Game of Thrones: The Road to Pirate King

Chapter 140 Prince Doran Namelos Martell

The fleet slowly sailed into the port of Sunspear. The blazing sun poured down on the land of Dorne without reservation, and the air was filled with the unique aroma of spices and sea breeze.

On the dock, two striking figures stood waiting for the captain of the Martell family guard, Alio Horta, known as "The Bearded Monk," and his second-in-command, Sebastian Fernand. Both were imposing, with thick, bushy beards that almost covered half their faces. They wore light, Dornish scale armor, and their expressions remained as calm and resolute as ever.

Euron jumped off the deck first, walking forward into the heat. His gaze swept over his two old friends, and a teasing smile appeared on his lips. "It seems the Dornish sun and food really do nourish the body. It hasn't been that long since we last met, and your beards are already making your chins look so round."

Upon hearing this, Ario Hota's lips, hidden beneath his thick beard, seemed to twitch slightly. Sebastian responded in his deep, thunderous voice, "Even far away in Dorne, your name, like the hot winds of this desert, ceaselessly fills our ears. The Flames of Greenwood"—we've heard that tune so many times we're practically calloused.

The two bearded burly men were not particularly eloquent, but they did not immediately refute each other. Their tightly pursed lips gradually parted, revealing sincere and joyful smiles surrounded by their beards, their eyes sparkling with the warmth of a long-awaited reunion.

The two bearded men gave Euron a warm hug, and everything was understood without words. They were truly happy to see this "source of trouble" from the Iron Islands again. After three years of traveling, Euron had become not only their employer but also their friend.

About three miles west of Sunspear City, the private residence of Prince Doran Namelos Martell, a flowing garden, nestles quietly on the beach.

This is not a solemn military fortress, but a secluded paradise for the Martell family, known for its cool fountains, shallow pools, and shady citrus groves scattered throughout.

Due to severe gout, Prince Doran is extremely immobile and has long relied on a wheelchair. At this moment, he is sitting in his wheelchair under the shade of a tree, not conducting official business in the throne room, but awaiting the arrival of his loved ones.

When Princess Elia Martell appeared, Prince Doran's face, which had been taut with pain for years, instantly radiated genuine joy and warmth.

He opened his arms and warmly embraced his sister, who had traveled a long way home—an embrace brimming with brotherly love and comfort. Then, he carefully took his niece, Rhaenys, from Ilya's arms, gently cradling the babbling little princess on his lap, his eyes revealing the loving kindness of an elder.

Then, Prince Doran turned his gaze to Euron, who, despite being confined to a wheelchair, still maintained the composure and dignity of a Dornish ruler.

Prince Doran's voice was gentle yet solemn: "Welcome to Dorne, welcome to Sunspear, Euron Greyjoy. Your arrival adds a unique sound to this place." He paused slightly, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "And please allow me, as a friend of Ashara's brother and as the ruler of Dorne, to extend my sincerest congratulations. Your engagement to the Pearl of Starfall is a joyous occasion worthy of celebration."

Euron stepped forward, placed his right hand on his chest, and gave a solemn bow. His demeanor was unusually restrained, devoid of his usual sea wolf-like unbridled manner, and appeared proper and respectful: "Thank you for your hospitality, Prince Doran. The beauty of the Flowing Gardens is renowned throughout the Seven Kingdoms, and seeing it today surpasses even the 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 tree leaves, casting dappled shadows on her fair cheeks, yet unable to conceal the faint blush that was quietly rising within her. She whispered, "Thank you, Your Highness." Her voice was so soft it was almost a murmur, carrying an obvious shyness that added a touch of captivating gentleness compared to her usual aloof and serene demeanor.

Princess Arianne Martell, who had been holding Ashara's arm the whole time, was not about to miss this perfect opportunity to tease her.

She immediately nudged her friend with her elbow, her bright Dornish eyes darting between Euron and Ashara, gleaming with a mischievous light. Lowering her voice, but making sure everyone around could hear, she said, "Oh my~ look at the jewel of our Starfall City! Its dazzling light almost surpasses the sun of Dorne. Is there some little man here who makes you blush more than us old friends?"

Upon hearing this, Asara's cheeks flushed even more, like ripe pomegranates. She gave Ariane a reproachful look, which only elicited a more cheerful and smug chuckle from the other. This girlish interaction added a touch of lively charm to the solemn meeting.

Prince Doran was reunited with his sister Elijah and brother Oberyn after a long separation, and the siblings had countless things to say. Doran greeted Euron warmly, promising to entertain him at a banquet later that evening, before joining his siblings in the quiet, cool depths of the old palace to his private study. The heavy door closed gently, temporarily isolating them from the outside world and granting the core of the Martell family a rare moment of privacy.

Meanwhile, the vivacious Princess Arianne Martell naturally took on the responsibility of guiding them. She smiled and took Ashara's hand, giving Euron a playful wink: "Come on, let me show you the backbone and soul of Dorne!"

Two bearded monks acted as guards, following three steps behind the three, their large swords gripped tightly in their hands.

Arianne led the two towards the towering Spear Tower. This ancient tower stood tall and sharp, like a giant spear piercing the blue sky. Its rigid lines and imposing presence were a symbol of the Martell family's generations of bravery and skill in battle.

Then they arrived at the Sun Tower. In stark contrast to the imposing Spear Tower, the Sun Tower possessed a warm and magnificent overall design. The enormous gold leaf inlaid at its top shone brightly under the blazing sun, resembling an eternal sun radiating light and warmth. It solemnly spoke of the origins of the Martell family's maternal lineage—a royal tradition and ancient glory from the Loyna River.

Arianne's voice was filled with pride, and through her vivid explanation, the cold historical stone wall seemed to come back to life, silently telling the legend of the spear and the sun that runs through the history of the Martell family.

As the three stepped into the Shadow City's market streets, made of mud and straw and filled with the rich aroma of spices and baked goods, a rather impressive procession unknowingly gathered behind them.

Most of them were young noblemen from Dorne, drawn by a magnet to Princess Arianne Martell and Lady Ashara Dayne. Among the crowd, a few striking young noblemen stood out:

Rogé Elion of Divine Grace City, his emblem a golden hand on a red and black fan-shaped background, the motto "My enemies are not to be trifled with" seemingly etched in his sharp eyes. He walked at the forefront, his posture proud and imposing.

Penrose Blamont of Blamont City, whose family crest features a ferocious black eagle clutching a pink infant against a yellow background. His presence is always accompanied by a subtle, chilling aura.

Jero Dayne of High Hidden City, a member of the Ashara clan, possesses an unforgettable handsome appearance.

Above his clean-shaven chin was a large, hooked nose, and his high cheekbones and strong jawline defined a resolute figure. A thick head of silver hair was parted by a striking strand of black hair, becoming his unique trademark. His very presence spoke of the family motto—"The sword is like a shooting star!"

Fern Jordain of Thor, whose family crest is a golden quill on a dark and light green checkerboard pattern, with the motto "Write your words" hinting at wisdom and strategy, observed quietly, a faint smile playing on his lips.

Simon Santaga's family crest features a leopard holding a golden axe on a blue and white background, symbolizing strength and agility.

Trimond Gogenles of the Salt Coast has a coat of arms featuring a red pheasant-like creature with a writhing black snake in its mouth on a gold background, a strange and striking design.

These young and spirited followers did not make a fuss, but instead created a silent yet powerful aura that made the bustling streets of Shadow City part to make way for them, undoubtedly attracting countless curious and awe-inspiring glances.

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