Difference between revisions of "Arianne Martell"

From A Wiki of Ice and Fire
Jump to: navigation, search
(Consistency)
m (A Clash of Kings)
(31 intermediate revisions by 10 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
 
{{Infobox character
 
{{Infobox character
| Character_name = [[File:MartellCoA.png|50px|left]] '''Arianne Martell''' [[File:MartellCoA.png|50px|right]]
+
| Character_name = [[File:House Martell.svg|50px|left]] Arianne Martell [[File:House Martell.svg|50px|right]]
| image          = [[File:Arianne_martell_by_daenerys_mod.jpg|300px]]
+
| image          = [[File:Ariannemartell1200 tizianobaracchi by thaldir-d8zs5u8.jpg|400px]]
| image_caption  = llustration by Elia Fernandez ©
+
| image_caption  = Illustration by Tiziano Baracchi, © Fantasy Flight Games
 
| Alias          =
 
| Alias          =
| Title          = Princess of [[Dorne]]
+
| Title          = Princess
 
| Allegiance    = [[House Martell]]
 
| Allegiance    = [[House Martell]]
 
| Race          =
 
| Race          =
 
| Culture        = [[Dornishmen]]
 
| Culture        = [[Dornishmen]]
 
| Spouse        =
 
| Spouse        =
| Place_of_Birth = [[Sunspear]]
+
| Place_of_Birth = [[Sunspear]]{{ref|awoiaf| Arianne Martell}}
| Date_of_Birth  = {{Date|276}}<ref>''See the [[Years after Aegon's Conquest/Calculations Ages#Arianne Martell|Arianne Martell]] calculation.''</ref>
+
| Date_of_Birth  = {{Date|276}}<ref name=Calculation>''See the [[Years after Aegon's Conquest/Calculations Ages#Arianne Martell|Arianne Martell]] calculation.''</ref>
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Date_of_Death  =
 
| Date_of_Death  =
| Books          = ''[[A Game of Thrones]]'' (Mentioned)<br>''[[A Clash of Kings]]'' (Mentioned)<br>''[[A Storm of Swords]]'' (Mentioned)<br>''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' (POV)<br>''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' (Appears)<br>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'' (POV)
+
| Books          = ''[[A Game of Thrones]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Clash of Kings]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Storm of Swords]]'' (mentioned)<br>''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' (POV)<br>''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' (appears)<br>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'' (POV)
 
| coat-of-arms  =
 
| coat-of-arms  =
 
| Played_by      =
 
| Played_by      =
Line 19: Line 19:
 
}}
 
}}
  
Princess '''Arianne Nymeros Martell''', better known simply as '''Arianne Martell''', is a member of [[House Martell]] and is the eldest daughter of the ruling Prince of [[Dorne]], [[Doran Martell|Doran]] of [[House Martell]], and his consort, [[Mellario of Norvos]]. According to Dornish [[customs]], she is the heiress of [[Sunspear]], and the future ruling Princess of Dorne. Arianne is a [[POV character]] in ''[[A Feast for Crows]]''.
+
Princess '''Arianne Nymeros Martell''', better known simply as '''Arianne Martell''', is a member of [[House Martell]] and is the eldest daughter of [[Doran Martell]], [[Prince of Dorne|the ruling Prince]] of [[Dorne]], and his consort, Lady [[Mellario]] of the Free City of [[Norvos]]. According to Dornish [[customs]], she is the heiress of [[Sunspear]], and the future ruling Princess of Dorne. Arianne is a [[POV character]] in ''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' and ''[[The Winds of Winter]]''.
  
 
==Appearance and Character==
 
==Appearance and Character==
:''See also: [[:Category:Images of Arianne Martell|Images of Arianne Martell]]''
+
{{See also|:Category:Images of Arianne Martell|l1=Images of Arianne Martell}}
Arianne is buxom and beautiful, with olive skin, large dark eyes and long, thick black hair that falls in ringlets to the middle of her back. She has full lips and round ripe breasts with huge dark nipples. Favoring her mother, she is short, standing at five foot two.{{Ref|aFfC|2}}{{Ref|aFfC|13}} When attending to matters of politics, she conceals her lush and curvaceous body with flowing silks, jewels and other ostentatious displays of wealth.{{ref|rpg|greenronin}}
+
As a young girl, Arianne was pudgy and flat-chested, and she would pray to [[Faith of the Seven|the Seven]] nightly, hoping that she would be given beauty when she was older.<ref name=twow/> Now a woman in her early twenties, Arianne is buxom and beautiful, with olive skin, large dark eyes and long, thick black hair that falls in ringlets to the middle of her back. She has full lips, a husky voice, and round ripe breasts with huge dark nipples. Favoring her mother [[Mellario]], Arianne is short, standing at five foot two.{{Ref|aFfC|2}}{{Ref|aFfC|13}}
  
Arianne is calculating, adventurous and fierce-tempered. When she sees something she desires, she strives to obtain it at all cost. She does not shy away from using her looks to get what she wants and quite often tries to seduce men to do her bidding, occasionally granting sexual favors in this context.{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}} Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] thinks that Arianne's nature compares more to her uncle [[Oberyn Martell|Oberyn's]] than to her father's.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} Arianne considers handsome men her one great weakness, in particular when they have the air of adventure and the forbidden.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}} On the other hand, Arianne seems to be pious and is praying to [[Faith of the Seven|the Seven]].{{Ref|aFfC|40}}
+
When attending to matters of politics, Arianne conceals her lush and curvaceous body with flowing silks, jewels, and other ostentatious displays of wealth.{{ref|rpg|greenronin}}
  
Despite her beauty, Arianne is still unmarried at the age of 23.{{Ref|aFfC|13}}
+
Arianne is calculating, adventurous, and fierce-tempered. When she sees something she desires, she strives to obtain it at all cost. She does not shy away from using her looks to get what she wants, nor from seducing men to get them to do her bidding, occasionally granting sexual favors in this context.<ref name=twow>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', [[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne I]]</ref> Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] thinks that Arianne's nature compares more to her uncle [[Oberyn Martell|Oberyn's]] than to her father [[Doran Martell|Doran's]].{{Ref|aFfC|13}} Arianne considers handsome men her one great weakness, in particular when they have an air of adventure and the forbidden.<ref name=twow/>{{Ref|aFfC|21}} Arianne has a vivid sexual imagination{{Ref|aFfC|21}} and has had sexual experiences from an early age.{{Ref|AFFC|13}}{{Ref|AFFC|40}}
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
[[File:Princessariannemartellmattolsonart.png|Arianne Martell - by  Matt Olson ©|thumb|200px|right]]
+
===Early life===
Arianne grew up at the [[Water Gardens]], the preferred place of residence of her father. With her brother [[Quentyn Martell|Quentyn]] sent away as squire at an early age and her brother [[Trystane Martell|Trystane]] ten years younger than herself, her best companions during childhood were [[Andrey Dalt|Drey]], [[Garin (Orphans)|Garin]] (whose mother was her wet-nurse{{Ref|aFfC|21}}) and [[Sylva Santagar|Spotted Sylva]]. However, she was closest to her cousin [[Tyene Sand]], with whom she shared everything, including a flagon of wine they had stolen at the age of ten and an early attempted sexual experience with Drey. She was also close to some of the other [[Sand Snakes]], including [[Nymeria Sand|Nymeria]] and [[Sarella Sand|Sarella]].{{Ref|aFfC|40}} Arianne was pudgy as a girl, making her pray to [[Faith of the Seven|the Seven]] that she would be given beauty when she was older.{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}} She had [[redspots]] at the age of eight, which is when she learned that the disease is mostly harmless for children but could kill adults.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
+
Born in {{Date|276}},<ref name=Calculation /> Arianne was the firstborn child of her father, [[Doran Martell]], [[Prince of Dorne]], and his wife, Lady [[Mellario]] of [[Norvos]]. As her father's firstborn, she was Doran's heiress, according to [[Rhoynish]] customs and Dornish laws.{{ref|affc|2}}{{Ref|affc|13}} Arianne spent several years of her early life at the [[Water Gardens]]. She had two younger brothers, but since [[Quentyn Martell|Quentyn]] was sent away as a page to [[Yronwood]] at an early age and [[Trystane Martell|Trystane]] was eleven years younger than herself, Arianne was never close to them. Instead, her best companions during childhood were [[Andrey Dalt|Andrey "Drey" Dalt]], [[Garin (orphan)|Garin]] (whose mother had been her [[wet nurse]]{{Ref|aFfC|21}}), [[Sylva Santagar]], and her cousin [[Tyene Sand]].{{Ref|AFFC|40}}
  
