16 Chapter 16

Androw decided to follow Rhaena as she headed to the dining hall, knowing he would be expected to join the dinner, even if his invitation wasn't explicitly stated. As he entered the room, he was met with the presence of Queen Alysanne, who was engaged in a serious discussion with his wife, Rhaena.

Alysanne's appearance struck Androw as he observed her. She was slim of waist and small of breast, with a long neck, a fair complexion, and a high forehead. Her clear blue eyes, high cheekbones, and overall regal bearing made her quite an impressive sight. Alysanne, in turn, was taken aback when she saw Androw, her expression filled with surprise. The former chubby guy she had known in the past had transformed into a man.

Observing Alysanne approaching him, Androw bowed courteously and greeted her, saying, "Your Grace." Alysanne couldn't help but be further surprised by the change in Androw's demeanor. In the past, he had been somewhat anxious and hesitant in her presence, but the current Androw appeared to have undergone significant growth, both in character and appearance.

Queen Alysanne greeted Androw with a warm smile, remarking, "It's been a while since we last met, Lord Androw." Androw replied calmly, "Indeed, Your Grace."

Soon, King Jahaerays entered the hall, escorted by his Kingsguard. Alysanne moved to her husband's side, and with a loving smile, Jahaerays kissed her on the cheek, saying, "My Queen."

Androw couldn't resist a sly comment, glancing at Rhaena as he quipped, "Did you see it, my destined love?" Rhaena caught his glance but paid it little mind, understanding the meaning behind his glance.

As dinner progressed, Androw found himself navigating the formalities of the table, a task that grated on his nerves. All he wanted was to enjoy his meal without the need for excessive courtesy, but the presence of the King compelled him to play the role of the well-behaved noble. Androw silently vowed never to partake in such formal dinners at the King's table again.

The conversation revolved around matters of the realm and the upcoming tourney, concealing a tinge of sadness that lingered from the past year of Stranger. Androw felt somewhat out of place, with little to contribute. He maintained a semblance of indifference to the occasional glances he received from King Jahaerays.

After the dinner, Rhaena departed for her room without sparing Androw a glance, her focus solely on her sister. Aerea hadn't joined the dinner, occupied with her cousin Princess Daenerys. This left Androw alone with King Jahaerays and his Kings guard.

Androw met King Jahaerays's gaze evenly. The king's question was direct and to the point. "Lord Androw, there is something I wish to learn from you. I hope you answer truthfully," Jahaerays stated.

Androw inclined his head in acknowledgment. When the inquiry came, it was as blunt as a sword thrust, "How did you manage to control a dragon?"

Androw took a moment to consider his response. "Your Grace, isn't the idea that we control dragons merely an illusion?" he began, choosing his words carefully. He could sense the gravity of the situation.

Jahaerays, his curiosity piqued, asked for clarification, "What do you mean?"

Androw explained, his voice steady and composed, "Your Grace, dragons are majestic, ancient creatures with an innate wildness that cannot be tamed or controlled by mere mortals. They are bound by their own instincts, their connection to the natural world, and their unfathomable power. While we may think we control them, in truth, it is they who choose to cooperate with us, often for their own purposes or through bonds formed over time. They are not truly under our dominion. They are dragons."

Jahaerays listened intently, his expression revealing nothing. Internally, he was taken aback by Androw's response. He had conducted thorough research on Androw's bloodline, yet found no direct connection to Valyrian ancestry. This revelation only deepened the mystery.

The king understood the significance of what Androw had achieved, and he knew that others would too. If the knowledge of an alternate way to bond with a dragon spread, it could shatter the Targaryen monopoly on dragon-riding. Jahaerays recognized the potential threat that Androw posed, and he resolved to handle the matter with care.