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Like the series its based on, Nymeria's War has numerous characters.

Houses of Dorne

House Martell of Sandship

"Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken"
Words of House Martell

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     Princess Nymeria Martell* 

Princess Nymeria Martell

Princess of Ny Sar, Princess of Dorne, Princess of the Rhoynar, Lady of Sandship, the Warrior Queen

The former princess of Ny Sar and leader of the Rhoynar after they were forced to fled their homelands due to the advancing armies of the Valyrian Empire. Alongside her husband, Mors Martell, she intends on conquering all of Dorne to create a safe haven for her people. She is the most central Point-of-View character in the story.
  • Altar Diplomacy: Being unmarried by the time she landed in Dorne, Nymeria did not hesitate to form a solid alliance with House Martell of the Sandship, who controlled the lands they first landed in, by marrying the head of the house, Lord Mors Martell.
  • Ascended Extra: Nymeria and her involvement in the Westerosi history, though extremely important for the development of Dorne, has only received the occasional mention in the source material, which is set several hundreds of years later. In this story, while not the singular protagonist, she becomes the titular character and the most important of the Point-of-View characters.
  • Benevolent Boss: All things considered, Nymeria is a very benevolent ruler, probably the most well-intentioned and generous that is seen in the story, one who treats loyal service with appropriate rewards.
  • Beware the Nice Ones: Those who remain on her good side will see Nymeria as a capable and affable ruler and she genuinely cares for her subjects, be they Rhoynar or native Dornishmen. However, he is still waging war against those who do not submit to her and not afraid to resort to dirty tactics if it gives her people an advantage.
  • Brainy Brunette: Apparently, brown hair is rather common with the Rhoynar and Nymeria herself is no exception on this. She is also a cunning tactician and leader, capable of waging war against the entirety of Dorne.
  • Determinator: It takes serious determination to go through with Nymeria's goal of uniting Dorne to give her people a new homeland. By doing so, she has proven that she does not take the easy way of just settling with her people in the new region, but that she wishes to preserve the Rhoynish culture as much as possible by ensuring her people's safety no matter how hard it will be.
  • Establishing Character Moment: Her Determinator qualities are perfectly shown in her very first scene during the prologue, where she burns the massive fleet of the Rhoynar, to prove to Dorne that she has no intention of leaving what she decided to be the new Rhoynar homelands.
  • Famous Ancestor: For the entirety of House Martell from the novels.
  • From Nobody to Nightmare: Just a few years before the story starts, Nymeria was merely one of several rulers of the Rhoynar, a nation of people who lived thousands of miles away on a completely different continent. It is likely that some of the Dornish kings weren't even aware of her existence. After the Second Spice War, she became the sole ruler of the Rhoynar, determined to find them a new homeland, which led to her landing in Dorne, where she started a war against the other kings, becoming a serious threat to their rule all of a sudden.
  • Guile Hero: Being a serious underdog in a conflict against the entirety of Dorne, Nymeria has to use her wits far more than her sheer martial power. She is a cunning leader and strategist, which is her main advantage over less capable opponents.
  • The Hero: Nymeria might not be the only protagonist of the story, but she is undoubtedly one of the most central ones, among the most heroic characters and surely the most important character.
  • Impoverished Patrician: Once, Nymeria was living in the Rhoynar homelands as a very rich princess, though she lost a significant amount of wealth and power during the Rhoynar exodus. Nowadays, she is in the process of reclaiming what she has lost.
  • Interclass Romance: Technically, she, as the princess and sole remaining ruler of the Rhoynar, she is far above Mors Martell in social standing, considering that he is merely a lowly lord.
  • Noble Fugitive: As the ruling princess of the Rhoynar, she is of very high nobility. Like the rest of her people, she was forced to leave her homelands during the Second Spice War, making her a fugitive, who had to seek refuge in Dorne.
  • Perfectly Arranged Marriage: Her marriage with Mors started as a purely political match, to give her people an ally in Dorne. Nonetheless, they have quickly grown very fond of each other and their marriage is quite affectionate.
  • Princesses Rule: The Rhoynar are ruled as a principality, a tradition Nymeria keeps up with her title.
  • The Protagonist: The main character of the titular fanfic.
  • Politically-Active Princess: Given that she is a ruling princess, Nymeria absolutely has to be politically active. Her own husband is demoted to a mere advisor for her and she is clearly the one calling the shots.
  • Reasonable Authority Figure: As a ruler, Nymeria displays not only cunning and talent, but also the ability to see reason in arguments, even when they are uncomfortable, such as Varyn's advice, or come from enemies, such as Ormond Bloodspill's offer.
  • Royals Who Actually Do Something: Like, conquering all of Dorne, for example.
  • Ruling Couple: Together with Mors.
  • Silk Hiding Steel: Despite her being known as a fierce leader, Nymeria is nonetheless fully capable of being a charming diplomat, which requires of her to hide her considerable force beneath kind words and clever negotiations.
  • Tough Leader Façade: A recurring theme in her storyline deals with the woman Nymeria instead of the princess, who has to keep herself distanced from her subjects. One notable instance of her breaking the mask is when she is confronted with the death of Yandry, as well as in her growing friendship with her guard captain, Farrah.
  • Warrior Princess: This is what she is famous for. In a slight subversion of the trope, she is not exactly a warrior per se, merely a ruler who has been trained with weaponry, but she mostly got this reputation for being a military leader.
  • Young Conqueror: Nymeria is only in her twenties by the time she lands in Dorne, but she intends to unite the entire region into a single kingdom (or principality in her case), so that her people will remain safe.
     Prince Mors Martell* 

Prince Mors Martell

Prince of Dorne, Lord of Sandship.

The husband of Princess Nymeria and head of House Martell. Unlike his wife, he originates from Dorne, being a minor lord of a castle known as the Sandship, before rising in importance through his marriage with Nymeria. He is a kind and forgiving man who doesn't mind befriending people from different places. In Book 2 he becomes a POV character.
  • Alliterative Name: Mors Martell.
  • Altar Diplomacy: Mors and Nymeria sealed the alliance between the Rhoynar and House Martell with a marriage.
  • Ascended Extra: He has been mentioned only occasionally in the source material, and here he's a very important supporting character for Nymeria.
  • Bling of War: He's given a new Rhoynar-made armor for his campaign in the lands of House Fowler.
  • The Face: Of House Martell.
  • Famous Ancestor: Of the subsequent House Martell.
  • Frontline General: Despite not being an outstanding warrior, he still leads his troops at the front.
  • Good Angel, Bad Angel: Mors often plays the role of the good angel for Nymeria, in suggesting diplomatic and non-violent solutions, whereas General Varyn plays the part of the bad angel.
  • Heroic Lineage: Downplayed by Mors himself, who is more concerned about the future of his house than the past, and outright questions the legitimacy of some of the heroic stories about his ancestors.
  • House Husband: From the ruling couple of Sandship Mors is the one who grew up there, and hence knows the place better.
  • Interclass Romance: Technically Nymeria, as a Princess of the Rhoynar, was much higher in social status than Mors, a lowly lord.
  • Morality Pet:
  • Nice Guy: He's always kind when interacting with his wife and at court.
  • No Good Deed Goes Unpunished:
  • Non-Action Guy: As a noble lord Mors most likely has been trained to fight, but diplomacy is where he truly excels.
  • Perfectly Arranged Marriage: His marriage with Nymeria is very affectionate, even if it was an arranged one.
  • Reasonable Authority Figure: He always proposes a diplomatic response to his wife, rather than force.
  • Red Oni, Blue Oni:
  • Ruling Couple: He and Nymeria rule together.
  • Sensitive Guy and Manly Man:
  • Sibling Yin-Yang: Mors is a social and active man, whereas his brother Jaran seems to be the opposite of that.
     Jaran Martell 

Jaran Martell

The brother of Prince Mors and herald of a sort. He always looks and acts bored. By Book 2 he has married Esperance Allyrion, a union rejected early in the story.
     Dianna* 

Dianna

A captain of Princess Nymeria's guard, sent to aid House Dalt in facing the threat of Efran Sand. She's a POV character.
  • Ambiguously Brown: Dianna is of mixed ethnicity, having at least Rhoynar and Ghiscari heritage, which makes her stand out a bit from the other Rhoynar, not to mention Dornish characters.
  • Badass in Distress: She's captured by Bjorn Harlaw.
  • The Berserker: Fights with a very aggressive style, especially when angry, which doesn't help her against the much stronger and more skilled Bjorn Harlaw.
  • The Captain: Captain in Princess Nymeria's guard, and leads the mission to the lands of House Dalt.
  • Defiant Captive: While Dianna is careful not to agitate her captor Bjorn too far, she certainly isn't playing by his rules, and constantly plans how to escape, as well as how to save Lysera.
  • Fiery Redhead: Her hair has a dark red taint typical for the Ghiscari.
  • Heroic Sacrifice: She stays behind and lets herself be killed by Bjorn to let Lysera escape from the Ironborn.
  • Hot-Blooded: Shown in combat at the confrontation with the Ironborn, and out of combat when she gets angry with Lord Darin Dalt.
  • My God, What Have I Done?: Her reaction when she realizes her advice has motivated the Ironborn to raid the villages on the Brimstone shores.
  • Sacrificial Lion: She's the third major POV character to die, after Myke and Dalia.
     Varyn of Chroyane 

Varyn of Chroyane

Prince of Chroyane

A Rhoynish general at the service of Princess Nymeria and Prince Mors. He was also a friend of the unfortunate Prince Garin The Great.
  • Berserk Button: Valyrians, and especially dragons.
  • Everyone Has Standards: While he doesn't like Nymeria, he would never betray her, something a group of conspirators found out the hard way.
  • The Stoic: He doesn't emote much, unless it involves Valyrians.
  • Undying Loyalty: To Nymeria. He's also still very loyal to the late Prince Garin. While he doesn't like Nymeria and thinks her ambitions are foolish, he would never betray her when given the chance.
     Farrah of Ghoyan Drohe 

Farrah of Ghoyan Drohe

The Captain of Nymeria's royal guard and a veteran of the Second Spice War, who served under Prince Garin the Great. She's also former royalty of the Rhoynar city of Ghoyan Drohe.
     Forovos Norvoshi 

Forovos Norvoshi

A Braavosi who's come to Dorne to support Princess Nymeria in the name of the Iron Bank of Braavos, seeing her as a good investment.
  • Ambiguously Evil: While he helps House Martell, his ruthless methods and motives behind his aid put him in this category.
  • Apologetic Attacker: Says that he hates violence and that it's a shame how often it's the only solution, and then proceeds to murder King Donovar Toland.
  • Cleanup Crew: Gets rid of Argim Taler's body after Tomas Toland kills him in the dungeons of Ghost Hill.
  • Expy: Of both Tycho Nestoris and Jaqen H'qar, since he's a former Faceless Man and a representative of the Iron Bank. How he used his abilities to kill someone for personal reasons also brings to mind Arya's circumstances.
  • Only in It for the Money: Helping Nymeria with her cause is just part of the business for Forovos.
  • Revenge: His side story revealed he used his abilities as a Faceless-Man to murder the man who killed his father and then resigned. The House of Black and White wasn't pleased. And he didn't care.
  • Xanatos Speed Chess: Rather than staying put after ensuring the loyalty of House Toland, he quickly moved to Hellholt and convinced the Ullers to turn on the Drylands, and it all happens while Nymeria is busy securing the rest of Central Dorne.
     Lysera 

Lysera

Soldier in the Rhoynar army, takes part in Captain Dianna's mission to the lands of House Dalt.
  • Ascended Extra: Becomes one of the two Rhoynar soldiers that accompany Femi in looking for Ammon and his role in the conspiracy against Nymeria.
  • Damsel in Distress: Unlike Dianna, Lysera is too frightened to be defiant after being captured by the Ironborn.
  • First Love: With the young Martell soldier named Gerrar, though the relationship is cut short by Bjorn Harlaw, who kills Gerrar in battle.
  • Sex Slave: It is unclear if Hargan Harlaw has raped Lysera or not, but this is practically what she will become for him if she is made his salt wife, like Hargan plans.
  • Shrinking Violet: Most of her experience with the Ironborn turned her into one of this, but she seemed to have gotten better ever since she escaped.
     Javor 

Javor

A captain of the Martell household guard, accompanies Dianna on her mission to the lands of the Dalt's.
  • The Captain
  • Mauve Shirt: Gets little characterization before being killed in the confrontation with the Ironborn.
     Ser Yandry of Olivegrove 

Ser Yandry of Olivegrove

The Knight of Olivegrove

The Knight of Olivegrove, bannerman of the Martell's.
  • Family Man: It is clear that his wife and children are very important to Yandry.
  • Sacrificial Lion: Dies defending the Martell subjects from House Toland's assault.

     Femi of Ghoyan Drohe* 

Femi of Ghoyan Drohe

An Orphan of the Greenblood and younger sister of Farrah and Hondo of Ghoyan Drohe. Rather than fighting alongside the rest of the Rhoynar, she chose to live a simple life on Planky Town with the rest of the Orphans. She's a POV character.
  • Conflicting Loyalties: She finds herself conflicted about her duty towards House Martell and her sister Farrah or the life of her brother Ammon.
  • Riches to Rags: From a princess, to basically a multi-tasker who lives on a boat.

House Dayne of Starfall

"Dawn Brings the Light"
Words of House Dayne

     In general 
  • Badass Family: King Vorian and both his sons are accomplished warriors. Vorian's nephew Davos Dayne is a squire with a lot of potential, and his bastard daughter Nealia is a sellsword.
  • Cool Sword: Dawn, the ancestral family heirloom, which according to legend was forged from the heart of a fallen star. The current wielder of the sword is King Vorian, though most of the time the sword is merely decorating his office.
  • Famous Ancestor: King Samwell Dayne the Starfire, led a sack of Hightower alongside his brother in-law King Barragan Blackmont, taking several riches with him.
    • King Sedric Dayne, who conquered half of Dorne, although his conquests wouldn't outlive him for much.
  • Knight in Shining Armor
  • Technicolor Eyes: House Dayne stands out for having purple eyes, despite being a house of First Men and Andal descent.
     King Vorian Dayne 

King Vorian Dayne

The King of the Torrentine, Lord of Starfall, the Sword of The Evening

The beloved king of Torrentine, who has no ambitions of expanding his realm. He's also the former brother in-law of King Benedict Blackmont.
  • The Ace: Not only he's a very skilled warrior, he's also a kind and well liked king.
  • The Good King: A wise and honorable ruler, loved among his people. He has also shown he has political savvy, as he managed to regain the port city of Clearhaven for his kingdom by offering his support for King Lucifer Dryland, who was in dire need of allies in his war against the Martell's.
  • Good Parents: Loves all his children equally, including his bastard daughter Naelia.
  • Master Swordsman: Even if he hasn't lately engaged much in combat, he has a reputation as the greatest knight in Dorne.
  • They Call Him "Sword": The Sword of the Evening is his nickname. Technically he is also the current Sword of the Morning, though he isn't usually called that.
     Queen Arenna Dayne 

Queen Arenna Dayne

The wife of King Vorian. A kind and warm woman, who gets along not only with her husband's nephew, but his bastard daughter as well.
  • Good Parents: Loves her children very much and even got along well with his husband's bastard daughter Nealia.
  • Happily Married: Her marriage to Vorian as far as we can tell is affectionate and stable.
  • Nice Gal
     Prince Malcolm Dayne 

Prince Malcolm Dayne

First son and heir of King Vorian. During the time-skip between Book 1 and two, he marries Lady Ashara Nightfall, one of the strongest vassals of House Dayne.
  • A Friend in Need: He is a very supportive friend for Prince Naemon after he finds out about his sister having disappeared from Blackmont.
  • Nice Guy: Malcolm is always polite and considerate.
  • Warrior Prince: He's an accomplished warrior, even if he's not as good as his father and brother.
     Prince Jamison Dayne* 

Prince Jamison Dayne

The Sword of the Night

Second son of King Vorian and a very accomplished knight. He's a POV character.
  • The Ace: His skills with the sword, and combat in general, cannot be questioned.
  • Anti-Hero: People who don't know him well may see him just as a bully, but he has a lot redeeming qualities as well.
  • Arrogant Kung-Fu Guy: Though he has some friends, Jamison is really hard one to get along with, due to his arrogance and often mean behavior. That said, he definitely has reason to be proud of his skills, because he actually is one of the best fighters in the story, if not the best.
  • Badass in Distress: Lets himself be fooled by Valerie Sand and gets mind-controlled by her.
  • Black Sheep: Of the Dayne family, having quite different views to life and knighthood than his father and brother, and certainly being more reckless than them. And while he is loved by his family, he definitely embraces his role as the black sheep.
  • Black Swords Are Better: Inverted, when Jamison's sword Darkness gets shattered by Kris Vaith's glowing orange sword End of Night.
  • Blood Knight: Loves to fight, and seems to be genuinely excited when eight thugs ambush him and Laroy at the streets of Godsgrace, because it's been a while since his last serious fight.
  • Cool Sword: Has his own named sword; Darkness
  • Deadpan Snarker: Doesn't save his snark when conversing with people like King Lucifer and Lord Morgan, or even his own family.
  • Expy: His name, cockiness and skill bring to mind Jaime Lannister, although his relationship with his family is way different.
  • Foil:
    • Prince Naemon Blackmont. Both of them are handsome knights, as well as very skilled in combat and good with the ladies, but what sets them apart are their views, on knighthood and life in general. Whereas Jamison is a bit above Naemon in pure skill, it's Naemon who has the more heroic approach to being a knight. Jamison loves to fight and has no qualms with killing, whereas Naemon hates even the idea of having to kill someone.
    • Prince Malcolm Dayne. Both of them are sons of King Vorian, handsome and jovial, but otherwise they contrast each other very starkly, even in their appearance. Jamison has dark hair, whereas Malcolm has the typical silver platinum hair of the Dayne's. Jamison is snarky and even mean at times, whereas Malcolm is very polite and considerate. Jamison desires power and glory without putting much thought into what would he actually do with that power, whereas Malcolm sees his future as the King of Torrentine as a duty not to be taken lightly. Jamison is emotional and impulsive, whereas Malcolm is calm and prudential.
  • Genius Bruiser: Jamison proves on his mission to Central Dorne that he has skills and potential outside of the battlefield, showing wits and savvy on the diplomatic aspects of his mission.
  • Glory Seeker: Jamison is desperate to prove himself to the world and his father, and to accomplish something meaningful in his life. He absolutely despises the idea of being just a servant for someone else, even if it's his own family.
  • Jerk with a Heart of Gold: He maybe cocky, pragmatic and even cruel at times, but his love for Isabella is very genuine. He also got along pretty well with his half-sister Nealia, even if his way of showing it was Tough Love.
  • Happily Married: He and Isabella eventually become this.
  • Ladykiller in Love: Jamison can certainly sleep around with all kinds of beautiful ladies, but Isabella Fowler is the only one that he truly loves.
  • Master Swordsman: It's what he is famous for.
  • Memetic Badass: In-universe. People know him as a great warrior, perhaps the greatest of his generation. Mentioning his skills is probably the most common reason for people to bring him up in a conversation.
  • Mind-Control Eyes: When he is under the spell of Valerie Sand his eyes have a dead and emotionless expression.
  • Opposites Attract: Jamison's crush on Princess Isabella Fowler definitely falls under this.
  • Scars are Forever: Gets a nasty facial scar after his fight with Kris Vaith while mind-controlled.
  • Smug Smiler: Tends to do this when he is being arrogant or bullying someone.
  • Tall, Dark, and Handsome: Inherited his father's eyes, but inherited his mother's dark hair instead.
  • They Call Him "Sword": The Sword of the Night is his nickname, originally given to him by his half-sister Nealia Sand. It refers to his dark hair, though it could also be seen as a hint towards his morals and personality, being the opposite of the Sword of the Morning.
  • Troll: Loves to verbally troll people, almost too much at times.

    Davos Dayne 

Davos Dayne

Nephew of King Vorian and son of Prince Garret Dayne. A young squire with a lot of potential. He's taken as squire by Naemon Blackmont.

    Nealia Sand* 

Nealia Sand

The Bastard Princess

Bastard daughter of King Vorian. Born from an affair long before Vorian was crowned, she spent a lot of her childhood in Starfall and was treated with respect by Queen Arenna and her half-brother Malcolm, until she chose to live a more simple life as a sellsword. She's a POV character.
  • Dual Wielding: Fights with two short swords.
  • Expy: Has elements of both Arya Stark and Jon Snow.
  • Heroic Bastard: As expected from the bastard of House Dayne, she's a kind person who chose her way of living to stop inconveniencing her legitimate family (even if they never made her feel unwanted).
  • Pint-Sized Powerhouse: She may be short, but she is very skilled. After leaving her home to travel through Dorne, she gathered a lot of experience as a sellsword and is likely one of the finest fighters in the cast.
  • Red Baron: Nealia is outright known as the Bastard Princess, the bastard daughter of King Vorian Dayne.

    Ser Laroy Ladybright 

Ser Laroy Ladybright

An elderly knight of House Ladybright and fatherly figure of Prince Jamison, he also accompanies him in his mission at Godsgrace.
  • Properly Paranoid: He was very right about being nervous at Vaith.
  • Undying Loyalty: He has spent so much of his life at Starfall, he's now more loyal to the Daynes than his birth family.

House Blackmont of Blackmont

"We Conquer the Heavens"
Words of House Blackmont

     King Benedict Blackmont 

King Benedict Blackmont

The King of Blackmont

A feared man who is rumored to be mixed up with dark magic. It is said that he worships a dark god which gives him magical powers. He is rarely seen even by his family. Only few of his trusted men know what he truly does on his dark chambers.
  • Affectionate Nickname: His wife called him "Ben".
  • Agent Mulder: Obsessed with magic, hosting believers of all kinds of gods in his halls.
  • Alliterative Name: Benedict Blackmont
  • Archnemesis Dad: Especially to Naemon, who outright hates Benedict.
  • Beneath the Mask:
  • Brilliant, but Lazy: He's actually quite capable of ruling efficiently, but prefers to leave it to his advisors while he looks at the dark arts.
  • Broken Pedestal:
  • Dark Is Not Evil: A secretive man that consults with sorcerers, but who also loves his children and truly wants to protect his kingdom.
  • Defrosting Ice King: In the beginning of the story Benedict comes off as completely emotionless and cold, but slowly we start to see more sides to him, mostly on his interactions with his children.
  • The Farmer and the Viper: Benedict being the farmer, and the sorcerers being the snake(s).
  • Hidden Heart of Gold: Played With, as in the beginning of the story Benedict pulls an act of being a cold and emotionless person, but after the disappearance of Gwendis he largely drops the act, at least around Naemon.
  • Horrible Judge of Character: Just see how he didn't throw Syrenho out of Blackmont when he stared to talk about Queen Valaena having to be killed, just shrugging it off as ramblings of a madman.
  • Ignored Epiphany: Benedict acknowledges his failings, but seems to refuse to actually learn from them.
  • The Mourning After: Benedict never truly got over the death of his wife.
  • My Greatest Failure: He feels guilty for the death of his wife Valaena, who was poisoned by a sorcerer named Syrenho, whom Benedict himself had brought to the court, and refused to banish even when he started talking about Valaena having to be killed to avoid the wrath of god.
  • Parental Favoritism: Clearly favors Gwendis over Naemon.
  • Parental Neglect: He is neglectful to both of his children, spending his days with his sorcerers, rarely seeing his family.
  • Parents as People: Benedict is far from being a good parent, but he can still be a decent person.
  • Perfectly Arranged Marriage: He was quite happy with his wife Valaena Dayne, and he still mourns her.
  • Properly Paranoid: He fears that marrying Naemon to Isabella would bring Fowler spies to Blackmont, and we've seen from before that King Garrison does like to use spies on the courts of the other Dornish kings.
  • Tall, Dark, and Handsome: Though age is now slowly starting to chew on him, Benedict definitely was this when he was younger.
  • Who Needs Enemies?: The alliance between Blackmont's and Fowler's is based on the Manwoody's being their common enemy.

     Queen Valaena Blackmont 

Queen Valaena Blackmont

Deceased wife of King Benedict Blackmont, mother of Princess Gwendis and Prince Naemon, and sister of King Vorian Dayne. She died in mysterious circumstances over a decade ago, while her children were visiting Starfall.