Arianne has cherished memories of her great-uncle [[Lewyn Martell]], who died when she was seven. He used to tickle her until she couldn't stop laughing.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} She has known [[Areo Hotah]], captain of her father's guards, since her childhood and they are very fond of each other.{{Ref|aFfC|40}} [[Oberyn Martell|Prince Oberyn]] once brought her and Tyene and Sarella to the abandoned holdfast of [[Shandystone]]. At one point, Arianne also travelled across the [[Mander]] when she and three of the [[Sand Snakes]] visited [[Tyene Sand]]'s mother.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
+
Tyene in particular was Arianne's best friend, since they were the same age, and thus were as close as sisters.{{Ref|affc|13}} Arianne and Tyene shared everything, including learning how to read, ride, and dance; they even shared a flagon of [[wine]] they had stolen at the age of ten, and an early attempted sexual experience with Drey.{{Ref|AFFC|40}} On occasion, Arianne's older cousin [[Nymeria Sand]] would join Arianne and her four companions, and sometimes her cousin [[Sarella Sand]] would attempt to join them as well.{{Ref|AFFC|40}} Once, Arianne crossed the [[Mander]] in the [[Reach]], when she and three of [[Sand Snakes|her cousins]] went to visit Tyene's mother.{{Ref|AFFC|21}}
  
She has had a vivid sexual imagination{{Ref|aFfC|21}} and, in accordance with the liberal customs in [[Dorne]], also sexual experiences from an early age on. She lost her virginity to [[Daemon Sand]] at 14, which she remembers as a clumsy but sweet encounter.{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}
+
Arianne once held her young cousin Princess [[Rhaenys Targaryen (daughter of Rhaegar)|Rhaenys Targaryen]], but she was so young at the time that she no longer remembers.<ref name=twow/> She does remember her great-uncle, Prince [[Lewyn Martell]] of the [[Kingsguard]], of whom she has cherished memories, and who used to tickle her until she could not stop laughing.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} When [[Robert's Rebellion]] ended, Arianne was seven years old.<ref name=twow/> At the age of eight, Arianne became afflicted with [[redspots]], and learned that the disease, while harmless for children, could be lethal for adults.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
  
Also when she was 14, Arianne found a letter that her father was about to send to her brother Quentyn, in which he stated that his son would one day sit in his place and rule [[Dorne]], suggesting to Arianne that [[Doran Martell|Prince Doran]] intended for her younger brother to succeed him, passing over Arianne entirely. According to her own account, she cried about her discovery for many days.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} She saw the humble marriage prospects Prince Doran entertained for her as further proof of these plans, as she expected a marriage match that befit her rank as a high lord's heiress. Instead, Prince Doran publicly entertained suits from various elderly lords, namely [[Ben Beesbury]], Lord [[Walder Frey]], [[Gyles Rosby]], [[Eldon Estermont]] and [[Hugh Grandison]]. Unbeknownst to her, cautious Prince Doran merely used these suitors, which he knew Arianne would refuse, as cover [[Secret marriage pact (made in Braavos)|for his plan]] to marry his daughter to [[Viserys Targaryen]] as part of his long-term goal to bring [[House Targaryen]] back to the [[Iron Throne]].{{Ref|aFfC|13}}{{Ref|aFfC|40}}
+
From a young age, Arianne was half in love with her uncle, Prince [[Oberyn Martell|Oberyn]].{{Ref|AWOIAF| Arianne Martell}} At some point, Oberyn brought her, Tyene, [[Sarella Sand]], and Garin to the abandoned holdfast of [[Shandystone]]. While Oberyn showed Tyene the best way to milk a snake's venom, and Sarella went exploring, Arianne sat on a rock, dreaming that a tall, hard robber knight, with black eyes and a widow's peak, had taken her there to have his way with her.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
  
Arianne had suitors from Dorne as well, including Drey and his brother [[Deziel Dalt|Deziel]]. Daemon Sand even asked for her hand, but was rejected by Prince Doran, with even Arianne realizing that a bastard was unacceptable and that her father wanted her to marry someone from outside Dorne. To forestall Prince Doran's offensive marriage plans with men far above her age, Arianne tried to find a more attractive match, but she was frustrated in her efforts. When she was still half a child, she tried to beguile [[Renly Baratheon]] without success while he visited Dorne. She also asked her father to be sent to [[Highgarden]] to meet [[Willas Tyrell]], although she knew he was crippled. Prince Doran refused her and, when Arianne set out on her own towards Highgarden with the help of Tyene, had her party intercepted at [[Vaith]] by Prince Oberyn. Arianne was particularly happy when Lord [[Hoster Tully]] suggested a match between Arianne and his heir [[Edmure Tully|Edmure]], but Prince Doran declined the invitation for Arianne to go to [[Riverrun]].{{Ref|aFfC|40}}{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}
+
===Secret Betrothal===
 +
[[File:Princessariannemartellmattolsonart.png|Arianne Martell - by Matt Olson ©|thumb|200px|right]]
 +
Arianne had a close relationship with her father, Prince [[Doran Martell]], when she was a girl. She would run to him when she had hurt herself,{{Ref|AFFC|40}} and would go give him a good night kiss.{{Ref|AFFC|13}} However, when Arianne was fourteen years old, she stumbled across a half-written letter from Doran to her younger brother, [[Quentyn Martell|Quentyn]], who was being fostered at [[Yronwood]]. In the letter, Doran stated that Quentyn would one day sit in his place and rule [[Dorne]], suggesting to Arianne that Doran intended for her younger brother to succeed him, passing over Arianne entirely. According to her own account, she cried about her discovery for many days.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} Arianne longed to be a dutiful daughter, but wanted her father to show that he valued her.{{Ref|AWOIAF| Arianne Martell}} She began to rebel against her father in small ways.{{Ref|AWOIAF| Arianne Martell}} When she was still fourteen, she lost her virginity to [[Daemon Sand]], the Bastard of [[Godsgrace]],{{Ref|AFFC|13}} (an encounter which she still remembers as clumsy but sweet<ref name=twow/>), and told Doran about it immediately afterwards.{{Ref|AWOIAF| Arianne Martell}} Doran did nothing about it, adding to Arianne's feelings that he was "very good at doing nothing".{{Ref|AFFC|13}}
  
Arianne has long been dissatisfied with her father and his style of rule, thinking him weak and vacillating. As heiress to [[Sunspear]], she was permitted to hold the titular governance of Dorne during her father's absences at the [[Water Gardens]], although until his death Prince Oberyn was considered to be the true reigning power at these times. While the Red Viper regularly visited Prince Doran, Arianne was only summoned twice a year, increasing her suspicion that her father had no respect for her.{{Ref|aFfC|13}}
+
In truth, Doran was only planning for Quentyn to inherit the rule of Dorne because he intended for Arianne to become Queen of the [[Seven Kingdoms]]. Unbeknownst to Arianne, her uncle Oberyn had traveled to [[Braavos]] years before, where he signed a [[secret marriage pact]] in which Arianne was betrothed to the exiled [[Viserys Targaryen]].{{ref|AFFC|40}}{{ref|adwd|43}} In return for Arianne marrying Viserys, Doran would support Viserys's claim to the [[Iron Throne]].{{ref|adwd|43}} He once planned to reveal the truth about the betrothal to Arianne, and was going to send her to [[Tyrosh]] to serve as a cupbearer to the [[Free City]]'s [[archon]] and secretly meet with Viserys. However, Doran abandoned that plan due to suicidal threats from Arianne's mother [[Mellario]], who was already deeply upset that Quentyn had been sent away to be fostered.{{ref|AFFC|40}} Doran then planned to tell Arianne about her betrothal and his plans to help restore the [[House Targaryen|Targaryens]] to the Iron Throne when Arianne turned sixteen. However, he changed his mind over time, and kept the betrothal a secret from Arianne because he felt that she was too willful, and feared that if he told her, she would tell her cousins (particularly Tyene), and there would be no way to ensure the secret would remain a secret.{{Ref|AFFC|40}}
 +
 
