19 Chapter 19

As the evening shadows draped the room, Androw took his leave from Queen Alysanne, excusing himself with a courteous nod. Baal, his dragon, retreated to his hidden sanctuary, leaving Androw to contemplate his next move. The hospitality he had received in King's Landing had swayed his decision, prompting him to extend his stay until the conclusion of the upcoming tourney.

Androw's mind danced with the prospect of earning knighthood through a stellar performance in the tourney, despite his lukewarm impressions of King Jahaerays. The allure of the vibrant capital city, with its bustling streets and lively atmosphere, contrasted sharply with the monotony of Dragonstone. Moreover, the recent commotion caused by him made staying on the island an unwise choice.

Returning to his chamber, Androw sensed a presence lingering just beyond the door. A glance into the mirror revealed the figure of Rhaena, prompting him to call out, "Rhaena?"

She stepped into the room, her voice cutting through the air, "Tomorrow we are leaving for Dragonstone?"

Androw, wearing a playful smile, turned to face her, "That won't do."

"Why?" Rhaena's eyes bore a serious expression, unwilling to tolerate defiance.

With a touch of sarcasm, Androw replied, "It's boring, you know, in Dragonstone. I happen to take a liking to King's Landing. Here is much better.".

A flicker of defiance crossed Rhaena's features. "I won't allow you to," she asserted. Androw, undeterred, posed a question with a playful grin, "Eh, what are you going to do to me in King's Landing?"

Knowing the limitations of her position in the capital, Rhaena hesitated. She couldn't act rowdy against him, and going against her siblings' wishes posed another challenge. Already Androw started skillfully woven a web of influence in King's Landing through his wit, humor, and humble demeanor which is bad for her.

Rhaena remained silent, her eyes fixed on him. Androw seized the opportunity to push further. "Well, I have my reasons to stay. Better servants, better food, and better… wh*re.".

The last word caught Rhaena off guard, her expression turning to one of disgust. Androw, relishing the discomfort he caused, pressed on. "Oh, that's not what I expected. You don't mind me entertaining myself when you couldn't care less about me. Interesting."

"Why do you care? After all, I'm just a dummy to you. It's common knowledge," Androw remarked, seemingly unfazed. Rhaena, unable to tolerate the insinuations, moved swiftly towards a knife on the table, along with some fruits. She raised it threateningly against Androw's neck, her eyes ablaze with fury.

"I haven't married you to play around with your…" she started, but Androw interrupted, covering her mouth. "Aren't our matters better kept between us?" he mused, a sly grin playing on his face. "Otherwise, it might get messy. Don't you agree?"

Androw was acutely aware that eyes and ears, agents of the Master of Whisperers, were likely trained on him. He didn't want the King to learn the extent of his involvement with Rhaena. With measured steps, Rhaena left the room, her anger palpable. Androw watched her go with a grin.