'House of the Dragon' Season 2 Episode 3: Who is Alys Rivers? Here's all you need to know about mystical character
Contains spoilers for 'House of the Dragon'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In Episode 3 of 'House of the Dragon' Season 2, viewers are introduced to Alys Rivers, a character shrouded in mystery and magic.
While the world of 'Game of Thrones' is known for its relatively low reliance on magic, especially compared to other fantasy universes, Alys Rivers brings a rare and intriguing mystical element to the forefront in 'House of the Dragon'.
Alys Rivers stands out as one of the few characters who possesses significant mystical power in this universe.
Her introduction in the series promises to delve deeper into the enigmatic aspects of magic in Westeros, offering fans a glimpse into a world where the lines between the ordinary and the supernatural blur.
As a figure entwined with the rich tapestry of Targaryen history and the brewing civil war, Alys Rivers is set to play an important role in the unfolding drama.
Here's everything you need to know about this fascinating and mystical character.
Who is Alys Rivers and what's her fate in 'House of the Dragon'?
In 'House of the Dragon' Season 2, Episode 3, viewers are introduced to Alys Rivers, a character who introduces a rare mystical element to the series.
Played by Gayle Rankin, known for her roles in 'GLOW' and 'Perry Mason,' Alys is a fascinating figure in Westerosi history.
In contrast to the relatively low-magic world of 'Game of Thrones,' Alys Rivers stands out with her significant mystical powers.
Set 170 years before 'Game of Thrones,' 'House of the Dragon' showcases a time when dragons ruled the seven kingdoms, yet magic was mostly considered a legend.
Alys Rivers’ age is a subject of confusion and mystery. In the book 'Fire & Blood,' historical viewpoints differ, suggesting she could be much older than she appears.
The show depicts her as being in her early 30s, similar to actress Gayle Rankin. However, this could be part of her deception, and future episodes might reveal her true age.
After the Dance of the Dragons, Aegon III, RRhaenyra Targaryen's son, ascends the Iron Throne. During this tumultuous period, rumors spread about a 'Witch Queen' ruling Harrenhal, who is revealed to be Alys Rivers.
She claims that she and Aemond Targaryen were married, asserting their child as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne following Aegon II's bloodline.
Although it's unlikely 'House of the Dragon' will explore this far into the story, this adds depth to Alys Rivers' character and enriches the complex history of Westeros.
What are the mystical abilities of Alys Rivers?
Magical powers in George RR Martin's 'A Song of Ice & Fire' universe are often vague and mysterious. While 'Game of Thrones' and 'House of the Dragon' have featured magical events, there is no clear magic system.
Alys Rivers fits into this mystical framework. She is known for seeing visions, similar to Helaena Targaryen and Melisandre from 'Game of Thrones.' Alys is not a witch who casts spells but rather works with potions and unusual medicines.
Her visions and the mysteries of Harrenhal and the God's Eye Lake enhance her enigmatic character. In the show, Alys' powers are aligned with the mystical, lacking clear explanations.
This ambiguity is a key element of George R.R. Martin's magic, making characters like Alys Rivers intriguing and unpredictable.
Her role in 'House of the Dragon' adds depth to the series' magical lore, while her true capabilities remain shrouded in mystery.
'House of the Dragon' is available for streaming on Prime Video.