 +
When Arianne reached the age of marriage, Doran presented her with several suitors, all of whom were elderly lords (including [[Ben Beesbury]], [[Walder Frey]], [[Gyles Rosby]], [[Eldon Estermont]], and [[Hugh Grandison]]), while rejecting an offer from Lord [[Hoster Tully]], who had invited Arianne to travel to [[Riverrun]] and meet his heir [[Edmure Tully|Edmure]]. Arianne refused all of the elderly suitors, and asked to travel to [[Highgarden]] to meet [[Willas Tyrell]]. When Doran refused, Arianne and Tyene tried to go on their own, but were intercepted by Prince Oberyn at [[Vaith]]. Another time, when Lord [[Renly Baratheon]] visited Dorne, she attempted to seduce him, but he seemed confused by her attempts and she was not successful.{{ref|affc|40}} Because of having read the letter to Quentyn, the insulting marriage candidates Doran presented her with, and Doran's apparent coolness towards her, Arianne became convinced her father hated her.{{Ref|AWOIAF| Arianne Martell}} In truth, Doran presented her with the elderly lords as suitors because he feared that it would be suspicious if he did not attempt to arrange a marriage for her, and because he knew that Arianne would refuse them (which she forcefully did{{Ref|AFFC|21}}), thus keeping her free to marry Viserys.{{Ref|AFFC|40}}
 +
 
 +
During those years, Arianne also had suitors from Dorne. Her friend [[Andrey Dalt]] and his brother [[Deziel Dalt|Deziel]] had both wanted to marry her, and her first lover, Daemon Sand, had even gone to Prince Doran to ask for her hand, though he was rejected. Arianne believed that her father did not wish for her to marry a Dornishman, and also realized that a [[bastard]] was not a worthy consort for a princess of [[Dorne]]. While her friendship with Daemon was never the same after her father rejected his offer, Arianne took on multiple lovers over the years, including at least one of her childhood friends, as well as Ser [[Gerold Dayne]] of [[High Hermitage]].{{Ref|AWOIAF| Arianne Martell}}<ref name=twow/>{{Ref|AFFC|21}}{{ref|affc|40}}
 +
 
 +
Arianne had long been dissatisfied with her father and his style of rule, thinking him weak and vacillating.{{ref|AFFC|40}} When her father moved to the [[Water Gardens]] in {{Date|298}}, Arianne remained in [[Sunspear]]. However, instead of being made the castellan, or given a position of power, she was put in charge of "feasts and frolics", while Prince Oberyn was given the highest place of power at Sunspear's court. While her uncle would visit Doran at the Water Gardens twice every fortnight, Arianne was summoned by her father only twice a year, which all further enforced her belief that her father did not want her as his heir.{{Ref|AFFC|13}}
  
 
==Recent Events==
 
==Recent Events==
 
===''A Game of Thrones''===
 
===''A Game of Thrones''===
 
[[File:Katherine Dinger Arienne Martell.jpg|300px|thumb|Princess Arianne Martell - by Katherine Dinger ©]]
 
[[File:Katherine Dinger Arienne Martell.jpg|300px|thumb|Princess Arianne Martell - by Katherine Dinger ©]]
The death of [[Viserys Targaryen]] on the [[Dothraki Sea]], commanded by his sister [[Daenerys Targaryen|Daenerys']] husband Khal [[Drogo]]{{Ref|aGoT|46}}, puts an end [[Secret marriage pact (made in Braavos)|to the marriage plans]] [[Doran Martell|Prince Doran]] had for Viserys and Arianne and to his hope that his daughter would one day become Queen of the [[Seven Kingdoms]], while her brother [[Quentyn Martell|Quentyn]] was supposed to rule [[Dorne]] in her place. After learning of the death of Khal Drogo, Prince Doran instead schemes a marriage between Quentyn and Daenerys, while Arianne is secretly reinstated as the heiress to [[Sunspear]].{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}
+
The death of [[Viserys Targaryen]] on the [[Dothraki sea]], commanded by his sister [[Daenerys Targaryen]]'s husband, Khal [[Drogo]],{{Ref|aGoT|46}} puts an end [[secret marriage pact|to the marriage plans]] Prince [[Doran Martell]] had for Viserys and Arianne, and to his hope that his daughter would one day become Queen of the [[Seven Kingdoms]].{{Ref|AFFC|40}}
  
 
===''A Clash of Kings''===
 
===''A Clash of Kings''===
As part of an alliance [[Tyrion Lannister]] has struck between the [[Iron Throne]] and [[House Martell]], Princess [[Myrcella Baratheon|Myrcella]] is sent to [[Dorne]] where she will stay as ward, until she is old enough to marry Prince [[Trystane Martell]]. She is accompanied by Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] of the [[Kingsguard]] as her sworn shield.{{Ref|aCoK|20}}{{Ref|aCoK|41}} With [[Doran Martell|Prince Doran]] away at the [[Water Gardens]] for a longer stay, it falls on Arianne to greet Myrcella and Ser Arys upon their arrival at Sunspear.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} Arianne soon tries to seduce Ser Arys, but it takes half a year before she is successful and some sexual training through her before Ser Arys becomes an adequate lover.{{Ref|aFfC|40}}
+
As part of an alliance [[Tyrion Lannister]] has struck between the [[Iron Throne]] and [[House Martell]], Princess [[Myrcella Baratheon]] is sent to [[Dorne]] as a ward, and to marry Prince [[Trystane Martell]] when she turns fourteen.{{ref|acok|20}} She is accompanied by Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] of the [[Kingsguard]] as her [[sworn shield]].{{Ref|aCoK|20}}{{Ref|aCoK|41}}
  
===''A Storm of Swords''===  
+
===''A Storm of Swords''===
 
Lord [[Tywin Lannister]] informs his son [[Tyrion Lannister|Tyrion]] that Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] has written in a letter that [[Myrcella Baratheon|Myrcella]] and her betrothed [[Trystane Martell]] get on well and that Myrcella has taken a great liking to Princess Arianne.{{Ref|aSoS|4}}
 
Lord [[Tywin Lannister]] informs his son [[Tyrion Lannister|Tyrion]] that Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] has written in a letter that [[Myrcella Baratheon|Myrcella]] and her betrothed [[Trystane Martell]] get on well and that Myrcella has taken a great liking to Princess Arianne.{{Ref|aSoS|4}}
  
 
===''A Feast for Crows''===
 
===''A Feast for Crows''===
After the death of Prince [[Oberyn Martell|Oberyn]] in [[King's Landing]], [[Dorne]] is in uproar, with Oberyn's bastard daughters, the [[Sand Snakes]], in particular arguing for avenging the Red Viper. Prince [[Doran Martell|Doran]], who seemingly pursues a conciliatory approach, returns to [[Sunspear]] after he has spent the last two years at the [[Water Gardens]], relieving Arianne of her nominal governance of Dorne. He orders the arrest of the Sand Snakes in an apparent attempt to placate the [[Iron Throne]].{{Ref|aFfC|2}}
+
[[File:MagaliVilleneuve AM.gif|300px|thumb|Arianne and Arys, by Magali Villeneuve©]]
 +
With [[Doran Martell]], [[Prince of Dorne]], away at the [[Water Gardens]], it fell on Arianne to greet [[Myrcella Baratheon|Myrcella]] and Ser [[Arys Oakheart|Arys]] upon their arrival at Sunspear.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} Arianne tried to seduce the knight, but it took half a year before she was successful.{{Ref|aFfC|40}} Arianne drinks [[moon tea]] to avoid pregnancy.{{ref|AFFC|13}}
  
