The Most Powerful Person in Westeros and Essos: A Seer to the Future
The Question of Power in the A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin, and its adaptation into The Game of Thrones, can be quite subjective. Determining who the most powerful person is in Westeros and Essos depends on how power is defined—whether it's military strength, magical abilities, political influence, or the ability to change the course of destiny.
Daenerys Targaryen: The Dragon Lady
Daenerys Targaryen is often hailed as one of the most powerful figures in the story. Her claim to the Iron Throne is backed by her armies, which have grown to be one of the largest and most diverse in the realm. Add to that, her dragons, which possess incredible magical abilities, and it's clear that her raw power is formidable. Daenerys's ability to command massive forces and wield dragons places her at the top of many lists.
The Night King: The Undead Invader
However, the Night King poses an equal, if not more daunting, threat. The Night King leads the armies of the White Walkers, beings which exist outside the normal cycle of life and death. These foes have the power to freeze knights in their tracks, crack the bones of their mounts, and are capable of raising the wights from the dead. The Night King's cold magic is a force to be reckoned with, making him one of the most feared entities in the series.
Bronn: The Mercenary King
Bronn, the mercenaries' leader and a seasoned warrior, is often mentioned in discussions about power. In a one-on-one encounter, he has the edge due to his bravery, tactical acumen, and combat skills. He has proven himself during battles, and his reputation as a successful sword for hire makes him a formidable opponent, but his power comes from his influence and resources rather than magical or spiritual abilities.
Brandon Stark: The Warg Seer
However, a different perspective can be offered when examining who the true leader of Westeros and Essos could be. Bran Stark stands out as an individual with unparalleled magical abilities. His abilities as a warg and greenseer are unique and immensely powerful. Warging allows Bran to communicate with and control animals, making him an extraordinary hunter and intelligence gatherer. His greenseer abilities are even more remarkable: he can see both the past and the future, as well as exert influence over them. Bran's ability to warg into trees and see prophecies places him at the intersection of prophecy and reality, potentially giving him the power to change the course of events.
In Season 6, Bran uses his gift to alter Hodor's life, demonstrating his ability to influence fate. This power is not just limited to seeing the future but actively shaping it. Given that Bran is the 33rd child of the Stark line, he is fated to play a crucial role in the destiny of Westeros and Essos. His abilities to wander between realities and impact the past will be vital in ensuring the survival of the realms, as the future is yet to be decided.
The question remains: Will Bran use his power for the greater good, or will it be the source of conflict and strife? His actions from this point forward will undoubtedly shape the landscape of Westeros and Essos.
Conclusion
Whether Daenerys Targaryen, with her armies and dragons, the Night King with his terrifying army of the dead, or Bran Stark with his unique magical and prophetic abilities, each character brings a unique brand of power to the table. The true power in Westeros and Essos lies not just in strength and magic, but in the ability to shape destiny and ensure the survival of the realm.