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Rating:
Mature
Archive Warning:
Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings
Categories:
F/FF/M
Fandoms:
A Song of Ice and Fire & Related FandomsHouse of the Dragon (TV)Kingdom Hearts (Video Games)
Relationship:
Roxas/Rhaenyra Targaryen
Characters:
Roxas (Kingdom Hearts)Rhaenyra TargaryenAlicent HightowerViserys I TargaryenDaemon TargaryenOtto HightowerCregan StarkCorlys "The Sea Snake" VelaryonRhaenys Targaryen VelaryonLaena Velaryon (Daughter of Corlys)Laenor VelaryonAxel (Kingdom Hearts)Xemnas (Kingdom Hearts)Xigbar (Kingdom Hearts)Xaldin (Kingdom Hearts)Saïx (Kingdom Hearts)Demyx (Kingdom Hearts)Luxord (Kingdom Hearts)Sora (Kingdom Hearts)Donald Duck (Kingdom Hearts)Goofy (Kingdom Hearts)Ansem the Wise | DiZRiku (Kingdom Hearts)Xion (Kingdom Hearts)
Language:
English
Stats:
Published:2025-10-23Updated:2026-07-29Words:180,513Chapters:13/?Comments:89Kudos:153Bookmarks:72Hits:11,739
Heart of the Dragon.
FreeManWriter
Chapter 2: Who's your new friend?
Chapter Text
Yeah, we did this in one go.
And we're getting another rush of creativity and desire to write. Sometimes, something new helps in wanting to also go back to the old.
And this sure as hell helps.
Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.
Heart Of The Dragon Chapter 2: Who's your new friend?
"You seek answers…"
"I can give you purpose."
"Roxas."
"That is right, the new you."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"Man, I miss the Old Times. Still got it memorized? When we met, the day you got your new name, you and I sat just like this and watched the sun set."
"Roxas… Are you really sure that you don't have a Heart? Is it possible that we all have one? You, me, *rerk*… or is that just wishful thinking?"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"I dunno. I can't just look inside. But I figure, if there is something in there- inside us- then we'd feel it, wouldn't we?"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"You can't turn on the Organization! You get on their bad side and they'll destroy you!"
"No one would miss me."
"It's funny… suddenly, I feel like I don't know myself at all."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"No. XIII. Roxas. The Keyblade's Chosen One."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"I guess I would like to know. What do you know about me that I don't?"
"You… you were never supposed to exist, Roxas."
"...What? How could you even say such a thing, even if it were true?"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"A Nobody can't feel anything."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"Because we're best friends, Roxas."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"My name is Namine."
"Do you remember your true name?"
"But if no one tells him, Roxas will…"
"It's best that he doesn't know the truth."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"Simply amazing, Roxas."
"Axel."
"You really do remember me this time. I'm so flattered!"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"Am I… the one who did this to you?"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"At last, the Keyblade's chosen."
"Who are you talking to? Me? Or Sora?"
"To half of Sora, of course."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"I am a servant of the world. And, if I'm a servant, then you should consider yourself a tool, at best."
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"I hate you so much."
"You should share some of that hatred with Sora. He's far too nice for his own good."
"NO! My heart belongs to me!"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"Sora…"
"You're lucky."
"Guess my summer vacation is-*thisshig rrrerrk*
*thisshig rrrerrk*
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"Does it have to be over?"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"No. NO! I'm not… I am ME! NOBODY ELSE!"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
*thisshig rrrerrk*
"What is happening?!"
"Roxas! He's-"
*thisshig rrrerrk*
*thisshig rrrerrk*
*thisshig rrrerrk*
…
…
…
"-oxas? Roxas? Are you there?"
Blinking, the Nobody focused back on the present. He glanced over to this right, seeing the Princess of Westeros shaking him slightly from the side.
"Seven hells, Roxas." Rhaenyra said in exasperation and slight concern. "What was that just now? I called on you for a few minutes, but you didn't hear a word I said."
It was then that Roxas remembered just where he was, jostling slightly from the movement of the carriage that the Princess practically pushed him into.
"Sorry, Rhaenyra. My mind was elsewhere."
Rhaenyra Targaryen gave him a peculiar look. "And where was that exactly?"
His expression fell, looking away from her. "Just… some unpleasant memories."
She gave him a worried glance but refrained from pushing. She recalls her parents and uncle sharing similar reactions when they recall various occurrences that troubled them. Even she is no exception in certain instances. One set of examples was the stillbirths and miscarriages of her various siblings that she would not have the luxury of looking after.
"Is something up?"
Rhaenyra regarded his wording with a confused face, but she was able to deduce that he was asking if something was happening.
"I was trying to get your attention that we're nearly there."
He was more attentive now in realizing what she was referring to. Peering out of the carriage window, Roxas took in the sight of the Red Keep, the seat of House Targaryen for over a hundred years.
Made of pale red stone in a classical style, the keep overlooks the mouth of the Blackwater River and Bay. There were seven massive drum-towers crowned with iron ramparts while massive curtain walls surrounded the grounds with imposing barbicans, nests and crenelations for archers. Thick stone parapets, some four feet high, protect the outer edge of the wall ramparts, where iron spikes were placed between the crenels at the gatehouse. The walls themselves have great bronze gates and portcullises with narrow postern doors nearby.
It was an impressive stronghold from what he's seen so far. Hopefully, he'll see more about the place than face value with what else resides further in.
'Not bad… but The Castle that Never Was is way more impressive,' Thought the Nobody. 'But this has more color to it. So at least that's a plus.'
When one has seen and lived in a castle that floats in the sky, all others tend to pale in comparison.
The carriage soon came to a slow halt when arriving at a certain entrance of the Red Keep. Not long after, some slight banging was heard against the door before it was opened by a servant. And from what Roxas spotted, the slight banging originated from the small step ladder the person just placed there.
Exiting the carriage, Roxas stepped out first when he heard Rhaenyra clear her throat behind him. He glanced back at her with a quizzical look, seeing an expression torn between amusement and expectation.
"What?"
She huffed, a teasing smirk gracing her features.
"You really have never encountered a Princess before, have you?" She rhetorically asked, seeing him give her a strange look.
"Uh… yeah. I told you, didn't I?"
Rhaenyra shook her head, as though she were admonishing him.
"Then I guess it falls upon me to educate you properly." She declared and held out the back of her hand in a dainty fashion. "If you are to be treated as a gentleman, Roxas, you must treat a Princess such as myself, with the proper etiquette that all others follow."
"Um… ok?"
'By the Gods, it looks like I have my work cut out for me.' She mentally remarked, yet she didn't find the idea unappealing.
"Wonderful," She gestured her head to her hand. "Now, please take hold."
Roxas stared at her outstretched hand and took hold of it as she had asked, but immediately, Rhaenyra shook her head, chuckling at this.
"No, no, like this." She corrected his grip, his fingers beneath hers with his thumb atop them. "There we are."
She lifted her hand a bit, with her other hand taking hold of her dress and lifting it slightly as she walked down the steps of the carriage. Roxas blinked, making a bewildered face.
"That's it? You couldn't have gone down the steps normally?" He bluntly asked.
Rather than being offended, Rhaenyra had to withhold herself from laughing aloud, instead putting on a coy smirk and tauntingly tutting the spiky-haired blond.
"Roxas, I am a Princess. This is simply known as standard protocol."
"Is it?"
"But of course."
Roxas rolled his eyes. "Ok, sorry."
She patted his cheek, making him jolt back with an accusatory look. She giggled at his expression, and he couldn't help but smile back.
"Ok, ok, I'm sorry, my Princess." He said half-heartedly.
Rhaenyra held a smug yet friendly smile. "Apology accepted. Worry not. I shall teach you proper etiquette and manners."
"I'll take your word for it."
"Good. Now, come along. There are some people I would like you to meet."
