Winds of Winter Theory: Dark Sister's Location

[@InterestingNerdClub]

"Bringing a Valyrian Steel sword to a tourney is a lot like showing up to paintball with a shotgun." is an excellent line

[@wadewilson8011]

What good is the steel if the welder doesn't know how to use it?

[@user-en2tk2tw4v]

@@wadewilson8011welders don’t usually use swords as far as I know. More torches with welding isn’t it. 😂

[@derikc24]

Likely in the cave with Bloodraven IMO.

[@basedchimera5859]

Myra Reed using Darksister yess

[@gillriet773]

I actually think that's the simplest and most logical answer to me. Like it's been there the whole time he has, he had no reason to show it off to bran so we never saw it yknow?

[@jefferyepstein8348]

I’m almost certain GRRM said bloodraven had it when someone asked him

[@johnathanoneal9]

I’ve always thought that made the most sense

[@Dragon.um5tz]

No, it’s hidden In dees

[@WillowGardener]

I believe Martin also confirmed in an interview that the sword Bran spotted in Bloodraven's cave was in fact Dark Sister.

[@JLchevz]

do you have any links by chance??

[@logancarlile8895]

He has been asked about it but he never confirmed it

[@WillowGardener]

@@JLchevz no, saw this years ago, no idea where

[@j-rey-]

Is this in books? Do you remember where?

[@warpedwhimsical]

@@WillowGardenerI feel like this would be more widely known if true

[@zaepham357]

Ive heard of Darksister being rediscovered in bloodravens cave by meera passing to Arya, but Dany wielding it against (F)Aegon with Blackfyre hit me like coming home from a long days work to your favourite meal wrapped neatly in the fridge. Good shid, grandmother

[@pyropulseIXXI]

Why would Dany be wielding it? She doesn't even know how to use a sword, and she would make a terrible fighter; she is too small and weak

[@KateHikes1933]

Bruh this fits my pet theory perfectly. Aegon is a Blackfyre and will wield Blackfyre since he is one. Daenerys is actually Rhaegar's third child named Visenya (of Aegon, Rhaenys, and Visenya to match Rhaegar's obsession with prophecy and history) who was born at the Tower of Joy and thus will wield Dark Sister since she's the sister kept in darkness.

[@rc59191]

​@pyropulseIXXI so was Arya she can learn.

[@havok6280]

There were apparently 3 Targaryen blades. Aegon's dagger aka the catspaw dagger was the 3rd.

[@Deronimo4]

Is the dagger the same dagger that is used in the assasination attempt on Bran in GoT?

[@jaredbrinkley2810]

@@Deronimo4yeah

[@mementomori771]

@joshcoles5867 that's only show canon currently

[@psychkosys]

​@@mementomori771that's true but Martin also said he loved how they invented the lore...the guy who won't watch theory videos. Frankly, the door for it to actually be the same in the books as it was in the show is open.

[@MaynardCrow]

The origin of the catspaw dagger was never clear in the books. Fire and Blood show adaptation made it a thing. All that is known in the books is it was one of the huge assortment of weapons lugged around for king Robert's use if requested. Littlefinger claims it was his and he lost it in a bet at a tourney, but half his story is bullshit and intended to frame Tyrion as a patsy for part of a larger plot. We don't know that it ever belonged to any Targ. Might just be an old blade forged before the fall that he bought somewhere.

[@andrewplehn4805]

Gotta be honest, I don't see Arya getting Dark Sister. If the 5 year gap happened, I'd be more on board with the idea, but given that Arya's not even 12 yet, I don't think it would work. Practically, I don't think she'd be a capable user of the sword. She's a child, and despite Dark Sister being smaller than a typical sword, I think it would probably be too big for her. Needle is much smaller, and better suited for her. Love the video though, you're one of my favorite ASOIAF creators. Keep it up!

[@miguelsanchez825]

Please George give it to Meera at least for a while, and allow her to kill an Other, that is the only cool thing the show did.

[@renaigh]

what are you, a Game of Thrones writer?

