DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN THE GAME OF THRONES OR A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE. I ONLY OWN VISENYA TARGARYEN, ORIGINAL CHARACTERS AND THE PLOT LINE OF THE STORY.
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Prologue Part One: 279 AC
Four years before Robert's Rebellion
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Oberyn Martell, the youngest Prince of Dorne, paced impatiently. The darker skinned man had been at the docks since the sun rose that morning, when news had come that a ship had been sighted just off the coast, bearing the black and red three headed dragon banner of House Targaryen. It was a ship bearing his dearest friend to his home. Daella Targaryen, daughter of King Aerys and the only Targaryen Princess since the burning of Summerhall when Crown Prince Rhaegar Targaryen was born in 260. Daella was born in 263, three years after the King and Queen's first child.
She was born of a Northern mother from a lesser Noble House, who had become the mistress of the King during a Tourney when the North had actually participated and who had died giving birth to her. She bore the black curly hair of her mothers kin and the bright violet eyes of the Targaryen's, of which hers were currently the darkest. She was a small woman, barely five feet, with an hourglass body and stunning creamy pale skin. Though she was actually Queen Rhaella's niece, the woman loved her as her own and raised her as though she was her mother. Daella had been legitimized by the King right after her birth, though Aerys refused to betroth her to his son, even though Rhaella hadn't given him a pureblood valyrian for Rhaegar yet, as he didn't want the blood of the First Men to taint his precious bloodline.
Instead, Rhaegar had been betrothed to Oberyn's only sister, Elia Martell and they had married a few moons previously. Oberyn had met Daella when his family had traveled to Kings Landing during the betrothal negotiations and they had become as thick as thieves. They had been frequent visitors to each others' homes, Dorne and Kings Landing over the last year and a half, and were close friends, some would say too close for friends of the opposite sexes. Both were thankful that they were the second born and therefore had more freedom then their elder counterparts.
This had led to now.
A moon ago a woman had arrived at the gates of Sunspear with a child in her arms. It was a Septa he had had relations with two years before and he was surprised when the woman, whose name he couldn't quite recall, had dropped a toddler in his lap and told him that she had had enough and the child could stay with him. Tyene Sand was adorable with blonde hair, blue eyes and a dimple in her cheeks, but her face was the same shape as his and her hair held the Rhoynar curls that ran in his family. It hadn't taken much for him to believe her about Tyene being his daughter.
He had been deeply ashamed that he never wondered if he left children behind with any of his frequent paramours. This had led to a man hunt across Westeros and even Essos, as he had spent five years over there after the incident with Lord Yornwood's Paramour and the battle that earned him the nickname Red Viper. Oberyn had spent hours trying to remember the names of all his previous lovers, ones he had slept with more than once or which places he had spent the most time at in order to find out if he had other children.
Shortly after Tyene had been left in his care, he had written to his friend, furious and ashamed as he had learned he had another daughter in Volantis. Nymeria Sand was four years old, being treated as a servant in her mothers home, as she was a bastard, and that her mother wanted nothing to do with her. Oberyn had been apocalyptic since the letter had arrived, stating that Nymeria was now on her way to Dorne to live with him permanently, without any kind of escort. He could remember every word of his letter to Daella.
Princess Daella Targaryen,
You wouldn't believe what I recently found out Daella, I'M A FATHER!
I never even thought about the consequences of having frequent paramours and now I'm paying the price. Tyene Sand is the child of a Septa I met two years ago in 276 and her mother recently dropped her off here in Sunspear, stating that she didn't want her anymore. This has led Doran to begin a man hunt to find out if I have anymore children. It's a good thing too because I have a four-year-old daughter in Volantis. Her name in Nymeria and she's currently on her way to Dorne, as her mother wants nothing to do with her. I feel awful that I never thought of children and Doran is exasperated with me. It's been a few weeks since Tyene has come to stay with me and I feel out of my depth. I know you love children, so I was wondering if you would care to come to Dorne and help me, as I am soon to have two daughters staying with me and they could probably used a woman's presence to help them accumulate to their new home.
With hope in my heart,
Prince Oberyn Nymerios Martell.
He had received a replay a few days later, the letter crumpled in his hand but memorised.
Prince Oberyn Martell,
It was good to hear from you Oberyn and congratulations of the birth of two daughters. Don't panic but I'm fairly certain I have found another child of yours. A few weeks ago, your Uncle Lewyn and I had traveled to Old Town, where I came across a young girl who looked much like you, so much so that I went looking for her mother, hoping to discover who her father was. Turns out when you spent time here a few years ago, you spent a lot of time with a whore named Ally and she gave birth to a daughter. Her name is Obara and when I discovered that they were training her for the pleasure house after she had her first blood, my temper got the best of me.
Obara returned to Kings Landing with me and Lewyn and has joined my household as a cup bearer for the time being, though Lewyn has had her in the training yard already, she's good with a spear just like you are. I spoke with mother after you letter arrived and she has given me permission to stay in Sunspear for six moons, we leave in two days time. I will bring Obara with me when I come to Dorne, she is excited to meet you and has taken a shine to Elia. Speaking of Elia, it was just announced this afternoon but she and Rhaegar are expecting their first chid and I expect she will write to you soon. Anyway, I look forward to seeing you and eagerly await our reunion.
With love,
Princess Daella Targaryen
Oberyn had been blown away when he received the raven three weeks before hand, as it had sat on his desk for three days as he was unsure what it would say. Part of him expected her to get mad at him as she had warned him of the consequences of children more than once since their first meeting, especially with how often he was in the brothels. He never really believed her, especially as he made sure the whores he was with drank moon tea after they were together, he had hoped to avoid the position he was currently now in.
Doran had been beside himself, as Oberyn's prospects for marriage dropped lower and lower. Having one bastard, even a daughter was bad, but to have three and all a few years apart, didn't say good things for him about being married. That was okay with Oberyn, he didn't want to get married in the first place. He had never met anyone he wanted to spend the rest of his life with and refused to marry for politics, he would sooner slit his own throat. It was something he had in common with Daella. Her father had been considering husbands for her since Rhaegar had married Elia and Daella was always writing to complain.
Aerys Targaryen hadn't wanted Daella to marry Rhaegar but he also didn't want to give her to just anybody. He hadn't wanted to taint the Iron Throne with the blood of the First Men but he also didn't want to give the Targaryen blood to just anyone. Last Oberyn had heard was Robert Baratheon, the young Lord of Storms End, was being considered for her husband at Steffon Baratheon had been Aerys cousin. Her letter to him after she had spent time in the Eyrie with Robert had left him laughing for what felt like hours as the man was a 'drunken, flirty oaf, and she wanted to poke his eyes right out of his skull.' That had been six moons ago, just after Rhaegar and Elia got married.
Daella had made her opinion of marriage clear, especially because of what happened between her parents. Aerys may have sired her but that's all Daella really considered him, her sire, while Rhaella, who was her aunt, was her mother. She had never met her birth mother, she only knew her name, Arrana. So, as far as the Princess was concerned, Rhaella was her mother. Everyone knew she was part of the North but no one was sure how as Aerys mistress was a very well-kept secret, the only person who might know was Varys, the spymaster.
A childish giggle grabbed his attention, pulling him from his thoughts and he looked up to see Doran had joined him on the docks, with his three-year-old daughter Arianne and wife Mellario. The woman was carrying his two-year-old daughter, her blonde hair shining in the sunlight, and Oberyn couldn't stop the smile at the sight of her. Yes, he never intended to marry and wasn't sure about children, but knowing her, holding her in his arms, she was one of the best things that ever happened to him.
Her little eyes lit right up when they landed on him, "Papa," she cried reaching for him.