     Princess Gwendis Blackmont* 

Princess Gwendis Blackmont

Eldest child and only daughter of King Benedict, as well as the older sister of Naemon. With her father's lack of care for properly ruling the Kingdom of Blackmont and with Naemon's lack of talent, Gwendis grew into a politically active young woman, who uses her wits and considerable skills to govern the kingdom in their stead. She's a POV character.
  • Affectionate Nickname: Gwen, courtesy of Naemon.
  • Almighty Janitor: As Benedict's daughter, Gwendis doesn't hold a very high position at court, being expected to never inherit the crown of Blackmont. However, she is by far the most competent and well-intentioned person at court and as it is later shown, one of the factors that keeps the kingdom together in the face of a growing peasant rebellion.
  • Badass Bureaucrat: Gwendis is certainly not a physical fighter, such as other princesses in the story, like Nealia and Nymeria, but she is a badass in her own right, as a ruler and administrator, who managed to keep the Kingdom of Blackmont stable despite the growing problems in it.
  • Bad Powers, Good People: Though Gwendis herself is a very good person, who genuinely wishes the best for her father's kingdom and who uses her own power an skills to help as much as possible, she eventually becomes of interest to the Great Other, who apparently outfits her with powers she herself hasn't really explored yet.
  • Beauty Equals Goodness: Gwendis is a beautiful woman, who has Raven Hair, Ivory Skin features. She is also among the most morally good characters in the story, surpassed only by Nymeria and maybe her uncle Vorian when it comes to being a Reasonable Authority Figure.
  • Beneath the Mask: Her regal, ambitious mask hides a young woman who is not only very unhappy about her downright unfair lot in life, but also lonely, due to the fact that her position makes it hard to gather genuine friends.
  • Brainy Brunette: She has dark brown hair and a very capable administrator.
  • Break the Haughty: Part of her Chapter 2 storyline puts her through previously unknown hardships that slowly take away the arrogance that previously plagued her. Being forced to become Aisha's apprenticeship and getting to know the Great Other, Gwendis has to leave her home at Blackmont and spends the following chapter running from one danger to the next.
  • The Conscience: On his good days, Benedict actually listens to Gwendis' sound advice, which makes her an example of this trope towards him. Unfortunately, these days are not all that often.
  • Cool Big Sis: She's only a year older than Naemon, but she always tries to motivate him.
  • Dark Is Not Evil: As the dark-haired princess of House Blackmont, Gwendis is associated with darkness Not to say her affiliation with the Great Other, yet she is far from an evil person and actually one of the most well-intentioned characters in the story.
  • The Fettered: In her role at her father's council, Gwendis leads as her late mother would have led. As a result, she upholds her morals and draws strength from them.
  • Fish out of Water: Her Chapter 2 storyline portrays this in great length. Gwendis feels at home when she's at court, not necessarily her own at Blackmont. She is a talented politician, yet matters that involve gods are way out of her league and she knows this. On top of that, surviving in the wilderness comes far from easy for her.
  • Foil: To Isabella Fowler. Both are young, pretty and well-intentioned women with high morals, who are also the only daughter of the family and the sister to a hot-headed brother with an inferiority complex. However, where Isabella is a Princess Classic and quite content with that, spending her days as it is expected from a princess and dreaming about marrying the boy of her dreams, Gwendis is a Politically-Active Princess, who is far from satisfied with her position in life and who wishes nothing more but to rule over her house one day.
  • Generation Xerox: In many ways, Gwendis is just like her mother, the late Queen Valaena Blackmont. She is described as looking exactly like her mother, a beauty with dark hair and purple eyes. At the court of Benedict Blackmont, her role is largely the same, with her leading the council while her father shows no interest in ruling over his kingdom. Finally, both women have been heavily wronged by Benedict's sourcerers, with her mother being murdered by the alchemist Syrenho and she herself being manipulated by the Dark Priestess, Aisha. The main difference between the two is that Gwendis has survived her encounter with dark magic so far.
  • The Good Chancellor: In her role as Benedict's head of the council, Gwendis mostly focusses on giving the smallfolk a better life. This comes as a blessing for her kingdom, as it is implied that her attempts are the only thing keeping the starving kingdom even somewhat stable.
  • Guile Heroine: Gwendis might be many things, but she's certainly not a physical fighter. As a result, she uses her brains to overcome challenges she encounters, or alternatively her charms.
  • Hyper-Competent Sidekick: Once again, to Benedict, who shows neither interest nor talent when it comes to ruling his kingdom, whereas Gwendis has ambition and the necessary skill to do exactly this.
  • Missing Mom: Her mother, Valaena, mysteriously died ten years ago, due to a sudden and severe illness, while Gwendis and Naemon have been on a trip to Starfall. It is eventually revealed that one of Benedict's sorcerers poisoned her.
  • Nice to the Waiter: Eventually, despite their vast differences in social standings, Gwendis mellows down enough to treat the thief Trentan with respect, showing sympathy when learning of the things that led to his current situation in life.
  • Noble Fugitive: Becomes one in Chapter 2, if not exactly by her own free will, when Aisha manipulates her into running away from Blackmont with her. She quickly comes to regret her decision though.
  • Only Sane Employee: At worst, she comes across as this at the court of Blackmont, which consists of an uncaring king, entirely untalented sorcerers, who only hold this position due to their magical aid, or sycophants. Out of the council, only Maester Mortin shows similar dedication to the kingdom itself.
  • Politically-Active Princess: This is very much Gwendis' defining feature. Unlike many other princesses in Dorne, she is a highly ambitious woman, entirely unsatisfied by her lot in life. Her talent and dedication to work for her kingdom have actually impressed her father so much that she was allowed to follow her passion as the head of the council of Blackmont, a position that has likely never been held by a woman before.
  • Raven Hair, Ivory Skin: Part of her beautiful features include dark brown hair and very pale skin, so much in fact that she finds herself incapable of putting on a tan.
  • Reasonable Authority Figure: Compared to her father or other members of the council, Gwendis borders on being the Only Sane Man at the court of Blackmont. Her decisions are usually merciful and generous to the smallfolk, something that eventually keeps them in line far better than anything else.
  • Sheltered Aristocrat: While Gwendis is truly well-intentioned, the time she spends with Trentan reveals that for all her good intentions, she has little knowledge about the hardships her people have to face. After all, she grew up in luxury, surrounded by those who love her and without ever missing any material good.
  • Sibling Yin-Yang: She's ambitious and a very good administrator, in contrast to the laid back, non-political Naemon.
  • Silk Hiding Steel: It is a lot of silk, but clearly, behind Gwendis' nice and friendly facade lies a woman that knows exactly what she wants and how to get it. Though not a fighter in any way, she is able to sharply manipulate those around her, if usually not for entirely selfish reasons.
  • Spanner in the Works: Unwittingly, Gwendis becomes this to Garrison Fowler's grand plan to defeat House Manwoody and build a stable alliance in the western Red Mountains by arranging a marriage between the houses of Fowler and Blackmont. Disagreeing with her father's intention to marry her to Garrison's thirdborn son, she runs away from home under the manipulations of the Dark Priestess, Aisha, meaning that Garrison's alliance is on far more shaky ground than it would have been otherwise.
  • Stepford Smiler: An expert on keeping a smile, Gwendis rarely shows when she's not happy or satisfied, instead she manages to smile on, aside form situations where she is truly devastated.
  • Took a Level in Cynic: Starting off as a slightly naive idealist, her ordeal with Aisha and Trentan not only serves as an eye-opener for her, it also slowly turns her into a more serious, cynical person.
  • You Can't Go Home Again: After running away from Blackmont, Gwendis becomes a fugitive. True, she realizes her error soon enough, but the fact that she is now more or less a hostage of Aisha means that it is still impossible for her to reunite with her family.

     Prince Naemon Blackmont* 

Prince Naemon Blackmont

The Vulture Knight

Second child and heir of King Benedict, as well as the younger brother of Gwendis. Unlike his sister, Naemon cares little for the burden of ruling and he feels overwhelmed with the thought of being the crown prince and of being responsible for his entire kingdom one day. He's a POV character.
  • Cowardly Lion: Hates the idea of killing while fighting, but he will kill if it comes to it.
  • Dark Is Not Evil: For all the dark imagery of his looks and family, he's a pretty reasonable and nice fellow.
  • Missing Mom: His mother Valeana died several years ago, and is far from thrilled when he finds out the cause of her demise.
  • Sibling Yin-Yang: He's laid back and completely uninterested in politics, while Gwendis is ambitious and a good politician.

     Braddock Blackmont 

Braddock Blackmont

Cousin of King Benedict and member of his court.

     Beric Blackmont 

Beric Blackmont

Uncle of King Benedict, father of Braddock Blackmont and Bessa Blackmont. Killed by Ser Edwyn Oakswood in a tourney melee over ten years before the beginning of the story.

     Aisha 

Aisha

The Dark Priestess

A mysterious priestess that serves The Great Other and takes an interest in Gwendis Blackmont.
  • Aloof Dark-Haired Girl
  • Ambiguously Evil: At least at first, since her disturbing devotion to the Great Other wasn't as obvious.
  • Bait the Dog: Despite her apparently friendly advice, she makes Gwendis interact more and more with The Great Other despite the princess' protests with the intention of corrupting her.
  • The Corrupter: She intends to turn Gwendis to the side of her god.
  • Dark Is Evil
  • Face Death with Dignity: After Valerie and Mordekai are killed by Kris and Desirea, she simply accepts her inevitable death at the hands of the followers of the Lord of Light and finds some peace when Kris executes her.
  • Human Sacrifice: Sacrifices a soldier of House Vass in a brutal ritual to strengthen her connection with the Great Other.
  • Knight Templar: She's thoroughly convinced her god will triumph over the Lord of Light, and intends to push Gwendis in the same direction.
  • Mistaken for Prostitute: Her Stripperiffic outfit made King Benedict Blackmont believe she was a whore.

     Lyla Sand 

Lyla Sand

A bastard and assassin working for King Benedict. She's the only member of Benedict's inner circle that participates in the council that rules Blackmont's lands.
  • Anti-Hero: Doesn't have a very pleasant personality, and often comes off outright mean spirited, but her loyalty to King Benedict and determination to save Gwendis from Aisha is quite heroic.
  • Dies Wide Open: Her eyes are widened in shock when Mordekhai's sword cuts her across the chest.
  • Duel to the Death: Her fight against Mordekhai.
  • Lady of War: At first glance Lyla might come off as nothing but an elegant, if also a bit arrogant, noble bastard. However, she is also an assassin, and a very skilled fighter.
  • Sacrificial Lion
  • Silk Hiding Steel: Can act like a sweet young lady, but in truth she is a warrior and killer to the core.

     Trentan 

Trentan

A young man and former thief that accompanies Gwendis and Aisha in their journey.
  • Book Dumb: Being a lowborn thief, Trentan has no formal education.
  • Human Sacrifice: He's murdered and used as sacrifice by Valerie to complete Gwendis' turning.
  • Jerk with a Heart of Gold: Due to his hatred towards the noble class, he comes off as a jerk at first when interacting with Princess Gwendis. However, slowly they develop a friendship, which reveals a much more likable side of Trentan.
  • Morality Pet: Seems to be one for Aisha, to certain measure.
  • Odd Friendship: He and Gwendis become dependent on each other to survive Aisha and Mordekhai.
  • Wisdom from the Gutter: Has some valuable advise to give to Gwendis regarding the lives of the common folk.

     Noctis 

Noctis

One of the many, but probably the most important, of the sorcerers in Benedict's court. Unlike Aisha, he isn't a fanatic of any religion, but he believes firmly in magic instead.
  • Bit Character: After spending most of the first book as a background character, he finally reveals about his origins in the third act.
  • Court Mage: He's one of the many at Blackmont, although Naemon sees him as an Evil Sorcerer.
  • Enigmatic Minion: He claims to be loyal to Benedict and Naemon as well, but his reasons are unclear.
  • Token Evil Teammate: Naemon certainly thinks so.

     Ser Thomos the Thunder 

Ser Thomos the Thunder

A knight in service of House Blackmont.
  • Bit Character: While he's the most well known member of Blackmont's household, he hasn't played a very large role.
  • Only One Name: He doesn't seem to have a family name.
  • Praetorian Guard: A member of House Blackmont's guard, and the most prominent.

House Manwoody of Kingsgrave

"No King Above Me"
Words of House Manwoody

     King Albin Manwoody 

King Albin Manwoody

King of the Red Mountains, Albin the Mad

Albin is a man touched by madness. He has a thirst for blood and even if he is one of the weaker kings of Dorne, he has ambitions on ruling all of the Red Mountains.
  • Aristocrats Are Evil: He's king, and easily one of the most unstable and evil characters in the story.
  • Dirty Old Man: Abuses his power to get sexual favors from Missy, a girl less than half his age.
  • Domestic Abuse: It is rumored he beat to death his first wife.
  • Expy: Has many similarities with both Aerys II Targaryen and Joffrey Baratheon.
  • Hair-Trigger Temper: Short tempered and violent when this happens.
  • The Caligula: Often referred to as "The Mad Albin" or "Albin the Mad", especially by people outside of his court who have heard of his deeds.
  • Psychopathic Manchild: Despite being a grown man, his temper and mannerisms are more similar to those of a violent child.
  • Stupid Evil: Orders to continue raiding the lands of House Fowler while ignoring the more immediate threat of bandits from the side of the Stormlands.

     Queen Sofina Manwoody 

Queen Sofina Manwoody

Second wife of King Albin and mother of their two younger sons Jullon and Brodin.
  • Broken Bird: Being married to Albin hasn't done her any favors in her outlook of the world.
  • Icy Blue Eyes
  • Off with His Head!: Arvin decapitates her after her coup fails.
  • The Starscream: Tells Kortney she intends to kill her husband and stepson to give the throne to her son. Her coup fails and she's captured and executed, but she apparently injured Albin pretty bad.

     Prince Arvin Manwoody* 

Prince Arvin Manwoody

Eldest son of Albin Manwoody and only child from his first marriage and heir of Kingsgrave. He's married to Sanya Purell, who's pregnant for a second time. In Book 2 he becomes a POV character.
  • Aloof Big Brother: He was never very close to his younger brothers Jullon and Brodin and after executing their mother, he fears they'll become his enemies in the future.
  • Ascended Extra: After being a supporting character during Book 1, he becomes a POV character in Book 2.
  • Awful Wedded Life: His marriage to Sanya is very unhappy. Considering who her in-laws are, it's no surprise.
  • Hypercompetent Sidekick: Because his father is rather incompetent, he's usually in charge of leading their forces.
  • A Lighter Shade of Black: He's not a nice person and enforces the will of his father on their kingdom, but he's certainly not a violent madman or a psycho.
  • My Master, Right or Wrong: Sofina's words show that, while he knows his father is a madman, he remains loyal to him regardless.
  • Pragmatic Villainy: He stops Larry from further interrogating a villager about the whereabouts of the Free Ravens, not out of kindness but to ensure the people don't hate them even more.
  • Tranquil Fury: After Sofina's failed coup, while his voice remains calm, it is clear he's furious at his stepmother's betrayal.
  • Warrior Prince: Leads the Manwoody forces in the name of his father.

     Alaric Manwoody 

Alaric Manwoody

The younger brother of King Albin.
  • Cain and Abel: He's technically the Abel to Albin's Cain, since while he's not the most moral person, at least he's not a madman.
  • Empty Shell: When Arvin meets him in Book 2, he looks like a shadow of his former self, constantly fearing retaliation from his brother.
  • Out of Focus: After the death of his assassin the Purple Ocelot, he hasn't played a major role.

