Ser Brynden Rivers, a character glimpsed in Daemon Targaryen’s vision in ‘House of the Dragon’, is a figure of immense importance in George R.R. Martin‘s world. Born a bastard to King Aegon IV Targaryen, he is known for his striking appearance: long white hair and a distinctive red bird-shaped birthmark.
Moreover, this earned him the title of ‘Bloodraven’. His appearance in Daemon’s vision signifies his critical role in the future of Westeros. He is also a bridge between past, present, and future, a key player in the ‘Song of Ice and Fire’.
Related: What Helaena’s Warning To Aemond Targaryen Really Meant In ‘House Of The Dragon’ Season 2 Finale
Who Was Brynden Rivers Before He Became The Three-Eyed Raven?
Brynden Rivers first began as the loyal servant of the Targaryen crown, as a fearsome fighter. He quickly climbed the positions and became the Hand of the King and the Master of Whisperers due to his intelligence. However, despite his talents, he was a man with a troubled past, burdened by the intricacies of his duties.
A series of events pushed him into taking the black and joining the Night’s Watch. He was exiled to the Night’s Watch because of the presumed betrayal. However, this is where Brynden’s life took an extraordinary turn. Moreover, he rose to the position of Lord Commander before vanishing beyond the Wall, his fate becoming the stuff of legend.
In case you missed it: What Happened To Otto Hightower? Why Was He Held Captive In ‘House Of The Dragon’ Season 2 Finale
The Three-Eyed Raven Arc
The three-eyed raven arc is one of the most fascinating and relevant character arcs in ‘Ice and Fire‘. It’s safe to say that his transformation from a political player to the mysterious Three-Eyed Raven was pretty major. Moreover, rumors of his transformation into a creature of immense power began to circulate after he disappeared beyond the wall.
Additionally, some claimed he had embraced dark magic, and others that he had become a conduit for the ancient magic of the Children of the Forest. He had to see the past, present, and future as the Raven. This led to him becoming more than just a man; he became a symbol, a prophecy, a warning.
However, in ‘Game of Thrones’, he exists as a shadowy, enigmatic figure for a long time. He is revealed to be the Three-Eyed Raven, later on. Bran Stark travels beyond the Wall to find him, seeking guidance and power to protect the realm from the White Walkers.
Bloodraven mentors Bran, teaching him to turn into animals and humans, and to see visions of the past and future. Ultimately, Bran becomes the new Three-Eyed Raven, inheriting Bloodraven’s powers and responsibilities.
You might like to read:
