The fleet slowly sailed into the harbor of Sunspear. The blazing sunlight poured unreservedly onto the land of Dorne, the air filled with the unique scent of spices interwoven with the sea breeze.
On the dock, two distinct figures stood solemnly waiting—the Captain of the Martell Guard, Areo Hotah, known as the "Bearded Priest," and his deputy, Sebastian Fernandez. Both were burly men with thick, knotted beards covering half their faces, dressed in light Dornish scale armor, their expressions as steady and resolute as ever.
Euron jumped off the gangplank first, walking into the heatwave. His gaze swept over his two old friends, a teasing smile curling his lips. "It seems the fierce sun and fine food of Dorne truly nourish people. It hasn't been that long, but your beards can barely hide the roundness of your chins."
Hearing this, the corner of Areo Hotah's mouth hidden under his thick beard seemed to twitch slightly. Sebastian responded with his voice low as muffled thunder, "Even far away in Dorne, your name pours into our ears like the hot wind of this desert. 'The Flames of the Arbor'—our ears are calloused from hearing that song."
Neither of the two bearded warriors was good with words, but they didn't retort immediately. Their tightly pursed lips gradually parted to reveal sincere, joyous smiles surrounded by beards, their eyes shining with the warmth of a long-awaited reunion.
The two big men gave Euron a warm hug; everything was understood without words. They were truly happy to see this "source of trouble" from the Iron Islands again. During the three years of travel, Euron had become not just their employer, but their friend.
About three miles west of Sunspear, Prince Doran Nymeros Martell's private residence—the Water Gardens—nestled quietly by the beach.
This was not a solemn military fortress, but a paradise for House Martell to escape the world and rest, famous for its cool fountains, shallow pools, and shaded citrus groves everywhere.
Tormented by severe gout, Prince Doran had extreme difficulty moving and relied on a wheelchair long-term. At this moment, he sat in his wheelchair under the shade of trees rather than handling official business in the throne room, waiting for the arrival of his family.
When Princess Elia Martell's figure appeared, Prince Doran's face, usually tight with pain, instantly radiated heartfelt joy and warmth.
He opened his arms and warmly embraced his sister who had returned from afar—an embrace filled with a brother's care and comfort. Then, he carefully took his niece Rhaenys from Elia's arms, gently holding the babbling little princess on his lap, his eyes revealing an elder's benevolence.
Next, Prince Doran turned his gaze to Euron. Though trapped in a wheelchair, his demeanor maintained the calm and majesty of the ruler of Dorne.
Prince Doran's voice was gentle and solemn. "Welcome to Dorne, welcome to Sunspear, Euron Greyjoy. Your arrival adds a different sound of waves to this place." He paused slightly, a sincere smile appearing on his face. "At the same time, please allow me, as a friend of Lady Ashara's brother and as the ruler of Dorne, to extend my most sincere congratulations. Your betrothal to the Pearl of Starfall is a joyous event worth celebrating."
Euron stepped forward, placing his right hand over his heart in a solemn bow. His manner rarely restrained his usual sea-wolf wildness, appearing proper and respectful. "Thank you for your hospitality, Prince Doran. The fame of the Water Gardens spreads across the Seven Kingdoms; seeing it today, it surpasses rumors. It is my honor to be received by you here."
Standing beside Euron, Ashara Dayne lowered her head slightly. Sunlight filtered through the citrus leaves, casting dappled shadows on her fair cheeks, unable to hide the faint blush rising quietly. She whispered, "Thank you, Prince Doran." Her voice was soft as a murmur, carrying obvious shyness, adding a touch of moving tenderness to her usually cool and demure appearance.
How could Arianne Martell, who had been holding Ashara's arm, let slip such a perfect opportunity for teasing?
She immediately nudged her friend gently with her elbow, her bright Dornish eyes darting between Euron and Ashara, flashing with mischievous light. Lowering her voice but ensuring those around could hear, she said, "Oh my~ Look at our Pearl of Starfall. This dazzling glow almost outshines the sun of Dorne. Is it a certain little man here who makes you blush more than us old friends?"
At these words, Ashara's cheeks turned red as a ripe pomegranate. She cast a reproachful glance at Arianne, only eliciting a more cheerful, triumphant giggle from the other girl. This interaction full of maidenly spirit added a fresh, lively color to the solemn meeting.
Prince Doran reunited with his sister Elia and brother Oberyn after a long separation; the siblings naturally had countless words to share. Doran greeted Euron warmly, arranging to host him at the evening banquet, then entered the quiet, cool depths of the Old Palace with his siblings, heading to his private study. The heavy door closed gently, temporarily shutting out the world, leaving a rare private space for the core of House Martell.
Meanwhile, the lively Princess Arianne Martell naturally assumed the role of guide. Smiling, she took Ashara's hand and winked playfully at Euron. "Come, let me show you the spine and soul of Dorne!"
The two bearded guards acted as escorts, following three paces behind the trio, their great glaives held tight.
Arianne first led them toward the towering Spear Tower. This ancient tower stood tall and sharp, like a giant spear piercing the blue sky. Its rigid lines and aggressive aura were symbols of House Martell's generations of martial prowess.
Next, they arrived at the Tower of the Sun. In stark contrast to the sharpness of the Spear Tower, the overall shape of the Tower of the Sun was warm and magnificent. The massive gold foil dome atop the tower shone brilliantly under the fierce sun, like an eternal sun radiating light and heat. It solemnly spoke of the origin of House Martell's maternal bloodline—the royal traditions and ancient glory from the Rhoyne.
Arianne's voice carried pride. In her vivid explanation, the cold historical stone walls seemed to come alive again, silently telling the legend of the Spear and the Sun that ran through House Martell's history.
As the three stepped into the market streets of the Shadow City—built of mud and straw, emitting the rich aroma of spices and flatbreads—a rather spectacular procession unknowingly gathered behind them.
Most were young Dornish nobles, following the figures of Princess Arianne Martell and Lady Ashara Dayne as if drawn by a magnet. Within the crowd, several prominent young nobles were particularly eye-catching:
Rojer Allyrion of Godsgrace. His sigil was a golden hand on a red and black gyronny field. The motto "No Foe May Pass" seemed carved into his sharp eyes. He walked at the very front, his posture proud.
Penrose Briar of Briarwhite. His family sigil was a fierce black vulture grasping a pink infant on a yellow field. His appearance was always accompanied by a trace of imperceptible grimness.
Gerold Dayne of High Hermitage. He was Ashara's kinsman, possessing unforgettably handsome features. Above a clean-shaven chin was a prominent aquiline nose, with high cheekbones and a strong jawline outlining determination. A thick mane of silver hair was parted by a striking streak of black, his unique trademark. His very existence seemed to speak his family motto—"Sword as Meteor!"
Fern Jordayne of the Tor. His family sigil was a golden quill on a checkered field of dark and light green. The motto "Let It Be Written" hinted at wisdom and strategy. He observed quietly, a faint smile playing on his lips.
Symon Santagar of Spottswood. His sigil was a spotted leopard with a golden axe on a blue and white field, displaying strength and agility.
Tremond Gargalen of Salt Shore. His sigil was a red cockatrice with a black snake in its beak on a gold field—strange and striking.
This group of young, spirited followers didn't make a noise, but formed a silent yet powerful aura, making the bustling streets of the Shadow City clear a path for them, undoubtedly attracting countless curious and awed gazes.
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