Oberyn Martell is a long-awaited character for those who have read the books. The younger brother of Doran Martell, hes hot-headed, has tons of swagger, and has the skills to back up his deadly reputation. Most importantly, hes out for Lannister blood, and we love him for it. Our first introduction to the Red Viper is actually quite different from the books, as we see him and his paramour Ellaria Sand visiting Littlefingers brothel for a taste of the local flesh. This scene does a great job of establishing not just the characters of Oberyn and Ellaria, but the culture of the Dornish people as well. They are less rigid and more accepting of bastards and women. Oberyn fits in with this culture perfectly, as he is a man who lives for pleasure, whatever that may be. It just so happens that one of his greatest pleasures is revenge, as is evident in the chilling threat to Tyrion and his family. Oberyn is equal part lover and fighter, and it is evident in his first scene that Pedro Pascal is more than up to the task of bringing this fan favourite character to life. It will be exciting to see where he goes from here.