Nearby, Ser Harrold Westerling watched his charge and her guest before dismounting his steed and handing the reins to a stableboy. He had watched this interaction the entire time and was unable to hold back a small chuckle at how Rhaenyra treated the boy and how he behaved around her. Normally, he would be quite defensive and stern toward those who didn't treat the Princess with the respect that was owed to someone of her station.
But this boy was rather amusing with his apparent lack of decorum and manners, and not in a mean-spirited way. It was strange to see Rhaenyra be so comfortable around someone she had apparently just met. He would normally be guarded, and in his own way, he still was. Despite that, even Harrold found the lad interesting. When offered the carriage, the boy asked if they couldn't just walk.
When catching a few snippets of the conversation he had with the Princess, he spoke in terms and patterns that were certainly unique and interesting at times.
The Kingsguard member soon followed them into the Red Keep and no doubt expected to hear a litany of things about what's to come.
And of course, this was proven true mere moments upon their entry into the Red Keep. Like outside in the yard, there were bewildered looks and responses being delivered from the surrounding servants and visitors. Questions arose on who the young man was, with speculations no doubt following later.
They all saw how close Rhaenyra was, seemingly unbothered by spreading rumors, seeing how she appeared excited to be around him, pointing out the various structures, pathways, areas, paintings, statues, tapestries, and everything else they had passed by.
Then there were the other obvious topics of note, primarily the lads' hair, eyes, and clothing. Most who they passed by always did a double take, wanting to make sure that their eyes weren't playing tricks on them.
"Who is that with the Princess?"
"Lannister?"
"He doesn't look arrogant enough to be one."
"Look at his eyes. I hear Baratheon's have eyes like that."
"Seven Hells, is that hair natural?"
"How does it stay up like that?"
"Where in the world did he get those clothes?"
"Rather strange."
"I think they look good on him. Wonder who made them."
"Look at the Princess. She's practically attached to him."
"Seems like she's pulling him along, really."
"Could he possibly be a suitor?"
"The clothing is something I don't see commoners wearing. He must be from some prestigious House."
"Does the King know of this?"
'Well, that most certainly didn't take long.' Ser Westerling thought with a mirthful smirk. Gossip, the unofficial lifeblood of the Red Keep. 'Now I just wonder how much it will spread by the end of the day.'
As they rounded a corner, Rhaenyra stopped upon seeing someone walking down the corridor towards them. Her face morphed into a bright smile and the girl ahead of them returned the gesture.
"Alicent." Rhaenyra greeted her best friend with a fond smile and tone, the two girls taking hold of each other's hands.
"Rhaenyra." Alicent said in turn, a graceful smile on her face. "Was your ride good today?"
"The weather was pleasant, which meant a pleasant experience. But I would have enjoyed it more had you come with me."
Alicent tittered. "Rhaenyra, you know I can't."
The Valyrian girl rolled her eyes, confidently jutting her chin up. "For now. I shall break you one day, my dear friend."
The redhead simply nodded rather than arguing against her. She then properly focuses on the young man beside her best friend.
"And who might this be?" She politely asked, taking note of his hair, eyes and attire. The Hightower girl has certainly never seen such clothing before. 'He looks rather queer. He doesn't look Dornish. Could he reside from Essos? It's said they often wear strange attires.'
As Alicent's inspection went on, Roxas bore one of his own.
The person before him was slender and graceful in appearance with her innocence. Her auburn red hair was stylized ever so nicely. Not to mention her light blue dress complimented her, especially her brown eyes. She was very pretty, like Rhaenyra.
Both ended their respective inspections when hearing Rhaenyra cough to draw their attention from the awkward bit of silence.
Needing to make an introduction, the Nobody went first, holding out his hand. "Hi, I'm Roxas."
Rhaenyra snorts at this gesture, making Roxas turn to her.
"What?"
She said nothing, instead glancing down at his hand.
"What?" He said again. "This isn't-"
"Not how you do it with a lady, Roxas." She admonished in amusement, turning to her friend. "Apologies, Alicent. Roxas is new to the dealings of nobility."
She tilted her head in surprise.
"Is he not nobility?"
"He's…" Rhaenyra paused, momentarily trying to find the right words to describe her newest acquaintance. "Someone I have taken upon myself to educate."
Roxas stared at her in silence, brow raised. He then turned to the red-haired teen, an unspoken query of "Is this normal?".
The Reach native couldn't help but chuckle in fond exasperation, having long since gotten used to her best friend's habits, even if they still surprised her at times. She cleared her throat and bowed slightly to the spikey-haired teen. This boy may not be a noble, but it was clear that he wasn't the average commoner, and it would be a dark day in Westeros for Alicent should she forget her courtesy.
"Hello, Roxas, I am Alicent Hightower." She greets him with practiced ease and elegance. "Welcome to the Red Keep."
"Thanks." He said with a small, appreciative nod. "Good to be here."
Rhaenyra gave him an accusatory look. "You didn't sound like you meant it."
Roxas rubbed the back of his head. "I was being polite. What was I supposed to say? That this place smells horrible? You already know that."
Alicent couldn't believe the casualness with which he was interacting with the princess, and even more so with how her friend didn't seem to mind it. In fact, it seemed that Rhaenyra was finding this lack of decorum refreshing.
"Where did you meet him, Rhaenyra?" She spoke up.
"Blackwater Bay. Along its shoreline." Her friend answered.
"And where were you, Lord… er… may I simply call you Roxas?"
"That's my name." Roxas remarked with a small smile. "Not Lord of anything."
"Of course. Might I ask what brought you to Blackwater Bay? Were you walking on the shore?"
"More like sleeping at it." He revealed.
"Sleeping?" Alicent frowned in thought. "Were you… shipwrecked?"
Roxas shook his head. "How I got there is… complicated. Really complicated. To tell you the truth, I don't know how to explain it right now. It just… happened."
The Hightower glanced over to her friend, searching for additional information and all Rhaenyra could do was shrug in response.
She turned back to him. "So Rhaenyra found you, and-"
"Actually, it wasn't me." Rhaenyra interjected. "I never would have found him had it not been for Syrax. She was the one who brought me to him."
"Your dragon found him?" Alicent said in obvious surprise.
Rhaenyra nodded. "When I landed on the shore, Syrax picked up on his scent and she guided me towards him. She then acted quite unusual."
"Unusual how?"
"My dear dragon has appeared to taken a liking to Roxas. She was almost purring like a cat when she lowered herself to him."
"That's not… exactly what happened." Roxas argued, appearing a bit bashful at the reminder.
"Truly?" Alicent surprise only grew. "Did you ride back with him from there? On Syrax?"
"Luckily for me, my saddle was big enough for two." Rhaenyra gave a small smile. "You would know if you'd join me like my past offerings."
Alicent was about to make a retort when Roxas butted in.
"Is that really such a big deal?" The blue-eyed teen abruptly asked. "I mean, wasn't Syrax just being friendly?"
The Dragon Princess gave him a knowing look, a small twitch of her mouth.
"If only it were that simple." She says. "Even the Dragon keepers have a hard time with their charges. You must've seen the scorch marks on some of them."
"Uh…" Roxas smiled weakly. "I wasn't really paying attention."
Rhaenyra snorted in an unladylike fashion.
"No dragon is accepting of others except for their riders." She elaborated. "What I saw with Syrax is something I've never seen before."
The Nobody made a face of uncertainty. "I don't know. Feels like it's being blown out of proportion."
The Targaryen only shook her head in an admonishing manner.
"That might be easy for you to say but here, it is not as common as you'd think."
The blond could only shrug. "Ok, I guess. I'll just take your word for it."
Rhaenyra giggled at his response and even Alicent found herself laughing in slight disbelief. This boy was treating all this in a way that they haven't really experienced before. It wasn't that he was being disrespectful or dismissive, just that these were his honest thoughts and reactions.
"My father is going to find you most entertaining and interesting." Rhaenyra remarked, patting his cheek which made him jerk his head back.
"Hey, I'm not some school show-and-tell project." He argued, slightly annoyed now.
