The Red Viper's lance shattered against Gendry's breastplate. The impact frightened Oberyn's warhorse, and it tried to throw him. Fortunately, it was a fine horse, and the Red Viper brought it under control again.
The third pass came next. Both men rode to their squires and took fresh blunted tourney lances.
Crash. Gendry's lance collided head-on with the Red Viper's, sending splinters flying.
The Red Viper's hands trembled slightly, and his body shuddered, but fortunately he kept his balance.
The knights charged back and forth until they had taken up their seventh lances.
Their lances seemed about to collide again in a dangerous dance of steel.
"Well met." In an elusive instant, Gendry shifted his body aside just before danger struck.
Oberyn's lance struck Gendry's shoulder, but Gendry remained as steady as a rock.
Crash. Gendry's lance smashed squarely through the Red Viper's shield, then struck his chest without losing its force, right over his heart.
The Red Viper felt a force that could split mountains and shatter stone. He reeled backward, crumpling into a heap atop his horse.
Unable to control his horse, he toppled from the saddle.
The warhorse galloped on, and the crowd cheered.
Everyone agreed that this match had been full of spectacular moments, an exceptionally thrilling contest.
"Storm!" "Storm!"
"Victory belongs to King Gendry!" Trumpets and trombones sounded again. Frenzied cheers filled the grounds as people shouted Gendry's and Oberyn's names.
Thunderous cheers rose from the crowd as they acclaimed their king.
Gendry lifted his visor, revealing black hair, blue eyes, and a youthful face as he welcomed this moment of glory.
All the applause, all the cheers, were for him.
This was also why knights were so enthralled by tourneys. A tourney championship represented victory, honor, and progress.
Gendry walked over to the Red