Mellario rolled her eyes as she almost dropped the little one before willingly handing Tyene over to her good brother. Oberyn threw her up into the air and grinned when she shrieked with delight, demanding he do it again. After a couple tosses he settled her into his arms and she clung to him, "Lobe you papa," she murmured softly, stumbling over her words. His heart throbbed in his chest at her words and he pressed a kiss to the top of her head, "Love you too sweetling," he murmured softly.
Doran moved to his side, "The ship is approaching," he said, pointing towards the ship that was coming in. Oberyn turned happily towards, eyes instantly finding the dark-haired woman on the deck, dressed in a gown of Targaryen red, with black accents. Her long black hair was free down her back and waving in the wind. Tyene stirring in his arms as shouting erupted around them as servants rushed to tie the ship to port. The little girl watched curiously as people ran around and giggled when her father kissed her cheek, "What papa?" she asked pointing to the ship.
"That is a ship and someone very special Tyene," he whispered to her as his eyes caught sight of a little girl standing next to his best friends side. From a distance the little girl looked like every other dornish girl that lived in Dorne. Long black hair, darkened skin and dark eyes, though she was dressed in Martell yellow. Oberyn was sure that was his daughter Obara and he felt nervous but happy to meet her, though horrible he didn't think to check the brothel in Old Towne when he was writing down his more frequent paramours. He was ashamed, especially because of how old she was and the plans they had for Obara once she flowered.
The little girl was beaming and staring in every direction, pointing to things and Oberyn could now hear Daella and his uncle Lewyn's laughter to whatever she had said. The sound of footsteps caught his attention and he turned to see Septa Angela coming towards him with a little girl. She had long black hair and his dark brown eyes. His four-year-old daughter Nymeria, who had arrived in Sunspear only a week before. She was dressed in Martell orange, with her hair in a braid down her back and her eyes stuck to the ground.
Oberyn hadn't known what to expect when she had arrived in Sunspear but it was more that what he got. Nymeria was frightened of her own shadow, flinched if a male got close to her without warning and she rarely ever met anyone's eyes. It had been tense between them as Oberyn didn't know how to handle her and she didn't know what to do with a father she had never met before. A woman named Melissa, who had been Nymeria's wet nurse, had followed her to Dorne, thankful to get away from Volantis. Septa Angela was the septa Mellario had hired for her daughter Arianne and Oberyn had had her agree to have Nymeria under her instruction as well.
His sighed as he watched her look up below her thick lashes, darkened eyes watching the ship wearily. Some part of her expected to be sent back to Volantis, though Oberyn would never do that. She was his daughter and after meeting her and knowing her for a week, he loved her and refused to send her back to a place where she would be harmed. He held Tyene tight and moved to stand at Nymeria's side, making the girls eyes automatically drop back to the ground. "Nymeria," he said softly.
She trembled as she slowly raised her face, remembering what Septa Angela said about eye contact and met the identical eyes of her father. His face was soft as he gazed at her, "Thank you for coming," he said genuinely, making the girl flush. Nymeria had grown up in her uncles home, where her mother had lived, and forced to be a servant. It was better than being a slave but she had been taught that servants never looked at their betters and never talked to anyone but another servant. When the letter had come, demanding whoever was of Oberyn's seed be sent to Dorne to live with the younger Prince, her uncle had forced her onto the first ship he could. Her mother hadn't even come to say goodbye, to busy with her betrothed.
When she had arrived in Sunspear and was greeted by a man with the same eyes as her, she hadn't known what to think but after being there for a week, she knew one thing about her father. He loved fiercely and didn't hesitate to show it. The first time she had flinched when he had surprised her, he had frowned, gotten down onto his knees and sworn he would never raise a hand to her in anger. Everyone in Dorne was like that, she had leaned when walking through the markets with her nursemaid Melissa. No one hurt children there, they would scold them but not hurt them.
He had come into her room last night and asked her to come to the docks to meet his friend Daella. She had been hesitant after being raised that she shouldn't be in the company of her betters and Daella was the Princess of the Seven Kingdoms. It was her aunt Mellario who had convinced her to come, mentioning that that Daella was bringing her half-sister, Obara, who was also a bastard and wouldn't look down on her. It had surprised her to learn she had another sister, after having met Tyene her first day there, especially when she didn't look like the rest of the dornish. Tyene had the blonde hair and blue eyes of her mother, who had been a septa from somewhere in Essos.
The sound of laughter caught her attention and Nymeria looked up and lost her breath. The woman on the deck of she ship was the most beautiful woman Nymeria had ever seen. She had thick, black, corkscrew curls that hung to her waist and violet purple eyes she could see from a distance. She was dressed in a simple gown of Targaryen red and wore a choker of rubies. The moment their eyes met, Nymeria wanted to smile, though she didn't know why, there was just something about the woman.
Her eyes then drifted down and she noted a little girl was standing beside the Princess. A little girl that looked just like her, only older and wearing Martell yellow. Nymeria was positive that was her sister Obara and her heart pounded with anxiety at the though of the older girl and Princess not liking her. A part of her said she was being ridiculous but the voice of her mother echoed in her head, your no more than a bastard. No one is ever going to like or want you.
Oberyn grinned as the ship settled into port and the plank was lowered. His eyes eagerly drank in his best friend. She was as beautiful as always and Oberyn set Tyene down on the ground beside Nymeria before striding towards the plank, where Daella met him and threw her arms around his neck. "Oberyn," she breathed into his shoulder, while his arms wrapped around her waist and he inhaled the scent of lilies from her hair. "Daella, its good to see you," he whispered, as he hadn't seen her since Rhaegar and Elia's wedding.
Nymeria watched with wide eyes, unable to look away as Tyene held her hand, looking at the Princess with wide eyes, "Pretty," the little girl breathed, staring at the woman's glossy hair. Nymeria's face flushed as Tyene hadn't said that as quietly as she thought and gained everyone's attention. Daella pulled away from the dornish Prince and smiled at the two little girls, "You must be Nymeria and Tyene," she said eyeing them with soft violet eyes. Nymeria curtsied, "Yes your grace," she murmured, her sister following her movements clumsily.
Daella's smile fell slightly, "You can call be Daella little one, after all, we are all friends here," she murmured kindly. Nymeria looked up, making eyes contact and nodded slightly, smiling nervously back. Oberyn watched eagerly and then grinned to himself as Daella connected with his second daughter, who he worried for. He hoped having Daella here would help her relax and show her that not everyone was the same when it came to bastards.
A sound grabbed his attention and Oberyn turned to see his Uncle Lewyn stepping of the ship, his white cloak fluttering in the wind, "Uncle," he greeted his mothers brother simply. The older dornish man, his hair lightly streaked with grey, smiled back, "Oberyn, Doran, it's good to see you," he said, nodding to the current ruling Prince of Dorne. Their father had passed years ago and their mother followed a few weeks before Elia had married Rhaegar, leaving the ruling of Dorne to Doran and Oberyn didn't envy him.
"There's someone whose been looking forward to meeting you," their uncle said as he stepped of the plank and moved to the side, revealing a small girl. Oberyn lost his breath as he looked into the living replica of his mother. The biggest difference was her hair held no curls and she had a button nose like her mother. "Obara," he breathed in surprise, taking in the beautiful young child. The little girl looked uncertain until her eyes landed on Daella, who stood at Oberyn's shoulder. Whatever the Princess of the Seven Kingdoms gestured, made the little girl relax and she turned to face him, "Hello papa," she murmured coming closer.