Arianne sees this as further proof that her father is not going to do anything about the death of his brother or to assure the long-sought-for revenge for the deaths of Princess [[Elia Martell|Elia]] and her children during the [[Sack of King's Landing]]. In addition, Arianne learns that the [[Golden Company]] has broken its contract with [[Myr]] and she receives information that her brother, supposedly squiring for Lord [[Anders Yronwood|Anders]] at [[Yronwood]], has travelled across the [[Narrow Sea|narrow sea]] with documents bearing the official seals of [[House Martell]]. Knowing about the historical connections of the [[House Yronwood|Yronwoods]] with the Golden Company, Arianne now believes that Lord Anders plots to install her brother [[Quentyn Martell|Quentyn]] as Prince of Dorne with the help of the [[sellsword]] company – and maybe even in agreement with the wishes of her father. She sees an analogy to how [[Myrcella Baratheon]], after the death of her older brother King [[Joffrey Baratheon|Joffrey]], has been passed over in favor of her younger brother [[Tommen Baratheon|Tommen]], but she ignores that Dornish law respecting female succession does not apply in King's Landing.{{Ref|aFfC|13}}{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
+
After the death of Prince [[Oberyn Martell|Oberyn]] in [[King's Landing]], [[Dorne]] is in uproar, with Oberyn's elder three bastard daughters, [[Obara Sand|Obara]], [[Nymeria Sand|Nymeria]] and [[Tyene Sand|Tyene]], in particular arguing to avenge the Red Viper. Doran, who seemingly pursues a conciliatory approach, returns to [[Sunspear]] after having spent two years at the Water Gardens. Upon arrival in the city, he is greeted by Arianne, who has ordered a feast prepared in his honor.{{Ref|AFFC|2}}
  
To forestall a supposed challenge to her own birthright, to win the allegiance of the Dornish by offering the defiance to the [[House Lannister|Lannisters]] that people crave and that her father doesn't seem ready to offer, and to secure that the Seven Kingdoms are ruled by someone who will supposedly be sympathetic towards Dorne, Arianne devises a wild scheme: She wants to name Myrcella as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, based on Dornish law and Myrcella's residence in Dorne, thereby precipitating a war with the Iron Throne, while she also hopes that her own people will rally to this cause with the support of the released Sand Snakes. Arianne assumes this would make her the inevitable choice to replace her father, whom she wants to live out his days as captive at the Water Gardens together with her brother Quentyn.{{Ref|aFfC|13}}{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
+
Unbeknownst to Doran, Arianne has learned that her brother, [[Quentyn Martell|Quentyn]], has secretly traveled [[across the narrow sea]]. Arianne fears that Lord [[Anders Yronwood]], Quentyn's current foster-father, is part of the plan to make Quentyn Doran's heir, displacing Arianne. When the [[Golden Company]] breaks its contract  with [[Myr]], she fears that Quentyn might have hired them to rob her of her birthright, and that he has Doran's support.{{Ref|AFFC|13}}{{Ref|AFFC|21}}{{Ref|AFFC|40}} In addition, Doran has arrested the [[Sand Snakes]] (including the younger ones, but excluding [[Sarella Sand|Sarella]], who is absent from Dorne) in an apparent attempt to placate the [[Iron Throne]].{{Ref|aFfC|2}}{{Ref|AFFC|13}}
  
[[File:MagaliVilleneuve AM.gif|300px|thumb|by MagaliVilleneuve ©]]
+
To fight the supposed challenge to her own birthright, to avenge Oberyn and [[Elia Martell|Elia]], and to free her cousins,{{Ref|AFFC|21}}{{Ref|AFFC|40}} Arianne puts into motion her scheme: she wants to crown Myrcella as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, based on Dornish law—in which an older sister would inherit before a younger brother—thereby precipitating a war with the Iron Throne and Myrcella's brother, King [[Tommen Baratheon|Tommen I Baratheon]]. Arianne also hopes that the [[Dornishmen]] will rally to this cause with the support of the released Sand Snakes. Arianne assumes this would make her the inevitable choice to replace her father, whom she wants to live out his days as captive at the Water Gardens together with her brother Quentyn.{{Ref|aFfC|13}}{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
During one of their amorous encounters, Arianne manipulates Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] into aiding and abetting her plan. She promises him that, as queen, Myrcella would permit Arianne and Arys to marry in spite of his vows as knight of the [[Kingsguard]]. She also shares her suspicions about her father's intention of stealing her birthright and the supposed plot of Lord Anders and the Golden Company. Arianne convinces Ser Arys that they need to act before her father brings Myrcella from Sunspear to the Water Gardens.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} Arianne has in fact no serious intentions with Ser Arys, whom she merely likes but doesn't love, considering him a pleasant-enough bed companion, but witless and mainly a gallant fool.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}
 
  
Arianne assembles her closest friends as co-conspirators to help her implement her scheme: [[Andrey Dalt]], heir to the Knight of [[Lemonwood]], [[Garin (Orphans)|Garin]], an [[Greenblood#Orphans of the Greenblood|orphan of the Greenblood]], and [[Sylva Santagar]], the heir of [[House Santagar]]. She also recruits [[Gerold Dayne]], known as Darkstar, whom she considers a fierce sword who can protect the band, although she doesn't trust him completely. Meanwhile, Ser Arys has the task of smuggling Myrcella out of Sunspear, using a feigned illness of the princess and impostors who play her part and his to win some time before the ruse is discovered. Arianne and the others wait for Ser Arys and Myrcella at the abandoned holdfast of [[Shandystone]]. From there, Arianne plans to head out to the [[Greenblood]] and travel with an orphan poleboat westward on that river and [[Vaith (river)|the Vaith]], then continue by land. The final destination is [[Hellholt]], the seat of [[Ellaria Sand]]'s father [[Harmen Uller]], where Arianne intends to crown Myrcella as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and to raise her own banners.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
+
During a tryst, Arianne manipulates Arys into aiding and abetting her plan, promising that Queen Myrcella would permit them to marry despite his [[Kingsguard]] vows. Arianne convinces Arys that they need to act before her father brings Myrcella from Sunspear to the Water Gardens.{{Ref|aFfC|13}} In truth, Arianne has no intention of marrying Arys, whom she likes but does not love.<ref name=twow/>{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
  
While waiting at Shandystone, Arianne grows increasingly wary of Darkstar, in particular as he dismisses her plan as unrealistic, alludes that killing Myrcella would bring the war Arianne seems to desire and hints at the age-old rivalry of [[House Dayne]] and [[House Oakheart]], suggesting a possible confrontation with Ser Arys. When Ser Arys and Myrcella arrive, Arianne addresses the bewildered girl as "Your Grace" and introduces her co-conspirators as friends who are ready to secure Myrcella's birthright to the Iron Throne. Ser Arys informs her that Lord [[Tywin Lannister]] has been murdered by his son [[Tyrion Lannister|Tyrion]] and that [[Cersei Lannister]] has assumed the regency for her son Tommen. Arianne sees this as good news all around, with a dangerous foe dead, the Lannisters fighting amongst themselves and a ruling queen making it more likely that people will eventually accept Queen Myrcella, too.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}
+
Arianne assembles her closest friends as co-conspirators to help her implement her scheme: [[Andrey Dalt]], heir to his brother [[Deziel Dalt|Deziel]], the Knight of [[Lemonwood]]; [[Garin (orphan)|Garin]], an [[orphan of the Greenblood]]; and [[Sylva Santagar]], the heir of [[House Santagar]]. She also recruits the fierce Ser [[Gerold Dayne]], known as Darkstar, although she does not trust him completely. Meanwhile, Arys has the task of smuggling Myrcella out of Sunspear, using a feigned illness of the princess and her lookalike bedmaid [[Rosamund Lannister]], as well as a stand-in for himself. Arianne and the others wait for Arys and Myrcella at the abandoned holdfast of [[Shandystone]]. From there, Arianne plans to head out to the [[Greenblood]] and travel with an orphan poleboat westward on that river and [[Vaith (river)|the Vaith]], then continue by land. The final destination is to be [[Hellholt]], the seat of [[Ellaria Sand]]'s father [[Harmen Uller]], where Arianne intends to crown Myrcella as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and to raise her own banners. While waiting at Shandystone, Arianne grows increasingly wary of Darkstar, who dismisses her plan as unrealistic and alludes to killing Myrcella.
  
[[File:Sacha Angel Diener Arianne and ArysII.jpg|300px|thumb|Arianne Martell and [[Arys Oakheart]] - by Sacha Angel Diener]]
+
[[File:Sacha Angel Diener Arianne and ArysII.jpg|350px|thumb|Arianne Martell and [[Arys Oakheart]] - by Sacha Angel Diener]]
  
The venture comes to an early end when Arianne's band arrives at the poleboat and, instead of helpers, Prince Doran's captain of guards [[Areo Hotah]] and a dozen guardsmen emerge from it. Arianne's main goal is to prevent any bloodshed and to protect Princess Myrcella, but Ser Arys, despite the desperate odds, charges against Hotah and his men, making Arianne think that she has never seen something half as gallant or half as stupid. Hotah kills Ser Arys with his longaxe, decapitating him. While Arianne falls to the ground in desperation, the Darkstar attacks Princess Myrcella, apparently in an attempt to kill her. He seriously injures Myrcella, who loses an ear, then manages to escape Hotah's men. While she is being arrested on command of her father, Arianne wonders how her wonderful plan could have ended in such dreadful bloodshed. Hotah tells her that someone betrayed her plans, as always happens.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}{{Ref|aFfC|40}} Arianne later realizes that either Drey, Garin or Spotted Sylva must have betrayed her and that Ser Arys' was probably a suicide charge, which he undertook to wipe out his shame about his relationship with the Princess of Sunspear.{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}
+
When Arianne's band arrives at the Greenblood, Prince Doran's captain of guards, [[Areo Hotah]], and a dozen guardsmen emerge from the poleboat. Arianne and Darkstar wish to yield, but Arys charges the guards and is killed by Areo's longaxe. While Arianne falls in desperation and nausea, Gerold Dayne seriously injures Myrcella (who loses an ear) then manages to escape Areo's men. While she is being arrested, Areo tells Arianne that someone betrayed her plans.{{Ref|aFfC|21}}{{Ref|aFfC|40}}
  
Prince Doran keeps his daughter isolated in a pleasantly-appointed tower cell. Forbidden contact with the outside world and attended by servants who will not speak to her, she begins a hunger strike. Eventually, Arianne is brought to her father. Though weakened, she accuses him of inaction over the deaths of his siblings and of attempting to cheat her of her birthright. Doran reveals that both was part of a larger plan to avenge the deaths of Elia and her children. He did not entertain serious suitors for her hand, because he had secretly planned for her to wed Prince [[Viserys Targaryen|Viserys]], the uncrowned Targaryen heir, and to help restore him to the [[Iron Throne]] in an overarching scheme to wreak destruction on [[House Lannister]].{{Ref|aFfC|40}}
+
Prince Doran keeps his daughter isolated within the [[Spear Tower]] in the custody of [[Ricasso]] and Ser [[Manfrey Martell]]. The pleasantly-appointed cell has history books, maps, and a ''[[cyvasse]]'' table, which Arianne does not utilize. She realizes that either Drey, Garin, or Spotted Sylva must have betrayed her, and that Arys died in a suicide charge, which he undertook to wipe out his shame about his relationship with her. Arianne is forbidden contact with the outside world and attended by servants who will not speak to her. Her attempt to send a message to Lord Uller is intercepted by Doran, after which Arianne begins a hunger strike.{{ref|AFFC|40}}
 +
 
 +
After several weeks, Arianne is brought before her father. Doran informs her that Ser [[Balon Swann]] of the [[Kingsguard]] is traveling towards Sunspear, and Arianne realizes that Doran needs her help to convince Myrcella to lie about what has transpired. When an angry Arianne reveals she had read the letter meant for Quentyn, Doran explains that the letter and his apparent inaction were part of a larger plan to avenge the deaths of Elia and her children at the [[Sack of King's Landing]]. He reveals he had only offered Arianne elderly, unacceptable suitors because he had [[secret marriage pact|secretly promised]] her to another. This man [[A Game of Thrones-Chapter 46|has died]], however, and Quentyn is on a mission for vengeance and justice for House Martell.{{Ref|AFFC|40}}
  
 
===''A Dance with Dragons''===
 
===''A Dance with Dragons''===
Prince Doran has revealed all of his plans to Arianne and has released all the [[Sand Snakes]]. Princess Arianne sits on the right side of her father at the feast to welcome Ser [[Balon Swann]] to [[Sunspear]]. Tyene, Obara, Nymeria and half the nobility of [[Dorne]] are there to witness the delivery of the skull of, presumably, the Mountain, Ser [[Gregor Clegane]].  
+
Arianne is now aware of her father's plans.{{ref|ADWD|38}} Doran had first intended to make her the queen of [[Viserys Targaryen]], with Quentyn succeeding Doran as [[Prince of Dorne]].{{ref|AFFC|40}} With Viserys having died at [[Vaes Dothrak]], however, Doran now intends for Arianne to become Princess of Dorne, with Quentyn marrying Viserys's sister, [[Daenerys Targaryen]], now the Queen of [[Meereen]].{{ref|ADWD|6}}
  
Arianne flirts with Ser Balon, but he is not as easily distracted or seduced from his duty as his sworn brother Ser Arys was. Arianne is privy to her father's plans now. She has convinced Myrcella to lie to Ser Balon and claim that Ser [[Arys Oakheart]] was slain by Ser [[Gerold Dayne]]. Under Arianne's direction again, Princess Myrcella pleads with Ser Balon to bring Ser Gerold to justice.{{Ref|aDwD|38}}
+
At the feast welcoming Ser [[Balon Swann]] and his companions to [[Sunspear]], Arianne sits on the right side of her father, a place of high honor. Together with [[Obara Sand|Obara]], [[Nymeria Sand|Nymeria]], [[Tyene Sand|Tyene]], and [[Ellaria Sand]], as well as [[Areo Hotah]] and half the nobility of [[Dorne]], Arianne and Doran witness the delivery of the [[Mountain's skull]].{{Ref|ADWD|38}}
 +
 
 +
Arianne flirts with Balon, but he is not as easily distracted or seduced from his duty as his sworn brother [[Arys Oakheart]] was. Arianne has convinced Myrcella to lie to Balon and claim that Arys was slain by Ser [[Gerold Dayne]]. Doran has planned for them all to travel to the [[Water Gardens]], where Myrcella is staying, and where Balon can learn from Myrcella what Gerold has done. According to Doran's plan, Myrcella is to plead with Balon to bring Gerold to justice. After Doran reveals to the eldest three Sand Snakes what their respective roles in his plans will be, Arianne wishes them well, and remains with her father after they leave. Doran tells Arianne a fleet has taken to water from [[Lys]].{{Ref|aDwD|38}}
 +
 
 +
Unbeknownst to the Martells, the fleet from Lys carries not Quentyn and Daenerys, but [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon Targaryen]] and the [[Golden Company]], who [[landing of the Golden Company|invade the stormlands]].{{ref|ADWD|61}} After having failed to marry Daenerys, Quentyn dies from [[dragonfire]] in Meereen.{{ref|ADWD|68}}{{ref|ADWD|70}}
  