"Show-and-tell?"
The Hightower teen would have asked what he meant by that when the mention of the King made her recall something important.
"Oh, Rhaenyra," Alicent said, turning to her friend. "My father told me to tell you that your father wishes to see you."
The Targaryen Princess shifted her attention away from her grumbling new friend. "And where would he be? The Council Chamber?"
"The meeting ended earlier. And I passed by the throne room on my way here and he was not there."
Rhaenyra nodded at that. "Ah, then I know where he'll be. Come on then, Roxas."
She grabbed hold of his wrist, pulling him down the hallway.
"I'll speak with you later, Alicent." Rhaenyra said with a pleasant smile.
"Can you stop pulling me everywhere like this?" Roxas blandly asked.
"Lady Alicent," Ser Harrold respectfully said, having stood in the background the entire time of this conversation.
The red-haired girl simply stepped back, giving an uncertain smile, waving at her friend with Roxas looking back at her, almost appearing as though he was pleading for help. Despite having only just met him, Alicent found herself laughing empathetically at his position, having been dragged around by her best friend in a similar manner many times in the past.
As she watched the trio round a corner, Alicent's expression fell into one of thought as she now took the moment to take stock of who her friend had just brought into the Red Keep. Right away, his appearance alone was striking, to say the least. Spikey-blond hair, intense blue eyes as though they were carved from sapphires and clothing that seemingly belonged to no region in Westeros. For a moment, she wondered if he was perhaps from Essos, given that she had seen some of the unique clothing they had from merchants she had seen and from passing tales and old books and tomes.
Yet no one had even matched or described anything quite like what Roxas wore.
And… he was quite handsome, if she were being honest with herself. Being in King's Landing, Alicent had seen and met many Lords and Knights who were naturally attractive but most of it was either artificial or surface level. Obviously a means to curry favor given she's the Hand's only daughter.
But with Roxas… with Roxas, momentary as it was, there was an earnestness to him that Alicent was able to pick up on. Plus, he didn't look at her as though she were just a pretty face or the daughter to the Hand of the King. Frankly, it was more of an interest in just who she was. And though it was brief, the Hightower subconsciously began to become interested in this teen that captured Rhaenyra's attention so suddenly.
Without even realizing it, she found herself following after them, out of curiosity in order to know more of Rhaenyra's new guest.
All the while…
In the king's chambers, King Viserys Targaryen (first of his name) was hunched over with a small knife in hand as he carefully carved into a piece of stone under the light coming from the balcony. He worked with precision in finishing the final details of a dragon statue, all while humming a song from Old Valyria.
'That should do it.' He thought after making one last cut on the tip of its tail, blowing off some excess dust.
Finishing the piece, he places it on the small table and glances over to the larger one. There lived a large stone city that he constructed.
Every lord and king has a hobby to pass the time or to take their mind off of their duties. Some went hunting. Some did sports. For him, it was carving; even before he was crowned.
For years, Viserys has been on this project. Doing his best to essentially reconstruct the capital of Old Valyria from tales he's learned since he was a child, scouring through all the records kept in Dragonstone. And while he knew it wasn't perfect, the king had thrown an artistic flare into it in order to fill whatever gaps he spotted.
The King was broken out of his thoughts from a knock at the door. Before he could ask who it was, it swung open to reveal…
"Rhaenyra." Viserys Targaryen greeted his daughter with a warm smile, changing into one of faux-reprimanding. "Where were you, dear daughter? Don't you know a King needs a King's Cupbearer?" As she gave him a hug, he took a small whiff. "Ah, of course, you rode Syrax. Silly me."
"Terribly sorry, father," Rhaenyra teasingly said, kissing the side of his head. "You know how much Syrax needs to be in the air."
Viserys' smile widened slightly. "But of course, anything to keep you from your duties."
His daughter giggled mischievously. "Apologies once more, Father. It's just that, it wasn't just flying with Syrax that kept me from the Small Council today."
"Oh? And what would that… be…" The king soon noticed there was another person in his chambers. One hanging by the entrance, standing rather awkwardly. "And… who might this be?"
Like all others who have seen this young man, the first thing Viserys took note of was the blond's spikey-hair and blue eyes followed by the clothing that he had never seen before.
Rhaenyra motions the blonde to come over. "I found him on the beach around King's Landing. Or rather, Syrax did. She led me to him."
"Syrax, you say?" Viserys now eyed the teen curiously, leaning forward. "What is your name, my boy?"
"Roxas," The Nobody responded cordially enough. He saw the look he was getting from Rhaenyra, and he blinked, remembering an important detail. "Oh right, your highness, um… majesty… wait, was it your grace or your highness? Or King? Is King better?"
Rather than be offended by this, the King of Westeros looked over at his daughter, who looked close to bursting out with laughter, a sentiment he found himself sharing.
He chuckled softly, "Either is fine, my boy. At least you know your courtesies. Now, you said your name was Roxas, yes?"
The blue-eyed teen nodded.
Viserys hummed, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "A very unusual name, if I do say so myself. I don't think I've ever heard of such a name."
"Yeah, well, your names are pretty out there too, ya know." Roxas countered. "Feels like you guys make sure to choose three syllables or more."
Rhaenyra's jaw dropped, and Viserys' eyes widened before the latter lurched forward and proceeded to howl with laughter, slapping his knee. Behind the boy, Ser Harrold, having stood guard outside the room, coughed heavily into his hand to restrain himself from laughing.
He then heard a light, incredulous gasp and he glanced over to see Alicent, having followed them here, eyes wide and expression conveying if she should be amused or scandalized. She saw the old knight's face, flushing in embarrassment at being so easily caught while trying to recompose himself.
At least the boy wasn't rude. Or trying not to be.
Viserys had calmed down, patting his chest slightly to ease his heart.
"Good Gods, boy, haven't you ever heard of other courtesies and politeness?" He rhetorically asked, still entertained by this lads blunt nature.
"He seems to be absent from such practices, father," Rhaenyra remarked in amusement.
Roxas only gave a half-hearted shrug. "I never dealt with Kings and Princesses before. I never knew any where I'm from."
Well, more like interacting on a few cases. But that was just about it. He wasn't even sure if it counted. Same with… the memories from Sora.
That seemed to catch Viserys' attention, a gleam in his eyes. "Did you now?"
The teen shook his head.
The King of Westeros regarded the boy again, taking a few moments to gauge him. Once more, his appearance was what stood out at first but as Viserys took a moment to look at the boy's face, the first thing he took note of was his eyes. They were a bright blue that would rival even the Baratheon's famed eyes but above all else… there was a layer of uncertainty, loss, pain, sorrow, and conflict.
'Interesting,' Viserys internally mused.
He could understand why Rhaenyra was so intrigued by him. He was quite the novelty. And he had a sneaking suspicion that there was more to this boy than just his unusual appearance.
'Perhaps she sought to find someone not from court. One that doesn't see her royal status. Though that remains to be seen.' He guesses before saying "So, I take it that this is your first time in King's Landing, is it not?" The King correctly deduced, getting confirmed from Roxas nodding his head. "And that would mean, this is the first time you have been in the halls of the Red Keep. What do you make of it?"
Roxas rubbed the back of his head, shrugging slightly. "Haven't seen much of it, but it looks great so far. Just a lot to take in."
"Happens with many who come here for the first time."
"Yeah, but the smell is just," He visibly shuddered and the King snorted. "How do you people deal with that?"
Viserys guffawed, thoroughly enjoying the boys' open honesty. Rhaenyra laughed alongside her father, shooting Roxas a mischievous smile.
"What? I'm just telling you the truth." Roxas defensively said, his lip twitching upwards.
"And I appreciate it, my boy." Viserys fondly said, still shaking in humor. "As for your question, simply put, one gets used to it."
His grandfather had done many things during his time as king. Building the King's Road and settling matters with the Faith of the Seven, to name a few. Of course, here at King's Landing, he had set up the sewer system to hopefully make things better in the capital. It was somewhat successful, one which Viserys hoped would be maintained for years to come. Yet there are lingering effects, such as the smell.