     Ser Mordekhai Crusher 

Ser Mordekhai Crusher

The Skeletal Knight

A brutal knight and cousin of Albin Manwoody. He's also a follower of The Great Other and a warrior for Aisha.
  • Expy: His massive size and brutality are quite similar to those of Gregor Clegane. His name seems to be a reference to Mordekaiser.
  • Glowing Eyes of Doom: His red eyes are described to glow underneath his helmet.
  • Made of Iron: Gets a dagger to the eye in his fight against Lyla Sand, but soon gets up, pulls the dagger out and continues the fight like it was nothing.
  • Magic Knight: His strength and durability seem almost inhuman, and he is a follower of the Great Other.
  • Mighty Glacier: Not the fastest fighter, but very strong.
  • Names to Run Away from Really Fast: Even his last name Crusher is quite intimidating, but he is also known as the Skeletal Knight.
  • Neck Lift: Seems to really enjoy doing this, whether it is just to intimidate, or to brutally break his enemy's neck.
  • Obviously Evil: Oh yeah, his looks and demeanor immediately give away that he is as evil as they get.
  • One-Man Army
  • Psycho for Hire
  • Scars are Forever: His fight with Lyla cost him his left eye.
  • Spikes of Villainy: His armor is described to be adorned with hundred metal spikes.
  • Villain with Good Publicity: To some extent. He seems to be a respected man in the court of Kingsgrave, even if also feared.
  • Would Hit a Girl: More like, would do any atrocity imaginable to a girl.

     Tom the Animal 

Tom the Animal

One of Albin's freaks, and the most prominent of the lot.

     Larry the Kind 

Larry the Kind

One of Albin's freaks, and clearly the brains of the group.

     Zereth 

Zereth

The mysterious personal assassin of King Albin Manwoody.
  • Assassin Outclassin': Kills the Purple Ocelot and sends his head to Kourtney.
  • Enigmatic Minion: Besides being Albin's personal killer, nothing else is known about him or where he came from.
  • Hero Killer: Murders prince Ferris Fowler when he was alone, which forces the Skyreach army to retreat, leaving the Blackmont forces alone.
  • In the Hood: His face is always covered by a grey hood.
  • Karmic Death: He killed Ferris Fowler when he was alone, only to be executed by Kris Vaith a few years afterwards when he tried to do the same to him.
  • Professional Killer
  • Sudden Sequel Death Syndrome: He's one of the first recurring characters to die in Book 2, being killed by Kris Vaith.

House Fowler of Skyreach

"Let Me Soar"
Words of House Fowler

     King Garrison Fowler 

King Garrison Fowler

The King of Stone and Sky, Lord of Skyreach, the Blind King

The old head of House Fowler, despite losing his sight years ago, his wits remain as sharp as ever.
  • Cool Old Guy: Blind and not a fighter, but a clever schemer and competent ruler.
  • Good Is Not Soft: While he genuinely cares for the safety of his Kingdom and family, he can be pretty ruthless if the situation calls for it.
  • Happily Married: He deeply loved his wife Ashara and misses her even now.
  • Outliving One's Offspring: His son Ferris is killed while he is stuck at Skyreach because of his blindness.
  • Parents as People: He truly loves his children and wants was best for them, but his kingdom also has needs and is willing to use every strategy at his disposal to ensure the survival of his people.

     Prince Ferris Fowler 

Prince Ferris Fowler

Eldest child and heir of King Garrison. He's married to Dana Fowler and they have a three-year old son, Matthos.
  • Alliterative Name
  • Named After Somebody Famous: Probably named after King Ferris Fowler, who invaded the Reach with 10,000 men, only to be defeated by King Garth VII Gardener.
  • Sacrificial Lion: Killed by Zereth during the siege of Kingsgrave when he was alone.
  • Slashed Throat: How Zereth fatally injures him before stabbing him in the heart.
  • Warrior Prince: Fought alongside his men against the Manwoody forces. He muses that he's not that great of a warrior when compared with his younger brother Desmor.

     Princess Isabella Fowler* 

Princess Isabella Fowler

Only daughter and youngest child of King Garrison Fowler. She's a POV character. During the time-skip between Book 1 and 2, she gives birth to twins, Samwell and Ferris Dayne.
  • Cool Aunt: She adores her three year old nephew Matthos.
  • Hair of Gold, Heart of Gold: Easily one of the nicest characters in the story.
  • Happily Married: She and Jamison become this at the end of Book 1.
  • Marry for Love: Her marriage to Jamison is considered unusual since, with Jamison being a second son he has little chance to inherit, but their already strong feelings for each other make their parents allow the marriage without issue.
  • Nice Girl
  • Princess Classic

     Prince Desmor Fowler 

Prince Desmor Fowler

Thirdborn son of King Garrison. A knight of his father's Royal Guard, known for going to brothels. Between Book 1 and 2, he has married Arianne Drinkwater and now they have a daughter, Ashara Fowler.
  • Arranged Marriage: While at first he's betrothed to Gwendis Blackmont, after Gwen goes missing, his father arranges for a marriage offer to Arianne Drinkwater, much to his bemusement.
    • Although by Book 2 he has finally accepted the marriage.
  • Glory Seeker: Asks his father to let him fight an incoming force from Kingsgrave.
  • Hot-Blooded
  • Number Two: He becomes this to his father in Book 2 because of the death of his older brother.
  • Spare to the Throne: He's technically this if his brother dies during the war, since his nephew is only three and his other brother Andren is a Maester.
  • Warrior Prince: A skilled warrior like his brother.

     Lady Obara Fowler 

Lady Obara Fowler

Younger sister of King Garrison. She proposes a marriage alliance with House Yronwood, an idea rejected by her brother and niece.
  • The Mole: She has been going against her brother's orders in order to obtain an alliance with House Yronwood.

     Ser Soren Ashford 

Ser Soren Ashford

A knight of House Ashford from the Reach, and guard for House Fowler for over a decade. He becomes Isabella's sworn shield when she's sent to Starfall to marry Jamison Dayne.
  • Ascended Extra: He didn't have a particularly large role during the first part of the story, but becomes a supporting character once Isabella leaves Skyreach.
  • Graceful Loser: While Jamison's friends claim otherwise, he accepted his defeat at the tournament against Jamison with surprising ease.
  • My Greatest Failure: Isabella believes he feels guilty for not being there when her brother Ferris was killed.
  • Nice Guy: So far he has been nothing more than friendly and polite to his liege, even when he's aware of the antipathy towards reach men.
  • Token Minority: He's the only reachman at Skyreach.

House Yronwood of Yronwood

"We Guard the Way"
Words of House Yronwood

  • The Clan: Of all the Dornish houses, they are the most numerous and certainly Nymeria's biggest rivals.

     King Yorick V Yronwood 

King Yorick Yronwood

Fifth of His Name, The Bloodroyal, Warden of the Stone Way, Knight of the Wells, King of Redmarch, King of the Greenbelt, High King of Dorne

He is the richest and the most powerful of the Dornish kings, and proud of it. He has plans for expanding his kingdom, and he's ready to spill blood to reach his goals. The news of the alliance between Martells and Nymeria do not trouble him one bit.
  • Alliterative Name: Yorick Yronwood
  • Ambition Is Evil: Has big ambitions to grow his power and influence, with little remorse over those will suffer for it.
  • Big Bad: At least to Princess Nymeria, and everyone aligned with her.
  • The Dreaded: He is recognized all across Dorne as the most powerful man in the whole region, respected by his followers, but feared by his enemies.
  • Family-Values Villain: He accepts Ortheg Sand to his court, and gives him a chance to prove himself, because he recognizes him as his own flesh and blood.
  • The High King: One of his many titles is High King of Dorne.
  • I Have Many Names: His list of titles is the longest of all the kings. Maester Symon recites all of them for Ortheg to know.
  • King Bob the Nth: He is the fifth of his name in the royal linage of the Yronwood kings.
  • Lord Country: King Yorick Yronwood of Yronwood.
  • The Patriarch: The most blatant of all the kings of Dorne.
  • Royals Who Actually Do Something: While he doesn't command from the front, he still marches and leads his army, which is more than the other kings have done.

     Queen Wenda Yronwood 

Queen Wenda Yronwood neé Wyl

The wife of king Yorick and mother of Jaena, Trevyr, Olyvar and Addam Yronwood. She comes from House Wyl of Wyl, one of house Yronwood's strongest vassals alongside House Jordayne.
  • Alliterative Name: Like most of her family, her maiden name is Wenda Wyl.
  • Silver Vixen: Despite being in her forties and a mother of four, she still looks pretty good according to Ortheg.

     Prince Andrey Yronwood 

Prince Andrey Yronwood

The late younger brother of Yorick and Ynys Yronwood. Father of Tanya Yronwood and Ortheg and Artos Sand. He died 2 years prior to the story.
  • Posthumous Character: Dead already by the beginning of the story.
  • The Casanova: Yorick implies his brother had a way with women. His bastards sons from different women give some credence to that comment.

     Princess Jaena Yronwood 

Princess Jaena Yronwood

Eldest child and only daughter of King Yorick and Queen Wenda. Known for her beauty, she's 17 years old.

     Prince Trevyr Yronwood 

Prince Trevyr Yronwood

The eldest son and heir of King Yorick. He's 15 years old, making him the same age as his cousin Ortheg Sand.
  • Minor Major Character: Despite being the heir of the most powerful of the Kings in Dorne, he's had very little screen time.
  • Out of Focus: Of all his relatives, he's the one with the least screen time during Book 1.

     Prince Olyvar Yronwood 

Prince Olyvar Yronwood

Secondborn son of King Yorick Yronwood and Queen Wenda Wyl. Unlike his cousins and younger brother, he has inherited his mother's black hair. He's 11 years old.
  • Named After Somebody Famous: He was probably named after King Olyvar Yronwood, who led incursions in the Stormlands during the reign of King Erich VII the Unready.
  • Smug Smiler: He is rather cocky and smiles this way when meeting Ortheg.

     Prince Addam Yronwood 

Prince Addam Yronwood

Thirdborn son of King Yorick and Wenda Wyl. He's eight years old.

     Lady Tanya Yronwood 

Lady Tanya Yronwood

Daughter of the late Prince Andrey Yronwood and niece of King Yorick. She's 23-years old. She's chosen as instructor of her half-brother Ortheg, and she knows how to fight since she was little.
  • Action Girl: Has being trained to fight since she was young.
  • Cool Big Sis: Is rather welcoming of her half brother Ortheg and enjoys training with her cousins and younger brother Artos.

     Ortheg Sand* 

Ortheg Sand

Bastard son of Prince Andrey Yronwood and a woman named Lora. He arrives to Yronwood to become a knight at his uncle's court. He's 15 years old. He's a POV character.
  • Book Dumb: He doesn't know how to read and never had a formal training, but his experience at the silver mines give him an observing eye of materials and designs.
  • Heroic Bastard: While not a particularly heroic character yet, he is a nice person with sincere desires to become a knight.
  • NaĂŻve Newcomer: To the court of Yronwood.

     Artos Sand 

Artos Sand

Prince Andrey Yronwood's youngest child and Tanya and Ortheg's half-brother. He's ten years old and has resided at Yronwood since he was three.

     Maester Symon 

Maester Symon

The Maester of Yronwood, a tall and sturdy man on his mid-forties.
  • Encyclopaedic Knowledge: Tanya describes Symon as a very knowledegeable man, who has an answer to almost any question.
  • Genius Bruiser: He is a maester, meaning he mainly focuses on academics, but he has the build of a warrior.
  • Stern Teacher: Symon is a fair and capable teacher, who knows the value of hard work.

     Ser Theodore Wells 

Ser Theodore Wells

A knight and second son of House Wells of the Wells, and member of King Yorick's guard.

     Willem Pyke 

Willem Pyke

The Drowned Bastard

The bastard of Lord Garvy Saltcliffe from the Iron Islands hired by Albin Manwoody, but he's only using the king to find the man who killed his sister. After killing Carsen, he pledges his sword to Yorick Yronwood.
  • Abusive Parents: His father tried to drown him when he was six, hence his moniker. When a man named Carsen raped and murdered his sister, his father didn't give a shit about it.
  • Big Brother Instinct: Killing the man who killed his sister is one of his motivations.
  • Duel to the Death: Fights Carsen in a Trial by Combat, and wins.
  • Hidden Depths: His talk with Ortheg shows he's not a religious person because of all the hardships he has experienced in life, not liking either the Seven nor the Drowned God.
  • Odd Friendship: Develops one of sorts with Ortheg Sand, a fellow bastard.
  • Token Minority: The only Ironborn at Yronwood's household.

House Dryland of Hellgate Hall

"Children of the Sun"
Words of House Dryland

     King Lucifer Dryland 

King Lucifer Dryland

The King of Brimstone, Lord of Hellgate Hall, Last of Its Ilk

The second strongest of the kings of Dorne. His hold over Brimstone is strong, but he will be soon on his fifties and he still has no heir. The news of the alliance between Martells and the Rhoynar has made him nervous.
  • Arranged Marriage: He becomes engaged to Gwyneth Tiddle, the daughter of one of his Bannermen, in hopes of getting a male heir.
  • Disc-One Final Boss: Near the end of Book 1, he's betrayed by his vassals and sent to the Wall as exile.
  • Grumpy Old Man: While he's only middle aged, he fits. He's prideful, not very likable and discontent with the current state of his kingdom. He only shows some kindness to his daughter Dalia.
  • Jerkass: Make no mistake, Lucifer is not a nice person. He even told his daughter Dalia that she's only his heir until he gets a son.
  • Last of Its Kind: No male heirs, only his bastard daughter Dalia and bastard granddaughter Desirea.
  • Old Man Marrying a Child: It is mentioned his bride to-be is half his age.
  • Pride: He's a very prideful man.
  • Underestimating Badassery: For most of Book 1, he saw Nymeria and her power as nothing more than a wannabe conqueror, until his vassals are convinced to turn against him once it becomes clear he has no heir.