 
===''The Winds of Winter''===
 
===''The Winds of Winter''===
Arianne departs [[Sunspear]] on a mission from her father to discover the truth about the supposed [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon Targaryen]]. She leaves with several companions, including Ser [[Daemon Sand]], now Arianne's sworn shield,  [[Joss Hood]], [[Garibald Shells]], [[Nate]], [[Jayne Ladybright]] and her cousin, [[Elia Sand]]. During the journey they arrive at [[Ghost Hill]], before departing via ship to the [[Stormlands]].{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}
+
{{Warning|This information has thus far been released in a sample chapter for ''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', and might therefore not be in finalized form. Keep in mind that the content as described below is still subject to change.}}
 +
Doran Martell receives a letter from Lord [[Jon Connington]], revealing the survival of Elia's son [[Aegon Targaryen (son of Rhaegar)|Aegon Targaryen]]. Doran sends Arianne to discover the truth about Aegon and Jon. She travels with several companions, including her new sworn shield Ser [[Daemon Sand]], [[Joss Hood]], [[Garibald Shells]], [[Nate]], [[Jayne Ladybright]], and her cousin [[Elia Sand]]. They visit [[Ghost Hill]] and take ship to the [[stormlands]].<ref name=twow/>
 +
 
 +
==Quotes by Arianne==
 +
{{Quote|'''Arianne''': Are you certain you are not off to some other bed, some other woman? Tell me who she is. I will fight her for you, bare-breasted, knife to knife. Unless she is a [[Sand Snake]]. If so, we can share you. I love my cousins well.<br>
 +
'''Arys''': You know I have no other woman. Only... duty.<br>
 +
'''Arianne''': That poxy bitch? I know her. Dry as dust between the legs, and her kisses leave you bleeding.{{Ref|AFFC|13}}}} - Arianne and [[Arys Oakheart]]
 +
 
  
==Quotes==
+
{{Quote|Do you see the white [star], Quentyn? That is [[Nymeria]]'s star, burning bright, and that milky band behind her, those are [[ten thousand ships]]. She burned as bright as any man, and so shall I. You will not rob me of my birthright!{{Ref|aFfC|21}}}}
{{Quote|I was a foolish willful girl, playing at the game of thrones like a drunkard rolling dice.{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}}}
 
  
  
{{Quote|Pretty boys had ever been her weakness, particularly the ones who were dark and dangerous as well.{{ref|twow||[[Arianne I (The Winds of Winter)|Arianne]]}}}}
+
{{Quote|Anger was better than tears, better than grief, better than guilt. Someone told, someone she had trusted. [[Arys Oakheart]] had died because of that, slain by the traitor's whisper as much as by [[Areo Hotah|the captain]]'s axe. The blood that had streamed down [[Myrcella Baratheon|Myrcella's]] face, that was the betrayer's work as well. Someone told, someone she had loved. That was the cruelest cut of all.{{Ref|AFFC|40}}}} - thoughts of Arianne
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{Quote|I was a foolish willful girl, playing at the game of thrones like a drunkard rolling dice.<ref name=twow/>}} - thoughts of Arianne
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{Quote|Pretty boys had ever been her weakness, particularly the ones who were dark and dangerous as well.<ref name=twow/>}} - thoughts of Arianne
 +
 
 +
==Quotes about Arianne==
 +
{{Quote|Remember, she is [[Dorne|Dornish]]. In the [[Reach]] men said it was the food that made [[Dornishmen]] so hot-tempered and their women so wild and wanton. Fiery peppers and strange spices heat the blood, she cannot help herself.{{Ref|AFFC|13}}}}
 +
- thoughts of [[Arys Oakheart]]
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{quote|[[Myrcella Baratheon|Myrcella]] is the elder, and better suited to [[Iron Throne|the crown]]. Who will defend her rights if not her [[Kingsguard]]? My sword, my life, my honor, all belong to her ... and to you, my heart's delight. I swear, no man will steal your birthright whilst I still have the strength to lift a sword. I am yours.{{ref|AFFC|13}}}} - [[Arys Oakheart]] to Arianne
  
 
==Family==
 
==Family==
 
{{Martell tree}}
 
{{Martell tree}}
  
==References and Notes==
+
==References==
 
{{references|2}}
 
{{references|2}}
  
 +
{{POV Characters}}
  
{{Template:POV Characters}}
 
 
<!-- Categories -->
 
<!-- Categories -->
 
[[Category:House Martell]]
 
[[Category:House Martell]]
 +
[[Category:Dornishmen|Martell, Arianne]]
 
[[Category:Characters from Dorne|Martell, Arianne]]
 
[[Category:Characters from Dorne|Martell, Arianne]]
 +
[[Category:Members of Arianne Martell's plot|Martell, Arianne]]
 +
[[Category:Noblewomen|Martell, Arianne]]
 
[[Category:POV characters|Martell, Arianne]]
 
[[Category:POV characters|Martell, Arianne]]
[[Category:Noblewomen|Martell, Arianne]]
 
  
 
<!-- language interwikis -->
 
<!-- language interwikis -->
Line 108: Line 143:
 
[[pt:Arianne Martell]]
 
[[pt:Arianne Martell]]
 
[[ru:Арианна Мартелл]]
 
[[ru:Арианна Мартелл]]
[[Zh:亚莲恩·马泰尔]]
+
[[zh:亚莲恩·马泰尔]]

Revision as of 17:17, 11 May 2018

House Martell.svg
Arianne Martell
House Martell.svg
Ariannemartell1200 tizianobaracchi by thaldir-d8zs5u8.jpg
Illustration by Tiziano Baracchi, © Fantasy Flight Games

Title Princess
Allegiance House Martell
Culture Dornishmen
Born 276 AC[1]
Sunspear[2]
Books

Princess Arianne Nymeros Martell, better known simply as Arianne Martell, is a member of House Martell and is the eldest daughter of Doran Martell, the ruling Prince of Dorne, and his consort, Lady Mellario of the Free City of Norvos. According to Dornish customs, she is the heiress of Sunspear, and the future ruling Princess of Dorne. Arianne is a POV character in A Feast for Crows and The Winds of Winter.

Appearance and Character

As a young girl, Arianne was pudgy and flat-chested, and she would pray to the Seven nightly, hoping that she would be given beauty when she was older.[3] Now a woman in her early twenties, Arianne is buxom and beautiful, with olive skin, large dark eyes and long, thick black hair that falls in ringlets to the middle of her back. She has full lips, a husky voice, and round ripe breasts with huge dark nipples. Favoring her mother Mellario, Arianne is short, standing at five foot two.[4][5]

When attending to matters of politics, Arianne conceals her lush and curvaceous body with flowing silks, jewels, and other ostentatious displays of wealth.[6]

Arianne is calculating, adventurous, and fierce-tempered. When she sees something she desires, she strives to obtain it at all cost. She does not shy away from using her looks to get what she wants, nor from seducing men to get them to do her bidding, occasionally granting sexual favors in this context.[3] Ser Arys Oakheart thinks that Arianne's nature compares more to her uncle Oberyn's than to her father Doran's.[5] Arianne considers handsome men her one great weakness, in particular when they have an air of adventure and the forbidden.[3][7] Arianne has a vivid sexual imagination[7] and has had sexual experiences from an early age.[5][8]

History

Early life

Born in 276 AC,[1] Arianne was the firstborn child of her father, Doran Martell, Prince of Dorne, and his wife, Lady Mellario of Norvos. As her father's firstborn, she was Doran's heiress, according to Rhoynish customs and Dornish laws.[4][5] Arianne spent several years of her early life at the Water Gardens. She had two younger brothers, but since Quentyn was sent away as a page to Yronwood at an early age and Trystane was eleven years younger than herself, Arianne was never close to them. Instead, her best companions during childhood were Andrey "Drey" Dalt, Garin (whose mother had been her wet nurse[7]), Sylva Santagar, and her cousin Tyene Sand.[8]

Tyene in particular was Arianne's best friend, since they were the same age, and thus were as close as sisters.[5] Arianne and Tyene shared everything, including learning how to read, ride, and dance; they even shared a flagon of wine they had stolen at the age of ten, and an early attempted sexual experience with Drey.[8] On occasion, Arianne's older cousin Nymeria Sand would join Arianne and her four companions, and sometimes her cousin Sarella Sand would attempt to join them as well.[8] Once, Arianne crossed the Mander in the Reach, when she and three of her cousins went to visit Tyene's mother.[7]