Roxas stared flatly at the king now. "Yeah, no thanks, I don't wanna get used to that kind of stuff. I'd rather the smell not seep into my clothes."
Viserys chortled once more. This boy was certainly something different. A far cry from the usual interactions from court. He spoke in a way like his brother, yet not at the same time. A refreshing change of pace. He could see why Rhaenyra was quick to befriend him in her typical, willful personality.
But now, he had more important questions to ask.
"Tell me, Roxas, how exactly did you find yourself in the apparent good graces of my daughter?" He inquired, now putting on a more stern expression. "This morning, Rhaenyra went to fly Syrax and now she comes back with a young man with strange clothing, strange hair and an even stranger name."
"Is it?" Roxas asked. "I mean, doesn't Syrax have an X in her name, too? My name has an X in it."
Rhaenyra sniggered. "Wait, are you telling me that you think the reason Syrax led me to you was because of a letter you both share?"
"I'm just saying, maybe my name isn't all that special."
"Yes, but what you wear certainly is." Viserys countered. "It's nothing like I've ever seen before, and I'm quite confident that everyone in the Red Keep shares in this sentiment."
"Well, can't fault you there." Roxas admitted, glancing down at his clothing.
"Where are you from, if I might ask?"
The boy opened and closed his mouth a few times, his face shifting into a litany of emotions, ranging from anger to sorrow.
"I…" He hesitated, clearly unsure as to what to say until settling upon the only answer that he could give. "Twilight Town. I'm from a wo-place called Twilight Town."
He would've gone with The World that Never Was, but that honestly would've drawn far more confusion in the process.
"Twilight Town?" Rhaenyra parroted, glancing at her father, who didn't look up at her.
"I have never heard of such a place," Viserys spoke up. "Is it a place found on the other side of the Narrow Sea? A place found in Essos?"
"Essos?" Roxas said in confusion, about to ask what that was, but instead shook his head. "No, no, it's not at this Essos," He missed the way the father and daughter glanced at one another. "I don't think you could find it on any map, no matter how hard you try."
Alicent was by the doorway now, peering in to see how the conversation was going on. She was rather bewildered with how this was going. And quite frankly, she thought it would've gone a different route.
'At least the king likes him, I suppose.' Thought the Hightower. 'An unusual meeting outside of ones held in court and events. But better now than later.'
She then focused on something else. Twilight Town? Could it be a place beyond the Sunset Sea?
'Sounds appropriate with the theme.' She thought. 'Though it sounds like a place from a murmur's tale.'
Unbeknownst to the Lady Hightower, Viserys bore similar thoughts as he rubbed his chin in thought, trying to find any signs of deception from the boy yet he found none.
"And how is it that you came to be in my daughter's presence?"
"Her dragon," Roxas responded, gesturing his head in Rhaenyra's direction. "Apparently, she was the one who found me and brought Rhaenyra over to where I was."
"It was something unique, Father." The younger Targaryen spoke up, her tone more intense but at the same time, conveying a sense of wonder. "You should have seen how Syrax regarded Roxas. I had never seen her behave like that towards anybody other than myself. As though he had the Blood of the Dragon."
Her father's eyes widened slightly, as did Alicent's and though his reaction was subdued, Ser Harrold tilted his head slightly in the direction of the room.
Roxas, all the while…
"Blood of the Dragon?" He repeated with a bewildered look. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Okay, now this is drawing more confusion from the two Targaryen's and the two observers. The King took stock of the boy, trying to determine if this was a deception or a jest, but the look on his face was evident, showing that this was no mummer's play.
"It seems," Viserys slowly spoke. "You don't appear to be familiar with much of what is known here."
"Uh, wasn't that kinda obvious?" Roxas retorted somewhat sheepishly. "I mean, I'm not from here, so…"
"So you say," The King eyed him intently now. "But this is something that is somewhat of common knowledge from those around the known world to know such a phrase."
"Guess I'm out of the loop."
Rhaenyra stared at him. "The what?"
"The loop," Roxas blinked. "Right, uh, it means I'm not aware of certain things that are common knowledge or current events type of thing."
"Phrase from this Twilight Town of yours?" The Targaryen King inquired.
"More or less."
"Fascinating."
"It is?"
Viserys chuckled wryly. "You are quite the find, my boy. I can understand why Rhaenyra seems to be so intent on taking you everywhere despite only meeting you today, it seems."
"Yeah, well, she could do that without trying to rip my arm off." Roxas deadpanned, directing his flat stare at Rhaenyra who appeared unbothered by this "accusation".
The King 'hmphed', a wide grin in place, taking a random glance over at the doorway where Ser Harrold stood guard but he also caught sight of a head of red hair that appeared familiar. There was a small 'eep', the red hair swiftly ducking behind the wall, the sound alerting Rhaenyra and Roxas.
The former stared at the doorway with a scrunched up face, trying to place the voice of who they just heard and recognition dawned a moment later.
"Alicent?" She called out, glancing over at Ser Harrold who shrugged, his way of confirming her guess. "Alicent, come out. I know it's you."
There was a moment of silence until they heard a sigh of defeat, and Alicent now stood in the doorway, expression guilty and ashamed. Rhaenyra, on the other hand, wasn't all that offended or annoyed, just bemused and curious.
"What are you doing, Alicent?" She asked and her best friend fidgeted slightly.
She appeared as though she was about to run until she released a sigh, head hanging down in guilt.
"I was just… I'm sorry, my friend, your grace. I allowed my curiosity to get the better of me."
There was a moment of surprise, now all attention shifting to Roxas as he soon realized what, or rather, whom she was referring to.
"Wait, me?" He said, pointing at himself. Alicent smiled sheepishly, picking at her fingertips.
"I'm sorry." She said again.
"It's quite alright. No harm done." Viserys assures her. "It's not hard to understand why."
"Don't worry, Alicent, you're still my best friend." Rhaenyra quipped, making Lady Hightower gape. "I didn't bring Roxas in to replace you."
"Rhaenyra, I'm not-you-that's not-"
The Princess laughed aloud, going over to Alicent to calm her down.
"I am jesting, my friend." She stated. "But you make it rather easy."
Alicent's mouth remained open until she momentarily puffed her cheeks out, face flushing now.
"You enjoy doing that to me too much, Rhaenyra."
"If you only did not make it so easy."
"Rhaenyra," Viserys jokingly warned. "Must you torment the Hand's Daughter like this?"
"I'm not tormenting Lord Hightower's Daughter, I'm tormenting my dearest friend." The King's daughter refuted haughtily.
Viserys only chortled dryly. "But of course, dear daughter. Now, why don't you run along and introduce Roxas to Aemma. She has been bedridden most of the day and seeing her eldest would lift her spirits tremendously."
The Dragon Princess brightened at the idea. She was about to leave when her father spoke once more.
"And when I am done with my duties today," He said, shooting Roxas a look now. "I would like to see how Syrax behaves around you myself, my boy. Hearing it from my daughter is not something I would disregard but I am also of the belief that sometimes, such statements need to be seen to be believed."
"Um…" Roxas glanced at Rhaenyra who was evidently unopposed to the idea. And judging from Alicent's expression, she seemed to share in the sentiment in her own nervous, apprehensive manner. "Ok?"
"Wonderful. Now, off you trot."
"Come on." Rhaenyra excitedly said with a bright smile, rushing over and taking hold of Roxas' wrist and pulling him along. And right after, she snagged Alicent's wrist and dragged her as well.
Viserys watched all this with skewed eyes and a small smirk playing on his lips.
'At least my daughter has another friend. Though I'll need to keep an eye on him in case of anything.'
His eyes met Ser Harrold's who nodded in receiving the silent command.
One cannot be too cautious these days. Especially with the results of this first encounter.
