Harry still hasn't taken the two priestesses to bed with him. Sure, he saw them similar to Fleur and Gabrielle, but it didn't mean he would treat them the same. Not when she, Narcissa and to some degree Marcella were against it.
Groaning Harry asked. "Ok, could you tell me which social conventions we didn't break?" that should've been a vacation and not a political and social nightmare.
Tapping her chin in mock-thought Fleur replied with a teasing grin on her lips and a twinkle in her eyes. "Well, if you wanna get technical none, except guest right." at his shocked look she explained. "I guess marriage makes the husband kin, so Narcissa and Marcella are kinslayers. Andromeda for all intents and purposes commited regicide by killing Dumbledore. By killing the husband Narcissa and Marcella also are technically Oathbreakers. Bellatrix would've been charged with supporting a usurper."
A sigh and gulp from her glass later she said. "Though, the biggest concern I have is that I don't know how these people will react to our magic."
"What do you predict?" Harry asked all of them "I mean a few already know, but if it comes out it comes out. I doubt that having dragons would be trumped by possessing magic." at least Harry dearly hoped so.
Gabrielle spoke first. "Well, I think the peasants certainly won't like it! However, prosecution with pitchforks and torches is out of the question. Guest Right protects us as Andy said. As for the nobles, well, I have no idea how these will react. Most should be better educated, but fear does funny things to people."
At this point Bellatrix interjected for the first time. "Bah, they are just filthy muggles that don't have the same weapons as the ones back home. With our prowess and dragons we could easily attack and extinguish a number of noble houses, making this continent ready for conquest!"
Her passionate proposal was only met with success by Melisandre and Kinvara. The rest looked at the oldest Black knowingly, but just shook their heads.
Harry spoke. "That may be true, but we have enough things to do at home. We certainly don't need more by starting a war we can't finish. Besides, it is like Gabrielle said, the peasants won't like us overly much. Attempting to rule over people who loath you isn't advisable." not to mention The Faith and lords that could make trouble. By burning half of Westeros' nobility they wouldn't endear themselves to said people.
Another sigh escaped him, shoulders slumped. "Should we just leave in the night? I mean this was meant as a holiday and now it seems to evolve into anything but that." Harry muttered under his breath "Dammit!" What other mistakes had he made by assuming people thought like him, from his own perspective? Harry just hoped nothing too severe. He had a modern view on most things and simply thought the rest would look at it the same way, a foolish thing to do.
"I wouldn't worry too much, Harry." Marcella said, trying to lift his spirits. "At the moment we are protected by guest right and have the king's favour. It would be a foolish thing to attack us openly."
Harry pinched the bridge of his nose. "Ok, we stay as long as these people don't do anything too drastic." he stood up and made his way to bed, followed by the rest. Expect Melisandre and Kinvara, who had their own quarters inside the tent.
Just before leaving the room the communication mirror vibrated in his pocket. A sigh later he had it out of his pocket and active. "Yes?" he tried and failed to keep the irritation out of his voice.
"Sorry, master, but I have some news for you." Abha said, looking a bit sheepish in the mirror.
Trying to be diplomatic Harry asked. "Is it important or can it wait until tomorrow? I was just about to go to bed." ignoring the woman calling him master with practised ease.
Now the captain of the city guard was confused. She looked out of a window nearby and commented. "That must've been a strenuous day if you are this tired in the middle of the day and I think it can wait."
Harry just chuckled. "Well, where I am it is night time." when Abha looked still confused he took up his Astrology knowledge and said. "You see the planet we live on is rotating and you are on a point of it that faces the sun, while I am on one that does not." to demonstrate he walked out and showed her the moon and darkness.
"Oh." came the soft reply. "Then I will say them you will be ready for them in..." not knowing what to make of that new knowledge and what it meant exactly.
"Lets make it ten hours." Harry proposed to which he got a positive reply. Afterwards he made his way to bed and set his alarm clock, one of the few things from his time at Privet Drive, to wake him at the right time.
As the last Potter lay in bed he thought if he was even fit to rule. Harry would obviously deny it. He didn't even want to, but abandoning all the people dependant on him was something that made his stomach tighten into knots. They saw him as something he thought he wasn't, no, was sure he wasn't. Some saviour figure here to rescue them all. Something that was impossible, he knew because he tried. Sure he had accepted it somewhere along the line, it didn't mean Harry liked it.
"I know what you're thinking." Gabrielle whispered into his ear as she lay next to him. Her head on the left side of his chest, listening to his heartbeat.
Harry chuckled, joking to distract. "I would hope so or should I assume our connection is broken?"
The Veela hit him lightly on the arm. "Idiot." she muttered. She knew that the connection for thoughts and emotions was still there, but unused at the moment. It could be used or shut down at any time from every side. Otherwise they would've been mad by now. Not knowing which thoughts and emotions were your own would do that. "I meant you thinking yourself a bad ruler."
