Showrunner Ryan Condal has revealed that the developing relationship between Aemond Targaryen and Alys Rivers will be one of the most surprising and emotionally rich storylines of Season 3.

Quick read:

  • Aemond feels drawn to Alys Rivers because she’s the first one to take care of him after a long time
  • He finds her when he’s confronting isolation
  • Showrunner says their relationship will be one of the most compelling things to watch this season

In a recent talk with Los Angeles Times, Condal explained how Aemond arrives at Harrenhal in a vulnerable state:

“He’s feeling isolated and alone and he possibly has made an enemy of his family. And then this woman saves him. He feels this sudden magnetic draw to her.”

According to Condal, this unexpected bond with Alys becomes a major turning point for Aemond. After being stripped of his dragon Vhagar and finding himself increasingly isolated, Alys Rivers offers him something he hasn’t had in a long time: connection and understanding.

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“In the episodes that follow, we will further excavate that relationship. It’s one of the most surprising and engaging and emotional stories we have this season.”

Credits: HBO

Why this story matters

Aemond has largely been portrayed as cold, ruthless, and calculating. However, Condal’s comments suggest the show is deliberately peeling back those layers in Season 3. His time at Harrenhal forces him to confront his isolation and trauma, and his relationship with Alys appears to be the emotional core of that journey.

The dynamic between the two is already generating excitement among fans. Alys, played by Gayle Rankin, is a mysterious and powerful figure at Harrenhal, and her influence over Aemond could have major implications for the rest of the war.

A new side of Aemond

This storyline also ties into the show’s effort to give Aemond more depth beyond his intimidating appearance and fearsome reputation. Rather than turning him into a straightforward villain, the writers are exploring his vulnerability; something Condal has previously emphasized as important for the character.

With Aemond feeling increasingly alone and possibly at odds with his own family, his “magnetic draw” to Alys could become one of the most compelling and unpredictable relationships in the season.

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