His heart pounded in his chest and his eyes watered lightly as he looked at the six-year-old, realizing just how much of her life he had missed. He dropped down to his knees in front of her and offered her his hands, which she tentatively took, "Hello sweetling, welcome home," he murmured softly, making the little girls lip tremble before the threw herself into his arms, holding him tight. Oberyn held her just as tightly, a tear leaking down his cheek as it really hit him that he was a father and had three daughters. He rose to his feet, urging Obara to wrap her legs around his waist before he turned to face everyone.
Doran and Mellario were grinning at him, Arianne was focused on the toy in her hand while Daella stood beside his uncle Lewyn, with Tyene in her arms and Nymeria by her side. Oberyn grinned at them as he stepped closer, "Obara, these are you siblings Nymeria and Tyene. Girls this is your older sister Obara," he said, introducing the three girls to each other. Obara urged Oberyn to put her down and then went over to Nymeria, the girls identical eyes locking as Tyene reached for the eldest little snake, "Bara," the two-year-old called happily.
Daella smiled as Obara and Nymeria seized each other up before hugging each other, "Your daughters are beautiful," Daella said to Oberyn, who looked every inch a proud papa as he looked at his three daughters. He smiled, "I am very blessed," he agreed as Obara and Nymeria released each other and Obara moved to stand beside Daella, "I like it here," she said to the woman who had saved her life. Daella smiled as she smoothed a piece of hair to the side of Obara's face, "I'm glad sweetling," she said, happy.
Together, the group left the docks and went back towards the palace. There was to be a welcome party for Daella that night and everyone wanted to relax before then. Servants rushed about getting Daella, Lewyn and Obara's things unloaded from the ship and packed onto carts. Oberyn helped Daella mount her sand steed, "Thank you," he whispered as she settled into the saddle. She smiled easily, "Always Oberyn," she said accepting Nymeria when he passed her up. Oberyn's two oldest had asked to ride with them on the way back, instead of going into the wheelhouse and they had agreed easily. Nymeria settled easily in front of Daella while Oberyn mounted his horse and settled Obara in front of him. Both girls were excited and Nymeria's eyes hadn't dropped since she was introduced to the Princess, there was just something about her that urged the second born to be brave.
People cheered greetings to the Princess as they moved through the trees towards the palace. It was a shock to Nymeria still, even when they had cheered for Prince Doran on their way to the docks, it was taking time to sink in that Nymeria wasn't a servant here, here she was the daughter of Oberyn Martell, a Prince of Dorne and in fact a Lady. Her eyes shifted to her sister, Obara, who was ginning as she waved as everyone in the streets, a huge smile on her face. Nymeria felt Daella shift behind her and looked over her shoulder, meeting violet eyes, "Why do people cheer for us?" she asked softly. She had been told being a bastard was a crime and had been treated horribly all her life.
Daella smiled at her, "It's a big thing being apart of a ruling family Nymeria. Whether you're a bastard or not, people look to you, just like they would look to your uncle Doran. You may not be a Martell in name but you are in blood, that makes you part of nobility, no matter your birth," she said softly, "Now raise your hand and wave. It makes people feel appreciated when nobility take the time to greet them and while you may not be a Princess, your father is a Prince and you are a Lady."
Nymeria followed her advice and giggled loudly as people waved back at her.
The laugh caught Oberyn's attention and he turned to see his daughter, laughing and smiling at the people, in a way she hadn't since her arrival. For the first time, it was as thought Nymeria realized and accepted she was the daughter of a Prince of Dorne and these people, who gathered on the streets of Sunspear, were her people. His eyes then sought out Daella's and his heart pounded at the sight of her.
The sun glinted off her hair, that shined with blue and purple highlights, like crows wings, her eyes sparkled and she wore a beaming smile, so wide that Oberyn couldn't help but smile back. He didn't know it just yet, but subconsciously, that was the moment that he knew Daella would be his wife one day.
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Later that night, music echoed around the palace as a party commenced in the garden. It was a beautiful clear night, the moon was full and the stars sparkled overhead and Oberyn laid across a chaise, sipping a goblet of wine, his eyes locked onto the stunning figure dressed in Martell yellow and dark purple embroidery, that looked as though a dragon was wrapped around her skirt. The gown was off the shoulder straps, that dipped low in the front to just below her breasts, and flared at her hips, with a slight train. She glowed in the candlelight and Oberyn had almost swallowed his tongue when she had entered the garden earlier that evening.
Her hair was piled onto of her head with a simple gold circlet of braided metal. Normally she wouldn't have worn such a thing to a party but during the Tourney to celebrate Rhaegar and Elia's marriage, she had competed in the melee and after she had won, Aerys had named her the Princess of Summerhall, which was currently being rebuilt. It would be her keep to rule in her own right and whoever she married would be her Prince-consort. His eyes were constantly drawn to her neck, which bore a tear drop diamond necklace which Oberyn had given her for her Name Day the year before. It sparkled from every direction and was one of Daella's most prize possessions.
Oberyn had never looked at Daella as anything other than a friend before. Oh, he knew she was beautiful but it never really hit him until earlier that day, when he saw her with Nymeria. That was the first time he really realized that Daella was a woman and that she was a stunning one at that. He had been watching her since she entered the garden as she greeted and socialized with the Ladies of Dorne. Mellario was with her, his uncle Lewyn shadowing the young Princess, while Doran was across the garden deep in conversation with Lord Dayne and Lord Uller. Oberyn was laid across one of the chaises, dressed in Martell yellow with golden suns embroidered on the fabric, a small circlet of a viper around his head. He had been hoping to seduce someone that night but was unable to take his eyes from Daella.
Eventually, after watching the Princess of the Seven Kingdoms greet everyone present, Oberyn rose to his feet and approached her, where she was standing with Mellario, Ashara Dayne, who had accompanied Daella to Dorne as all her other ladies in waiting had been sent home to visit their own families and one of Mellario's ladies from Norvos Anya. All three stared at him in surprise, as usually by now, he had left the celebrations. He smirked at Daella and bowed exaggeratedly to her, "Princess Daella, may I please have the pleasure of a dance?" he asked promptly, making the young Princess giggle, "Of course, your highness," she said slyly, taking his hand.
Together they joined the sea of dancers and moved in unison, never missing a beat as they seamlessly joined the dance. Many eyes were on them, gossiping about what a handsome couple they were as they smiled at each other. Doran looked up from the conversation he was having with Lord Dayne when he heard his brothers laughter and he turned to see twenty-two-year-old brother dancing with the nineteen-year-old Princess of the Seven Kingdom's. She may have been born a bastard but Daella had never been treated as anything other than a Princess, especially with Queen Rhaella raising her as though she was her own.
They looked beautiful, more so than even Rhaegar and Elia at their wedding and Doran privately wondered if Aerys would consent for the two to marry, though he doubted it. Daella had been brushed aside from marrying her own brother because her mother had been of the First Men and Rhaegar had only married Elia because Targaryen's and Martell's, had mixed bloodlines frequently since Aegon's Conquest of the Seven Kingdom's. If valyrian blood wasn't so important to the King of the Seven Kingdom's, Rhaegar would have married Cersei Lannister or even one of the Tully daughters, while Daella would have gone into the North with her mothers family. However, Aerys didn't want to hand Targaryen blood over to anyone, which was why Daella wasn't betrothed or wed yet.
Oberyn spun Daella around and then brought her close to his body again with a smile, "I must say Daella, you wear Martell yellow well," he said stroking a hand over her waist. She smiled back at her, "Thank you Oberyn," she said softly, watching him intently. He wondered what she was thinking about as she stared at him but didn't get a chance to ask before she was speaking again, "How is being a father?" she asked, bringing up the topic of conversation that had brought her to Dorne in the first place, not that she wasn't grateful, things were tense in King's Landing, especially with Rhaegar having just found that stupid prophecy and Elia announcing her first pregnancy.
