The Widow of Dorne

Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones


Chapter 5: The Red Wedding

Nyara's POV

There were moments I felt like a little girl, or at least the memories of being little when my parents were still alive. How they would comb their fingers through my hair soothingly to wake me. A hand combed its long, delicate fingers through my curls, slowly and gently, until it danced along my forehead and onto my nose. I wrinkle my nose, knowing one person who enjoyed doing that. I opened my eyes to see Ellaria on the bed before me.

She gave a sincere smile, placing a finger on her lips, gesturing to be quiet. I yawned, slowly adjusting myself since an arm hung over my waist. Ellaria lifted the arm of Prince Oberyn, allowing my escape. Prince Oberyn turned in his sleep, muttering something. We snickered as I grabbed my robe, securing it before following Ellaria to the balcony, where she had a tray with tea and fruit. It was the early hours of dawn as the sun had started to rise.

We sat down, and I winced a bit tender after last night. Ellaria smiled softly as she handed me a cup of tea. I thanked her quietly, staring at the cup to see the amber liquid. Before sipping, I brought it to my nose to smell the herbs and honey. The taste of tansy, mint, wormwood, honey, and a hint of pennyroyal. Moon tea is what it is called, also known as Tansy tea. A medicinal tea is used to prevent a pregnancy or to abort one.

This kind of tea is frowned upon by the Faith of the Seven. However, in Dorne, it is considered a method of safe sex to prevent conception. There were other methods we Dornish used to prevent pregnancy. Moon Tea is very common. Although overusing it can have side effects. If not brewed correctly, it could make the woman severely ill, or worse… die. However, Dorne is a master of creating Moon Tea. Other methods in preventing pregnancy have been the pulling out method or using the same herbs from Moon Tea, soaking it into a sponge, and inserting it into the vagina. It may prevent pregnancy, although there is an illness to be cautious of. Fortunately, Prince Oberyn is very careful with the people he sleeps with.

"How was it?" Ellaria asked.

I took another sip and sighed, "Wonderful. A bit painful for a moment, yet wonderful."

Ellaria nodded as she drank her tea, though based on the dark color, it was not Moon Tea. "Good, I'm glad to hear it."

I nodded, still drinking from the cup. "Although, if Prince Oberyn hadn't offered, I would probably still be celibate."

Ellara chuckled softly with a mischievous expression, "I doubt it."

"Oh really," I challenged.

"We would be slithering into your bed," She added, then chuckled. "I remember how timid you were the first time we met."

"Timid?" I repeated.

"Well, you were not shy in social gatherings, but I remember how hesitant you were at one of our parties." She reminded.

I nodded, remembering the first party that Prince Oberyn hosted after I had gotten married to Froylan. Prince Oberyn had a fondness for hosting orgies. I was hesitant, yet Froylan assured me I did not have to participate in them. That we can observe and pleasure ourselves. At first, it started like that, but as we observe, we realize how erotic it was to watch. Seeing men and women pleasuring each other no matter one's gender. Men with men, women with women, and the traditional pairing. Or multiples. Soon, Froylan and I were having sex in our corner until Ellaria made her way over, observing, lazily tracing her hand over our bodies, twiddling my breasts before laying down to kiss me.

The first time, it was kissing and touching each other while intimate with Froylan. Ellaria took the lead until she got Prince Oberyn to join us. And soon, our arrangement was set. Followed by the relationship in our friendship. Especially with Ellaria teaching me ways to pleasure a partner. We tried others, but there was a strong chemistry with the Red Viper and his Paramour. But Froylan and I did it together, never separating and taking precautions, until we finally decided on having children.

I stop my thoughts there, not wanting to think about the many miscarriages.

Once I finished my tea, I picked up an orange and began to peel it.

"And how was your night?" I asked.

Ellaria shrugged, "I've gotten my sleep, though I intend to take back my lover once he wakes."

I nodded, "I'm sure he would be ecstatic."

"You're welcome to join," she offered.

I chuckled softly, shaking my head, "I appreciate the offer, but I am a bit sore after last night."

Ellaria nodded in understanding. She plopped a grape into her mouth, "I should warn you; this is far from over."

I couldn't help but smirk. For I wouldn't mind spending my nights with them. I would love to enjoy my individuality before seeking a husband again. No doubt a potential husband would have to be Dornish to handle my sexual appetite. However, that might be a long time. Right now, I must be cautious when we go to King's Landing. A place with liars and thieves. Along with lions who would do anything for power.

A deep yawn could be heard. Turning our attention to the door, we see Prince Oberyn leaning against the wall, wearing his trousers with a satisfied expression.

"What a beautiful sight to see," Prince Oberyn announced. "My lovely paramour and friend enjoying the sunrise."

