Oberyn, with the permission of Tyrion's uncle, was taking the boy around and introducing people to Tyrion — or introducing Tyrion to them.
To be honest, Oberyn liked the little dwarf. Tyrion was an interesting child.
That's what went through Oberyn's mind. The boy wasn't childish or annoying like most children; instead, he had a wisdom and maturity far beyond his age.
He assumed it was because of the insults the boy had received since he was very young.
Maturity comes to women and to bastards who suffer, Oberyn thought. Those who suffer in life always grow up faster — that's a fact.
So, in short, Tyrion was a child Oberyn liked.
"What do you know about Dorne, Tyrion?" Oberyn Martell asked.
"Let me think…" Tyrion answered.
They were wandering around the once-destroyed but now decorated castle of Harrenhal.
"I know the Dornish have my favorite motto… 'Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken,' which might be my favorite motto ever," Tyrion replied.
"Exactly, Tyrion. We do not bow. But tell me something — it'll be useful so I know what to show you when you visit Dorne," Oberyn said.
"Hm… let me think. Oh, right. The Dornish have traditions very different from the other kingdoms. Men and women are equal under the law."
Yes, that was true. In Dorne, women could inherit titles and rule — like Arianne Martell.
Maybe Tyrion had also heard that Dornish sexuality was free and without taboos, meaning women could be with women and men with men, and vice versa.
Besides that, Dorne was famous for its exotic poisons and subtle strategies.
"That's right, Tyrion. In Dorne, women can have power just like men. What do you think about that?" Oberyn asked.
"Well, I don't mind. If a woman can do something well, I don't see why she shouldn't do it. But… to be honest, I'd rather that not happen in Casterly Rock. You know… my sister… she doesn't like me very much," Tyrion replied.
"I know, Tyrion. It was very clear to me when I met your sister that she didn't like you. One day, when you're older, I'll tell you what happened," Oberyn said.
Oberyn and Tyrion kept talking as they walked. Tyrion's guards were obviously watching from a distance, always keeping an eye on the little dwarf to keep him safe.
Of course, they stayed far enough not to bother him.
Oberyn led Tyrion to the Dornish tents. They were tall and spacious, like the others.
When they arrived, Oberyn was about to enter when someone came out.
It was Doran Martell — the official ruler of Dorne, with the title of Prince (not "King," since Dorne had joined the Iron Throne peacefully centuries before).
"Brother," Oberyn greeted.
His brother replied simply, "Oberyn."
"Oberyn, where have you been? I sent people to look for you. And who is this?" Doran asked.
"I went to see a friend. This little one is Tyrion Lannister — my new friend. Don't judge him by his height; he's much bigger than you'd think."
"It's a pleasure to meet the Prince of Dorne. Your brother has been very good to me, Your Grace," Tyrion said.
"A Lannister? You don't look much like your father or your mother… but I was sure who you were the moment you started talking. Definitely Tywin's son," Doran said.
"I can't tell if that's a compliment, Your Grace… but thank you," Tyrion replied sarcastically.
Doran gave a light laugh.
"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Tyrion. Now, if you'll excuse me — I have matters to settle. Oberyn, take good care of Tywin's son," Doran said before leaving.
"Where are you going?" Oberyn asked.
"I have political matters to discuss with Prince Rhaegar," Doran answered.
"I understand. I'll join you soon," Oberyn replied.
Doran left.
Tyrion turned to Oberyn and asked:
"Am I bothering you, Oberyn?"
Oberyn answered:
"Not at all, my friend. I'd like to stay longer, but I usually accompany my brother in political matters. Still, I haven't introduced you to everyone yet."
He said this as he entered the Dornish tent.
Inside, there were a few people.
One of them was a woman — her name was Elia Martell. A very beautiful woman, looking around twenty-nine. She had warm brown skin, dark eyes, and a gentle expression. Elegant, soft-spoken, and known for her fragile health.
The other was Arianne Martell. She looked about five years old — brown skin, big brown eyes, long wavy black hair, slightly chubby cheeks, and a curious, intelligent gaze.
As Oberyn entered, his sister Elia asked:
"Oberyn, who is this?"
"This? This is my new friend, Tyrion Lannister," Oberyn replied.
"A Lannister? Are you Tywin's youngest son?" Elia asked as she approached Tyrion.
She came closer, bent down, and brushed his hair with her hand. It was interesting — Tyrion's hair wasn't "pure" Lannister. His dwarfism had altered his features a bit, and he hadn't inherited the full golden look of his family. Instead of bright blond hair, his was a brownish-gold, and his eyes were two different colors.
"Thank you…" Tyrion murmured, shy and slightly blushing.
"You're so cute and polite," Elia said. She immediately liked him.
"Tyrion, are you hungry? Do you want something to eat or drink?" she asked.
Arianne, still a little girl, saw the boy entering the tent. He was slightly taller than her and… "strange." Curious, she stepped closer behind her aunt and asked:
"Who is he, Aunt?"
"He's a new friend of your Uncle Oberyn," Elia replied.
Arianne then asked innocently:
"Why are your arms and legs so small? And why is your head so big?"
Tyrion felt a bit awkward. He was used to adults mocking him, but a child was different. Children had no filter; they said whatever came to mind.
"Arianne… where are your manners?" Elia scolded gently.
"It's alright… I don't mind. I'm a dwarf. I was born a little different. Is that okay for you?" Tyrion replied softly.
"You were born different… but can you play?" Arianne asked.
"I…" Tyrion hesitated.
If he said yes, he'd probably have to spend hours playing games he didn't want to play.
But if he said no, he might lose Oberyn's trust — and that could mean the future staying the same, leading to Elia and her children dying.
If he had to act like a child for a few hours, then so be it.
"Of course I can. What should we play?" Tyrion answered, trying his best to sound like a child. He wasn't sure if he was a good actor, but he at least tried.
"Wooden swords!" Arianne said excitedly, running to fetch toy swords and handing one to him.
Tyrion reluctantly took it and began playing with her.
Oberyn and Elia watched the "children" play. To them, both were just children — neither had any idea Tyrion was a reincarnated soul. In their eyes, he was simply a very mature and clever boy.
As for letting them play-fight, they weren't too worried about Tyrion hurting Arianne. He seemed weaker than her anyway, and he was being very gentle compared to his niece, who swung her wooden sword like a wild little beast.
The two siblings stepped aside, but stayed close enough to watch. Elia asked Oberyn:
"Where did you meet him?"
Oberyn thought for a moment and replied:
"I saw him many years ago when I first went to Casterly Rock. Back then he was still a baby and I was younger. When I arrived, everyone talked about him — the 'Lannister monster' who had been born and caused the death of Tywin's wife. That stuck with me. And when Jaime told me his brother was coming with him… I wanted to meet him."
Elia thought about the boy and said:
"I like him. He seems intelligent… like he'll be a good ruler someday. Better than Jaime or Cersei."
"I thought the same. That boy inherited his father's gift for ruling," Oberyn said, watching Arianne and Tyrion play.
---.