[@SapphireSolstice67]

@@renaighNah I agree with Miguel that would be sick

[@miguelsanchez825]

@@renaigh I get if you don't like the idea but why go as far as calling me got writer? lol Let's remember Sam killed an Other and Meera is a fighter I don't find it hard for her to slay one, even more if she gets underestimated like Sam was. I think there is enough for that to happen and not being forced, even Dark Sister is possibly near to her.

[@RW77777777]

got writer no more! say hello to miguel sanchez...

[@IronMikeyT]

@@miguelsanchez825 meera has it for sure and its rightful owner imo

[@soul_vicex]

I think hanging on the name of the sword and trying to link it with a women gives a bit of narrative tunnel vision. Bloodraven being the last wielder would surely want it passed down to the most worthy warrior alive, him being who he is would know exactly who deserves to wield it. I honestly think Bran will be giving it to Jon, or even Jaime Lannister if his storyline pans out close to the series with him being a Targaryen, or Jaime using Dark Sister to quite literally kill his own dark Sister Cersei

[@d_randy]

I agree.

[@coldwaterburns_]

if we're talking about male candidates, my mind goes to Stannis (since Jon and Jaime both already have Valyrian steel swords). if Mel burns Shireen, whether with Stannis' consent or not, it might be enough to make him turn his back on R'hollor, and abandon the AA narrative. which would make a switch from Lightbringer to Dark Sister very interesting thematically, especially since he parallels Visenya to Robert's Aegon.

[@youtubegimme8646]

I think they should give it to Robert

[@clatricia]

It'd be interesting if Dark Sister becomes the new House sword for the Starks as well. Not sure if that's a theory anywhere, but I've always mourned Ice's fate a little too deeply (altho I also hold out hope that Widow's Wail and Oathkeeper will be reunited with the Starks, given their names match up with Catelyn and general Stark honor, respectively). Dark Sister may not be a greatsword like Ice, but I can see thematically how a potential Sansa-led House Stark would benefit from having Dark Sister as one of its artifacts. Maybe Arya leaves it in Sansa's care when Arya goes to, uh, find what's west of Westeros, or whatever.

[@hogndog2339]

Yeah, Ice’s fate makes me so sad. It was over a thousand years old, and to destroy it like that is just disrespectful

[@unniebunny2551]

Sansa this sansa that, she’s not gonna lead House Stark like in the show. Its gonna be Bran. And why are sansa stans so adamant for Arya to leave Westeros? Like fans of the show never fully grasp how family oriented Arya is. If she goes back to Winterfell she wont leave her family ever again. This is the books were talking about. Sansa wasn’t traded off to the boltons it was Jeyne poole disguising as Arya, so technically the lady of winterfell is Arya. Also, the reason why Bran became the king of the seven kingdoms instead of the north in the end is because the writers have always favored sansa (or sophie turner rather) they wanted her to be QITN even though it doesn’t make sense for her character at all, she was the least stark of them all and she was trained in southern politics instead of northern politics the high lords and lady of the north wouldn’t take her ruling at ease. She would be a far more better ruler in the Vale than in the North.

[@maxmustermann9058]

I don't think it will happen but Val getting Dark Sister would be pretty neat, making her the more warrior-like sister to Dalla, who birthed Mance's heir, with Mance also essentially being a king trying to take on Westeros. It's hilarious that Brynden actually dueled Bittersteel twice, once in the first and once in the third Blackfyre Rebelliion. Commanders facing each other 1v1 on the battlefield already happens unrealistically often in Martin's stories, this almost seems like a parody of it.

[@Brinelious]

Makes for a better story than an important character's body being discovered after the battle with an arrow through the throat likely shot by some random peasant who also died.

[@marcospatricio8283]

They were rare because most historical commanders led from the rear and rarely got involved in direct battle to the point they'd need to regroup. And even if squads with their leading commanders met mid or post battle, both sides were likely to avoid a direct confrontation at any cost. My point is: you're absolutely right. The chances for such encounters were low but not too low, and historical figures didn't want to take them. It's just that westerossi commanders have no fucking chill.

