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"I was once here years ago, Your Grace."
Daenerys Stormborn turned at her title. She stood on the top floor of the Stone Drum in Dragonstone, a room that housed her relative's, Aegon the Conqueror, Painted Table. This wasn't just any table, but one carved and painted to look like a detailed map of Westeros. This was the exact room that Aegon planned his siege on Westeros, and Daenerys was doing the exact same, in the same room.
Melisandre, the Red Priestess, clasped her hands in front of her, striding over to the Painted Table in quick movements. "And it was here," she continued, "that I stood with the false king, Stannis Baratheon. Things did not turn out as planned with him, but that's only because he didn't listen to me often."
Daenerys didn't know how she felt about this Red Priestess, who had seemingly just showed up at her doors, demanding for refuge. Daenerys was free to help anyone who needed it, but this woman was odd. She had made claims and prophecies of people before, so why should Daenerys believe her now?
"So you're saying I should listen to you often," Daenerys replied, "if I allow you on my council."
"As you should, Your Grace. I have a wide array of knowledge to offer, for the time I am here. I won't be around long."
Daenerys lifted a hand. "Let's take things in stride. We first need to hear from the King in the North, and his Lady housed there beside him."
Melisandre nodded her head, following the Dragon Queen to the table and sat down beside her. Daenerys tapped her fingers against the wood of the table before beginning to circle her fingers through the carved edges. Melisandre watched these movements carefully, and said, "I believe both will answer. It's part of the prophecy."
"The Lord of Light doesn't have many followers in Westeros. Why was I chosen to part in a prophecy I wasn't born to believe in?"
"Even those who don't worship the Lord can serve His cause," Melisandre said, a smile hinting at the corners of her cheeks. "The Long Night is coming. Only the Prince Who Was Promised can bring the dawn."
Daenerys looked up at the Red Woman. "And you're sure this prophecy of yours refers to me?"
"Well, prophecies are ... dangerous things. I believe you have a role to play." Melisandre exhaled slowly, watching Daenerys' nose wrinkle in confusion. "As do two others. The King in the North, Jon Snow, and Lady Maia of House Sanders, known as only the Traveler. I'm sure you're aware from her letter sent to you in record time."
"I am aware," Daenerys responded. "I admit I responded because I was only intrigued by her house name; I didn't believe the rest of her letter. House Sanders supported my brother in the Rebellion, and I was told they were wiped out. You could say I was curious of her existence. What do you mean to call her a Traveler?"