Elsewhere in the Red Keep…
The woman lying on a lounge chair was being attended to by a number of maids and other servants. She presently wore sleepwear consisting of a loose gown with a blue robe. And from her appearance, she was in her last trimester of her pregnancy.
"Do you need anything else, your grace." One of the handmaidens kindly asked.
"That will be all for now." Says Aemma, all but shooing away another attendant as she tried to cool herself off. 'Blasted summer breeze. How I find myself loathing them after all this time. I'd rather take a dip in the ocean right now.'
As she was fanning herself from yet another instance of sweat, she sees Rhaenyra by the doorway. And from her state of dress, she obviously didn't bother to change out of her riding attire before seeing her.
"Rhaenyra." Aemma greets her daughter, a tired but loving smile for her daughter to see. "You know I don't like you to go flying while I'm in this condition."
The Dragon Princess walked in with a knowing look. "You don't like me to go flying while you're in any condition, mother."
The queen hums before glancing slightly to see the Hand's daughter, who took notice.
"Your grace." Alicent kindly greeted, bowing to the queen.
"Good morrow, Alicent." Aemma then shifted focus upon seeing an unfamiliar face with the two girls. "And… who are you?"
"Roxas," The boy said, head jerking upward slightly as he remembered an important detail. "Your grace."
Aemma saw her daughter give the boy an approving nod.
"Much better." She then turned back to the queen. "Roxas, this is my mother, Queen Aemma. Mother, Roxas is a new friend I've made today."
"And already one whom you brought for me to meet on the same day," Aemma noted in clear curiosity. "Quite the achievement, if one is to take note."
As all others, the Queen took note of his hair, eyes, and clothing along with his name. He stood out quite a bit, especially in this room with all the tapestry and decorations, along with the clothing of everyone in the room. She tried to figure out his origins from appearance alone, but found herself stumped in various turns.
"Um…" Roxas spoke up, unsure of whether or not he should speak, frowning as he took a good look at the queen. She looked thoroughly exhausted, a visible sheen of sweat on her skin as well heavy bags under her eyes.
"Yes?" She tilted her head up slightly, her earlier attempts of deducing the boy's origins being discarded.
"Are you ok?" He asked, not unkindly. "You look a bit sick."
Aemma stared at the boy, as did her daughter, Alicent and the handmaidens in the room and the queen couldn't help but laugh at such a forward statement.
"Do I truly look so miserable?" She jokingly asked.
He had an apologetic smile. "I mean… yeah, kinda."
"Roxas." Rhaenyra's tone was admonishing, now truly miffed at how his lack of tact towards her mother.
"No, it's quite alright. I'm glad to see such concern from your new friend. I'm just… tired." She rested her hands atop her large belly. "The battles that we endure in our own way."
Roxas then realized what was causing her such troubles. "Wow, you're having a baby."
It was strange for him as he recalled how he knew virtually nothing, and really nothing when he first came into existence and during the time in the data Twilight Town, he was given all this basic knowledge from these false memories that he couldn't believe was useful in this instance.
"Very astute." Aemma says in good humor.
Roxas regarded her belly for a few moments, gazing at it with open curiosity and wonder. "Do you know if it's a boy or a girl?"
Aemma found the boy's question rather endearing, sensing genuine interest. Not at all like the passive and subtle insults from others at court.
"Many in the realm, especially my husband, believe it's a boy." The queen shifts her gaze to her daughter. "Rhaenyra, however, hopes it'll be a girl."
"Do you blame me for wanting her to be named Visenya?"
"So you want me to deal with another hellion preventing me from getting proper rest?" Aemma jokingly retorted.
"You wouldn't be alone." Rhaenyra countered. "I'd be here to help. And I'm fairly certain Little Visenya would appreciate her auntie Alicent's company."
"Rhaenyra!" Alicent squeaked. "I couldn't possibly-"
"It would be appreciated." Aemma cut her off. "Handling babes can be a challenge. Best to get any sort of experience that would be helpful in the future. And if my daughter trusts you enough, Alicent, I need not worry."
Lady Hightower flushed at the compliment, muttering a small "your grace" of appreciation.
It was at this point did her daughter approached her, going down to her knees, resting her hands on the lounge chair that the queen rested on. "Have you slept today, mother?"
The Targaryen mother placed her hand over her daughter's. "I have."
"How long?"
Aemma dryly looked at her. "I don't need mothering, Rhaenyra."
"Well, here you are, surrounded by attendants, all focused on the babe." Rhaenyra retorts. "Someone has to attend to you."
"I have more than enough who attend to my every need." Aemma placed a hand on her daughter's cheek. "You will lie in this bed soon enough, Rhaenyra. This discomfort is how we serve the realm."
The Dragon Princess scoffed, looking away from her mother. "I'd rather serve as a knight and ride to battle and glory."
Aemma laughs at this. Calming down, she resumes. "We have royal wombs, you and I. Even dear Alicent, who holds the name Hightower. The childbed is our battlefield. We must learn to face it with our own confidence and strength."
"It is true, Rhaenyra." Alicent softly said, a resigned tone that made Roxas frown.
'What kind of World was this?' He thought to himself.
"Now, Roxas," The Nobody tilted his head up, focusing back on the queen. "What can you tell me about yourself? How did my daughter come across you?"
Like before, Rhaenyra and Roxas proceeded to speak about how they first met at Blackwater Bay. And similar to Alicent, Viserys and Ser Harrold, Aemma bore curiosity and intrigue. Speculation drifted about in the queen's gaze in order to discern the young man's responses. He spoke of his home, a place called Twilight Town yet most of his answers came out vague and unspecified.
'He's guarded about his past. Either embarrassed or troubled by it.' Aemma thought with a frown, silently analyzing the boy. 'And his knowledge of history… either he lived in a very secluded part of the world or there is something else he's not wanting to reveal.'
She watched as Rhaenyra talked a bit excitedly to the young man, and interestingly enough, he didn't appear bothered by it. He seemed a bit lost, or more specifically, at a loss as to what to do or say in response at times, but her daughter took it in stride. Alicent was polite enough, speaking on occasion. However, Aemma recognized the girl's interest in the young man, more subdued but prevalent all the same.
Even still, Roxas remained elusive from divulging more about himself.
'Let him warm up. Give him time before opening up.' She thought to herself. 'It won't be of any good to reveal anything on the first day.'
"Alright you three," Aemma spoke up, cutting into their conversation. "You've hovered over me enough for today, Rhaenyra. The day is still young and the Red Keep still has much to be seen. Go on now."
"Are you certain, Mother?" Rhaenyra asked, immediately by her side.
"I can survive a few hours alone, my dear." Was her mother's reassurance. "I will probably see you at supper if this little one can lie still for that long."
Her daughter held a shaky smile, placing a hand atop Aemma's belly.
"Keep calm, little dragon." Rhaenyra 'scolded'. "Lest you face my eternal torment once you arrive."
"Nyra," Aemma chided, despite the smile upon her lips. "Alicent, be a dear and try to keep my daughter out of trouble."
"I'm afraid I will have to apologize in advance, my queen." Alicent jested, a kindly smile directed at the queen mother. "But I shall try even if I am likely to fail."
"Good girl. Now, off you trot."
"Nice meeting you, Mrs. Targaryen"
The queen's brows furrowed in bemusement. "Mrs. Targaryen?"
Roxas' eyes widened, lightly slapping the side of his head. "Er, sorry, your majesty, I mean Queen, uh, I…" He groaned, composing himself, ignoring Rhaenyra's clearly entertained expression. "Just how some people are addressed back home. Usually when they're married."
Aemma hums a little. "Right. Well, keep an eye on my daughter, will you?"
"Kinda have no choice." Roxas wryly said, now making her daughter gape in faux-offense.
The queen laughed lightly. "You're a sweet boy. Thank you."
"Mother!"
"Off you trot, you three." The pregnant mother remarked, waving her hand in a shooing motion.