     Ser Blackheart 

Ser Lothar Hill

Blackheart

The must trusted knight at the service of House Dryland, although not much is known about him. After the defeat of House Dryland, he reveals he's bastard from the Westerlands who ended in Dorne for his own reasons.
  • Bit Character: Despite his intimidating appearance, he hasn't played an important role once the narrative left Hellgate Hall, although we learn more of him once he's captured.
  • Bling of War: In Book 2 he's given a new fancy golden armor.
  • Elite Mook: For Lucifer Dryland.
  • Heel–Face Turn: Not that he was villainous to begin with, but he becomes a member of House Martell's forces after the surrender of House Dryland.
  • Names to Run Away from Really Fast: Blackheart
  • Only Known by Their Nickname: His actual name is unknown for most of Book 1, and is only revealed near the end of that book.
  • Punch-Clock Villain: Being a bastard from the Westerlands, Lannister of Lannisport to be precise, he doesn't have any reasons to oppose Nymeria once Lucifer is defeated. He even joins their forces later on.

House Uller of Hellholt

     Lord Harrion Uller 

Lord Harrion Uller

Lord of Hellholt and vassal of King Lucifer Dryland.
  • Bit Character: While mentioned and seen on occasion, he hasn't played a very important role besides being Lucifer's supporter.

     Harbert Uller 

Harbert Uller

Eldest son and heir of Lord Harrion Uller. According to Dalia, he used to be a very problematic teenager, but has calmed down in recent years.
  • Badass in Distress: He's captured after the Battle of Godsgrace alongside his brother to be used as hostages against his father.
  • Childhood Friends: Technically, since he knows Dalia Sand since they were young.
  • Former Teen Rebel: Dalia muses he used to be quite troublesome, starting fights or challenging people to duels for minor reasons, but has calmed down after growing.
  • You Are in Command Now: He's forced to lead the Dryland forces alongside Jorvian Gargalen during the battle against Nymeria.

     Ser Howar Uller 

Ser Howar Uller

Second son of Lord Harrion Uller, who accompanies the Wild Suns in their mission to take Vaith.
  • Badass in Distress: He's captured after the Battle of Godsgrace like his brother to be used as hostages against his father.
  • Bit Character: Besides leading men alongside Kris and Dalia, we don't see much of his personality unlike his brother.

     Desmond Uller 

Desmond Uller

The son of Harbert Uller and second in-line to inherit Hellholt. He remained with his grandfather while his father and uncle went to war.
  • Blood Knight: He' a proponent of assaulting the seat of House Blackpool rather than simply making a siege.
  • Small Role, Big Impact: Only two appearances in Book 1, but he's the one who deposes House Dryland, ensuring Nymeria doesn't have to face a siege to take over Hellgate Hall
  • Turncoat: He and his soldiers quickly turn on Lucifer when it's clear Nymeria has won, imprisoning the King of Hellgate Hall.

House Dalt of Lemonwood

     Lord Darin Dalt 

Lord Darin Dalt

The current Lord of Lemonwood, who's facing a rebellion led by Efran Sand, the son of his bastard brother.
  • Alliterative Name: Darin Dalt
  • Duel to the Death: Fights Efran in the climax of the assault on Lemonwood, only to be killed by Byrron Granit.
  • Glory Days: Darin looks back at his days defeating the rebellion of his bastard brother Jaxar with pride.
  • In the Back: Stabbed in the back of the head by Byrron Granit before he can finish off Efran.
  • Selective Obliviousness: Refuses to acknowledge the threat that Efran Sand poses to Lemonwood, simply shrugging him off as bandit supported by few other bandits, while in reality the force Efran has gathered around himself is quite massive.
  • Stay in the Kitchen: Shows a bit of this attitude towards the Rhoynar women warriors, though ultimately trusts them with the mission to root out the supporters of the Bandit Lord.

     Ser Dallin Dalt 

Ser Dallin Dalt

The brother of Lord Darin, a knight in service of House Dalt.
  • Alliterative Name: Dallin Dalt.
  • Dirty Coward: Could be seen as this when he retreats from the battle, leaving Dianna and Lysera at the hands of the Ironborn.
  • Gondor Calls for Aid: Sends an urgent letter to Nymeria about the situation at Lemonwood, which forces House Martell to divide their forces right when they're about to face the army of House Dryland.
  • Miles Gloriosus: Talks big about wanting to defeat Efran Sand's rebellion, but retreats at the first sign of action.
  • Only Sane Man: Seems to be the only one in the court of Lemonwood to take the threat of Efran seriously.
  • Tactical Withdrawal: Escapes with his forces from the confrontation against Bjorn Harlaw's crew at the Tower of Griefhill when he sees Dianna's forces being crushed by the Ironborn.

     Derek Dalt 

Derek Dalt

The eldest son of Lord Darin Dalt and Lady Alana Bravespear. He's taken prisoner and forced to pledge his loyalty to his cousin Efran Sand.

     Danwell Dalt 

Danwell Dalt

Second son of Lord Darin Dalt and Lady Alana Bravespear. When brought to Efran alongside his brother, he chooses to express defiance and is executed by Efran.

     Adian Dalt 

Adian Dalt

Nephew of Lord Darin, son of Ser Dallin Dalt. He was sent by his uncle to gain the support of the Martell.

House Toland of Ghost Hill

"Brave and Vigilant"
Words of House Toland

     King Donovar Toland 

King Donovar Toland

The Ghost King

The Lord of Ghost Hill, who declares himself king against Nymeria.
  • Big Bad Wannabe: Despite being presented as a threat for most of the first chapter of Book 1, he and his forces fail to do anything meaningful in the long run against House Martell.
  • Blood from the Mouth: Blood drains out of his mouth as he is dying.
  • We Hardly Knew Ye: Killed during his only POV, and before his army has any major battle.

     Tomas Toland* 

Tomas Toland

Younger brother of King Donovar. After the sudden death of his brother, Tomas is forced by Nymeria to convince his nephew Levor Toland to surrender and support the Martell. He's a POV character.

     King Levor Toland 

King, later Lord Levor Toland

The eldest son of Donovar Toland, who is named king with the death of his father.

     Mateo Toland 

Mateo Toland

Levor's younger brother, he's only eight years old. Now he's his brother's heir.

     Argim Taler 

Argim Taler

An advisor of King Donovar Toland, and later for his son Levor Toland. Tomas despises him.

House Allyrion of Godsgrace

"No Foe May Pass"
Words of House Allyrion

  • Body Motifs: They have a hand on their sigil.
  • A House Divided: They are currently divided between Emerson Allyrion (who has the support of House Jordayne) and Esperence Allyrion (who has the support of House Martell).

     Lord Morgan Allyrion 

Lord Morgan Allyrion

The Lord of Godsgrace

Uncle of Emerson and father of Emmett and Esperence, who rules until his nephew comes of age, although its his daughter who holds most of the power.
  • Always Second Best: He always lived at the shadow of his brother Mason, and even when he became Lord, he knew he wasn't as good as his brother.
  • Evil Uncle: Not exactly evil, but willing to usurp his nephew's lordship, even if he doesn't want his simple-minded son as heir either.
  • The Exile: Nymeria chooses to send him to The Wall instead of killing him, since he had done nothing against her personally or her forces.
  • Jerkass: Not pleasant with either his children or nephew.
     Lady Vita Allyrion 

Lady Vita Allyrion

The Lady of Godsgrace

Wife of Lord Morgan Allyrion, mother of Esperence and Emmett, and daughter of the late Lord Jorrel Jordayne and Lady Sanda Jordayne. Vita is a broken woman, whose mind has gone dull over years of excessive drinking, leaving her a shadow of her former self.
  • The Alcoholic: Her excessive use of alcohol, along with the traumatic events of her early life, is what has led to the sorry state she is in at the time of the story.
  • Outliving One's Offspring: Her first child before Esperence and Emmet died very young, this made her drink heavily to cope with it.
  • Younger Than They Look: Alcohol has taken a toll on her looks, according to Emerson she looks a decade older.
     Emerson Allyrion* 

Ser Emerson Allyrion

The heir of Godsgrace. His relatives passed him as his uncle's bastard son, until his father Mason died without any other heir. He's a POV character.
  • All the Other Reindeer: Besides spending most of his childhood passed as his uncle's bastard son, Morgan has reminded him that he's his heir because he has no other choice.
  • Ambition Is Evil: Julia Jordayne believes he's becoming too ruthless in his ambition to regain his seat.
  • Conflicting Loyalties: He's forced to choose between his uncle Morgan (who wants to remain loyal to the Dryland) and his cousin Esperance (who wants to support the Martell). He eventually throws his lot with House Yronwood, even if Godsgrace remains under Martell rule.
  • Knighting: He's knighted by King Yorick Yronwood in person after the taking of Ghost Hill.
     Esperence Allyrion 

Esperence Allyrion

Emerson's cousin and Emmett's sister. She makes deals behind her father's back, and intends to support the Martell.
  • Alpha Bitch: With a dose of Manipulative Bitch.
  • Big Beautiful Woman: She's a bit plump, but very curvy.
  • Metaphorically True: While she tells Nymeria of her cousin Emerson and his claim, she intentionally neglects to mention that, as only child of the previous lord, his claim is stronger than hers. Nymeria is less than pleased when she founds out.
  • The Starscream: Wants to overthrow her father and become Lady of Godsgrace, and supporting Nymeria is the best way to achieve it.
     Emmett Allyrion 

Emmett Allyrion

The simple-minded son of Morgan Allyrion and cousin of Emerson. Emerson still sees him as a brother even after their true relationship was made known.

  • Only Friend: He and Emerson are this for each other.
  • The Unfavorite: As much as Morgan dislikes making Emerson his heir, he knows he's better choice than Emmet.

     Edd Prally 

Edd Prally

The spymaster working for Esperence Allyrion. He has a network of spies throughout Dorne, and supports Nymeria in her quest for unification.

House Jordayne of The Tor

"Let it be Written"
Words of House Jordayne

     Lord Terren Jordayne 

Lord Terren Jordayne

The Lord of The Tor and elder brother of Lady Vita Allyrion. He's married to Ynys Yronwood, sister of Yorick Yronwood and they have two sons; Artos and Yoren Jordayne.
  • The Dragon: He's technically this to Yorick Yronwood, being his strongest vassal and one of his few actual friends.
  • Nice to the Waiter: He doesn't mind paying to the owner of an inn for his services while traveling.
  • Reasonable Authority Figure: He doesn't blame Emerson for the condition of his sister and he's simply glad she's home.

     Lady Ynys Jordayne 

Lady Ynys Jordayne neé Yronwood

The wife of Lord Terren and mother of Artos and Yoren Jordayne. She's the sister of Yorick and Andrey Yronwood.

     Artos Jordayne 

Artos Jordayne

The eldest son of Terren and Ynys Jordayne and heir of The Tor. He's married to Myranda Marcant and they have a daughter, Marissa.

     Yoren Jordayne 

Yoren Jordayne

Second son of Lord Terren Jordayne. Unlike his brother, he seems laid back.
  • I Was Beaten by a Girl: Doesn't like being reminded that Lena Wells beat the tar out of him six years prior.
  • Named After Somebody Famous: Probably named after Yoren Yronwood, who invaded the Stormlands alongside House Wyl, only to be defeated and turned back by King Durran the Young.
  • Strong Family Resemblance: He inherited from his mother House Yronwood's looks of blonde hair and blue eyes.

     Myranda Jordayne 

Myranda Jordayne neé Marcant

The wife of Artos Jordayne, and the mother of their daughter Marissa. She's the daughter of Lord Myles Marcant, a vassal of House Yronwood.
  • Alliterative Name: Her maiden name is Myranda Marcant.
  • Bit Character: Like her daughter, she only has a brief appearance along with the rest of her family.

     Marissa Jordayne 

Marissa Jordayne

The three-year-old daughter of Artos and Myranda.

     Quentyn Jordayne 

Quentyn Jordayne

The younger brother of Lord Terren and Lady Vita, and close advisor of King Yorick Yronwood at Yronwood.

     Julia Jordayne 

Julia Jordayne

Daughter of Quentyn Jordayne and niece of Lord Terren and Lady Vita. She serves as scribe for her uncle, while her father serves at King Yorick's council, but she's far less keen about serving House Yronwood.
  • Alliterative Name: Julia Jordayne.
  • Lampshade Hanging: She lampshades that King Yorick's list of titles is longer than that of the Storm King, yet holds half as much power.
  • My Master, Right or Wrong: While less than thrilled about serving the Yronwoods, she nonetheless supports her uncle in his decisions.

House Oakswood of Oakswood

     Lord Raymun Oakswood 

Lord Raymun Oakswood

The Lord of Oakswood

The Lord of Oakswood. Said to be an honorable man, Lord Raymun answered the call of the Blackmont's and marched to war against the Manwoody's with Ser Kegan Drinkwater.
  • Red Shirt: Besides his name and some personality traits, we don't see much of him. Then he's killed during the breaking of the siege of Kingsgrave.

     Lady Bessa Oakswood 

Lady Bessa Oakswood neé Blackmont

Wife of Lord Raymun Oakswood, sister of Braddock Blackmont and cousin of King Benedict. She's also the mother of their heir, Robert Oakswood.

