A tale: Reborn in Westeros

Chapter 5

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Alex van der Meer ~ Astapor ~ Daenerys' quarters

As we returned from speaking with the masters of Astapor. We had dinner together in the room of Daenerys. Missandei is sitting awkwardly at the table while Daenerys is enjoying it. I am amused by how things are going. It's clear that Missandei is adjusting to being a free person and now she is enjoying a meal with two strangers. Daenerys and I are somewhat strangers as well, but I practically know everything about her.

"Enjoying the dinner, Missandei?" Daenerys asks. Missandei nods as she shifts uncomfortably in her chair. "Yes, Your Grace," she says softly. I chuckle. "You'll get used to being free, Missandei. Give it some time," I say comfortingly. Missandei sends me an appreciative smile. "Thank you, my lord," she says softly. "Call me Alex. I think we can say that we're friends now," I say, smiling softly. Daenerys nods in agreement while sipping from her cup.

"So, Alex, I'd like to know more about you. Tell us something about yourself," Daenerys asks while looking at me with interest. "Ehm, anything?" I ask her, giving her a questioning look. "Good point. Hmm, what do you do in your free time?" Daenerys asks, trying to help me. That does not really help. Watching movies, listening to music through my phone, or how about visiting other countries by plane? It is not something I can tell them.

"Uhm, well, I like to read books about some crazy adventure, or traveling to new lands," I say. It's hard to describe it while keeping things like electricity and machinery away. "Have you seen much of the world?" Missandei asks. "Ehm, not a whole lot, but some parts, yes. I have seen a little bit of Westeros and Essos," I answer. Missandei seems surprised. Daenerys looks intrigued, but she notices how I am struggling to keep it simple and 'realistic' as she gives me a knowing look. "I think we should ready ourselves for the night. Missandei, Irri can show you a room for the night," Daenerys says. Missandei stands up and bows towards us both before leaving the room.

"Daenerys, can I speak to you for a moment, before we go to bed?" I ask. Daenerys nods. "Of course, something about tomorrow I should be aware of?" she asks. I shake my head. "No, but there is something I have noticed about you. I hope you won't take this harshly, but it seems you have suffered deep emotional trauma," I explain.

A deep frown forms on the face of Daenerys as she looks away from me. "What are you saying. That I'm unstable or irrational?" she asks with a certain level of anger. "No, but this is serious, Daenerys. One of my friends experienced a situation that you'll never forget. Some of my colleagues have seen kids blowing themselves up or they have experienced torture. It leaves scars that do not heal easily. You must not ignore your own."

Daenerys seems quiet as she seems unable to find a response. I sigh a bit. "Look, all I am saying is that you should talk to someone about it. Does not matter with who, or how detailed. Accept what has happened and try to make peace with it. It's all I am saying," I say, trying to be a calming force. "What happened to your friend?" Daenerys asks softly.

A deep and long sigh leaves me. "He committed suicide. It's why I am telling you this. I know what you went through, Daenerys. Please think about what I said, alright?" Daenerys looks a bit troubled and conflicted. "You won't see me crying over some past trauma, Alex. It's nothing new for me," Daenerys says. "I'm trying to help, Daenerys. If you don't wish to talk about it, that's your choice. But please just think about what I said when you're calmer," I say. "You won't coax a sob story out of me, Alex. Have a good night," she says and ushered me out. I sigh deeply and leave the room. My last glimpse of Daenerys is her being lost in thought.

After my talk with Daenerys, the night flew by. The next day, Daenerys was a bit later out of her room than usual. I hope she doesn't get angry at me. Yesterday, I was being honest and tried to be there for her. I'll admit that I am not the best suited for it, but I am guessing that mental care is not yet a thing here. As I finish my morning exercise with the two men, Daenerys approaches us. It seems she did not sleep very well. I feel guilty as it's probably because of me that she did not sleep well. I should apologize when I get the chance.