Her daughter gave her a quick peck on the cheek before taking an exasperated Roxas, once more complaining that she doesn't need to drag him like this everywhere. Aemma chuckled at her child's honest retort of starting to enjoy dragging around a lost boy like himself.
Much of the Red Keep was shown to Roxas with Alicent and Rhaenyra essentially being his tour guides while Ser Harrold diligently followed after them. Speaking much of the history of its construction and expansions, both good and bad.
At one point, they reached the symbolic and physical heart of the Targaryen rule.
"And this is where the Iron Throne is kept."
Pushing past through the large double doors, the small group entered the Great Hall.
There wasn't much light in the space, only coming from the windows for the natural rays to seep on through. It forced Roxas to look about to see the large pathway with many pillars lining up along the way to the main center piece.
On the far end were swords… lots of swords. Supposedly thousands by the look of it all, melted down into a grotesque display spanned over an ascended platform that reached from one side of the room to the other. Of course there were a whole lot of blades jetting out of the floor and the steps leading up to and connected towards the illustrious seat as it spread out accordingly. A means of seemingly spreading out to reach "everywhere".
From what Roxas could see, it's a symbol where one should not get too comfortable with their given power or else they may cut themselves in more ways than one.
"This place could use some light." Was the first comment coming out of his mouth. "Stained glass or something to color up the place.
In a rare moment, some smiles were shared by the others. Or in Ser Harrold's case, a snort.
Of course, the one Kingsguard's mood swiftly shifted with what he soon spotted.
"Gods be good." Roxas heard Ser Harrold say, outrage evident to hear.
"What's wrong?"
The knight spoke through barely controlled rage with his teeth clenched. "What's wrong is who's seated on the throne."
Focusing back on the seat, the Nobody was finally able to make out that someone was indeed seated there instead of being vacant. He was hidden well within the shadows of the seat but once Roxas concentrated momentarily, he was able to discern the man on the throne.
Like Rhaenyra, Viserys and Aemma, this man had silver-gold hair, if not a bit dirtier and though he rested in shadows, his violet eyes were able to pierce through the darkness. He sat, sprawling one leg over an arm rest and trying like he owned the place was a man who wafted off arrogance with his prestige.
Alicent sucked in a breath, eyes widening and nervously taking a step back whilst Rhaenyra raised a brow, giving an expectant look on the man sitting on the Iron Throne. She gestured to the knight in their company to relax, keeping her eyes on the man seated on her father's throne.
"I didn't realize you had returned, Uncle."
"Just got back not long ago." The man lazily said, not standing from the Iron Throne. "Figured I would make myself comfortable."
Rhaenyra quirked her lip upwards, amused by her uncle's words and overall demeanor.
"And what is it that you're doing?" She says, this time speaking in High Valyrian.
"Sitting." Was his response in the same language. "This could well be my chair one day."
The princess was halfway across the Great Hall by this point. "Not if you're executed for treason."
Roxas hung back, keeping his eyes on the man, scrutinizing him. In many ways, he reminded him of Axel to some capacity. But at the same time, there was an arrogance and smugness that was a lot like… like… Marluxia. Yeah, Marluxia.
He glanced over at Rhaenyra, who had been walking to the throne. He then looked at Alicent, the girl appearing to be hesitant in joining her friend, making Roxas frown.
"You haven't come to court in an age."
"Aye… Court is so dreadfully boring." He bemoaned.
This response evidently amused his niece. "Then why come back at all?"
"Your father, my brother, wants to know my progress with the City Watch."
Rhaenyra nodded, knowing her Uncle Daemon was given the position of Lord Commander of the City Watch some time ago in order to keep Kings Landing safe and secure. As such, he's been awfully busy and hasn't been seen in what felt like months, but was more like weeks.
Before the two could converse any further-
"How long were you keeping up that position?" Roxas couldn't help but ask suddenly, looking at the Iron Throne from side to side. "I mean, it wouldn't be that comfortable, right? Looks like you can cut yourself on that thing."
This drew attention from Rhaenyra's uncle as he saw an unfamiliar face in the company of Alicent Hightower and Ser Harrold Westerling. His eyes narrowed momentarily, a dangerous glint appearing until realization dawned.
"Well, well, well, dear niece." Daemon Targaryen spoke in his usual smug and condescending tone of superiority. "What do we have here? A new plaything to keep you entertained?"
In an instant, Roxas' face changed into an insulted frown, glaring a bit at the Rogue Prince.
Rather than be amused, Rhaenyra found that she didn't like how her uncle referred to her new friend in such a manner.
Getting off from the Iron Throne, Daemon descended the small flight of stairs in order to approach the new face and give his inspection.
"Ah, the boy that you've been dragging around the Red Keep. I've heard the gossip earlier, but I wanted to see for myself." The King's brother hummed as he walked around the Nobody. "Honestly Rhaenyra, it seems like you've wasted your time with this one."
"I think you'll find I disagree with your sentiment, Uncle." Rhaenyra rebuked, a sense of protectiveness coming over her. "I find him quite refreshing and I already consider him a friend."
"Do you now?" Her Uncle retorted challengingly, unbothered by his niece's response, regarding the blue-eyed teen.
"Prince Daemon Targaryen." The Rogue Prince introduces himself. "Fairly certain you've heard of me."
"Roxas. Never heard of you." The teen flatly said, evidently unimpressed by the man.
The elder Targaryen's lips twitch ever so slightly. He then sized the boy up, noting his hair, eyes and clothing as all other before him.
"Interesting choice of attire," Daemon mused aloud. "Never seen anything quite like it."
"Wouldn't be surprised that you haven't." Roxas fired back, his eyes indicating he knew exactly what man was doing. After being all but interrogated by others up to this point, he was pretty much ready… in a sense. Unlike Viserys and Aemma, these weren't simple questions of curiosity.
"Careful now, boy," Daemon's tone took on a harder edge, noticing Alicent fret silently whilst Ser Harrold's eyes narrowed. "You might be my niece's new favorite toy but don't get it in your head that this gives you the right to speak to your betters."
"You'll have to let me know who that is then." Roxas countered, taking a step forward now. "Because right now, I don't really see someone better than me."
Behind him, Alicent's eyes widened, staring in disbelief and shock at Roxas' audacity and Ser Harrold was torn between being impressed and wanting to step in, breaking up the tension and reprimanding the boy.
Rhaenyra, however, felt… strange about this interaction. Impressed by Roxas standing up to her uncle. Worried on how things may unfold. The tension was immediate and palpable, both not backing down in the slightest. Roxas' face was that of a defiant and challenging glare whilst Daemon kept his features schooled but his unpredictable nature was easy to see in his eyes.
Not wanting to see things proceed into a figurative, or worse, literal bloodbath, the princess decided to be the bigger person and end things.
"Uncle," Rhaenyra stepped in between him and Roxas, holding a stoic expression. "I would kindly ask you not to antagonize my new guest and friend."
"And why not?" Was his calm response, but there was a tinge of sternness to it. "Curious to wonder just what it is that this boy did to impress upon you so profoundly, my dear niece."
"That is for me to know and show you when the time comes." Rhaenyra answered, a glimmer in her eyes that made the Rogue Prince pause.
After a moment, he released an overdramatic sigh, taking a step back while keeping his hand rested upon the pommel of his sword.
"Consider yourself lucky, boy." Daemon derisively said, earning a 'hmph' from the teen.
"It's Roxas."
"Whatever you say."
And with that, the Rogue Prince left the Great Hall.
"...That could've gone better."
"That guy is your Uncle?" Roxas bluntly asked. "What's his deal?"
Rhaenyra stared at him. "His deal?"
"His problem, whatever." Roxas clarified gruffly, still visibly irritated by the man.
"Oh that. Well, lots of things." The princess states. "He's my father's heir and believes he has the right to do anything he wants. He has issues with his wife, Lady Rhea Royce. He constantly switches positions in the Small Council." She lists off. "I can go more in depth but I'd rather not bore you."