[@jaorodri1922]

at this point i think every thing a targaryen loses is somewhere in Dorne

[@warlordofbritannia]

There’s some Dornish mountain that’s actually a big “Lost and Found” warehouse for Targs. Not only do they have at least one of the Valyrian blades but also: -the corpse of Rhaenys and her dragon -Bloodraven’s eye -Viserys’ diet plan

[@brunwaldo4105]

Quinn - just found your content recently enough and I must say it’s awesome! I’ve been watching your stuff as frequently as I watch Glidus and Alt Shift X. You should get the same level of praise. Keep it up 👍

[@darren806]

I'm in the exact same boat, these three are my mains for GOT

[@toddcameron3898]

Great video. Really appreciate you not only including a spoiler warning for HOTD but also time-stamps to make it easy to navigate past that section.

[@renaigh]

it's not unheard of for Lords to take their Valyrian steel swords to the Wall, Jeor Mormont did after all.

[@landendelormier7954]

he didnt bring it with him. jorah had the sword but didnt bring it with him when he was banished and it was brought to jeor afterwards when he was already at the wall.

[@thatsoundslikeheresytomeyo4960]

​@@blaubeer8039one of our protagonists. I like Jon the most of all the pov characters but hes only one of those guys.

[@nicholastaylor9687]

My theory was always that Long Claw is a re-hilted Dark Sister. It always seemed strange that Jeor took Long Claw to the wall instead of giving it to Maege and that he would give his ancestral valyrian sword to Jon (when he has no right to do so really) and that no other Mormont ever mentions it. I always assumed that Bloodraven left the sword with instructions that it be given to someone matching a certain description (this secret was passed from Lord Commander to Lord Commander) and Jon was the first person who fit the bill/fulfilled whatever Prophecy Bloodraven left behind.

[@federicokaluszyner9377]

​@@nicholastaylor9687no way Mormonts had a 500 year old valyrian sword like Joer said

[@bbtfan7957]

​@@nicholastaylor9687Actually, it was sent to Jeor after Jorah fled Bear Island for Essos.

[@heirofcaedus7070]

Wow, I never even considered the possibility that Arya could get Dark Sister, but I absolutely love that idea.

[@renaigh]

she already has needle, why must every artefact find its way into the hands of fan favourites?

[@NamelessDemonkitten]

@@renaigh needle isnt an artifact its just a normal(albeit very small) sword. it just has a name bc it was a meaningful gift from her favorite brother and she named it for sentimental reasons.

[@svverte5578]

@@NamelessDemonkitten I'm pretty sure that the op was talking about Dark Sister, not about Needle. Arya getting Dark Sister would be a pure fan service and nothing more.

[@NamelessDemonkitten]

@@svverte5578 i wasnt replying to op i was replying to the person that said she shouldnt get dark sister bc she already has needle

[@ArrakisHeir88]

​@svverte5578 lol, oh man I thought your comment was from like 2005 or something Remember when fiction was so good, we complained when the person creating it did something just to please the fanbase?

[@cityfolkferal]

We need a decent video about Ned Shark's mother & her connection to the Flint family & what their possible role will be in both the series going forward & the GNC. Please make this!

[@Shooshawali]

Eddard Shark, the most honorable fish in the seven seas 😂

[@Mustang_Dan]

Tywin melting down an ancient house’s ancestral Valyrian Steel sword to make a couple for his house is disgusting. He should’ve left it how it was and that would be part of the tale of how The Stark ancestral sword became the Lannister ancestral sword. Much like Jon wielding the ancestral Mormont sword etc. And before you say it, reworking a pommel and repairing a melted hilt is not the same as completely melting a sword down to recast into a new sword or two.

[@LoLotov]

It'd be even more thematic for dany to be given darksister if aegon VI has blackfyre and is an actually good king that she overthrows as her birthright.