The younger Prince of Dorne frowned lightly, "It's… strange," he said thoughtfully, "I never thought I was the fatherly type and then Melara placed Tyene in my arms and I… I can't image not having them now." Daella smiled at him, "I saw how you were with Tyene and Nymeria and then earlier with Obara, everything will work itself out, don't worry," she reassured him, gaining a light smile from the dornish man. "I'm glad you're here," he admitted softly, spinning her around the dancefloor. She laughed, "I'll always be here when you need me," she said brightly. Oberyn laughed and they enjoyed the rest of their night together.
That night when they went to sleep, Oberyn dreamed of violet purple eyes and a bright smile, while Daella dreamed of warm hands and darkened brown, almost black eyes, not for the first time either.
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A few weeks later, a servant would spot the Prince Oberyn and Princess Daella running through the gardens in the moonlight one night, their laughter ringing through the air as he chased her, swearing to kiss her if he caught her. When he did indeed catch her and their mouths met in a passionate kiss, the servant swore to never say a word and kept the secret until her death years later.
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Time passed quickly and before they knew it, Daella had been in Dorne for a moon.
Their days had descended into a routine, starting at seven in the morning, when they all gathered to break their fast. The morning was spent with the three daughters of the Red Viper in lessons with Septa Angela and their cousin Arianne, while Daella and Oberyn explored the city of Sunspear together. They all met for the noontime meal, where Oberyn then took his daughters to the practice yard. Obara had taken after her father and was good with a spear, young Nymeria went for the daggers, while little Tyene sat on Daella's lap, watching eagerly as their father put her two elder sisters through their paces.
Daella, once known as Aradora daughter of Arathorn, watched as Oberyn put Obara through her paces with the spear. The six-year-old had been learning well since Prince Lewyn had placed the first one in her hands. She still couldn't believe how she had found her, living in a brothel in Old Towne and how they planned to train her after she had her first moonblood, atrocious. Daella had been furious and took her right away, especially after seeing her eyes. There had been no doubt in Daella's mind that Obara was Oberyn daughter and seeing the way they were together after they arrived in Dorne filled her with warmth. Obara adored her father and it showed in their every action.
She was drawn from her thoughts when Oberyn disarmed Obara for the third time that morning and the little girl signed before glaring down at the spear, "What am I doing wrong?" she asked looking up at her father. Oberyn smiled, "Your not doing anything wrong Obara, you just need more practice," he said lovingly, staring down at her in pride. She handled herself well for a six-year-old and Oberyn knew she would be a force to be reckoned with when she was older, maybe would one day surpass him.
Obara signed and looked to Daella with a pout, "Do you think I'll be as good as papa one day?" she asked searchingly. Obara Sand loved Daella Targaryen like a mother, she had saved her life that day she had taken her from the brothel and again when she offered to take her to her father. Obara hadn't even known her fathers name until then and when Daella had taken her to meet her aunt Elia and great-uncle Lewyn, everything had changed for the better. As far as Obara was concerned, Daella was her mother and she wouldn't have anyone say different. Looking at her now, dressed in leather armor, with a dagger at her hip, sword leaning against the table and hair wrapped up in a knot on top of her head, no one would ever think she was the Princess of the Seven Kingdom's and Obara wondered if she was Nymeria reborn. She had heard tons of rumors working in the Princesses household, the main being that Daella was one of the best, if not the best swordswoman in all of Westeros.
Daella looked at her and smiled, "I think you'll one day surpass your father sweetling," she said softly. Obara smiled brightly at her and then reached for her spear, determined to go again. Oberyn smiled at her proudly and moved into position, but they were interrupted before they could begin again. Ashara Dayne, the sister of the Sword of Morning, entered their little practice area, a letter in her hand. Daella looked up at one of her dearest friends, "Ashara," she greeted with a smile, making Tyene wave at her wildly. The beautiful star of Starfall smiled, "Your grace, a letter from King's Landing," she said handing it to Daella.
The Princess took it with a curious tilt of her head and used the knife on the table to peel the wax off and opened it,-
Dear Daella,
I write to you with grave news. According to your brother Rhaegar, Elia had fallen ill though only four moons into her pregnancy and your father is furious. When their betrothal was arranged, no one mentioned her ill health and Elia only admitted it after she had fainted during the harsh heat of the day. Rhaegar had made her return to Dragonstone, given the cooler climate there. Your father is furious over being mislead and has been speaking with Lord Tywin of annulling the marriage if Elia does not birth a healthy child. Your brother had been pensive and does not speak in her defense, he keeping going on about how the 'Dragon must have three heads' whatever that means.
I spoke with Elia before she left and things are not well between them. Apparently Rhaegar is angry at her for falling ill, though she had no control over that. She bore harsh bruising on her upper arms and said Rhaegar had grabbed her, not knowing his own strength, though it was a lie. I thought I had taught Rhaegar better then that, though it seems he shall follow in his fathers footsteps.
Your father has descended worse into the madness which has taken him and things have been difficult here in court. I am grateful that you are not here, especially with so many eager to have your hand in marriage. You father had turned down all betrothal offers and it would seem that the one to Robert Baratheon will not come to pass as it has been mentioned that Robert might be betrothed to the only Stark girl of this generation, Lyanna. You fatheris angry but with him unwilling to commit to a written betrothal, Robert was forced to look elsewhere.
He burned two children alive yesterday for stealing food. The court whispers of his madness and many are concerned what it means for the realm. I am unsure what it means for the realm or even your future. Though it was only mentioned in passing, your father has expressed regret that he did not wed you to Rhaegar, despite your mothers bloodline and I am unsure what it means. Enjoy your time in Dorne daughter for I don't know what will happen in the future, though the unrest of the Kingdom's is concerning.
I wish you well and hope to hear from you soon,
Love always,
Your mother,
Queen Rhaella Targaryen
Oberyn was concerned when he saw Daella's expression as it went from happy to concerned to furious back to concerned again before settling on agitated. He placed his spear down and moved to stand at her shoulder, "What is it?" he asked with concern, a hand settling on her shoulder. She leaned back into before handing him the letter, her hand shaking with fury. Oberyn took it and eagerly read it, wanting to know what had pissed his dearest friend off so much. When he finished, he dropped the letter on the table before hissing angerly under his breath.
He had warned his mother, especially after meeting the Dragon Prince. He had warned her that he was not good enough for Elia, that Elia would never be happy in Kings Landing, did she listen? NO! She was too pleased she had gotten one up on Tywin Lannister, given that Aerys had turned his daughter away from Rhaegar the year before and instead her daughter would one day be Queen. He looked to Daella, who looked torn between sadness for Elia and rage at her elder brother. Finally, the rage won and she gently moved Tyene to her own seat before grabbing her sword, "Oberyn," she gestured to the practice yard and he obliged eagerly, wanting to get rid of the anger before he did or said something he would regret.
Obara and Nymeria moved to sit with their younger sister at the table and watched with wide eyes as the two adults fought. It was a deadly dance and whenever they thought one would win, the other would come back harder, making them fight again. The clash of sword grabbed many peoples attention until finally, Doran arrived, looking concerned as his brother and the Princess tried to kill each other. He moved over to the table where his nieces sat and Ashara was standing watch over them, "What happened?" he demanded in surprise.
Ashara shot a loot at the Princess before turning to the ruling Prince of Dorne, "A letter from Kings Landing," she said, gesturing to the parchment which was sitting innocently on the table. Doran picked it up, concerned on what had caused his hot-headed younger brother and the usually gentle princesses, such rage. When he finished, he too was fuming and mentally planning all the ways he could kill the Crown Prince of the Seven Kingdom's and hide his body where no one would ever find him. It would not come to pass unless they Dorne wanted to court war with the other Great Houses but Doran could silently promise on his mothers grave that Rhaegar would one day get what was coming to him.