Roxas blinked in confusion before looking at Alicent and Ser Harrold for confirmation. Seeing them both affirm what the Princess had said didn't prevent him from huffing.
"Feh, lovely. Doesn't mean he has to be a jerk about it."
Rhaenyra's eyes bulged slightly out of her sockets before devolving into a fit of giggles, having never heard someone describe her uncle in such a childish manner. Ser Harrold couldn't help but chuckle quietly at the boy's brazen words.
"Roxas." Alicent steps in, clearly concerned for his wellbeing. "You can't say such a thing."
He scoffed. "Doesn't mean it's not true."
Alicent had to control her own smile from forming. "...Quite. But… you should've said it better."
"How? That he was rude, that he was… was a…"
"A what?" Rhaenyra egged on, now wishing to hear what Roxas would say to describe her wild Uncle.
"A… jackass." Roxas murmured out, actually flushing slightly at using such a word.
Rhaenyra nearly burst out laughing, not expecting such a response or even reaction at using a word that seemed as though it was used for the first time by her new friend. Even Ser Harrold found himself now letting out a small bark of laughter from the boy's apparent embarrassment.
Alicent was in the same boat, finding his sudden shift in demeanor to be a bit endearing.
With a bright smile, Rhaenyra once more reached for Roxas' wrist, only this time, she grabbed his hand.
"Come on, there's still much to see." She eagerly said.
Time passed where Roxas saw the rest of the Red Keep. Well, to be more exact, where he was allowed to see as everywhere else was restricted for certain groups and personnel. He understood and didn't seek to pry in seeing them. Though he did ask questions about them so he wouldn't trespass in the future upon accident.
Eventually, the time came where Alicent had to excuse herself to join her father for dinner as she was expected to be with im. They parted ways and soon enough, Rhaenyra was informed by a page that arrangements for Roxas had been made; courtesy of her mother.
"Good. I don't plan on seeing you outside for the duration of your time here." Rhaenyra said to Roxas as he was eventually shown to a guest apartment.
Roxas gazed at the room that was given to him, strangely luxurious yet at the same time, a bit lesser compared to the room he had back in Twilight Town. Or rather the digital copy of it. Not to mention his old room back in the Castle that Never Was.
Aside from some decorations and flourishes on various things, it was rather spartan. But that suited him just fine.
'What I wouldn't give to have a sea-salt ice-cream right about now.' He thought as he gazed out of the window to see part of the twilight giving way into the night. 'However, I should head on down and get dinner at the dining hall.'
Dinner was a rather nice affair. Small and quiet as he seated at a secluded corner for privacy sakes so he won't notice the stares. The meal he was given was composed of fish cooked with herbs and spices he was told originated from Essos. And he hardly was able to taste a thing, given how famished he found himself to be. He even got a second helping when he asked for more.
Originally, he (Roxas) would've been invited to join Rhaenyra and her parents and possibly her uncle. However Aemma voiced to let him settle in before such an opportunity came for him to join in the future. Roxas appreciated it as there was just a lot on his mind.
Plus, he was unaware that he had become the talk of the castle and if he was invited to dine with the royal family, there would be quite a stir in court.
Roxas appreciated the gesture on both parts, more so on learning Aemma's reason.
Roxas then took the moment to walk back into his room, sit on his bed and just allow his body to decompress as the events of today settled in.
He leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees, his blue-eyes staring blankly at the floor, his face unreadable.
His mind swam with the memories he made today along with all the memories that had been returning to him since he entered the dilapidated mansion back in Twilight Town. Bit by bit, everything he had once forgotten came in waves.
The time of his "birth", being given a new name, joining the Organization, becoming friends with Axel, a series of revelations and truths that resulted in him departing said Organization, facing off against Riku and then… all the falsified memories that were given to him by Namine while in the digital Twilight Town.
Was this place perhaps another concoction of DiZ? It all felt so real but at the same time, he questioned whether it was after what he had learned in the past week. There were no glitches or issues of the world around him from what he's seen so far. Everything seemed authentic. In fact, now that he thought about it, if the whole point of the digital Twilight Town was all an elaborate ruse, why would DiZ go through another false Data World to delay his plans?
If that was the case, then how did he get here?
There was just… so much on his mind. So many questions.
What should he even do right now?
He kinda just let himself get swept up by Rhaenyra after she found him. He was also curious as to why Syrax reacted to him the way she did, acting quite friendly with him when apparently, that wasn't supposed to happen.
Only further questions to ask.
This whole day was one big question mark.
He just… let it happen to him.
The Nobody groaned, feeling another wave of forgotten memories rush in, mingling with his false ones. He leaned back, flopping on the bed, arms outstretched and face devoid of emotion.
"What am I supposed to do now?" He silently asked himself, his thoughts beginning to wander.
'If I'm out, then I can't just go anywhere I please. It may draw the Organization's attention and even DiZ and Riku if I went to any familiar world.' He closed his eyes, behind his arms to have his hands rest atop his forehead. 'If that's the case, I'm stuck on this one. I'm probably gonna to learn more about this place. What was that old guy called again? A Maester? Guess that must be this World's version of a librarian. Or just ask for the library. I just… need to know more of this world.'
With him just so interactive with the residents of this world as opposed to the others he's been to before, he was vastly unprepared. And he'll need to take the lessons he acquired from his former compatriots to heart now.
Of course, right now, as much as he wanted to sleep, his mind was a buzzed right now.
'I don't know if I'm ready to go to sleep just yet.' Peering out of the window, he saw the flickering of torch and lantern light slowly igniting in the city. 'Wonder what this city is like… and this continent and its kingdom.'
A recurring detail he heard a few times was how, apparently, Viserys was the King of not one, or two, or three, but Seven Kingdoms.
How does a King rule Seven Kingdoms?
There was clearly a lot to be learned of this place.
He allowed his thoughts to wander until he heard a commotion from afar followed by a few screams in the distance. Frowning slightly, Roxas sat up from his bed, glancing over to the balcony in his room. More screams followed, now making Roxas stand up and go out onto the balcony proper… and immediately his hands shot forward, grabbing hold of the railings tightly.
His eyes widened to the size of small saucers as he was able to see a figure, a very familiar figure. This figure moved about unnaturally, not like any creature that would be native to this World.
And it couldn't be.
Because Roxas recognized an old adversary that though he fought not long ago, felt as though it had been a lifetime since he had seen one.
"Heartless." He said to himself, gritting his teeth as conflict welled up within him.
He could ignore it. He wanted to ignore it. But old habits die hard. And even though he recalled that doing this helps the Organization's goals, something he turned against them for, Roxas knew that doing nothing would result in people getting hurt, or worse, claimed by the Heartless. He needed to go out there and take care of it.
Yet there was one problem.
'How am I gonna sneak out?' He scratches his head at that. 'I mean, I could just jump out. I can make the landing. But I'll be seen… I think.' He looks down to his current attire. 'I'd stand out too much with this.' He then gazed over to the wardrobe. 'And there's no other clothes I have.'
If Roxas rushed out asking for clothing of a conspicuous nature, that would only draw further attention on him, something he already likely had enough of after being dragged around by Rhaenyra all day.
His thoughts were interrupted when a distinct sound occurred in his room, one awfully familiar to him. Turning, he saw blackened flames with undertones of purple and blue appear on his bed. It went for several moments before they extinguished themselves.
'Wait… was that a…' He moved towards the bed and saw something unusual. 'Huh…?'
In a neat little pile was folded up black clothing with a pair of knee-length black boots placed on top of them. Ones that were familiar to Roxas.
On top of them was a little card with a message written on it.
'Thought you might need this.'
-MoM-
"MoM?" Roxas said aloud, holding up the card to his face, his mind racing with just who that might be.
No one in the Organization had a name or initials like that. He had never encountered-
Roxas shook his head after hearing more screams from the people of King's Landing, this time being joined by shouts from the City Guard.
'Save the questions for later.' He put the card aside and reached towards the pile of clothes.
