Flames Ascend, Day of Judgment

In the Water Gardens, sunlight baked the pink tiles.

The gentle murmur of water flowed through the courtyard, running along narrow channels into pools dotted with blood orange trees.

The air was rich with the fragrance of flowers and damp earth, while the laughter and shouts of children drifted from afar like strings of silver bells.

Prince Doran Martell sat in his wheelchair, a thin blanket draped over his knees.

Gout tormented his joints, making him appear frailer than his years.

On the low table before him lay a scroll of parchment that had just arrived from King's Landing.

His eldest daughter, Arianne Martell, stood behind him.

His brother, Oberyn Martell, paced the room like a caged leopard.

"The common folk of King's Landing have risen in rebellion."

Doran Martell's voice was calm, as though he were stating something of no consequence.

"By the time this letter was sent, the mob had already thrown Jonos Slynt, commander of the City Watch, out a window."

Oberyn Martell stopped, a cruel smile appearing on his face.

"The fools of King's Landing have finally done something right."

He picked up a blood orange from the table and split its peel with his fingernail. Its rich fragrance immediately spread through the air.

Arianne Martell spoke, her voice sweet as honey.

"The news has already spread throughout Dorne, Father."

"In the towns outside Sunspear, gatherings of the poor are everywhere."

"They sing hymns and proclaim a holy war against the heathens."

Oberyn Martell tossed a segment of orange into his mouth, juice spraying everywhere.

"That isn't necessarily a bad thing."

He looked at his brother, excitement gleaming in his dark eyes.

"This is an opportunity, Doran."

"A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Doran Martell did not look at him. His gaze remained fixed on the children playing in