After more than two hours of thrilling melee, the contest in the training yard finally reached its conclusion. Six of the finest Daynes of their generation approached the stands, brimming with pride.
Starfall's chief steward immediately announced to the spectators in excitement,
"The contenders for the next Sword of the Morning have been chosen! First is Earl Dayne's younger brother, Ser Garth Dayne, wielder of the greatsword! With that greatsword in his hands, Ser Garth has won countless tournaments."
"Next is Orryn Sarwyck, known as the Night Venomous Snake! His short blades have struck terror into the bastards of High Hermitage! A highborn bastard himself, Orryn is a mighty and honorable knight, just like his father, the Sword of the Morning before the last!"
"Ha! Dorne really does have its own peculiar culture. Even bastards are supposed to have honor here!"
After hearing the chief steward's introduction of Orryn, Rhaenyra remarked dismissively,
"And does a knight who favors poisoned short blades deserve a knight's honor either?!"
For the first time, Danyla discovered that Rhaenyra had a venomous little tongue herself.
"You're right, sister. Dorne's culture certainly is unique..."
"Let us cheer for the knight of the twin swords-Ser Roland Dayne! His swordsmanship is as memorable as his looks. Ser Roland is truly the man of countless Dornish maidens' dreams!"
"Next, I present House Dayne's most dazzling pearl of the desert-Lady Mara Dayne! Her beauty is the least remarkable of her many virtues. A descendant of Queen Nymeria, Lady Mara possesses courage and wisdom equal to any man's!"
"Hmph! I see House Dayne isn't just skilled with swords. Its talent for boasting is unrivaled in the Seven Kingdoms, too!"
Seeing House Dayne's chief steward heap such praise on Mara Dayne, Rhaenyra immediately grew displeased.
"I'd like to see just how dazzling