Arianne once held her young cousin Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, but she was so young at the time that she no longer remembers.[3] She does remember her great-uncle, Prince Lewyn Martell of the Kingsguard, of whom she has cherished memories, and who used to tickle her until she could not stop laughing.[5] When Robert's Rebellion ended, Arianne was seven years old.[3] At the age of eight, Arianne became afflicted with redspots, and learned that the disease, while harmless for children, could be lethal for adults.[7]

From a young age, Arianne was half in love with her uncle, Prince Oberyn.[2] At some point, Oberyn brought her, Tyene, Sarella Sand, and Garin to the abandoned holdfast of Shandystone. While Oberyn showed Tyene the best way to milk a snake's venom, and Sarella went exploring, Arianne sat on a rock, dreaming that a tall, hard robber knight, with black eyes and a widow's peak, had taken her there to have his way with her.[7]

Secret Betrothal

Arianne Martell - by Matt Olson ©

Arianne had a close relationship with her father, Prince Doran Martell, when she was a girl. She would run to him when she had hurt herself,[8] and would go give him a good night kiss.[5] However, when Arianne was fourteen years old, she stumbled across a half-written letter from Doran to her younger brother, Quentyn, who was being fostered at Yronwood. In the letter, Doran stated that Quentyn would one day sit in his place and rule Dorne, suggesting to Arianne that Doran intended for her younger brother to succeed him, passing over Arianne entirely. According to her own account, she cried about her discovery for many days.[5] Arianne longed to be a dutiful daughter, but wanted her father to show that he valued her.[2] She began to rebel against her father in small ways.[2] When she was still fourteen, she lost her virginity to Daemon Sand, the Bastard of Godsgrace,[5] (an encounter which she still remembers as clumsy but sweet[3]), and told Doran about it immediately afterwards.[2] Doran did nothing about it, adding to Arianne's feelings that he was "very good at doing nothing".[5]

In truth, Doran was only planning for Quentyn to inherit the rule of Dorne because he intended for Arianne to become Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. Unbeknownst to Arianne, her uncle Oberyn had traveled to Braavos years before, where he signed a secret marriage pact in which Arianne was betrothed to the exiled Viserys Targaryen.[8][9] In return for Arianne marrying Viserys, Doran would support Viserys's claim to the Iron Throne.[9] He once planned to reveal the truth about the betrothal to Arianne, and was going to send her to Tyrosh to serve as a cupbearer to the Free City's archon and secretly meet with Viserys. However, Doran abandoned that plan due to suicidal threats from Arianne's mother Mellario, who was already deeply upset that Quentyn had been sent away to be fostered.[8] Doran then planned to tell Arianne about her betrothal and his plans to help restore the Targaryens to the Iron Throne when Arianne turned sixteen. However, he changed his mind over time, and kept the betrothal a secret from Arianne because he felt that she was too willful, and feared that if he told her, she would tell her cousins (particularly Tyene), and there would be no way to ensure the secret would remain a secret.[8]

When Arianne reached the age of marriage, Doran presented her with several suitors, all of whom were elderly lords (including Ben Beesbury, Walder Frey, Gyles Rosby, Eldon Estermont, and Hugh Grandison), while rejecting an offer from Lord Hoster Tully, who had invited Arianne to travel to Riverrun and meet his heir Edmure. Arianne refused all of the elderly suitors, and asked to travel to Highgarden to meet Willas Tyrell. When Doran refused, Arianne and Tyene tried to go on their own, but were intercepted by Prince Oberyn at Vaith. Another time, when Lord Renly Baratheon visited Dorne, she attempted to seduce him, but he seemed confused by her attempts and she was not successful.[8] Because of having read the letter to Quentyn, the insulting marriage candidates Doran presented her with, and Doran's apparent coolness towards her, Arianne became convinced her father hated her.[2] In truth, Doran presented her with the elderly lords as suitors because he feared that it would be suspicious if he did not attempt to arrange a marriage for her, and because he knew that Arianne would refuse them (which she forcefully did[7]), thus keeping her free to marry Viserys.[8]

During those years, Arianne also had suitors from Dorne. Her friend Andrey Dalt and his brother Deziel had both wanted to marry her, and her first lover, Daemon Sand, had even gone to Prince Doran to ask for her hand, though he was rejected. Arianne believed that her father did not wish for her to marry a Dornishman, and also realized that a bastard was not a worthy consort for a princess of Dorne. While her friendship with Daemon was never the same after her father rejected his offer, Arianne took on multiple lovers over the years, including at least one of her childhood friends, as well as Ser Gerold Dayne of High Hermitage.[2][3][7][8]

Arianne had long been dissatisfied with her father and his style of rule, thinking him weak and vacillating.[8] When her father moved to the Water Gardens in 298 AC, Arianne remained in Sunspear. However, instead of being made the castellan, or given a position of power, she was put in charge of "feasts and frolics", while Prince Oberyn was given the highest place of power at Sunspear's court. While her uncle would visit Doran at the Water Gardens twice every fortnight, Arianne was summoned by her father only twice a year, which all further enforced her belief that her father did not want her as his heir.[5]

Recent Events

A Game of Thrones

Princess Arianne Martell - by Katherine Dinger ©

The death of Viserys Targaryen on the Dothraki sea, commanded by his sister Daenerys Targaryen's husband, Khal Drogo,[10] puts an end to the marriage plans Prince Doran Martell had for Viserys and Arianne, and to his hope that his daughter would one day become Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.[8]

A Clash of Kings

As part of an alliance Tyrion Lannister has struck between the Iron Throne and House Martell, Princess Myrcella Baratheon is sent to Dorne as a ward, and to marry Prince Trystane Martell when she turns fourteen.[11] She is accompanied by Ser Arys Oakheart of the Kingsguard as her sworn shield.[11][12]

A Storm of Swords

Lord Tywin Lannister informs his son Tyrion that Ser Arys Oakheart has written in a letter that Myrcella and her betrothed Trystane Martell get on well and that Myrcella has taken a great liking to Princess Arianne.[13]

A Feast for Crows

Arianne and Arys, by Magali Villeneuve©

With Doran Martell, Prince of Dorne, away at the Water Gardens, it fell on Arianne to greet Myrcella and Ser Arys upon their arrival at Sunspear.[5] Arianne tried to seduce the knight, but it took half a year before she was successful.[8] Arianne drinks moon tea to avoid pregnancy.[5]

After the death of Prince Oberyn in King's Landing, Dorne is in uproar, with Oberyn's elder three bastard daughters, Obara, Nymeria and Tyene, in particular arguing to avenge the Red Viper. Doran, who seemingly pursues a conciliatory approach, returns to Sunspear after having spent two years at the Water Gardens. Upon arrival in the city, he is greeted by Arianne, who has ordered a feast prepared in his honor.[4]

Unbeknownst to Doran, Arianne has learned that her brother, Quentyn, has secretly traveled across the narrow sea. Arianne fears that Lord Anders Yronwood, Quentyn's current foster-father, is part of the plan to make Quentyn Doran's heir, displacing Arianne. When the Golden Company breaks its contract with Myr, she fears that Quentyn might have hired them to rob her of her birthright, and that he has Doran's support.[5][7][8] In addition, Doran has arrested the Sand Snakes (including the younger ones, but excluding Sarella, who is absent from Dorne) in an apparent attempt to placate the Iron Throne.[4][5]

To fight the supposed challenge to her own birthright, to avenge Oberyn and Elia, and to free her cousins,[7][8] Arianne puts into motion her scheme: she wants to crown Myrcella as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, based on Dornish law—in which an older sister would inherit before a younger brother—thereby precipitating a war with the Iron Throne and Myrcella's brother, King Tommen I Baratheon. Arianne also hopes that the Dornishmen will rally to this cause with the support of the released Sand Snakes. Arianne assumes this would make her the inevitable choice to replace her father, whom she wants to live out his days as captive at the Water Gardens together with her brother Quentyn.[5][7]