Oberyn and Daella's fight ended in a tie when Daella was disarmed but was able to hold a back up dagger to Oberyn's neck, while the younger Prince of Dorne held one to her side, both mortal wounds. The children talked excitedly as their father joined them at the table and Daella stood at his side, "That was amazing," Obara exclaimed. She had seen the Princess fight before, she would watch her and Ser Arthur Dayne and Ser Barristan the Bold and even sometimes Prince Rhaegar, but she had never seen anyone fight that way Oberyn and Daella had fought.
Nymeria nodded enthusiastically at her sisters side and looked at her father and the Princess with awe. She had seen people fight here in Dorne and even back in Volantis but never had they fought like the two adults right in front of her. She looked at her father and grinned, "I want to fight like that one day," she said determinedly. Oberyn shared a look with Daella, who nodded with a laugh, "We'll make warrior out these little Sand Snakes yet," she said loudly, thus giving Oberyn's daughters their name, the Sand Snakes. The two girls moved back into the practice yard, Ser Daemon Sand, Oberyn's squire moving to help them through the beginning exercises of their weapon of choice.
Doran raised a hand holding the letter Daella had received from her mother, "What are we to do about this?" he asked, referring to the everything in the letter. Daella's face hardened and she scowled, "I do not know but to make things a little easier for Elia, Ashara I want you to journey to Dragonstone and stay with her," she said with a look to her close friend. Daella had a large entourage of ladies in Kings Landing and had for most of her life. After she had had her first moonblood at thirteen, ladies from all over had joined her.
Elia and Ashara had been the first ones to join her, never mind that Elia was older than her. The Princess of Dorne at the time, Mariah Martell had hoped that Elia and Rhaegar would build a relationship that would lead to marriage. It hadn't happened until Aerys had forced Rhaegar to get to know his betrothed before they married and Mariah had died only months before the wedding. After that had come Catelyn Tully and her sister Lysa, followed by Cersei Lannister, Mina and Janna Tyrell and Maege Mormont. Lyanna Stark was supposed to be the Lady from the North but Lord Stark had refused and instead offered the eldest daughter of Lord Mormont.
When she had agreed to take ladies, it was supposed to be one from each of the Great Houses who had a daughter, Targaryen, Martell, Lannister, Stark, Tyrell, and Tully. Of those, she had five, while the Stark's had refused and the Arryn and Baratheon's didn't have a daughter of suitable age. Of all of them, Daella was closest to Elia, Ashara, Catelyn and Maege. The first two were her dearest friends, her second was like a sister after having spent some time in the Riverland's with Lord Hoster Tully and the latter was a warrior of much renown in the North, the two enjoying their spars and often seen together in the practice yards.
When Oberyn had written to her about coming to Dorne, Daella had dismissed her ladies to return home to spend time with their families as the future was looking to be very busy. Summerhall was said to be rebuild within the next five years and Daella still needed to find a husband, while Elia had married Rhaegar, Catelyn had recently been betrothed to the Stark heir Brandon and there was talk of Jamie Lannister marrying Lysa Tully. Ashara and Cersei were the only ones with no current prospects of marriage, though Daella knew it would change with time.
Ashara was the only one who had come with her from her ladies as Elia had her own ladies who had gone with her to Kings Landing after the wedding and Ashara had agreed to stay with Daella. Now though, Daella knew that Elia could use her closest friend, especially with everything going of back at court. Daella had know many were not pleased with Aerys for marring Rhaegar off to the dornish Princess, in their minds she wasn't good enough to the Dragon Prince. Daella had been happy though, as it meant she didn't have to marry her brother nor did she have to put of with Cersei thinking she would be the next Queen of the Seven Kingdom's as she had for the last six years.
Said Lady was nodding in agreement to Daella's words, "I will leave as soon as possible," Ashara said softly. Daella smiled at her thankfully, "I want you to take Elia a letter from me," she said thinking of the words of comfort she could hopefully offer her good sister. Both dornish Prince's agreed and Doran signed, "Your father is becoming a problem," he stated softly once Ashara had gone off to get a ship ready for her departure. Daella's face darkened again, "My father will be a problem until the day he dies or my brother decides to do something about him. I can't do anything at the moment, or I would be called a Kinslayer and a Kingslayer, not to mention usurper, not something that I want," she said darkly. If those titles would not hang over her head, she would have killed him already.
~!~
Elia,
I write to you from Dorne and I offer condolences for my brother actions. He had no right to banish you to Dragonstone nor to grab you that way that he did. My mother wrote with concern for you and now your brothers and I are concerned as well. We have heard the news of your pregnancy and all of us offer congratulations, I hope it's a girl, just to spite Rhaegar. I have reunited Obara with her father and Oberyn had taken well to fatherhood, I feel he would make any woman a good match, if only he would keep his cock in his pants, to not spread his seed around. The girls have taken well to each other. I plan to stay for another five moons and will see you again after the birth of my niece. Keep your chin up for no matter Rhaegar's failings, your are a Princess of Dorne, the Crown Princess of Westeros and your are my sister.
I send all my love and wish you well,
Daella Targaryen
Though she knew it not, Daella's words did bring Elia comfort and she was more determined then ever to be better that Rhaegar was. She raised her held high, shook off the hurtful and hateful words that people hissed at her and used every lesson her mother had ever taught her, to play the Game of Throne and win.
~!~
Days later, Doran would see them in Oberyn's solar and his heart would ache for his younger brother. Oberyn was sat down in front of the fireplace, Daella sitting in between his legs, back pressed to his chest, as he played with her hair and they talked quietly between themselves. A platter of fruits and a goblet of wine sitting to the side, half finished. Quite the romantic setting as the sun sank and the moon began to rise.
~!~
Three moons passed and they traveled from Sunspear to the Water Gardens recently to spend time among the pools as the hot weather beamed down on them. Daella and Oberyn were with Obara, Nymeria, Tyene, Arianne and Mellario down by the small pools which covered most of the Water Garden's grounds. The four girls were running around, screaming and giggling as they splashed each other with water and ran away form Daella, Oberyn and Prince Lewyn, who had been released from guard duty for the day, who were chasing them around, while Mellario sat under a canopy of trees, relaxing in the shade. Doran was still in Sunspear, but planned to join them in a few days after finishing his important paperwork.
Everything was relaxed until a sudden loud shout.
"Mama!" which had come from Obara Sand and was directed at Daella Targaryen.
Instant tension popped into the air as Oberyn and Daella shared a look and Lewyn moved to stand on guard, eyes constantly scanning the area for servants or nearby guards. It was a good thing Obara had let that slip when there were no one but the family present or it could have caused a lot of problems, especially if rumors spread that the Princess of the Seven Kingdom's wasn't a maiden anymore.
Obara was too old to be considered hers but Nymeria and Tyene weren't and if one saw Daella and the two younger Sand Snakes standing together they did look much alike. Both had inherited the Rhoynar curls in their hair, while Nymeria had Oberyn's dark hair, Tyene's could be considered a Targaryen shade as it was white, blonde rather than golden blonde. Nymeria had inherited her fathers eyes but also held the delicate Rhoynar feature, which matched those of Daella as the Princess was the spitting image of her mother/aunt Rhaella, only with her northern black hair, which held the curls of the Rhoynar, not to mention that Tyene's blue eyes were also a common shade among the valyrian families.
