"But not now. Let them bleed a little longer. Once they're exhausted, the dragon will be the best arbiter."
"You know," Prince Doran began, "I've spent my whole life playing chess. My opponents have been Tywin Lannister, Olenna Redwyne, and all those nobles of the Seven Kingdoms who think they can push Dorne around as they please. I play slowly, looking several moves ahead with every step. Some call me cowardly, others indecisive. Perhaps they're right. But on the chessboard, a slow move won't kill you. A wrong one will."
He paused before continuing. "But now I'm certain you're worth staking everything on. You will make a good king, and Arianne will have a good future with you. I hope you'll remember what we've said here today."
"I will."
Doran nodded and signaled for Hotah to wheel him inside. Before leaving, he glanced at Viserys and Arianne. "I won't interfere in how you young people get along, but I hope you'll treat her well."
Viserys took Arianne's hand and answered Doran, "Of course. I'll take good care of her."
Doran looked at their clasped hands, and the smile at the corner of his mouth deepened. "It seems you're getting along quite well."
Arianne flushed a little at discussing such things in front of her father, but she answered openly nonetheless. "He's my fiancé, Father."
"I know," Doran said. "That's why I'm leaving him with you. Your Majesty, I trust you wouldn't mind staying in Dorne a few more days? My daughter has spent years looking forward to truly getting to know you."
Viserys looked down at Arianne. An undisguised plea shone in her dark eyes.
"All right," he said.
Doran spoke, his gaze settling on Arianne. "Arianne, take His Majesty back to rest. Let him have a good look at