Areo Hotah is the captain of the guards at the prince's court in Sunspear. Originally from the Free City of Norvos, he is a loyal servant and advisor to Prince Doran Martell of Dorne.
Appearance and Personality[]
Areo Hotah is an utterly loyal man. Having served Doran Martell for so many years, he has developed complete personal dedication to Doran’s word, and is second only to Prince Oberyn as his most trusted confidante. Areo Hotah is a man of few words; a great deal of the time, he merely observes, but even in that, Hotah is keenly skilled at reading others. He is excellent at analysing situations and individuals, anticipating threats and judging whether or not people are threats to him or his prince.
Hotah is a superb warrior, a master with a poleaxe despite his age. Hotah is easily able to judge the strengths, skills and weaknesses of others, believing that none of the Sand Snakes could match him blow-for-blow. He proves himself skilled when he easily kills Arys Oakheart, a knight of the Kingsguard.
Those who know Hotah well are afraid Arianne Martell herself declares ‘no man can stand against Hotah'.
History[]
The youngest of six children, at an early age Areo was sold off to the Bearded Priests of Norvos. Upon completion of his training he was symbolically wedded to his axe, as evidenced by the brand visible on his chest. He traveled with Mellario of Norvos to Dorne when she married Doran consequently entering Areo into his service.
Doran and Mellario's children grew to adulthood while Areo was in their service, and he has even developed a father-like affection for Arianne Martell, referring to her as "little princess." Despite any qualms he may have about the orders he receives, he remains faithful to his prince, and to the simple vow: "Serve, Obey, Protect."
Books[]
A Feast for Crows[]
It is Areo who gives Doran the letter from King's Landing that informs them of the death of Oberyn Martell. He walks beside his Prince when he travels from the Water Gardens to Sunspear. He is sent to take the Sand Snakes under house arrest so they cannot cause any problems in Dorne.