Daella was almost positive that Tyene was related to the Targaryen's somehow, most likely through the Blackfyre's who had been left to only female members after their last rebellion in 258 AC. She looked to much like them for it to be otherwise, only saved by the fact she looked a lot like Princess Elia, declaring she was the daughter of a Martell. Now this wouldn't have been a problem, except for the words that had just come out of Obara Sand's mouth.
In the last three moons she had been in Dorne and Oberyn had gotten used to being a father, she had felt like the three girls mother, though it had been left unsaid. To have Obara call her that, out loud and in front of others filled her both with delight and despair. If Aerys ever suspected her of having a bastard child, she would be executed along with the babe and father. Obara was to old to be hers as she had only had her moons blood for a couple of moons by that time and hadn't been to Old Towne until the following year, however, Nymeria and Tyene were a different story.
She looked down at the girl in her arms, whose eyes were panicked and face was flushed, and slowly lowered her down to the ground and then knelt in front of her, "Obara," she began softly, noting Oberyn coming up behind his oldest daughter with Nymeria and Tyene on either side of them. The little girl flinched and shook her head, "I didn't meant too," she tried to say but couldn't form the words properly. Daella signed, "Obara you're not in trouble," she said firmly, cutting off the little girls words. Martell eyes looked up at her seriously, "What?" she asked with a sniffle, as she had become so panicked, she had started to cry.
"Your not in trouble," she repeated herself as Oberyn rested his hand on his daughters shoulder.
"Why did you call Daella that?" Oberyn asked, though he already knew why. Form what he had discovered among his girls was that none of them had had a positive maternal figure in their life. Obara had been raised in a brothel, Nymeria was raised as a maid and Tyene, while Tyene had been raised on the streets after her mother was thrown out of the Faith for having a child outside of marriage and breaking her vows. Melara had finally had enough and brough Tyene to Dorne and handed her off to him, where he had discovered her had two other daughters as well. Daella had been more of a mother to them in the last three moons than any they had knew in their entire lives.
Obara shared a look with Nymeria and Tyene, who had also admitted to thinking of Daella as their mother and then faced her father, "Because its true," she said defiantly, daring him to deny the truth of her words. He smiled slightly at her before looking at his two other daughters, "Do you feel the same way?" he asked softly. Both nodded and Tyene reached out with a pout towards Daella, "Mama," she mumbled softly, only the small group gathered hearing her. Oberyn and Daella locked eyes as the Princess took Tyene into her arms, before he nodded subtly a pleased glint in his eyes.
After spending time with her everyday for three moons, Oberyn had come to realized that Daella was exactly the type of woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. She didn't care that he had three bastard daughters, didn't snap at him for allowing them to learn to fight, she never ever raised her voice at them and best of all, she treated them like they were her own children. Oberyn hadn't ever thought of marriage as the thing for him but he had come to see in the last few weeks that if he had to be bound to someone for the rest of his life, he wanted it to be her. Now, listening and realizing that all three of his daughter thought of her as their mother, while that some of the best news he had ever heard.
Tears gathered in Daella's eyes as she smiled at Obara, "Sweetling," she said, struggling for words. How do you explain to a six-year-old that she would be honored to be their mother but they couldn't call her mother, otherwise it would bring her honor into question? She had no idea and Oberyn obviously understood that because he took over, "While I'm pleased you think of her a mother girls, you have to be careful who hears you call her that, if someone heard you, Daella could get into trouble," he explained softly. Nymeria looked at her father, "What do you mean papa?" she asked confused. She was only four and didn't understand why Daella could get into trouble for calling the Princess mother.
Oberyn and Daella shared an amused look before the Princess spoke, "We'll explain once your older," gaining three pouts which made Daella's face soften, "however you can call me naneth," she said softly. "Naneth?" Nymeria repeated, mouth twisting at the strange word, "What does that mean?" Obara sked curiously, staring up the older girl. Oberyn and Tyene both looked at her curious as well, "Tis an old language sweeting and naneth, it means mother," she said softly, a tear in her eye as the girls lightened up happily.
Before Oberyn could stop them, Nymeria and Obara both jumped at her, wrapping their tiny little arms around their naneth with a hard hug. Daella held all the of her daughters tight to her chest and looked up to Oberyn, who was watching her with a pleased expression but a dark hungry, possessive look in his eyes. Daella was no stranger to lust, epically where Oberyn was concerned and having him look at her like that, it made her want the young Prince of Dorne even more.
They both new that nothing would ever be the same again.
~!~
Lewyn would watch as Oberyn and Daella played with their daughters in the garden, laughter and cheers echoing through the air. When Oberyn would later pull Daella into his arms and dance her around the garden, listening as the girls cheered him on and when the Princess sat down on the ground, uncaring about her dress, and told stories about the Old Valyrian Freehold, he saw the look on Oberyn's face and wondered what the future would bring. As it was clear to everyone with eyes, especially those in Dorne, that the Princess of the Seven Kingdom's and the second Prince of Dorne were falling in love with each other.
~!~
280 AC
Three Years Before Roberts Rebellion
The rest of her time in Dorne passed quickly and soon the end of her visit was upon her. Daella had spent the last six moons with the Martell family and had come away from it with three daughters and a man she loved more than life itself. After that day in the Water Garden's when Obara had accidentally blurted out the truth of her heart and Daella had agreed to take on Obara, Nymeria and Tyene as her daughters, her life had never been better. She and Oberyn had also grown closer, dancing a dangerous game of seduction around each other, something that could see both of them executed.
Daella knew she would returned to a war-torn court, given that Elia had given birth the moon before, to a daughter. According to Rhaella who had written after Rhaenys was presented to court, her father was furious thar Rhaegar's first born was a girl and not a boy, not to mention that Elia was on bed red in Maegor's Holdfast after having been forced to return to Kings Landing to give birth. Her mother had told her Elia was lucky to be alive and that Rhaegar was already speaking of another children while Aerys was concerned that she would be unable to carry another to term and was speaking of annulling their marriage and making Daella marry her brother, much to her disgust and Oberyn anger.
Things between her and the Red Viper had been strained since the news had come, though they were still incredibly close. It was the beginning of the new year and Daella had had high hopes for the future, hoping that things might get better when she returned home to Kings Landing. At the moment, she was in the nursery, two doors down from Oberyn's room and her guest room. Three days ago, Oberyn had received his fourth daughter, Sarella, who was only a few weeks old and Daella had taken her just as easily as her other three daughters. Her mother, the Captain of a ship from the Summer Isles, had left her, stating that she could not care for her. Oberyn had taken to her just as easily as he had his other three daughters.
Oberyn silently watched from the doorway as Daella hummed a dornish lullaby to his fourth daughter Sarella, who had been dropped at the gates to the Water Gardens three days before. His other three daughters lay curled together on the bed fighting to keep their eyes open so they had more time. He couldn't blame them. Daella was to return to Kings Landing the next morning and he didn't want her to go, he never wanted her to leave him. She wanted to though. Her brother Rhaegar wanted to present her with her first niece after she arrived back and Daella missed Elia, knowing that the Crown Princess could use another friend at her side.
He also didn't want her to go because word had come that she would most likely become her brothers second bride. The birth of Rhaenys was hard on Elia, to the point she was on bed rest and it would probably be difficult for her to bare another child. His mother had kept Elia's frail health quiet only it now seemed to be stabbing them in the back and he was concerned for her. She was practically a hostage in Kings Landing at the moment and it was looking like they would not be able to present their daughter to Dorne. Daella thought she had a way to stay away from marriage but she needed to talk with her mother first.
Oberyn was concerned though.
Daella had never realized it but Rhaegar Targaryen didn't look at her like a sister, he looked at her as something more. Oberyn had seen it the very first time they had met, when the betrothal talks between Elia and Rhaegar had been underway. He hoped that if whatever Daella was planning came to fruition and he was unable to marry her, that Rhaegar wouldn't take her against her will. He had never thought that man the type but upon hearing what had been happening between him and Elia since they married, he was fearful.
