Alys Rivers and the Natural Source of Clubfoot Strongs
Popular HBO prequel to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon, has explored more the complex web of power, intrigue, and latent motivations defining Westeros. In season 2, episode 6 the show reveals a startling theory regarding the source of Larys Strong's Clubfoot, a physical attribute long associated with his ambition and cunning.
Examining the Implication of Alys Rivers
The superb Matthew Needham's Larys Strong shows King Aegon II Targaryen a possible reason for his clubfoot. He ascribes it to sorcery and charges a household member with throwing evil spells. Though not stated specifically, the implication strongly points to Alys Rivers, a woman veiled in mystery with a supposed relationship to the Strong family.
Character Alys Rivers, who has been the subject of conjecture and hypotheses, has been said to have an unusual ability to remain apparently ageless. This reflects other Game of Thrones universe characters, including Melisandre, whose lifespan is ascribed to supernatural abilities. Given Larys' Clubfoot, Alys' supposed position as his wetnurse begs issues regarding her possible impact on his physical growth.
But Larys' father, Lord Lyonel Strong, might also have sought someone to explain his son's physical difference. He might have seen it as a stain on the Strong family's reputation and linked it to outside forces—more especially, Alys Rivers.
Exposing Alys Rivers' Driving Force
Should Alys Rivers be indeed responsible for Larys Strong's clubfoot, her motivation comes under close examination. One theory holds she might have acted in retaliation against Larys, possibly viewing him as a symbol of the benefits true-born children experienced over those born out of wedlock. Given Alys's alleged reputation as Lord Lyonel's bastard, this would especially be pertinent.
Another reading of Alys is one of a force of disturbance and suffering, her presence at the cursed castle of Harrenhal bringing bad luck. She might get a perverse delight from hurting others around her both physically and emotionally.
The way Alys Rivers behaves in the episode "Smallfolk" points to a more complicated intent. She drives Daemon Targaryen to face his inner demons and insecurities even as she seems to torture him. She seems to be pointing him in the direction of his destiny, maybe controlling circumstances to fit a larger picture she sees. Her participation in the passing of Grover Tully, a major player in Daemon's pursuit of authority, emphasizes even more her capacity to affect events and change the path of history.
Alys Rivers' Power: Their Limitations
The degree of Alys Rivers' magical aptitudes is yet unknown. Usually avoiding quantifying supernatural power, George R. R. Martin's universe lets the observer interpret it. Alys has healing abilities and dream manipulation capacity, but the exact type of her power is still elusive.
Given the overall restrictions of magical elements in the Game of Thrones universe, it seems improbable that Alys Rivers could have such strong magic to cause a physical deformity on Larys Strong. She might be an exception, though, a person who works on a different plane of power, so controlling fate and impacting the life of people close by.
House of the Dragon: Mysticism and Intrigue in a World
Set 172 years before the events of Game of Thrones, House Of The Dragon explores Targaryen dynasty history and the occasions preceding the Dance of the Dragons. The show looks at the convoluted political terrain of Westeros, the complicated relationships among strong families, and the latent forces determining fate. Rhaenyra Targaryen, Alicent Hightower, Daemon Targaryen, and King Viserys Targaryen among other characters negotiate a world of ambition, treachery, and supernatural secrets.
The theory of Alys Rivers's impact on Larys Strong's clubfoot gives the story an intriguing layer of complexity as the series runs on. It begs issues about the nature of magic, the reasons behind mysterious characters, and the erratic powers controlling Westeros' destiny.