     Ser Edwyn Oakswood 

Ser Edwyn Oakswood

The younger brother of Lord Raymun Oakswood, best known for killing Beric Blackmont in a tourney melee over ten years before the beginning of the story.
  • Ambiguously Evil: Its not entirely clear if he really wanted to kill Beric or was indeed an accident.
  • Easily Forgiven: King Benedict Blackmont fully pardoned Ser Edwyn for killing Beric Blackmont in a tourney melee.

House Upton of Sword's Edge

"We Fear No Foes"
Words of House Upton

  • Famous Ancestor: Alester recalls several famous members of his house, such as Ulwyck Upton, who lead the vanguard of King Samwell Dayne or Lord Willam Upton, who fought for King Sedric Dayne.
  • Undying Loyalty: They have been loyal vassals of House Dayne for countless centuries.

     Lord Alester Upton 

Lord Alester Upton

The Lord of Sword's Edge

The current Lord of Sword's Edge. Despite being the third-born son of the previous Lord, he became heir when his older brother died in an accident and his other brother took the Black. He's a childhood friend of Jamison Dayne.
  • Blood Knight: When informed House Martell has taken over Clearhaven, he's ecstatic about being able to finally lead his men in an actual war.
  • Boisterous Bruiser
  • Commander Contrarian: He's constantly questioning or complaining about Naemon's decisions during their mission.
  • Fiery Redhead
  • Glory Hound: Wishes to leave his mark in House Upton's history by fighting against House Dayne's enemies.
  • Unexpected Successor: Thirdborn son and became Lord when his eldest brother died.
  • War Hawk: He's a man of war, and one of the biggest supporters of fighting House Martell.

     Lady Alerah Upton 

Lady Alerah Upton

The mother of Lord Alester. She's worried her son's reckless tendencies will put him in danger. She and her brother in-law Stanler Upton deal with the day-to-day running of Sword's Edge Alester refuses to deal.
  • Beleaguered Assistant: Not by choice, but because her son refuses to take his duties as lord outside of military matters seriously, she's this by default.
  • Only Sane Man: At least she's far more even tempered than her son.
  • Outliving One's Offspring: Both her husband and eldest son have died before her.

     Lady Catelyn Upton 

Lady Catelyn Upton

The wife of Lord Alester. Between Book 1 and 2, she has given birth to a daughter.

House Bloodspill of Redclif

     Lord Ormond Bloodspill 

Lord Ormond Bloodspill

The Lord of Redclif. Nymeria makes him a member of her court to obtain information about a conspiracy against her, although Nymeria's counselors doubt his true allegiance.

     Cason Bloodspill 

Cason Bloodspill

The youngest son of Lord Ormond, taken as squire by Prince Mors to seal the alliance between their Houses.
  • Ascended Extra: He shows more personality in Book 2 after being nothing but a background character during the first book.
  • The Squire: For Mors Martell.

     Orwen Bloodspill 

Orwen Bloodspill

Younger brother of Lord Ormond Bloodspill, left as the castellan of Redclif when Ormond travels to Sandship.

     Oswyn Bloodspill 

Oswyn Bloodspill

Nephew of Lord Ormond, son of Orwen Bloodspill. Was killed by Varyn for conspiring against House Martell.
  • The Starscream: Wanted to get rid of the Martell and obtain their lands for the Bloodspill, only to be killed by Varyn when he invited him to join the conspiracy.
  • We Hardly Knew Ye: Killed by Varyn during his only appearance.

House Vaith of Vaith

     Lord Kris Vaith* 

Lord Kris Vaith

The Lord of Vaith

The Lord of Vaith, who was expelled by his ex-wife Myra from their home. He asks the Wild Suns to aid him in saving his son Nickon. Like Dalia he's a follower of R'hllor. He later becomes a POV character.
  • Absurdly Sharp Blade: Like all Valyrian steel swords, Kris' End of Night is definitely this. This is showcased during the battle for Vaith when he breaks Jamison's sword in a duel against him.
  • Amazon Chaser: Kris finds Dalia Sand, a tall and strong (physically and mentally) strong woman, really attractive. His ex-wife Lady Myra Xho Vaith also shares some of Dalia's traits.
  • Berserk Button: His ex-wife, whom he believes to have meddled with his mind with dark magic. Also followers of the Great Other in general.
  • The Casanova: Dalia thinks he probably is.
  • Cool Sword: Has a Valyrian steel blade he calls End of Night, a gift from his mother.
  • Frontline General: Kris definitely isn't afraid to lead his men in the battlefield, and he proves this in the Battle for Vaith.
  • Heroic Bastard: He's a legitimized bastard of the previous Lord Vaith.
  • Hunk: Kris is attractive in a very masculine way.
  • Nice Guy: Kris is a calm, polite and level headed guy, who treats most people with respect.
  • Papa Wolf: Wants to save his son from the clutches of his mother.
  • Unwitting Instigator of Doom: Him leaving Vaith to hunt for Valerie leaves the Dryland army with one less experienced commander, possibly accelerating the fall of House Dryland.

     Lady Myra Xho Vaith 

Lady Myra Xo Vaith

The ex-wife of Kris Vaith, the mother of Nickon Vaith, and rumored to be a witch. She comes from the Summer Islands.
  • Commonality Connection: She empathizes with Nymeria since they're both female rulers from a foreign land.
  • The Corrupter: Seems to have corrupted her husband and wants to do the same to her son. Subverted in that it wasn't her but her daughter Valerie.
  • Reasonable Authority Figure: She opens the gates of Vaith to Nymeria's forces without a fight knowing she has a better chance with the Rhoynar.
  • Red Herring: While at first Kris and the readers were convinced she was behind the corruption of Vaith, it is revealed it was her daughter Valerie.

     Nickon Vaith 

Nickon Vaith

The son of Kris and Myra Vaith and heir of Vaith. He's three years old.

     Valerie Sand 

Valerie Sand

The Witch of Vaith, the Burned Witch

The bastard daughter of Lady Myra Xho Vaith, and follower of The Great Other.
  • Bald of Evil: Her hair was burnt off after being almost killed, and it now reflects her open evilness.
  • The Corrupter: She's the real follower behind the corruption of Vaith.
  • Eviler than Thou: Proves to be far more amoral and ruthless than Aisha when she sacrifices Trentan and force-feeds his blood to Gwendis.
  • Femme Fatale: Uses her sexual attractiveness to lure Jamison Dayne into bed, where she puts a magic necklace around his neck, apparently to control his mind.
  • Man on Fire: Desirea's magic sets her aflame, and then she jumps to her death below a cliff.
  • Not Quite Dead: She actually survived her burning, and has now offered her services to Albin Manwoody to get back at the followers of the Lord of Light.
  • Scary Black Woman: She has inherited her mother's dark skin, and is a follower of this world's God of Evil.
  • Statuesque Stunner: Her height is one of the things Jamison notices.

     Mother Minesa 

Mother Minesa

A Red Priestess and mother of Kris Vaith. She is helping her son in expelling the evil from Vaith.
  • Kill It with Fire: Wants to do this for everyone she deems to be tainted by the Great Other, including the three-year-old son of Lord Kris and Lady Myra.
  • Lady in Red: Like all Red Priestesses.

     Hondo the Hangman 

Hondo the Hangman

Hangman, Prince of Ghoyan Drohe

Originally one of the many slaves under Mother Minesa, after being freed he choses to follow Kris in his mission to hunt for the followers of the Great Other.
  • Ascended Extra: From one of the many slaves in the Vaith forces, to basically Kris' second in-command.
  • I Choose to Stay: Prefers to remain serving Kris rather than joining Minesa and Desirea in their return to Volantis.
  • Made a Slave: Once the prince of a flourishing city, to a mere slave of the Valyrians.
  • Long-Lost Relative: He's the older brother of Farrah and Femi of Ghoyan Drohe.
  • One Degree of Separation: Like Nymeria and Varyn, he's formerly royalty of the Rhoyne, but they have no idea of his survival. Not only that, he's the older brother of Farrah and Femi of Ghoyan Drohe.

House Gargalen of Salt Shore

     Lord Jorvian Gargalen 

Lord Jorvian Gargalen

The Lord of Salt Shore and head of House Gargalen, who marches alongside King Lucifer on his way to Vaith. His sister Jayna Gargalen was married to Lord Mason Allyrion, making him uncle of Emerson Allyrion.
  • We Hardly Knew Ye: He's killed during the battle of Godsgrace shortly after his only major scene.
  • You Are in Command Now: With Dalia and Kris leaving Vaith to hunt for Valerie, the responsibility of leading House Dryland's army falls on his shoulders, as well as those of Harbert Uller.

     Gabby Gargalen 

Gabby Gargalen

Lord Jorvian's eldest daughter, who is left in charge of the protection of Salt Shore.
  • Alliterative Name: Gabby Gargalen.
  • Fat and Skinny: She's very fat and ugly, especially when compared to her younger siblings Bridget and Eli.
  • Fat Bitch: Gives that impression, since she's quite dismissive and even hostile to the Fallen Dragons.
  • General Failure: She has no knowledge or experience with battles, and it shows, since her first order was sending an undermanned fleet to face a numerically superior enemy instead of fortifying the city.

     Bridget Gargalen 

Bridget Gargalen

Second daughter of Lord Jorvian Gargalen and half-sister of Gabby Gargalen.
  • Fat and Skinny: She's rather thin, and although not especially pretty, compared to her sister she might as well be a model.
  • Interclass Romance: A noble lady of Westeros like her is having one with Valor Veltaris, a sellsword from a foreign land. Being second child with very little chances to inherit helps.
  • Nice Girl: She's kind and reasonable, far easier to get along than Gabby.
  • Reasonable Authority Figure: While her sister is rather hostile to the Fallen Dragons, she's far more understanding and willing to negotiate with their captors.
  • Ship Tease: With Valor Veltaris.

     Lord Jeremie Gargalen 

Lord Jeremie Gargalen

The youngest child and only son of Lord Jorvian Gargalen. After the death of his father, he's made a ward of House Martell to appease his mother, lady Delenna.

     Eli Sand 

Eli Sand

Lord Jorvian's bastard daughter.
  • Know When to Fold Them: When Valor asks for the surrender of Salt Shore, she returns to her half-sister and succeeds in getting a peaceful surrender.
  • You Are in Command Now: She's left to keep order at Salt Shore while Valor takes her step-mother and siblings.

House Wells of the Wells

     Lord Olyvar Wells 

Lord Olyvar Wells

The Lord of the Wells and a friend of Lord Terren Jordayne. He's married to Mina Yronwood, cousin of Yorick Yronwood, and they have four children.

     Lady Mina Wells 

Lady Mina Wells neé Yronwood

The wife of Lord Olyvar and cousin of Yorick Yronwood.

     Ser Andar Wells 

Ser Andar Wells

The eldest child and heir of the Wells. He inherited his father's looks and height.

     Lena Wells 

Lena Wells

Only daughter of Lord Olyvar and Lady Mina. Unlike the average lady, she's a warrior. Six years ago she beat the tar out of Yoren Jordayne, and is confident she can do it again.
  • Jerk with a Heart of Gold: While at first she was rather harsh towards Emerson, she later shows genuine friendless towards him, and advises him about not let himself be manipulated.

     Leo Wells 

Leo Wells

Third son of Lord Olyvar and Lady Mina. He inherited his mother's looks and height.

House Drinkwater of Oasis Castle

  • Massive Numbered Siblings: The late Lord Balon Drinkwater was an only child, so he and his wife had as many children as possible. They had six: Jared, Maron, Raewyn, Arianne, Elyra and Waldemar Drinkwater.

     Lord Jared Drinkwater 

Lord Jared Drinkwater

The eldest child of late lord Balon Drinkwater and current Lord of Oasis Castle. His siblings and great-grandmother Darinna consider him an embarrassment to the family because of his alcoholism and lack of manners. He's married to Tansy Drinwater, and they have a son, Daimon Drinkwater, who's a child.
  • The Alcoholic
  • Inadequate Inheritor: His sister Raewyn thinks he's undeserving of being Lord of Oasis Castle, and based on a first impression, he hasn't dissuaded those notions.
  • Jerkass: Not only he shows up drunk to receive the Fowlers, he downright insults their bodyguard Soren Ashford for being from the Reach.

     Maron Drinkwater 

Maron Drinkwater

Second child of Lord Balon and Lady Sylva Drinkwater. Compared to his brother, he's far more welcoming and his sister Raewyn thinks he would be a better Lord than Jared.

     Raewyn Drinkwater 

Raewyn Drinkwater

Eldest daughter and third child of the late Lord Balon Drinkwater. She believes her brother Maron would be a better Lord than Jared, despite his objections about it.
     Arianne Drinkwater 

Arianne Drinkwater

Second daughter and fourth child of Lord Balon Drinkwater. Her family considers her the most beautiful woman on the Red Mountains.
  • Arranged Marriage: She eventually agrees to marry Desmor Fowler, and now they have a daughter, named Ashara Fowler.
  • Stripperiffic: Dresses provocatively in black silk, that's partially see-through, which on the setting counts as this.
     Elyra Drinkwater 

Elyra Drinkwater

Third daughter and fifth child of late Lord Balon Drinkwater. According to her great-grandmother Darinna, she's a student of history and religion.
     Lady Darinna Drinkwater 

Lady Darinna Drinkwater

The Matriarch of Oasis Castle

The oldest current member of House Drinkwater and great-grandmother of the current Drinkwaters. Despite being old, she remains strong in mind and in body.
  • Alliterative Name: Darinna Drinkwater.
  • Cool Old Lady: She's old, but a normally placid person.
  • Long-Lived: She's so old she has 6 adult great-grandchildren and a young great-greatgrandson. Most people don't live that long. She was even alive during the brief, but brutal war of retaliation of Garth XI Gardener the Painter, that happened nearly a century ago.
  • Outliving One's Offspring: She has outlived her son Justan and grandson Balon.