That night, all the noble houses of Dorne had been in attendance of the New Year/Goodbye party and Oberyn hadn't left her side. It was only when the girls septa had interrupted their dance with the news his daughters wanted to see Daella, they had left the celebrations, Lewyn following at their heels. His dark eyes drank her in greedily, mouth watering as he gazed at her. Her gown was a darkened purple color, backless and dipped low in the front with a full skirt, that was held up by two clips over her shoulders. Her dark hair had been piled on her head with amethyst stones woven through it and she wore a choker of two rows of diamonds with small amethyst stones hanging down, which had been a name day gift from him a moon before.
Since he had accepted that he was attracted to her and wanted her as his wife, they had been dancing around each other. Both of them knew if anyone discovered their relationship, both of them could be executed. They were not wed and given Aerys increasing erratic behavior, they never would be while he lived. Rumors had been flying over the last couple of moons that Elia was to be set aside and Daella married to her elder brother and things had been tense, especially since Oberyn and Daella had admitted they both had feelings for the other. Not many knew of their growing relationship, only Lewyn, Doran, Mellario and the Martell children and that was the way it needed to stay.
The sudden silence pulled him from his thoughts and he looked up to see Sarella finally closed her eyes to sleep. Daella smiled softly and moved her to the cradle that had been brought into the nursery. Then she moved over to the bed when the newly dubbed Sand Snakes were lying down to sleep. The girls had been sharing a bed since they found of their naneth was leaving soon, taking comfort in having each other. Daella kissed each of their heads and then tucked the blanket in around them. Before she could leave Obara opened her eyes to look at her, "Naneth, why are you leaving? Did we do something wrong?" she asked eyes glassy not understanding. He could tell the question made Daella choke up, "Never. You know how your ada loves you and wants you here in Dorne?" she asked. Obara nodded and Daella continued, "While my ada and naneth love me and want me back home in Kings Landing."
Obara released a few tears, something also new. Obara hadn't been one to cry but time spent with Daella had allowed her to realize that it was okay to be vulnerable with family, "I'll miss you, always" she whispered clutching her hand. Daella wiped away her tears with her thumbs, "This is not goodbye forever. I will see you again, don't even doubt that" she said softly. Obara nodded and then relaxed into the bed. Daella began to hum again and continued until she was sure the girls were sleeping. The she stood from the bed and began to back out of the room still unaware of Oberyn watching her.
Oberyn grabbed her before she backed into him and pulled her out of the room with a hand over her mouth, causing her to make a noise of fear. He released her in the hallway and she spun around angry, her beautiful violet eyes flashing "Oberyn!" she hissed hand over her heart. The anger made her cheeks flushed and lust shot hot and hard through him, adding to what had been simmering under his skin for the last two moons. He took a step forward and his dark hungry eyes made Daella take a step back, he followed her. He stalked her until she was pressed against the wall and he was pressed fully against her making her cheeks flush with want, "Watching you with our daughters, never fails to make me want you," he whispered gazing at her.
He gazed at her with such intensity she thought she would burst. She didn't get a chance to say anything, when his lips met hers. They were soft but dominate as they took what he knew was his. Daella didn't even try to deny him or get away, because she wanted him just as much. He was kissing her with such a passion and rendering her helpless when his mouth demolished hers, that she was thankful he was pressing her against the wall. His mouth was demanding, raw, hungry but savoring her all at the same time. He was poisoning her, drugging her with every kiss and touch he gave. He was branding himself into her, it was her pleasure to be branded because every single part of her belonged to him. She wanted to remember this moment forever. It was also making it difficult to remember why they shouldn't be doing this.
She was so focused on his kiss that she was no longer paying attention to his hands until she felt one leg lifted and wrapped around his hip, allowing his hard cock to come into full contact with her pussy. A helpless, wanton moan fell from between her lips as he pressed open mouth kisses and nips down her neck, and his hand moved her dress up around her waist and he began to grind his cock against her clit. One of his hands held the back of her neck and the other held her thigh that was wrapped around him, making sure their bodies were completely pressed together. Daella could feel the pulse in her clit pounding through her as Oberyn groaned when her hands found their way into his hair and she put her mouth to his neck, marking him the way he did her.
Their passion was pushed higher knowing that someone could come down the hallways at any moment and see them. Daella was too lost in the pleasure to care now and Oberyn liked the thought of others know what he did to her. How he would be the only one to make her like this. He would kill anyone who ever touched her or saw the raw ecstasy in her face. The only one who heard the noises she made as his cock rubbed her clit. Oberyn wanted everything she was to be his. He wanted her to crave him and only him. He wanted her to remember that even if she had another lover, or married her brother, she would always crave his touch the most. He wanted to brand himself into her for the rest of their lives.
As her pleasure mounted Oberyn let go of her neck and lifted her other leg to wrap around him and bring himself fully flushed against her drenched slit. He wanted all of her. He wrapped his left arm around her back and pulled her away from the support of the wall and began walking towards his chambers, only a few doors away.
Her eyes opened at no longer having support on her back to see Oberyn's eyes had darkened to look like black obsidian, with possession, lust and love reflected in his eyes. She wrapped her arms around his neck and tightened her legs around him, never breaking eye contact as he pushed his door open and she kicked it closed behind him. He lowered her to her feet and then watched, waiting. He would never force her to do anything, so if she didn't want this, she would have to be the one to leave, even though it would break his heart.
Daella gave a soft smiled before her hands went to the clips that held her dress up. She released them and the gown fell in a puddle at her feet, leaving her bare in the moonlight coming from the windows. Oberyn's eyes ran over her possessively as he circled her after taking off his tunic, looking at her beautiful heavy breasts, slim waist and lithe body. He couldn't help but wonder what she would look like rounded with his child, nursing their child at her breast. With a groan he walked until he was pressed against her back, one arm circling to her stomach where he drew circles with his finger below her belly button. The other came up to cup her breast and run a thumb over her nipple making it pebble and her moan.
"Do you have any idea what you do to me?" he whispered in her ear as his hand lowered down running over her nether lips, checking how wet she was, before sinking two fingers inside of her without hesitation. Her head fell back against his chest as she stretched around his digits, "Oberyn," she whimpered as the pleasure spiked again as she tightened around his fingers. Daella was thankful he was holding onto her, otherwise she was sure she would have collapsed as her legs shook. Oberyn chuckled, sending shivers down her spine as his hand began to move and his palm grinded against her clit. Moans and whimpers fell continuously from her lips as her hips began to move in rhythm with his hand, wanting and needing more.
His fingers were deep inside of her, she could feel them touching a special place. Each time his fingers passed it; heat built in her stomach. Oberyn could feel her getting closer, knew she would explode soon, so he ran his tongue down her neck and nipped at the same time he gave a deep thrust of his fingers and pinched her nipple. Her orgasm exploded through her and she came with a loud cry, convulsing in his arms, as ecstasy flooded her body. Oberyn kept thrusting through her orgasm as she clutched the wrist between her legs and the one holding her breast hoping to ground herself.
Oberyn moved her to his bed and laid her down across it, following her down his mouth meeting hers. Daella dug her hands into his head and through his hair as his mouth claimed hers and she knew in that moment, that he had claimed her forever. His hands ran all over her body, clutching, stroking and possessive. Her hands moved from his hair over his shoulders and down his stomach to the edge of his breeches. Oberyn pulled away from her to meet her eyes and as the love and lust reflected back at each other, they both knew if they went further, nothing would ever be the same again.