During a tryst, Arianne manipulates Arys into aiding and abetting her plan, promising that Queen Myrcella would permit them to marry despite his Kingsguard vows. Arianne convinces Arys that they need to act before her father brings Myrcella from Sunspear to the Water Gardens.[5] In truth, Arianne has no intention of marrying Arys, whom she likes but does not love.[3][7]

Arianne assembles her closest friends as co-conspirators to help her implement her scheme: Andrey Dalt, heir to his brother Deziel, the Knight of Lemonwood; Garin, an orphan of the Greenblood; and Sylva Santagar, the heir of House Santagar. She also recruits the fierce Ser Gerold Dayne, known as Darkstar, although she does not trust him completely. Meanwhile, Arys has the task of smuggling Myrcella out of Sunspear, using a feigned illness of the princess and her lookalike bedmaid Rosamund Lannister, as well as a stand-in for himself. Arianne and the others wait for Arys and Myrcella at the abandoned holdfast of Shandystone. From there, Arianne plans to head out to the Greenblood and travel with an orphan poleboat westward on that river and the Vaith, then continue by land. The final destination is to be Hellholt, the seat of Ellaria Sand's father Harmen Uller, where Arianne intends to crown Myrcella as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and to raise her own banners. While waiting at Shandystone, Arianne grows increasingly wary of Darkstar, who dismisses her plan as unrealistic and alludes to killing Myrcella.

Arianne Martell and Arys Oakheart - by Sacha Angel Diener

When Arianne's band arrives at the Greenblood, Prince Doran's captain of guards, Areo Hotah, and a dozen guardsmen emerge from the poleboat. Arianne and Darkstar wish to yield, but Arys charges the guards and is killed by Areo's longaxe. While Arianne falls in desperation and nausea, Gerold Dayne seriously injures Myrcella (who loses an ear) then manages to escape Areo's men. While she is being arrested, Areo tells Arianne that someone betrayed her plans.[7][8]

Prince Doran keeps his daughter isolated within the Spear Tower in the custody of Ricasso and Ser Manfrey Martell. The pleasantly-appointed cell has history books, maps, and a cyvasse table, which Arianne does not utilize. She realizes that either Drey, Garin, or Spotted Sylva must have betrayed her, and that Arys died in a suicide charge, which he undertook to wipe out his shame about his relationship with her. Arianne is forbidden contact with the outside world and attended by servants who will not speak to her. Her attempt to send a message to Lord Uller is intercepted by Doran, after which Arianne begins a hunger strike.[8]

After several weeks, Arianne is brought before her father. Doran informs her that Ser Balon Swann of the Kingsguard is traveling towards Sunspear, and Arianne realizes that Doran needs her help to convince Myrcella to lie about what has transpired. When an angry Arianne reveals she had read the letter meant for Quentyn, Doran explains that the letter and his apparent inaction were part of a larger plan to avenge the deaths of Elia and her children at the Sack of King's Landing. He reveals he had only offered Arianne elderly, unacceptable suitors because he had secretly promised her to another. This man has died, however, and Quentyn is on a mission for vengeance and justice for House Martell.[8]

A Dance with Dragons

Arianne is now aware of her father's plans.[14] Doran had first intended to make her the queen of Viserys Targaryen, with Quentyn succeeding Doran as Prince of Dorne.[8] With Viserys having died at Vaes Dothrak, however, Doran now intends for Arianne to become Princess of Dorne, with Quentyn marrying Viserys's sister, Daenerys Targaryen, now the Queen of Meereen.[15]

At the feast welcoming Ser Balon Swann and his companions to Sunspear, Arianne sits on the right side of her father, a place of high honor. Together with Obara, Nymeria, Tyene, and Ellaria Sand, as well as Areo Hotah and half the nobility of Dorne, Arianne and Doran witness the delivery of the Mountain's skull.[14]

Arianne flirts with Balon, but he is not as easily distracted or seduced from his duty as his sworn brother Arys Oakheart was. Arianne has convinced Myrcella to lie to Balon and claim that Arys was slain by Ser Gerold Dayne. Doran has planned for them all to travel to the Water Gardens, where Myrcella is staying, and where Balon can learn from Myrcella what Gerold has done. According to Doran's plan, Myrcella is to plead with Balon to bring Gerold to justice. After Doran reveals to the eldest three Sand Snakes what their respective roles in his plans will be, Arianne wishes them well, and remains with her father after they leave. Doran tells Arianne a fleet has taken to water from Lys.[14]

Unbeknownst to the Martells, the fleet from Lys carries not Quentyn and Daenerys, but Aegon Targaryen and the Golden Company, who invade the stormlands.[16] After having failed to marry Daenerys, Quentyn dies from dragonfire in Meereen.[17][18]

The Winds of Winter

Content.png
Warning
This information has thus far been released in a sample chapter for The Winds of Winter, and might therefore not be in finalized form. Keep in mind that the content as described below is still subject to change.

Doran Martell receives a letter from Lord Jon Connington, revealing the survival of Elia's son Aegon Targaryen. Doran sends Arianne to discover the truth about Aegon and Jon. She travels with several companions, including her new sworn shield Ser Daemon Sand, Joss Hood, Garibald Shells, Nate, Jayne Ladybright, and her cousin Elia Sand. They visit Ghost Hill and take ship to the stormlands.[3]

Quotes by Arianne

Arianne: Are you certain you are not off to some other bed, some other woman? Tell me who she is. I will fight her for you, bare-breasted, knife to knife. Unless she is a Sand Snake. If so, we can share you. I love my cousins well.

Arys: You know I have no other woman. Only... duty.

Arianne: That poxy bitch? I know her. Dry as dust between the legs, and her kisses leave you bleeding.[5]

- Arianne and Arys Oakheart


Do you see the white [star], Quentyn? That is Nymeria's star, burning bright, and that milky band behind her, those are ten thousand ships. She burned as bright as any man, and so shall I. You will not rob me of my birthright![7]


Anger was better than tears, better than grief, better than guilt. Someone told, someone she had trusted. Arys Oakheart had died because of that, slain by the traitor's whisper as much as by the captain's axe. The blood that had streamed down Myrcella's face, that was the betrayer's work as well. Someone told, someone she had loved. That was the cruelest cut of all.[8]

- thoughts of Arianne


I was a foolish willful girl, playing at the game of thrones like a drunkard rolling dice.[3]

- thoughts of Arianne


Pretty boys had ever been her weakness, particularly the ones who were dark and dangerous as well.[3]

- thoughts of Arianne

Quotes about Arianne

Remember, she is Dornish. In the Reach men said it was the food that made Dornishmen so hot-tempered and their women so wild and wanton. Fiery peppers and strange spices heat the blood, she cannot help herself.[5]

- thoughts of Arys Oakheart


Myrcella is the elder, and better suited to the crown. Who will defend her rights if not her Kingsguard? My sword, my life, my honor, all belong to her ... and to you, my heart's delight. I swear, no man will steal your birthright whilst I still have the strength to lift a sword. I am yours.[5]

- Arys Oakheart to Arianne

Family

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Princess
of Dorne
 
Prince
Consort
 
 
 
 
 
Lewyn
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Doran
 
Mellario
of Norvos
 
Mors
 
Olyvar
 
Elia
 
Rhaegar
Targaryen
 
 
 
 
Various
women
 
Oberyn
 
Ellaria
Sand
 
 
Manfrey
 
Unknown
wife
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Arianne
 
Quentyn
 
Trystane
 
 
 
 
 
Rhaenys
Targaryen
 
Aegon
Targaryen
 
Obara
Sand
 
 
Tyene
Sand
 
 
Elia
Sand
 
 
Dorea
Sand
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nymeria
Sand
 
Sarella
Sand
 
Obella
Sand
 
Loreza
Sand
 


References