House Wyl of Wyl

     Wallace Wyl 

Wallace Wyl

Wild Wally

The eldest son and heir of House Wyl. He, alongside his uncle Wynton Wyl lead their forces into breaking the siege of Kingsgrave, offering House Manwoody an alliance.
  • Alliterative Name: Wallace Wyl
  • An Offer You Can't Refuse: His basic argument to House Manwoody after breaking the siege of Kingsgrave; either they hear their terms, or get sieged again, this time by the full force of House Yronwood.
  • Dreadlock Warrior: Described with this style.
  • Odd Friendship: He's friends with a Stormlander like Jared Lonmouth, who are usually enemies.

     Ser Jared Lonmouth 

Ser Jared Lonmouth

Ser Loose Lips

The second son of Lord Raynard Lonmouth from the Stormlands, who for some reason is fighting for House Wyl.
  • Childhood Friends: He was apparently friends with Joran Storm five years ago.
  • Motor Mouth: As his nickname indicates, he talks quite a lot.
  • Odd Friendship: He is friends with Wallace Wyl, when most of the time Dornishmen and Stormlanders are enemies.

House Santagar of Spottswood

     Ser Martyn Santagar 

Ser Martyn Santagar

The young head of House Santagar, who pledges his allegiance to Nymeria's cause.
  • Token Religious Teammate: He seems to be a strong believer in the Seven, which makes him this in comparison to the mostly Rhoynar court.
  • Wise Beyond His Years: He's young, but wise enough to make a beneficial alliance with House Martell.
  • Young and in Charge: He's relatively young, and with the death of his father and uncle, that leaves him as Knight of Spottwood.

House Marcant of Stonegate

     Lord Myles Marcant 

Lord Myles Marcant

Lord of Stonegate

Head of house Marcant and a vassal of House Yronwood. A cruel and arrogant man, he became famous throughout Dorne after he extinguished his neighbors of House Serviene over a petty dispute. He's also the father of Myranda Jordayne née Marcant.
  • Alliterative Name: Myles Marcant
  • Chekhov's Gunman: Mentioned early on in Book 1 by Raina, he finally appears in book 2.
  • Disproportionate Retribution: The reason for destroying House Serviene is implied to be extremely petty.
  • Domestic Abuse: His second wife Genna Marcant refuses to go back to him, heavily implying he's this.
  • Jerkass: Even without the whole "killing your neighbors" thing, he's not a person you want to spend time with.
  • The Purge: Ordered the death of every soul on Bear's Den, the seat of House Serviene. By this point we know only one person escaped.

House Ladybright of Dawnspire

     Ser Albar Ladybright 

Ser Albar Ladybright

The younger brother of Lord Jasper Ladybright of Dawnspire, who accompanies the Martell's host in taking over Godsgrace.
  • Bit Character: He is usually mentioned and seen alongside other noblemen, but hasn't played a particularly large role.
  • Those Two Guys: He's usually seen with Martyn Santagar.

House Tiddle of Tidmarsh

     Lord Bedwyck Tiddle 

Lord Bedwyck Tiddle

The Lord of Tidmarsh, an important town near the Brimstone river and a close ally of King Lucifer Dryland. He betroths his daughter Gwyneth to the elderly king.

     Lady Gwyneth Tiddle 

Gwyneth Tiddle, Queen Gwyneth Dryland

The only daughter of Lord Tiddle and betrothed of King Lucifer Dryland. She's actually younger than Dryland's own daughter.

     Ser Ulwyck Tiddle 

Ser Ulwyck Tiddle

The Loyal Soldier

The second son of Lord Bedwyck and older brother of Gwyneth. He serves as POV character for two chapters set at Hellgate Hall.
  • Big Brother Instinct: When House Uller betrays Lucifer, he fights to protect his sister, rather than the King.
  • Last Stand: He's technically the last soldier loyal to Dryland that perishes.
  • My Master, Right or Wrong: He chooses to remain loyal to House Dryland rather than surrendering to the Ullers, and pays for it with his life.
  • Sacrificial Lion: After being a POV character for two chapters, he dies when House Dryland is defeated from the inside.
  • Undying Loyalty: He fights for House Dryland until the very end.

House Safyre of Safyre Hall

     Carolyn Safyre 

Carolyn Safyre

The sister of Lord Joachim Safyre, who receives Arvin Manwoody during his quest to find the Free Ravens.

Mercenary Companies and Outlaws

Efran Sand and his forces

     Efran Sand 

Efran Sand

The Bastard's Bastard, The Bandit Lord


  • Big Bad Wannabe: Despite all his efforts to leave a mark in Dorne's history his takeover of Lemonwood is short-lived, and he ends up as nothing more than a footnote in the history of House Dalt.
  • Duel to the Death: Fights one against his uncle Darin Dalt. Byrron Granit ends up saving him by killing Darin from behind.
  • Equal-Opportunity Evil: His forces are quite varied. There's pirates, bandits, a Summer Islander, a Dothraki, sellswords, a Myrene and even Ironborn.
  • Expy: His rebellion and belief he's the true heir bring parallels with Daemon Blackfyre.
  • Eyepatch of Power: Lost his eye in an incident and now covers it with one of this.
  • Impaled with Extreme Prejudice: He's stabbed on the back by a spear during the retaking of Lemonwood.
  • Pet the Dog: He actually spares the lives of his captive relatives, and is genuinely fond of Elise. He also appreciates Byrron's loyalty.
  • Villainous Valor: Knowing it's only a matter of time before House Dalt reclaims their city, he chooses to face them head on rather than fleeing.

     Ser Byrron Granit 

Ser Byrron Granit

A knight of House Granit who closely supports Efran Sand.
  • Co-Dragons: Alongside Bjorn Harlaw and Elise.
  • Undying Loyalty: To Efran Sand. He has supported him for years even when the rest of his family remained loyal to the Dalts.
     Elise 

Elise

A young blonde woman and mistress of Efran Sand.
  • Everyone Loves Blondes: Her blonde hair and blue eyes are her most attractive feature.
  • Dark and Troubled Past: She was once a mere Reach-woman who got taken by Ironborn as a salt-wife, forced to bear the child of her captor. When he said he was going to kill her son and get a new salt-wife, she snapped, killed him and fled to Dorne.
  • Mama Bear: The threat towards his young son is what made her kill Harlik Sharp and escape.
  • The Mistress: For Efran Sand, although they officially marry later on.

     Corren 

Corren

A bandit leader working for Efran Sand.
  • Ain't Too Proud to Beg: Begs like a coward to Naelia to have mercy. He doesn't get any.
  • Asshole Victim: Naelia is more concerned by the way he died than the killing in itself.
  • Big Bad Wannabe: While genuinely dangerous, he's nothing but a bandit working for more powerful and dangerous people, and it costs him hard.
  • Bullying a Dragon: Trying to kill Naelia out of spite, was what led to his death.
  • For the Evulz: No particular reason for being a dick to Naelia.

The Company of the Rose

     Tryden Flowers 

Tryden Flowers

A bastard from the Reach and current leader of the Rose Company. He's the bastard son of the famous knight Marwyn Mullendore, and was actually exiled from the Reach after being found by House Hightower doing unsavory business in Oldtown's underworld.
  • Benevolent Boss: He's rather lenient to his sellswords, although he will criticize them if they do something stupid.
  • Due to the Dead: After Illor's death he shows genuine sadness at his passing.
  • Married to the Job: Knows that as a sellsword, his life is very unlikely to have meaningful connections.

     Illor 

Illor

A Braavosi that once worked for a crime lord, until he was exiled from the city by the next crime lord.

     Manda Za 

Manda Za

A woman from the Summer Islands and one of the three women at the Rose Company.
  • Cold Sniper: She's taciturn, calm and an excellent bowman, like most Summer Islands' warriors.
  • Defrosting Ice Queen: She eventually softens to Naelia and talks to her more often.
  • Scary Black Woman: Subverted. She may be tall and a bit brooding, but is a good person.
     Lien Yu 

Lien Yu

A young woman from the distant Yi Ti recruited by Manda a year ago. She's the twin sister of Ying Yu.
  • Career-Ending Injury: Her leg is trampled during the Battle of Godsgrace bridge, and while she doesn't lose it her days as an efficient sellsword are most likely over.
  • Polar Opposite Twins: Lien is friendly and outspoken while Ying is reserved and soft-spoken.
  • Raven Hair, Ivory Skin: She's pale with black hair, which stands out in Dorne.
  • Token Minority: She and her sister are probably the only YiTish currently in Westeros.
     Ying Yu 

Ying Yu

A young woman from the distant Yi Ti recruited by Manda a year ago. She's the twin sister of Lien Yu.

The White Elephant's crew

     The White Elephant 
The leader of a small group of mercenaries acquainted with the Company of the Rose.
  • Animal Motifs: Elephants, obviously.
  • Animal Theme Naming: The name comes from his helmet, as well as his general interest towards elephants.
  • Cool Sword: Owns a Valyrian Steel scimitar.
  • Cool Helmet: Looks like an elephant's head.
  • Gentle Giant: He maybe very big, but he's calm and friendly most of the time. He's nonetheless an experienced fighter.
  • Sacrificial Lion: Dies during the Battle of Godsgrace along with Broden and Jacke.

     Jinora Ling 

Jinora Ling

A Lengii and member of the White Elephant's crew. And a very competent one at that. After the death of the White Elephant, she pledges her sword to Nymeria's cause.

     Sarina Tyrosos 

The Bald Beauty

A young woman of Norvos and the youngest member of the group. She left home because she found the rules of Norvos rather limiting.

     Gauron Aerarys 

Gauron Aerarys

A Valyrian explorer and the oldest member of the group. His side story reveals he spent 18 years at Sothoryos before meeting the White Elephant.
  • Bit Character: Hasn't done or said much since his introduction.
  • Bold Explorer: He explored the Green Hell and the abandoned city of Yeen, noting the place seems just as accursed as stories say.
  • Gentle Giant: Notes that the giant apes of the forests south of Yeen are reserved creatures.
  • Impoverished Patrician: Belonged to a family of the Freehold that lost all its dragons, and fled before knowing what they were going to do next.
  • Wizard Beard: Has a long beard.
  • Younger Than They Look: His beard makes him look much older, when he's actually only in his fifties.

     Ser Edric Thorne 

Ser Edric Thorne

The only Westerosi in the group. A member of House Thorne from the eastern Riverlands.

The Wild Suns

    Dalia Sand* 

Dalia Sand, later Dalia Dryland

The Wild Sun

Bastard daughter of King Lucifer Dryland and leader of the Wild Suns. She was called by her father to help him face the Martell. She's a POV Character. After helping her father reclaim Vaith, she's legitimized and becomes her father's heir.
  • Action Mom: At first Dalia refused this role, giving her baby away to be raised by the Red Priests of Volantis. However, over a decade later she was reconnected with her daughter, and has ever since embraced her role as a mother.
  • Alliterative Name: After being legitimized, her name becomes Dalia Dryland.
  • Ascended Princess: After being legitimized, technically she becomes Princess of Hellgate Hall.
  • Dual Wielding: Dual wields two arakhs, which also happen to be made of Valyrian steel.
  • Fiery Redhead: Has naturally red hair, and is about as fiery as they get.
  • My Greatest Failure: Leaving her daughter with the Red Priests when she was born.
  • Sacrificial Lion: She dies fighting Mordekhai Crusher, making her the second major POV character to die, after Ser Myke.
  • Scars are Forever: Has a scar over her left eye.
  • Statuesque Stunner: Described as over 6ft tall, towering over most people.
    Desirea 

Desirea

Daughter of Dalia Sand and Mizro the Sharp. At thirteen years old, she's a priestess of R'hllor.
  • Creepy Child: Her devotion to the Red god can make her act creepy. By Book 2 she has outgrown it.
  • Fire Purifies: At least that's what Desirea believes, as her mission is to purify Dorne from the followers of the Great Other.
  • Lady in Red: As a Red Priestess, she always wears red.
  • Little Miss Badass: Who would have thought a young girl could use her magic to kill Mordekhai Crusher and Valerie Sand.
  • A Lighter Shade of Grey: She may be devoted to the Red God, but she's more merciful than her fellow Red Priestess Minesa.
  • Statuesque Stunner: Merely two years are enough to make her grow a foot taller than Gwendis.
  • Strong Family Resemblance: By the time of Book 2, she has become a splitting image of her mother, minus the scars.
     Mizro the Sharp 

Mizro the Sharp

A man of Myr and Dalia's former lover, he's also Desirea's father.
  • Action Dad: Even if he wasn't there for his daughter for most of her life, like Dalia, he wants to be more involved with his daughter now.
  • Number Two: Of his ex-lover Dalia.
  • You Are in Command Now: Leads the Wild Suns in the absence of Dalia during the Battle of Godsgrace.
     Red Maggot 

Red Maggot

The captain of the Unsullied at the Wild Suns. Like most Unsullied, he's stoic and unfailingly loyal.
  • Expy: Of Grey Worm.
  • Uncertain Doom: Is not clear if he perished alongside the rest of the Unsullied during the battle of Godsgrace.