"Oh." Harry said softly. "It is true though, isn't it?"
Another slap followed. "Stop that!" she chided "Of course you make mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them. Besides, for someone who wasn't raised to rule you did a passable job so far." she snuggled into him. "You gave your people safety, freedom, food, work and you are working on establishing education, trade and more. You're a born leader, regardless if you want to acknowledge that fact or not."
"I still did the mistake of assuming people would see things from my perspective, which caused this whole mess we are currently in and possibly an unsuspecting number back home." Harry lamented, thinking of all the possible things he could've fucked up.
Before he could get another word in Fleur said from his other side. "They are only problems if you let them become such." laying her head on his right shoulder, while caressing his stomach. "True you may have made mistakes, but so did we as well by using our Allure like we did. Correct them as good as possible and move on."
"Yes, but now more people than just a few depend on me. I don't even know a bit on how ruling works." leader and warrior he may be, but certainly no politician.
At that point Narcissa interrupted, lying over Harry's head, encircling it with her body as good as space allowed. "I think you are a natural. You're self-sacrificing, noble, inspire loyalty and give loyalty in turn. You keep your word, never give up and I could go on but you get the idea." stroking his cheeks she said. "Basically everything a good king should be. So what if you don't know everything or that you are pants at politics. That's what you have us for! We can even teach you."
Slightly smiling Harry said. "I would like that."
Narcissa was now turning her stare to the two Veela. "I am assuming you had this modified allure of yours active the moment we arrived at The Wall?" it would explain some of their choices. Their connection probably circumvented the protection they had and affected them as well, if even only a little bit.
Both nodded sheepishly. "Oui." falling back to French in their embarrassment. Gabrielle squirmed a bit as she answered. "It is like we said. We wanted to give Harry a normal holiday, although we thought it would help to convince the Night's Watch to take our hostages as well." not that had been needed in hindsight. The poor state she had seen of that order would make them take any help they could get.
Fleur continued looking as innocent as can be. "We couldn't know that it would extent its effect to you all as well with how new these abilities are to us." going from a quarter Veela to a full one was a bigger change than originally anticipated.
"Alright." Harry said softly, tightening his grip on their waists. "Just refrain from using it any longer. I think I talk for the rest as well when I say I would like my mental faculties intact for tomorrow. Whatever it may bring." it certainly explained why Cotter Pyke gave Davos up without a fuss, well expect the bribe that is. Thinking about Davos had him thinking about Ros and how he wanted to help the woman. Harry hoped the Starks would at least listen.
Soon enough Fleur, Gabrielle, Narcissa and Harry joined the rest in the arms of Morpheus.
Beyond the Wall Brynden Rivers sat on his weirwood throne. Not that it was much of one with the roots burying themselves into his flesh and drinking his blood or what little he had left of it anyway, while also sustaining him. He thought about how nothing was in its proper place any longer. Not that the future in his visions was a happy one. It was one that told of victory, but it was a pyrrhic one, requiring untold amounts of sacrifice. Nearly not worth it, if not for the worse alternative.
His visions had changed until they vanished completely, for the time being at least. It was as if someone had pushed a giant boulder down a cliff. The rock touched others and soon enough an avalanche was formed, which fell into the sea forming a massive wave, leaving nothing the same. Brynden didn't know if that was a good or bad thing.
'Nothing is certain anymore.' the bastard thought. He knew the reason why that was so. The presence of the man responsible for it was hard to miss for people adept at magic, like himself. The moment he had felt his magic strengthen he searched for the source and found it. The man stood out like the sun on the cloudless sky. Bright, golden and warm, but could turn harsh, blinding and furiously hot when angered. Brynden knew so first hand, having spied on him in the body of a bird. He hadn't much to do expect sit here and wait anyway, which made the decision all the easier.
The great Bastard was lucky to have a few weirwood groves in the Forest of Ifeqevron north of the Dothraki Sea. The only place left in Essos to have weirwoods. From there it was a few days flight to reach the man.
From his observation Brynden knew the man was known as Harry Black née Potter. He was compassionate, powerful and idealistic. Two of those three were not suited for a king, in Brynden's opinion. Idealism nearly cost Aegon V the loyalty of his Bannermen and compassion drove Baelor to his grave. Though it had to be seen if the man could temper his urges. Brynden was hopeful that he would learn in time.
The spymaster in him wanted to gather more information, but the other part of him scoffed and asked to what end. He was trapped in this tree, which had been a gambit from the start. Living longer to teach the coming of the next greenseer, which now was uncertain to happen at all.
Contacting the man had nearly succeeded if it hadn't been for that Stark boy. A sigh escaped his old, dusty and dry lips. "Oh well there is always next time." he said to himself. If it was one thing he had then patience was it.