[@thatoneblackdude3333]

Why do people keep assuming faegon will be a good king ? He has no qualities of such and is literally compared to joffery , and how would that be thematic? .

[@EdgedShadow]

@@thatoneblackdude3333 Pretty much due to all his training (see Vary's speech in the DoD epilogue). He's still just a kid, so getting frustrated over a chess game is kind of understandable. Plus, he pretty much has to be an improvement compared to Cersei. The House of the Undying visions (assuming they're about him) have the people loving him. Plus there will be tons of propaganda spread by the time he takes King's Landing (assuming he does). You don't have to be a good king to make most of the people love you. Robert was an awful king and everyone loved him. Even in the real world there have been plenty of legit awful rulers that were incredibly popular in their time.

[@lonemotheo1964]

​@@thatoneblackdude3333it's the show the showrunners had a huge hate boner for Dany and people taje their word as gospel despite multiple times GRRM telling them otherwise

[@thatoneblackdude3333]

@@EdgedShadow joffery had training was he a good king ? And why do you people treat one of the most untrustworthy unreliable narrators as gospel? , still a kid ? He's older then both Jon and dany he's hardly a kid and that's not an excuse if tyrion said dany acts like joffery you people would take that as undeniable confirmation she'd the mad queen but when it's faegon You Make excuses for him like he's a 5 year old , what makes you think he has to be an improvement? , that doesn't mean he'll be a good king , Kingslanding liked joffery once too , you don't think they'll be equal propaganda against him ? Especially when he has the golden company and brought grayscale to the city ? , that's not what I was talking about tho the original comment claimed he would be a good king even tho nothing we've seen from him gives that impression.

[@thatoneblackdude3333]

@@lonemotheo1964 it's not even that people are just so obsessed with trying to fit dany into the mad queen position and looking for anything in the books to make it happen even tho d&d already admitted they made that whole sequence up .

[@Phantomkidx]

The dragon knight died protecting a king tht hated him, and had to listen while he took his sister to bed against her will. He deserves tht sword 😅

[@Kidd-In-Charge]

It’s Long Claw. Jeor wouldn’t give the Mormont ancestral sword to Jon, the origin story he tells us is made up. Dark Sister was Lord Commander Brynden’s sword, and since then it has been passed down from Lord Commander to Lord Commander. The sword’s identity is obscure because they keep redesigning the pommel.

[@QuinnTheGM]

I considered mentioning that theory, but I don’t personally buy it. Bloodraven would have no way to get it to Bear Island, especially not prior to Jeor’s birth.

[@mixolydia3309]

@@QuinnTheGMI think what they’re saying is that Jeor got Dark Sister when he became lord commander, so no travel to Bear Island is necessary. Weird that Jeor would lie to Jon about it though. I don’t know what I believe about the theory but the motivation for lying to keep Dark Sister a secret seems weird.

[@roebuckmckinney]

@@QuinnTheGMhe wouldn’t have had to. BR could have left it with Aemon when he went on his ranging. Aemon could have held on to it until Jeor became LC. We meet several members of the Mormont family and none other than Jeor mention a Valyrian steel blade being a family heirloom.

[@calebduarte5255]

No disrespect, but I don’t really understand your theory here. George very specifically differentiates between longswords (such as Dark Sister) and bastard swords (such as Longclaw) in the series. Dark Sister is specifically described as having a slender blade, while Longclaw’s blade is modified with fullers for lighter weight (something a longer, less slender hand and a half sword would would need, but DS likely wouldn’t). This is not to mention that for Dark Sister’s blade to have been modified in any way, it would need to have been reforged, which I don’t see how the smiths at Castle Black could accomplish. Longclaw is definitely not Dark Sister. Also, if I were Bloodraven, I’d certainly take my badass spellforged +3 longsword with me when traveling to the far frozen north.

[@calebduarte5255]

from a q&a with the Turtle himself: “When you say: bastard's sword, do you mean an half hand sword with general historical measures, or Jon's Long Claw has different size?” “A ‘bastard sword’ was a genuine historical term for a hand-and-a-half sword, larger than an ordinary broadsword but not large enough to be a true two hander.”

