The candlelight flickered as she stepped into the chamber, her head bowed in deference. Aegon I stood by the hearth, his violet eyes gleaming like embers in the dim light.

“You summoned me, Your Grace?” she asked, keeping her voice steady.

Aegon turned, watching her with the quiet intensity of a man who was used to being obeyed. “Tell me,” he said, stepping closer, “do you fear dragons?”

She hesitated, then lifted her chin. “Only the ones I do not know.”

A slow smirk curved his lips. “Then perhaps,” he murmured, “you should get to know one better.”