Daella took him in, dark hair and eyes, warm dornish skin and a body many would kill to posses, and she knew she wanted him. Even if it was only once. Oberyn must have agreed with her decision because his lips claimed hers hard and fast, his tongue invading her mouth and stars exploded behind her eyes as she happily let his explore her mouth. She slipped her hand into his trousers and was met with his hard cock. She ran her hands down him softly before trying to wrap her fingers his cock and stroking up and down a few times, wondering how he was even going to fit inside of her he was so large. Oberyn couldn't believe how good her fingers felt around his cock as he threw his head back with a groan, pulling his mouth away from her. He quickly pushed his trousers down and kicked them off, before leaning totally naked over her body.
He paused for a moment to look at her, fingers stroking across her face, "Are you sure?" he asked as he settled between her beautiful thighs. Their skin tones contrasting, him the sun and her the moon. Daella ran a hand through his hair and gave him a gentle kiss, "I've never been surer of anything," she whispered lovingly. Oberyn's eyes flashed and he kissed her greedily, at the same time he entered her with one swift thrust, breaking through her maidenhood and claiming her as his forever. As he broke through her cherry, her nails dragged down his back hard enough to draw blood, but all it did was bring pleasure to Oberyn as he settled balls deep inside of her, cursing as her warmth enveloped him.
They had no idea that those scratch marks had actually been deep enough to scar. Oberyn himself wouldn't learn that until after she had returned to Kings Landing and one of the men he was sparing with mentioned them. He would always have a physical reminder of what he shared with the Targaryen Princess; her marks were branded into his back, just as she would always have the memory of the Martell Prince taking her maidenhood.
Daella cried out as he claimed her and her eyes watered when he froze above her, trying to adjust to his size. He was so big inside her, she felt like she was being spit in two. At the same time, pleasure was beginning to thrum through her as she felt him tunnel inside her. His weight felt do good over her and she ran her hands up his sweaty back, urging him to press closer. When her body relaxed, Oberyn's eyes met hers he linked her fingers with his and pushed them over her head and held them there as he began to thrust, their bodies rubbing against the other, sparks sizzling across their skin. His blood felt hot, it felt like a living flame. He wanted to flip her over onto her stomach and claim her like an animal, to give her the reminder that only he could satisfy her. But he knew she wasn't ready for that and he would never do anything to hurt her.
However, knowing that she might soon be married to her brother, made anger and hurt run through him and his thrusts hardened until the bed was shaking with his every thrust. Her moans and cries were echoing through out the room and the anger in him burned hotter, he didn't want anyone to ever see her like this. She was his. He let go over her hands and jerked her up into his lap, her eyes still drawn to his and he grabbed her hips dragging her down onto his cock at the same time he thrust up into her warmth. Her cries became more frequent and he felt her tighten around him, like she was ready to peak. He thrust his hand up in the hair at the back of her head and tangled it in her curls, which had fallen out of their hairstyle due to their activities, pulling her head back and forcing her to meet his eyes.
"Whose are you?" he demanded unable to stop himself from hearing her say it, he needed her to say it.
Daella Targaryen, Princess of the Seven Kingdoms, met his eyes with her pleasure filled violet ones. She knew that if she answered him, she would never be able to marry. Unless it was him. It was in that moment she accepted that she was in love with Oberyn Martell and she wanted to marry him, to spend the rest of her life with him. She also knew it would never happen, not unless her father died. She wrapped one arm around his shoulder and the other reached up to cup his face as her thumb stroked his cheek. He leaned into her hand as he kept thrusting inside of her, her hips arching to meet him, their bodies moving as though they had done this a thousand times before.
"I am yours, now and always" she whispered.
Oberyn's eyes flashed with pleasure and victory before he pulled her head back by her hair and leaned down, claiming her nipple with his mouth and suckling hard, nipping at the hardened pebble. The pleasure was too much for her, and the orgasm that had been building erupted and she exploded with a scream as pleasure pulsed through her, body convulsing against his. Oberyn thrust hard prolonging her orgasm before finally surrendering to his own. His cock pulsed inside of her and with a hard thrust, he shoved himself into her unprotected womb and exploded, his hot cum filling her and sending her headfirst into another orgasm, making a tear leak out the corner of her eye as her body seized against his.
They fell over panting, sweat coating both their bodies and their breathing heavy throughout the chamber. The exhaustion of the last week finally fell upon them and Oberyn pulled the love of his life to his chest and wrapped an arm around her waist hand resting on her stomach, "I love you," he whispered into her ear. Daella joined their fingers together before resting her head beside his on the pillow, "I love you too," and soon their breathing evened out leading them to a deep sleep.
Unknown to either of them, Prince Lewyn Martell, the uncle of Doran, Elia and Oberyn Martell had seen them in the halls outside of the nursery and followed them to Oberyn's rooms, standing guard outside. When he heard their sounds of passion, he couldn't help the smile that crossed his face. He knew Rhaegar and Elia did not love each other. He knew his prince did not care for Elia and wanted his younger sister, everyone but Daella seemed to realize that. He also knew that Daella would never marry her own brother. It had been her greatest fear as a little girl. She always feared she would give birth to a mad child, like Aerys.
The whole Kingsguard knew that Daella loved her family, but she would never agree to the incest between them. She was thankful when their father agreed to the marriage between Elia Martell. She was also thankful that she was the bastard daughter. Aerys may have legitimized her and Rhaella may love her as her daughter, but they all knew, she was not fully a dragon and bore blood of the First Men. It was why Rhaegar married Elia in the first place. Now there were rumors about the King giving Daella to Rhaegar as a second wife, he knew that Daella would sooner slit her own throat then allow it to happen.
In revenge against the Targaryen family for their treatment of his niece Elia, Prince Lewyn Martell would never tell a single soul of what he was hearing nor would he allow anyone to spread the word either. He would utter no words to anyone about how the Targaryen Princess gave a Prince of Dorne her maidenhood with no betrothal or marriage between them. He would take this secret to the grave with him. A grave he went to saving his princess.
That night as Lewyn Martell stood guard outside the room housing his Princess, as Doran Martell read another rejection letter from the king on marriage between Daella and Oberyn, as the Sand Snakes slept safe in their bed already missing their mother, as Oberyn lay wrapped around the wife of his heart, the Old Gods watched over them cursing the fates. They knew the future ahead of the Targaryen and Martell family wouldn't be easy, they also knew they would find happiness eventually. However, the life now growing inside the Princess would be in danger if ever found out about, so they froze the pregnancy. When and if the world was safe to have a child and Daella and Oberyn laid together again, it would unfreeze and a child born, if not she would never bare a child at all.
~!~
The next morning goodbyes were hard. Oberyn stood with his daughters and Doran watching as they said goodbye. Obara Sand was the last to hug her naneth and she held to her tight knowing she would see her again eventually. "Love you naneth," she whispered before letting go and backing away to stand with Nymeria, Tyene and her uncle. Oberyn wrapped his arms tight around her before kissing her forehead, "Now and always?" he whispered, their promise to each other forever. Daella stepped back watching him, indigo eyes holding black viper like eyes, and nodded "now and always," before boarding her ship back to Kings Landing.
She didn't know that, soon; everything was going to change.
~!~
Oberyn doesn't know when he falls in love with her. It could have been when she returned his first born to him. Or it could have been the first time he ever saw her. It could have been when he watched her mother his bastards, not caring about their station of birth. It could have been when she held Sarella for the first time and looked at him with a proud smile. Oberyn doesn't know for sure when he fell in love with Daella Targaryen, but he knows when she leaves Dorne at the end of her visit, he was so deeply in love with her that he swore before all the gods of every religion that she would be his wife one day and he would never take another as his bride.