The next morning dawned, bringing with it a breakfast served by diligent servants at Androw's specific request. Fortified by the morning meal, he made his way to the East Barracks near the Dragon Gate, determined to hone both his swordsmanship and physique. His body had become leaner, a testament to his dedicated training, though it still lacked the bulk of a seasoned warrior.
As Androw entered the barracks, the clanging of swords and the rhythmic sounds of training greeted him. The men, in various states of practice, paused to acknowledge his presence with a respectful bow. Word had spread of his status as the consort of Princess Rhaena and a dragon rider, earning him a measure of respect among the soldiers.
Approaching him, some of the men offered courteous greetings, taking the opportunity to share insights into the workings of the City Watch and the nuances of their duties. Others, displaying both curiosity and admiration, volunteered to be his sparring partners. Androw, in turn, remained polite and receptive to their gestures.
Without hesitation, Androw engaged in sparring sessions with those eager to test their skills against Princess Rhaena's husband. The clash of steel echoed in the barracks as he demonstrated both finesse and technique. City Watch men observed with keen interest, their cheers rising as Androw, with a controlled effort, defeated numerous opponents.
However, the true challenge awaited him in the form of the City Watch commander, Lord Qarl Corbray. A man possessing exceptional swordsmanship and a formidable physique, the commander proved to be a formidable adversary. Androw, recognizing the gap in his own physical strength, faced the realization that he needed to intensify his training regimen.
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For the onlookers, witnessing their princess's husband holding his own against the City Watch commander was a source of inspiration. Cheers and applause erupted, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie within the barracks.
As the day unfolded, Androw continued his rigorous training, focusing not only on refining his sword skills but also on building the physical prowess necessary. The only lingering challenge he faced was justifying his continued stay in King's Landing while his wife departed for Dragonstone.
In the evening, Rhaena returned to Dragonstone alone, riding on her dragon. Androw was surprised; he had expected her to take Aerea with her. When he learned the truth, it turned out that the Queen had pleaded with her sister to allow the child to stay for a few more days with her new cousin, who, technically, was more of an aunt.
As was his routine, Androw returned to his room before nightfall. The tranquility was disrupted when Aerea unexpectedly appeared in his room ahead of him.
Androw somehow managed to coax Aerea back to her room. In an unexpected turn of events, she had sought him out, expressing her desire to tame a dragon like him. Androw, nonchalant and indifferent, responded with a casual, "Do whatever. No one is here to stop you, and you are the heir to the Iron Throne until your uncle has an heir."
Despite the lack of interest shown by Androw, Aerea, feeling a little irked, retreated to her room in a manner reminiscent of her mother. Amused by the situation, Androw couldn't help but find it funny how Aerea exhibited certain similarities to Rhaena. The transformation from a seemingly well-behaved girl to a reflection of her mother's independent spirit did not escape Androw's notice.
He mused on the age-old saying that a child's character is often influenced by their parents. In this case, it seemed that Rhaena's imprint on Aerea's spirit was undeniable, turning the once docile girl into a mirror image of her determined and headstrong mother.