     Khazor the Sarnori 

Khazor the Sarnori

A Sarnori and former commander of the Bloodfangs, until they merged with the Wild Suns and the Stepstone Squirrels, although he still commands his own men.

     Vyran the Lion 

Vyran the Lion

Bodyguard of Desirea, father of Belan the Brave.
  • Sacrificial Lion: Dies during the battle for Vaith, dueling against the mind-controlled Jamison Dayne.
  • We Hardly Knew Ye: Not very prominent until his fight with Jamison, were he's killed.

     Belan the Brave 

Belan the Brave

Bodyguard of Desirea, prophetized by the Red Priests to save her.
  • Like Father, Like Son: He is a warrior like his father, and even serves in the exact same role, that being the bodyguard of the red priestess Desirea.

The Fallen Dragons

     Valor Veltaris* 

Valor Veltaris

The Fallen Dragon

A Valyrian soldier who once fought against the Rhoynar during the Second Spice War, until the brutality of his fellow Valyrians made him abandon the Freehold, now he leads his own sellsword company. Forovos convinces Nymeria to hire him and his company, despite the mistrust of the Rhoynar towards Valyrians. He's a POV character.
  • Alliterative Name
  • Broken Pedestal: Lost faith in the Freehold after they massacred and destroyed the Rhoynar cities, even if Valyria had already won.
  • The Captain: Of the Red Storm.
  • Cool Sword: Wields a glowing blue sword named 'Blue Flame'.
  • Defector from Decadence: He believes the Freehold has lost its way and their hubris will one day caught up to them, so he simply left.
  • Everyone Has Standards: He may have fought and killed Rhoynar in the past, but the slaughter against Prince Garin and his people was too much for him to take, leaving the Valyrian army.
  • Interclass Romance: With Bridget Gargalen, a noble lady from a foreign land.

     Olyvar Forrester 

Olyvar Forrester

A Westerosi from The North working for the Fallen Dragons. He serves as link between Valor Veltaris and Princess Nymeria.

     Haronos 

Haronos

A Norvoshi warrior and member of the Fallen Dragons.
  • Manly Facial Hair: Like most Norvoshi, he has an impressive one that's dyed sea green.

     Firanisa 

Firanisa

A Rhoynar captain who serves Valor under orders from Princess Nymeria
  • The Bus Came Back: She finally returns to the story in the third chapter of Book 1 after being sent by Nymeria to sortie with the Fallen Dragons.
  • The Captain

     Maran 

Maran

A young Rhoynar boy that accompanies the Fallen Dragons.
  • He's All Grown Up: Valor mentions that he has grown a lot, but he's still a boy in his eyes.
  • The Squire: Technically he's this for Valor.
  • Tag Along Kid: He seems to be the youngest among the Fallen Dragons.

The Free Ravens

     Lucas Corbray 

Lucas Corbray

A member of House Corbray from the Vale, and the leader of the Free Ravens, an outlaw group that seeks to punish House Manwoody for their crimes against the people.
  • Animal Motifs: He and his group have ravens as motif, and he comes from a House with three ravens on its sigil.
  • Cool Sword: Wields the ancestral Valyrian Steel sword of his family, Lady Forlorn.

Other Kingdoms

House Caron of Nightsong

"No Song So Sweet"
Words of House Caron

A Stormland's house of the Dornish Marches.

     Lord Trevas Caron 

Lord Trevas Caron

The Lord of Nightsong

The Head of House Caron. He ask his Bannerman Ser Myke to find his daughter Kortney.
  • Papa Wolf: The moment he finds out all the horrors she has endured, he's quick to assure her Manwoody will pay.
  • Put on a Bus: He and Trevas are forced to march northwards to aid the campaign of the Storm King in the Riverlands.
     Prestan Caron 

Prestan Caron

Eldest son and heir of Lord Trevas Caron. He arrives to Kingsgrave to aid Ser Myke in rescuing his older sister Kourtney. He's fifteen years old.
  • Big Brother Instinct: Inverted and played straight, since he's very protective of his older sister and younger brother Ronard.
  • Enemy Mine: Normally Stormlanders and Dornishmen are enemies, but circumstances give him a common enemy in Albin Manwoody with House Blackmont and Fowler.
  • Put on a Bus: He and his father leave Nightsong in order to aid the campaign of the Storm King in the Riverlands.

     Lady Kourtney Caron* 

Lady Kortney Caron

Missy

The only daughter of Lord Trevas Caron, who was taken as mistress by King Albin Manwoody about a year ago. She tried to leave home with her lover, only for the Manwoody forces to capture her. She serves as POV character of Kingsgrave' court.
  • Becoming the Mask: She hardly thinks of herself as Kortney Caron anymore. Is not until she's rescued by Myke that she starts to regain her old self.
  • Broken Bird: Over a year of torture left a huge mark on her character and even after being freed, she's still jaded and vengeful.
  • Conditioned to Accept Horror
  • Covered in Scars
  • The Dog Bites Back: First she snaps and kills Ronny in a pretty brutal way, and much later she kills Tom the Animal during Sofina's failed coup, showing she can fight back if given the chance.
  • Revenge: Being freed from Albin's clutches have left her angry and vengeful, wanting nothing more than killing Albin and his freaks.

     Ser Myke of the Marches* 

Ser Myke of the Marches

A middle aged knight tasked by Lord Caron to find his daughter Kortney Caron, who disappeared in Dorne about a year ago. He's a POV character.

     Ser Joran Storm 

Ser Joran Storm

A knight of the Stormlands and companion of Ser Myke.
  • Heroic Bastard: He's willing to help the people of Gravesend against bandits, even though he has no connection nor obligation to help them.
  • Heroic Sacrifice: Dies alongside Myke and Steffon Toyne gaining as much time as possible for Kourtney to escape.

     Raina Serviene 

Raina Serviene

Ser Rai

A young woman of the fallen House Serviene. She disguised herself as a man named Ser Rai, although Ser Myke saw easily through the disguise. She becomes a companion of Ser Myke and Ser Joran in their search of Kortney Caron. Years as a wanderer have made her a competent warrior.

     Verro* 

Verro

A young man of Dothraki descent that ends up joining Efran Sand's forces after losing his former crew. He was once a pit fighter in Meereen, until he was taken by a pirate crew. He's a POV character.

     Nesila 

Nesila

A young woman of Myr who befriends Verro. After the death of her captain Malanos Vynos, she chooses to go look for her brother, who left the life of a sellsword and got a job under a Stormlands' lord.
  • Action Girl: She proves her skills during the assault of Lemonwood.
  • Brother–Sister Team: With her brother Norano in the past.
  • Connected All Along: She's the younger sister of Norano, the late lover of Kourtney Caron.
  • Dramatic Irony: Wishes to find her brother at Nightsong, not knowing he was killed at Kingsgrave over a year prior.
  • Failure Knight: More like bodyguard, but she feels guilty she and her brother were unable to prevent the family they were serving being killed by a Faceless man.
  • Undying Loyalty: To her captain Malanos Vynos, so when he dies, she chooses to go looking for her brother.

Ironborn

     King Harmund II Hoare 

King Harmund Hoare, second of his name

Harmund the Haggler

The King of the Iron Islands. Known as a surprisingly progressive ruler for an Ironborn, he arrives to Dorne alongside his son Harmund to discuss an alliance with Nymeria. He's married to Lelia Lannister, who's pregnant with their second child.
  • Internal Reformist: Has continued his father's work to make the Iron Islands less hostile towards the rest of Westeros.
  • My Species Doth Protest Too Much: He's known for encouraging trade and discourage reaving. He's actually the first Ironborn king to visit mainland Westeros in peace.
  • No True Scotsman: Many of his vassals dislike him for preferring trade rather than paying the Iron Price.
  • Tall, Dark, and Handsome: Like most members of House Hoare, he's tall, with pale skin and black hair and eyes, fitting for a man of the "black line".
  • Unexpected Character: The ruler of the Iron Islands coming all the way to Dorne wasn't high on the list of visits.

     Bjorn Harlaw 

Bjorn Harlaw

The head of House Harlaw of Harlaw Hall, who aids Efran Sand in taking over Lemonwood.
  • Asskicking Leads to Leadership: Lord of Harlaw, and the unquestioned captain of his crew of raiders.
  • Barbarian Longhair
  • The Berserker:
  • The Captain: Of The Sea Reaper.
  • Co-Dragons: With Elise and Byrron Granit, although he eventually leaves to find other places to raid.
  • Cool Helmet: Has a helmet with horns.
  • Dual Wielding: Wields two axes on each hand, with deadly efficiency.
  • Due to the Dead: When Arfast Stonetree is killed during the assault of Lemonwood, he watches over his corpse and ensures is taken away properly.
  • Even Evil Has Loved Ones: He truly cared about his late brother Olaf, and fighting in Dorne is a way for him to avenge him.
  • Hero Killer: He kills Dianna in revenge for killing his brother Hargan.
  • Like Father, Unlike Son: His son Ulfric prefers to enjoy the benefits of trading, rather than reaving with his father.
  • Noble Demon: He may be ruthless on the battlefield and a firm believer in the Old Way, but he's rather polite to Dianna and doesn't rape her or intends to make her his salt wife (yet).
  • No True Scotsman: He's not very close to his half-brothers for being part Northmen, and dislikes King Harmund II Hoare for his peaceful trading with the Westerlands.
  • Pet the Dog: Shows some stern, but genuine empathy to the loss Dianna and the Rhoynar suffered at the hands of the Valyrians.
  • Proud Warrior Race Guy: Unsurprisingly for an Ironborn veteran, he's very proud of following the Old Way.
  • Religious Bruiser: A strong believer of the Old Way, and a fearsome fighter.
  • Villain Song: He and his crew sing a song before they enter the battle of Lemonwood.
     Hargan Harlaw 

Hargan Harlaw

The younger half-brother of Bjorn Harlaw and his first mate.
  • Alliterative Name: Hargan Harlaw
  • The Captain: After Stonetree's death, he becomes captain of The Lady Vengeance.
  • Noble Demon: He actually treats Lysera more decently than most Ironborn treat their salt-wives.
  • Slashed Throat: Dianna slashes his throat open during the chaos at Brimstone.

     Arfast Stonetree 

Arfast Stonetree

A member of House Stonetree of Harlaw and follower of Bjorn Harlaw.
     Roryn Drumm 

Roryn Drumm

The Reaver

The heir of House Drumm of Old Wyk. He develops an interest in Dianna after saving her during the Battle of Lemonwood.
  • Blood Knight
  • Famous Ancestor: He's one of the many remembered members of House Drumm.
  • Glory Seeker: As heir of a major Ironborn house, he doesn't need the plunder, but fights for glory instead.
  • At Least I Admit It: Doesn't deny to Dianna that he's a killer, and finds hypocritical that mainland Westerosi see themselves above that.

House Bulwer of Blackcrown

"Death Before Disgrace"
Words of House Bulwer

     Ser Blaine Bulwer 

Ser Blaine Bulwer

A knight of House Bulwer from the Reach who arrives to the Kingdom of Blackmont in search for his fiancé Victaria Graceford.

    Ser Rolf Reyne 

Ser Rolf Reyne

An exiled knight of House Reyne of Castamere, who accompanies Ser Blaine Bulwer in his search for his runaway betrothed.
  • Alliterative Name: Rolf Reyne, like so many members of his house.
  • The Exile: He claims to have voluntarily exiled himself from the Kingdom of the Rock.
  • The Quiet One: When compared to his boisterous companion, Rolf is a relatively quiet, although he loosens his lips during a drinking game with Blaine and Naemon.

Independent characters

     Eraehra Galnaris 

Eraehra Galnaris

A young Valyrian lady whose ship is damaged near Dorne, becoming a guest of Princess Nymeria and Prince Mors. Despite Nymeria's antipathy towards the young woman, Prince Mors allows her to stay while her ship is repaired.

Her side story reveals her uncle and older brother were casualties during the Second Spice War.


  • Bold Explorer: She left the Freehold to see the world, although her landing in Dorne was unplanned, since she knew the bad blood between Valyrians and Rhoynar.
  • Foreign Culture Fetish: She loved learning about other cultures when she was younger, but her opinion about the Rhoynar soured after the Second Spice War.
  • Odd Friendship: She and Nymeria reach an understanding of mutual respect before Nym begins her campaign at Godsgrace.

     Zaltha Qo 

Zaltha Qo

A former Prince of the Summer Islands who, after losing a ritual duel, was exiled by his father. After the death of his leader, rather than remaining with Efran Sand, he leaves Lemonwood alongside Verro and Nesila.
  • Dropped a Bridge on Him: He died of an infected wound during the time-skip between Books 1 and 2.
  • Fantastic Racism: He doesn't think very highly of the Brindled men of Sothoryos, who have clashed on more than one occasion with the Summer Islanders.
  • Mauve Shirt: His role and personality aren't really that important, and dies off-page.
  • Screw This, I'm Out of Here!: Leaves Lemonwood alongside Nesila and Verro since he couldn't stand serving under Axel.
  • Shipper on Deck: For Verro and Nesila.

     Laela 

Laela

An apprentice red priestess of Volantis and Gwendis' roommate.
  • Mystical White Hair: Being a Valyrian, her hair is silver colored, and she has the signature valyrian purple eyes.
  • Nice Girl: She's surprisingly friendly for an apprentice Red Priestess.
  • The Rival: Has a small rivalry with Desirea, who is more favored by the High Priestess as attendant.

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