Over the next few days, aside from his daily physical training, Galladon continued seeking guidance from Barius in archery.
He also observed Salio's Braavosi Water Dancer swordsmanship.
It had to be admitted—the style was unique.
Water Dancers wielded slender blades in one hand, emphasizing agility, precision, and lethal efficiency. Without heavy armor, they relied on speed and footwork. Their movements were fluid, almost graceful, as if combat itself were a dance.
Unlike many Westerosi knights who dismissed foreign techniques, Galladon did not sneer at this style. To him, absorbing strengths from various schools and discarding weaknesses was the path to mastery.
Through discussion and practice with Salio, his own swordsmanship improved.
After three days at sea aboard the Evening Star:
Archery increased from 69% to 71%
Swordsmanship rose from 62% to 63%
Near dusk on the third day, they arrived at Maidenpool.
Maidenpool
Maidenpool was the seat of House Mooton.
Upon learning of Galladon's arrival, Lord William Mooton personally greeted him at the docks.
William Mooton was a slightly plump noble in his thirties. He did not project either strength or cunning. In Galladon's memory of future events, this lord would later prove somewhat weak during turbulent times.
"Lord Galladon, welcome to Maidenpool. Was your voyage smooth?" William asked warmly.
"The seas were calm, my lord. Thank you for your hospitality."
Maidenpool bustled with activity. Nobles from Dorne, the Stormlands, and the North frequently stopped here when traveling by sea to Harrenhal.
One of the city's most famous features was its hot spring, said to have healing properties. A grand bathhouse managed by the Faith stood beside it, reserved for women.
William explained:
"The public spring is open-air. If you wish for privacy, the castle has smaller springs."
Galladon preferred privacy.
The Castle and Hot Spring
Maidenpool Castle stood on a hill overlooking the town. Its red stone walls and semicircular towers gave it a refined appearance.
Galladon and Carina were assigned a guest chamber on the first floor. Through a southern door lay a small courtyard enclosed by a high wooden fence. At its center was a private hot spring pool formed from dark gray stone, steam rising gently into the air.
Carina looked at it with curiosity. The architecture and layout were unlike anything on Tarth Island.
Galladon whispered something into her ear, causing her cheeks to flush.
"My lord… perhaps after dark?" she murmured, embarrassed by the open sky despite the privacy fence.
Galladon laughed softly.
That night, they soaked in the hot spring. The warm mineral water washed away the fatigue of sea travel.
Galladon even considered building a similar retreat on Tas Island upon his return.
The Banquet
Later that evening, William Mooton invited Galladon to a dinner banquet in the castle hall.
More than a dozen guests sat at the long oak table.
Among them, one pair immediately drew Galladon's attention.
A young man of about twenty, bronze-skinned, sharp-featured, with dark narrow eyes and a dangerous smile. Beside him sat a woman of similar complexion, graceful and alluring.
Dornish.
Only Dornish nobles bore such sun-kissed skin.
Could it be…?
William Mooton stood and introduced them.
"This is Prince Oberyn of Dorne. And beside him, Lady Ellaria."
It was indeed him.
Oberyn Martell — the Red Viper.
Despite Oberyn's reputation, Galladon remained calm. Oberyn was formidable, but not invincible. With "Just Maid" Galladon could defeat him without difficulty.
"Greetings, Prince Oberyn Martell," Galladon said with a brief nod.
Oberyn studied him with amusement.
"So you are Galladon Tarth? I hear you possess a holy sword. Is that true?"
His tone carried arrogance, as though addressing a junior.
Galladon felt mild irritation but did not show it.
Instead of answering, he turned to William Mooton.
"Lord William, you have not yet introduced the other guests."
The hall fell silent.
Ignoring Oberyn was itself a statement.
The playful smile on Oberyn's face stiffened.
His eyes narrowed slightly.
The air between them grew tense.
(End of Chapter 26)
A/N:
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