[@niofalpha]

Fun fact, neither Dark Sister and Blackfyre are mentioned once in the main books

[@geraintcampbell9765]

I think blackfyre might be mentioned by catelyn when she thinks about the blackfyre rebellions and Jon Snow

[@carter9449]

@@geraintcampbell9765 House blackfyre is but Grrm probably hadn't decided they were called that because of the sword yet. Weird that he didn't mention it in affc or adwd because he had decided it in 2003 for The Sworn Sword

[@komradechampa348]

I dunno if the Dragon Knight counts as generally upbeat? He was clearly the one who should have been king, but was denied it by order of birth. Was also denied the love of his life and wept the night she married their brother. Seems like he was a man with some struggles for sure, just different than the others.

[@narcissus9732]

dany does think she should get some armour and sword if not training in some chapter in storm i recall

[@Aezeus]

Wherever it is, Meera will wield it

[@szaeed]

This video was a joy to watch! The Dany being a wielder of Dark Sister is something i also tought of and would be amazing to see in the books. But Danys character in the books is much different from any other wielder, shes most of the time rational, protective of those she deems allies (her children) and overfloving with compassion but we also saw how those positive traits can become the doom of her enemies if she feels like they endenger those close to her. And she has 3 ... mostly out of control but still, nukes.

[@NortonjawX]

Wouldn't it make sense for Jon to receive it? If the theory holds that Jon will be significantly changed from this revival, possibly showing more brutal, almost animal like tendencies, wouldn't it make sense for him to receive the blade painted as having a thirst for blood of its own? A blood-thirsty blade for a possibly savage, bloodthirsty Targaryen (I know its not confirmed in the books but c'mon, its most likely going to happen.)

[@ti7an-994]

What if he already has it, like what if longclaw is dark sister just with a different hilt and pommel

[@fullirishham1015]

Plus, Rhaegar intended to have a daughter, metaphorically making the Stark looking Jon live up to the name

[@NortonjawX]

@@fullirishham1015thats… actually something I didn’t think about, good point!

[@Romez37]

@@fullirishham1015 Where in the books does it say that Rhaegar intended to have a daughter? Correct, nowhere. Rhaegar did not try to recreate the conquest trio. Otherwise, he would have named Rhaenys after Visenya. Yes, he changed his mind with Aegon's birth, but only that Aegon is "the prince who was promised", not he himself. He only talked about Aegon in connection with the prophesy, not about his other children. Otherwise Maester Aemon would have known that. Also, the assumption that Rhaegar wanted to have a prophecy child with Lyanna doesn't make sense either, because why didn't he tell Aemon?. Rhaegar and Lyanna will be/is a tragic love story. Nothing more.

[@fullirishham1015]

@@Romez37 You are correct, everything I've stated is fanon. How and ever the entire discussion we're having on this particular subject other than Dark Sister being in the cave with Bloodraven and Bran is fanon. And speculative fanon at that. So maybe lose the high horse?

[@MaynardCrow]

Agreed on Dani wielding Dark Sister. Thought about that for years, cause it seems appropriate. Never figured out how it could end up with her logistically though. Brynden Rivers likely had it and it's in the cave with him, possibly the sword the Reed girl found, but it's odd there wasn't any remarks from her or Bran about its appearance, cause the color of the steel should have seemed worth mentioning.

[@mementomori771]

My thing about blood raven taking it north is why would egg let him take it with him much prefer the idea of Danny getting it

[@tylertownes4973]

I have read theories suggesting Egg didn’t want it to become a symbol of being king like blackfyre became

[@openthemind1244]

8:29 it's canon, I saw the video where he answered the question. He ten-thousand percent said "YES"

[@Matt-xc6sp]

You can’t just name your successor Anus and expect the realm to be cool with him.