He quickly changed into his recently acquired set of clothing before inspecting himself on wearing his old Organization XIII uniform.
Said uniform was a full length black coat with a hood hanging from the back of his neck with a waist-high slit riding up the back to be similar to a duster. There was a large silver zipper that fastened at the top and zips all the way down around the waist area. It has stylized silver drawstrings for the hood decorated with a large silver beads hanging from the end and a silver chain ornament adorned with four large cylindrical silver beads that fastens to a loop on either side of the collarbone region. Everything else that could've been visible was covered up by leather gloves, knee-high black boots and pants.
Wearing the Organization coat not only protected him from the Darkness but also from the elements. He didn't feel all that hot when he was in the sandy plains of Agrabah. And he didn't feel all that cold when he was in both Halloween Town and outside of Beast's Castle.
...Okay actually he did feel some of the outside elements as his head was exposed at those times.
"Hmm, still fits like a glove." He remarked, both comfortable and yet uncomfortable all at once.
Closing his eyes, he forcibly expunged his reservations in wearing the old coat and turned to the balcony. Drawing up his hood, Roxas ran forward, jumping atop the balcony stone railing and leapt into the night.
Landing smoothly on the closest structure, Roxas was running and jumping off of the various rooftops, the greater Nobody doing his best to locate the nearest commotion there was. His head snapped in the direction of a woman's scream and he dashed towards her.
-Insert Kingdom Hearts I OST: Night of Fate-
A woman, somewhere in her thirties, was clutching a boy in one hand while her other kept a young girl behind her. In front of her stood a man, slightly tired and injured, holding up a rusty sword while they were surrounded by a dozen creatures that they had never seen before.
There were ten small, round creatures of pure black, with circular heads, long, jagged antenna, sickly yellow eyes, and three-clawed hands.
Behind them were two, much more humanoid black monsters with the same yellow eyes and body but with visible blue veins, hands with five-clawed fingers, antennae that reached down to their lower backs with feet that somewhat resembled boots.
They slowly advanced on the family, the father backing up, clenching his sword tightly and nervously yet he remained defiant.
As one of the small creatures got close, the man let out a shout, swinging his sword at its head. It seemed to land true… but it was completely unaffected.
His eyes widened and the creature lunged forward, striking the man in the stomach.
"ARGH!" He cried out, clutching the injury that had black wisps emanating from it.
His wife cried out his name, as did his daughter and she was about to rush to him…
When a figure dressed in black fell from above, gracefully landing between the family and the Heartless.
The family stared at this sudden arrival, taken aback by his appearance and for a moment, more fear welled up as they saw he was dressed in black from head to toe, hood up that completely obscured his face.
Roxas stared at the Heartless and saw how they all visibly twitched and jolted, clearly recognizing just who he was, or more importantly, what he could do to them.
Despite his initial reservations, Roxas couldn't deny a rush starting to build up and with no prompt, he widened his stand, throwing his left hand forward, calling for his first weapon and with his right hand, summoned his second one. He spun both blades expertly, their tips clanging together, sparks flying from their brief clash when he held them both by his side, ready for the fight.
For the family, they were at a loss as to what to say or do. This individual suddenly appeared, literally conjured weapons in his hands like flashes of light, seemingly magical and was now facing the monsters that were attacking King's Landing.
It was hard for them to tell if they were swords at all as they resembled more like oversized, white and black bladed keys.
The blackened one had a hilt consisting of two bat-like wings extending downward with a dark blue diamond embedded between them. The key's teeth was box-shaped with a stylized glyph (闇). The chain hanging off the end had a black crown charm. And another chain ran up the blade's length.
The bright one with white, blue and yellow appeared to have a pair of hearts embedded in its design with the handle bearing two white wings, contrasting the bat wings of its dark counterpart. The blade's teeth had a symbol which pointed at every other direction (光). The chain hanging off the end had a charm resembling a star composed of seashells.
"Go, now."
They jolted upon hearing his voice. They saw he had slightly glanced back at them.
"Get out of here." He firmly said. "I've got this."
Just as he made this statement, one of the Heartless jumped at him. The wife and husband opened their mouths to call out to him in warning but he had already moved before they could speak.
In a stunning display of speed, Roxas sliced cleanly through the Heartless, destroying it in one strike.
"I said GO!" Roxas forcefully said now, breaking the husband out of his stupor. "NOW!"
He shot back up to his feet, rushing over to his wife, checked on their son, picked up his daughter and grabbed his wife's hand to run.
Satisfied that they were gone, Roxas refocused his attention back on the Heartless and rushed forward. The Heartless rushed right back, and more than half a dozen were eliminated immediately from a spinning attack.
Yet they were quickly replaced with more Heartless.
Soldiers, Air Soldiers and Shadows were the most common, but there were others thrown into the mix. Neoshadows popped up here and there with their slinking maneuvers and claw swipes. Even some Red Nocturnes were present, shooting their balls of fire. But they weren't a challenge to him.
Now that he had regained most of his memories, with that came all the knowledge and battle experience he had accumulated from the point of his birth up to now. He might be rusty and likely would need some practice to get back into the swing of things, but fighting the Heartless was like riding a bike.
Sure, he had the memories and experiences of Sora fighting the Heartless but Roxas had experience of his own. In fact, it was in many ways far more than Sora since his first adventure, while lengthy, was actually shorter to Roxas' time in the Organization where he went on missions for months on end, fighting Heartless nonstop.
He eventually reached an open market, Heartless attacking people left and right, people fleeing for their lives and the City Watch fighting against them to no avail.
Roxas didn't hesitate, jumping forward and called upon his element of Light.
He was like a bright beacon for all in the market, many stopping to see a figure cloaked in black, landing in the center of the area in spectacular fashion by slicing through several Soldiers, rescuing a group of women that had been surrounded.
"Go, run now!" Roxas commanded, not waiting to see if they moved as he was already pivoting and spinning into a horizontal slash, slicing through a Neoshadow behind him.
And like that, all the attention, both people and Heartless fell squarely upon him.
The Heartless were already trudging forward in his direction and more Heartless appeared, eliciting further shrieks and screams from the surrounding people. Yet this time, they didn't attack them, their attention focused solely on the newcomer who was gripping his Keyblades tightly.
There was more to come. He knew that after so long.
And it wasn't just here, but other parts of Kings Landing where the Heartless are bound to venture towards.
Kicking off the ground, Roxas resumed his act in exterminating the Dark Invaders.
Suffice to say, it was going to be a long night.
AN
Alright folks, a two-for-one special.
We wanted to get these two out as a package since it felt better than just having one and you guys had to wait for another.
So, this story was a spur of the moment but at the same time planned in a weird way. Jeb and I had discussed multiple ideas on Kingdom Hearts and Game Of Thrones crossovers, already having A Song of Fire, Ice and Hearts along with Rebellion and I wanted to do another as well but figured after a while, there's no need to do the same, to a degree with what we're already doing in ASoFIaH.
I did have a very different timeline in mind with Roxas going into the events of GOT with different marriages, characters alive and dead and events happening very differently but figured, maybe we could do that for another time.
But then I thought, why not House of the Dragon? Lot of wiggle room, more kind of a freedom to do what we want, change things up, make things interesting in our own way.
And more importantly, I can say this with confidence, we do not intend on making this a long story in the typical manner that we do it.
Yes, most of our stories are gonna be long, it's kinda our thing since we all enjoy long form story telling but sometimes, one doesn't need to go that hard.
With that said, it's not gonna be typically short, if that's what you expect. It will still be sizable as we do wanna tell a decent tale in this era of Westeros and a lot that we can do.
We went for a different approach with this outline. It's actually composed primarily of A LOT of scenes we want to get through, throughout the story. Lots of fun moments, moments of action, love in the game of thrones way, revelations, the whole shebang.
So, join us, won't you, for this new tale that we know won't be long but will be no less adventurous, ambitious and fun.
Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day.
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