hadriel | video

[ The device is held by someone who is clearly still learning how to use it. The visual is bits and pieces of a young woman, one who eventually gets the camera pointed at her face... more or less. Her head is in the bottom of the view, partially cut off by the angle so that most of the image is ceiling. ]

I have now seen the arrival of new captives for myself. It has only been weeks since I was brought here, but this helps to confirm that things really are as you all say.

[ It's been hard to swallow the story that everyone tells, but a month is more than enough time to see it all in action, much as she hates to admit it. ]

I am Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, rightful heir to the Iron Throne. ... I am many other things, too, but there are no titles that carry weight in Hadriel. There is no Iron Throne, there is no war between the Great Houses. There is only the war between those beings that call themselves gods and we who are their prisoners. [ Her mouth flattens unhappily, jaw tight in clear defiance. ] I have much to say about these gods, but that is not a matter for this - message.

[ What are the little boxes called, anyway? Hopefully, it's actually sending out her words, or else she'll feel more ridiculous than she already does. ]

I am asking for the aid of someone who can fight. I am no warrior, and I don't need to be taught the skills for myself. Rather, I need a guard. This place is dangerous more often than it isn't, and not one soldier from my armies arrived at my side. [ Dany's expression softens a little: this is a request that isn't likely to have any results. ] ... I do not ask for service out of loyalty, as I am owed none from any of you. I realize, too, that there are few ways that such work could be repaid in a place like this. All the same, I'm not able to defend myself from the monsters that make their home here, and so... I must ask.

[ Nothing comes without a price, which makes this difficult, given that she has nothing to pay with. ]

I have no confidence in my ability to speak on this device, so if you are near the center of the city, in the middle of the houses and shops, you can find me nearby. ... You have my thanks.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

I worry that the time it would take for me to become anywhere near able to defend myself - well, that it will be too late.

[ Training like that doesn't happen in a day, after all. ]

I am not opposed to learning, but I would feel better having someone at my side in the meantime.

It's not an invalid concern, but I would urge you to seek out an arms teacher regardless.

Even the best of guards have their limits, and Hadriel poses unique trials to any guardsman. The day might come when you are in peril, and your guard has been so affected by the gods that he cannot be of aid.

[ She hadn't thought of that. Dany hasn't had enough exposure to the gods to think that they could influence a single person that way... but, of course, it makes sense. ]

I will seek out other options, then, and will train in the meantime. [ As much as she can, anyway. ] Thank you.

[Fingon nods, satisfied. He's had guards himself, and he trusted in their competence. But in some situations, he knows, the only thing you can do is rely on yourself] It's no trouble, but you're welcome.

In your place, I would choose a teacher before beginning training. The self-taught can sometimes pick up habits that can be hard to shake later.

What I would recommend for now is going to the armory, and simply looking at a few weapons. Take them in hand, see what you might feel comfortable using.

I did find some who are willing to teach. Until then, I will visit the armory.

[ See if there's anything she can figure out how to use... and physically hold. Dany imagines a lot of the weapons will be far too heavy. ]

What would you recommend?

[Fingon studies her for a moment. Her height isn't an insurmountable problem, but it does limit her options.]

I wouldn't rule out a sword; they are lighter than many realize.

But for you, reach may be a greater concern. A spear or other polearm could work to counter that advantage. Or you could try a ranged weapon. Crossbows are clumsy, but they need less strength of arm to wield than a traditional bow requires.

A spear, or polearm... and a crossbow. [ She makes a mental note of this, thinking that she might take a trip to the armory later in the day, if she can find her way there. ] Thank you. I will test them all to see which is best suited for my... needs.

[ For her physique, really, and her strength (or lack thereof). ]

It's no trouble at all. And as one considered smaller among my own people, I hardly mind reminding people that a lack of height is inconvenient, but not all-important in combat.

If you need any more help, my name is Fingon; feel free to call on me at any time.

I will, then, Fingon. I imagine that I will have some questions.

[ She's inexperienced, after all, and he's been very kind and helpful. ]

I hope you will. Questions are a fine thing to have, when one begins a new task.

Good luck, Daenerys Targaryen.

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