He made his way over to Ellaria and gave her a passionate kiss. She kissed him back with the same passion. I smiled softly at them, though I felt a tinge of jealousy and sadness, remembering Froylan's kisses. I mentally sighed, knowing it would take some time to move on, yet he will always have a place in my heart.

After having a small conversation, Ellaria dragged Oberyn out of my chambers and into their own. He snickered at her eagerness. I chuckled, shaking my head, always amused by those too. When I was alone, I went to the bathing chamber where the pool was. Before getting in, I got a rag and basin to scrub my body. Followed by washing my insides from the fluids to prevent pregnancy using a vial Ellaria had left. Washing away Prince Oberyn's seeds.

Afterward, I got in the warm pool and sighed, closing my eyes.

Last night was enjoyable. So long, I had missed feeling a man's touch. And doing it with Prince Oberyn, I don't feel the guilt I expected. Maybe it's because Froylan asked Prince Oberyn to help me return to pleasure. I stared out the window, looking at the ocean, lost in a memory.

It truly was time to move on.

.o0o.

Tremond was staring at my neck. No doubt, he was staring at the mark that marred my skin, thanks to a certain viper. He held a knowing look as we walked along the water gardens that Tor had. The precession will leave tomorrow and continue our journey to King's Landing.

"I see you had fun last night," Tremond teased.

I felt heat on my cheeks. Damn Prince Oberyn and his lips. After taking my bath, I discovered more marks, one under my breast and the other on my inner thigh. Hopefully, I left several scratches on his back and arms in retaliation. Now Tremond could see what my nightly activity was. He says he was fine, yet I was nervous based on his observation.

"Tremond," I replied.

He placed a hand on my shoulder, "I'm happy for you."

I stared at him, confused.

He smiled reassuringly, "As much as I wished it was my brother to cherish you. You had mourned for him long enough. All I ask is for you to be safe."

I nodded, giving a small smile. I have been safe after drinking moon tea and washing myself. I already could feel the effects of the moon tea as I started spotting. A little bit of blood, but nothing severe since I was not pregnant. Ellaria had given me a good blend.

Tremond turned his focus to the gardens. We continue to walk as vassals, staff, and the public roam around. I saw mothers walking their children along the path, though they stopped to allow their little ones to splash in the water. The sight of pure innocence brought back memories of Nisha. How she would splash at the pools, whether it be the gardens, beach, or bath.

"Not even a week, and I miss my daughter terribly," I confessed.

"Indeed," Tremond agreed. "For I miss my wife and children."

I nodded, giving a heavy sigh. There should be a small family gathering once we return to Dorne after the wedding. Nisha would enjoy spending time with her cousins. Especially now, there was a new edition on the way.

We turned down to the canopy when a servant rushed over to us. He skated, stopping when he nearly tripped. Tremond and I stared at him with concern, knowing a servant rushing to a noble meant urgent news.

"My Lord and Lady, you have been summoned to the great hall," the servant announced.

"What is it?" Tremond asked, determined to get the news.

The servant hesitated before saying, "It is about the war."

We frown, knowing the War of the Five Kings is still going. Especially the war between the Lannisters and the Starks. Quickly, we made our way to the Great Hall with all the Lords and Ladies who were to attend. Lord Trebor stood by the Castle Throne, a chair carved out of teak wood that had been shaped to tell the story of House Tor with massive feathers sprouting from the back. The Castle Maester stood by his lord with a raven scroll in hand. Prince Oberyn came over to them.

I made my way over to Ellaria, who was next to Lady Myria.

"What is going on?" I asked quietly.

Lady Myria turned her attention to me, "A raven from the Citadel has arrived with news from the war."

"Do you know of its status?" I asked.

Lady Myria shook her head.

The last I recall from the War of the Five Kings is that Lord Renly, who declared himself King, was murdered by a member of his Kingsguard. A woman, in fact. This was followed by the tremendous failure of Lord Stannis, who failed to siege King's Landing, thanks to the Lannisters and Tyrell Forces arriving in the nick of time. Then, there was Lord Balon Greyjoy terrorizing the Northern Coast. And last, King Robb Stark campaigned down south from the North to avenge the murder of his father, Lord Eddard Stark. His execution was ordered by King Joffrey Baratheon not long after the death of his father, the Late King Robert.

However, the War of the Five Kings was mainly focused on the feud between the Starks and the Lannisters, who supported the Crown of House Baratheon. It is a war of brother fighting against brother, revenge, and opportunity after King Robert's demise.

Nearly all the kingdoms were at war except for Dorne and the Vale of Arryn. The Vale has been in isolation since the death of Lord Jon Arryn. The kingdom was under regency by Lady Lysa until her son came of age. She chose not to get her son or kingdom involved. Some say she was a coward to not avenge her husband based on the rumors he was poisoned. While others think she is sick in the mind yet wise not to get involved.

