The Impact of Ser Willem Darry's Death: Would Viserys and Daenerys Have Fared Better?

The untimely death of Ser Willem Darry in Braavos had a profound impact on the lives of Viserys and Daenerys Targaryen, for better or worse. While his passing certainly caused immediate hardship and loss, it also played a crucial role in shaping their journey and eventual rise to power. This article explores how the Targaryen siblings' lives might have unfolded differently had Ser Willem not passed away.

Immediate Challenges Post-Ser Willem's Death

If Ser Willem had not passed away, the circumstances would have been vastly different for Viserys and Daenerys Targaryen. They would not have become homeless beggars in Volantis. Without the loss of their protector, they might have remained in the comparative safety and comfort of the red door in Braavos. This would have significantly altered their trajectory, as they would not have been forced to fend for themselves and survive in a cutthroat environment. Instead, they might have continued their relationship with House Velaryon and possibly sought the alliance of Dorne, a known supporter of House Targaryen.

Altered Alliances and Relationships

With Ser Willem alive, the potential for alliance and support from various powerful factions in Westeros would have been more attainable. He might have sought to strengthen their position, cementing ties with Dorne and other supporters of their cause. This could have prevented Daenerys' sale to Khal Drogo, a critical moment that eventually led to her rise and her eventual claim to the Iron Throne. The absence of Ser Willem's protective presence and strategic alliances might have significantly delayed their journey to power.

The Role of a Father Figure

Without Ser Willem's guidance and the stabilizing influence of a father figure, many of Viserys' actions and character traits might have been different. Viserys would not have been as desperate and manipulative towards Daenerys, who might have felt more secure and cared for. A more stable and supportive environment for Daenerys could have fostered a healthier relationship and a stronger partnership between the siblings. In the absence of Ser Willem, Viserys' desperation and manipulative attitude towards Daenerys became more pronounced, leading to their complex and often tense relationship.

Uncertainty and Speculation

Despite the compelling narrative of what might have been, there remains a significant degree of uncertainty regarding the details surrounding Ser Willem Darry and his men's backgrounds and actions. Daenerys appears to conflate details related to different individuals and events, creating confusion about the exact sequence of occurrences. The timeframe and location of their expulsion from Braavos are also shrouded in mystery, adding to the complexity of any definitive analysis.

The Sequelae of Ser Willem's Passing

The untimely death of Ser Willem Darry forced Viserys and Daenerys into a more independent and resourceful state of mind. They were compelled to navigate the dangerous world on their own, ultimately leading to their rise to power. While this difficult period was undoubtedly challenging, it also played a crucial role in shaping them into the formidable leaders they became. If Ser Willem had survived, their journey might have taken a varied course, potentially delaying their claims to the Iron Throne or altering their relationships with influential houses.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the death of Ser Willem Darry in Braavos significantly impacted the lives of Viserys and Daenerys Targaryen. While the immediate loss was undoubtedly painful, it also provided the opportunity for them to become more resilient and resourceful. Their survival and eventual rise to power might have been different had Ser Willem not passed away, but the complexity and uncertainty of their journey highlight the interlinked nature of their destinies and the significant role each event played in shaping their futures.