[@QuinnTheGM]

That’s the central lesson of the Targaryen dynasty

[@mappingshaman5280]

I personally like the idea of the night king or great other or other equivalent in the books wielding it. Imaging jon or aegon dueling him with blackfyre (preferably jon but aegon is more likely to have blackfyre). Imagine that he infuses it with white walker magic thus making it a song of ice and fire. You could even have jon wielding it after the others are defeated to highlight this.

[@SmokinBlunts781]

Daemon survived the gods eye. Nettles picked him up on sheepstealer and they flew east

[@mayronoliveira686]

I've been thinking about the future of the Arya plot, and while I was pondering that she might meet Daenerys before going back to Westeros, the whole thing with Dark Sister made me think that she might take a ship to the Wall, where there could be a reunion between Jon, Bran, and Arya (and maybe even Rickon). But i don't see Meera giving the sword for free, so maybe she dies, or something else happens that passes the sword to Arya.

[@Morfe02]

Dark Sister -> Bran -> Jon Snow The Targaryens are gonna show symbols of power from the house : Aegon VI has his name and maybe the Blackfyre sword later Daenerys has 3 dragons And Jon has Dark Sister Could be a theory-idea-thought

[@latj16x]

in my opinion the sword should be giving to jon snow but if they bring back danny they should give it to her it’s like her family sword right

[@silasmartin5210]

It’s also Jon’s by that logic lol

[@parsaprsal]

Jon has a Valyrian sword himself

[@tempertempernow]

Dude not to be selfish but been waiting for you to make a new vid. Yay!

[@invictusbat7225]

Wow Quinn good to see you talking GOT again

[@blitzkrieg2928]

2:55 Maegor the based (ultra contrarian)

[@jangotack]

I think the biggest theory in this video is the assumption that any of us will actually end up being able to read TWoW

[@AJHyoton]

The one true king is cutting vegetables at the Inn of the Kneeling Man with it. Hot Pie up!

[@BussinJeiber-wy1nc]

5:03nin the main books, Lynn Corbrey said the same thing about Lady Forlorn.. she has thirst for blood.

[@hansolowe19]

Interesting about the sentience. They used magic in forging them and likely used blood magic in the city. Perhaps the soul of a slave was locked in a sword through blood magic.

[@QuinnTheGM]

Right? Thought that was a cool detail, even if there’s like a 70% chance it was just Daemon being edgy.

[@hansolowe19]

On stammers: I don't mind it, but if you want those can be cut out, like how many videos are cut to perfection. Of course, being human and genuine is lovely to see and we all appreciate honesty. And we will be here to listen to your growth. 👍

[@hansolowe19]

@@QuinnTheGM or maybe it's like Nightblood (stormlight archive), a voice in your head screaming or moaning _"destroy, destroy eeeeeviiillll"_ which would be cool 😎

[@hansolowe19]

Stormlight archive would be a good series to make a video about, there is a dirth of videos about it.

[@TimSnead223]

@HistoryofWesteros asked George at a Con years ago if Bloodraven took Dark Sister with him to The Wall. George confirmed that he did indeed take it with him.

[@carter9449]

I think the prophecy from HotD means that Daenerys will take the throne before the war for the dawn.

[@danhedquist6778]

Does he not know that the two swords Tywin had made came from ice the starks sword?

[@SeanORaigh]

I have it, but I left it outside for a bit and it's a bit rusty. Hope that's okay

[@gabrielsoares6374]

my theory is: bran/meera will give dark sister to jon, who will deal with it as some sort of targaryen awakening and take back longclaw to house mormont as his period in the watch as heir to the old bear has ended. later, jon could gift daenerys with the sword if they are to join forces against the others or against faegon. the only problem i have with this is that i want so bad for jon to wield dawn and maybe even oathkeeper because both would be so meaningful for his arch and he can't switch swords three or four times in two books and still be a meaningful moment. maybe george could make him choose between them. another nice possibility for the valyrian steel swords would be jon telling brienne to keep the sword and protect sansa while widow's wail would somehow end up with arya, since she has all that conection with lady stone heart, reuniting ned's steel and legacy.