As for Dorne, we have no relations to any of the kings. Robert's rebellion has ended the lives of Princess Elia and her children, along with Ser Lewyn. Prince Doran made it clear Dorne would not go to war. There is nothing that binds us to the rest of Westeros. We were already disregarded since the beginning. As many consider us as sexual deviants. When, in fact, we are rich in culture. House Martell housed Princess Myrcella as Prince Doran's ward until the wedding with his son Prince Trystane.

"May I have everyone's attention!" Lord Trebor called out.

The Great Hall fell into silence.

Lord Trebor took a deep breath, addressing all in court. "We have received word from the Citadel. The Maesters have given us a report on what has transpired in the war."

Murmurs could be heard. Tremond made his way over as he placed a hand on my shoulder. So many thoughts have been running through my head. Has the war finally come to an end? Did House Lannister defeat the Starks, or did Robb Stark take siege to King's Landing and take the royal family hostage. Or does this involve the Greyjoy raids? Or even news on Lord Stannis Baratheon; has he returned to fight again.

"Of the autumn season of the year 299 after the conquest of Aegon the Conqueror, Robb Stark and his army were defeated by House Frey while attending the wedding between Lord Edmure Tully and Lady Rosalin Frey."

My eyes widen in utter dismay.

I stared at Tremond, wondering if I heard this correctly. The King in the North and his army were defeated at a wedding? A wedding between the Tullys and Freys. If I recall correctly, Lord Edmure Tully is King Robb's uncle in relation to his mother, Lady Catelyn. Let alone it being House Frey, a valet House to House Tully. Lord Walder Frey, the Late Lord Frey, has massacred the Northern Armies…at a wedding.

Tremond scowled at this.

What is supposed to be a joyous occasion amongst gods and men has become a bloodbath.

Prince Oberyn took the scroll and read its content, "They are calling this massacre the Red Wedding."

"Do they say what else happened at this Red Wedding?" Ser Deziel asked. "Were there any survivors?"

"Other than Lord Edmure, Tully spends his honeymoon in a cell," Prince Oberyn answered.

"This is not right," I whispered. "House Frey has angered the gods."

Ellaria stared at me, "What do you mean?"

"Lord Frey has violated the guest's rights," I murmured, for only those close to me could hear. "He has angered the gods."

The guest's rights are a sacred law of hospitality. When invoked, both guest and host can do no harm to one another. Either the guest is common-born or noble. They are welcome to one's home with drink and food provided at the table beneath the host's roof. When a wedding is happening at a Keep, guest rights usually occur.

Tremond squeezed my shoulder, "The gods will punish those who have violated the sacred laws."

I nodded since the Gods have their way.

"What does this mean for Dorne?" Tremond asked, turning his attention to the Lords.

Prince Oberyn held a disappointed expression. No doubt, he is one for war, especially after the murder of Princess Elia. However, Prince Doran was adamant about keeping Dorne out of any war. We had lost so much from the Mad King that King Robert and his Council tried to reconcile by returning the bodies of Elia and her children. Stating they were victims of war. However, Dorne has been absent for almost twenty years.

"I feel the Lannisters are involved in this," Prince Oberyn declared. "For Lord Walder is a coward to devise such a scheme. Although, my brother will insist we do not get involved. Even when the vile courtiers bring it up, do not get involved. We are guests to witness a wedding and nothing more."

Yet, we have no cause to join the war.

The lords continued to discuss this while Lady Myria, Ellaria, and I stepped aside. As much as we were invested in this tragic news…it was disturbing.

Two kings were now dead, leaving three alive: King Joffrey, Lord Stannis, and Lord Balon. Although I noticed that Lord Renly and Lord Robb died in drastic ways, that doesn't seem natural. Something didn't seem right.

Either way, this was not our war. Even though the King's blood runs in the veins of the Martells, Prince Doran will not allow it. We must all sit by and watch six of the seven kingdoms tear apart. Watch our enemies destroy themselves. Some believe Dorne will strike when all least expect it. I do not know for sure. But I worry for the future.

I worry for my daughter. I do not want her to be a victim of war like many of her kin and countrymen. I was a mere child when the Usurpers Rebellion happened. But I could see the trauma it had left on my country from the death of our fighting in a war that had no purpose. Only bloodshed over a woman and madness.

And yet madness continues in a never-ending cycle, whether natural or orchestrated.

I glanced at Tremond, who held the same concern. For his sons would be affected if Dorne got involved. All we can do is watch and wait. As the Seven Kingdoms tear themselves apart of power and blood.


I hope you all are enjoying the Widow of Dorne. Let me know if you have any ideas or pairings. I like to add the reader's suggestions.

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