Dorne, at the southernmost tip of Westeros, was perhaps the only region in the Seven Kingdoms that had grown weary of this long summer.
The unrelenting heat had worsened Dorne's drought and barrenness. Fresh water on land was worth its weight in gold here, and any well that produced water was guarded by troops dispatched by the lords.
Sunspear, situated at the easternmost edge of Dorne, was one of the rare cities untouched by drought, blessed by the damp, salty sea breeze and nourished by the Greenblood.
It was also the seat of House Martell, Dorne's ruling house.
Daemon Sand passed through three heavily guarded gates, rounded the winding walls, and headed straight for the Old Palace, which resembled a sailing ship.
"I have business with Princess Arianne."
"Please follow me." The guard clearly recognized the bastard from Godsgrace. He nodded to Daemon, then turned and led the way.
Though Dorne had submitted to the Iron Throne, unlike the dukes of the other six kingdoms, House Martell still followed Rhoynar tradition and styled its rulers "Prince" and "Princess."
The princess Daemon spoke of was naturally the eldest daughter of Dorne's current prince—
Arianne Martell.
When the guard pushed open the dark brown doors, Daemon caught the rich fragrance of Miyi Flowers.
He knew it was Princess Arianne's favorite scent.
Stepping into the spacious hall, Daemon immediately spotted the graceful figure seated on a Myrish carpet.
"Princess!" Daemon suppressed the longing and agitation in his heart as he stepped forward and bowed.
Arianne had been reading an ancient yellowed book. Beside her sat a cup of red wine and a Cyvasse board.
At the sound of his voice, she set down the book and stretched languidly atop the carpet, like a noble, elegant cat.
She had olive skin, large dark eyes,