Dorne is not as sandy as I expected. We spent most of the day riding through rolling fields of grass, which made for a pleasant trip, especially after so many days at sea. One of our men, Smithson, knows a house in this area, named House Torys. We should reach their lands this afternoon.
Well, that was an unexpected welcome! We arrived at Cabaldea, the hamlet on House Torys’ lands around the same time as a crew of very rough looking individuals, bearing the sigil of house Ladybright. As Lord Torys was in discussion with some representatives of House Martell, Elyana and I were obliged to wait in the marketplace, where we had the opportunity to sample some of the regional produce. We were not fans of the dragonfruit, but fire apples could have definite promise as a potential flavor for one of the limited vintages. We made sure to save our seeds- it will be an interesting to see if Shell Island’s climate can support Dornish crops.
When we were finally seen up at the castle, Lord Torys extended his hospitality, and seems quite pleased to have us staying with him. It is my hope that he will come to be a powerful trade ally for my family, and a good base of operations for our familial pursuits here in Dorne. I hope to have made a friend this day!
I have just taken the most wonderful bath. It was simply wondrous to get the dust of several days worth of travel out of my hair and skin. I feel confident that, after a good night’s rest, I will be almost myself again.
A strange thing happened while in the bathhouse though- The master of the hunt came through the courtyard with two men from House Fortuna, and it sounded as though one of them was quite injured. We couldn’t hear much of what was said, but apparently their house is a coastal one, and they have been attacked by pirates, and practically wiped out! How barbaric. I do so hope the injured man is all right. I worry what increased piracy will mean for my hopes of establishing a shipping trade to the Dornish houses…
I’m feeling lucky to be off of the road and safe in a bed this evening.