Daenora stepped into the smoky warmth of the tavern, dragging a protesting Aegon behind her. The young boy, his head now freshly shaved, scowled at the crowd inside. She paid him no mind as she waved over the barkeep, slamming a few coins onto the counter.

"Honestly, Daenora, this is ridiculous!" Aegon muttered, tugging at the tattered cloak she had thrown over him. "The tourney at Ashford—Father will be angry when he finds out!"

She took a long drink from the tankard the barkeep handed her, not even flinching as the boy's complaints grew louder. "Shut it, Egg. The tourney’s not for me, and I’m not dragging you into that mess. You should be grateful for a little peace and quiet."

Aegon huffed. "But you promised! I—"

"Promised?" Daenora interrupted, leaning back against the counter, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I promised myself a drink. Get used to it." She signaled to the barkeep for more. Aegon opened his mouth again but found his words faltering, when a knight came beside them and ordered himself something to drink.