[@Myreflektion]

A little late to the discussion, but I feel kind of like it could come to the hands of Stannis considering he’s sort of the dark sibling out of his two others and also the longest lived of them. Theres a lot of parallels to be made between Stannis and the previous holders of Dark Sister

[@bittersteel7922]

Can you make a video about sir christon cole? Series didn’t do him Justice. Such a interesting character

[@roebuckmckinney]

THERE'S ONLY BEEN ONE SEASON. CHILL.

[@JLchevz]

Why wouldn't Jon weild Dark Sister? much like the Dragonknight which he might be named after

[@QuinnTheGM]

My main thought is that he already has Longclaw.

[@JLchevz]

@@QuinnTheGM yeah me too, good point, he would need to have a reason to give it to someone else or something . Anyways excellent video!

[@thatoneblackdude3333]

@@QuinnTheGM when Jon's identity is revealed and he need to press it he'd need some symbol of proof , I think he could give longclaw to house stark to replace ice .

[@murphyleigh6319]

My instinct is that the final wielder of Dark Sister will be Jon Snow. Yes, he currently has/had Longclaw, the Mormont sword, but I think Dark Sister is a much better fit for him, for the following reasons: 1. His symbolic association with Visenya the Conqueror, given Dany's HOTU vision implying that Rhaegar assumed his third child would be a girl, re-invoking the three conquerors. 2. Jon's association with Arya and their mutual feelings of alienation from the rest of the Stark brood, combined with the fact that Jon gave Arya her Needle to begin with - I think Dark Sister passing to Jon from Arya would be a good mirror of that original scene. 3. If Jon's Targ origins become politically relevant, his legitimacy will likely always be in question, putting him in direct conflict with Dany and/or (F)Aegon, the latter of whom is extremely likely to have Blackfyre. 4. Jon has continuously been associated with feminine and female figures, as well as male characters who, for whatever reasons, fail to achieve Westerosi standards of masculinity. Him wielding a woman's weapon would be a further example of this motif. Also i just genuinely think Jon's a trans girl, but she (and likely GRRM) doesnt know it because she is too busy having a job and a Chosen One destiny to figure that shit out.

[@ashleyofnaath]

If Coldhands is Brave Dany Flint (my fav Ch theory), she would be the coolest candidate to use Darksister in my opinion. Picture it: a woman who was executed for her service by her fellow servicemen continues her service in death despite the monstrous betrayal she suffered by fighting against the Others while wielding one of the most famous blades in Westerosi history. That'd be pretty badass. Not to mention that given the circumstances of Brave Dany's death, she'd fit the 'Darksister' archetype. Assuming of course she's Coldhands- which I think she is ;) .

[@QuinnTheGM]

I’d never heard that theory, but I love it! I might cover that at some point in the future, if that’s alright with you.

[@ashleyofnaath]

@@QuinnTheGM Oh thank you. The theory certainly explains why Coldhands can't open the black gate- because only a man of the watch can do it; not a woman. Could also explain why Ch won't get anywhere near the gate- it might "out" her, and she doesn't want to reveal herself yet (meaning GRRM isn't ready to). And yes, please do cover it. Dany deserves some love lol.

[@sonofbjorn1826]

Why not jon snow getting a targaryen blade(if he is a targaryen himself

[@lonemotheo1964]

I do wonder if Dark Sister was really taken to the Wall it's never mentioned in the books..... It could be hidden on Dragonstone with other Targaryen artifacts like the dragons eggs which are also never mentioned even though the should be a bunch of them around still around My guess is that the is a secret chamber on Dragonstone like the Winterfell Crypts were the Targaryens hide all they're important artifacts it'll be interesting to see if Dany finds it there

[@ThommyofThenn]

Interesting question about Daemon being given DS. Could Jahaerys have been taking pity on a 'second son' or did he realise that Daemon was a gifted warrior and that the legendary blade would be brandished to best effect by him? I wonder if Viserys was a great warrior? In the books, i don't think he is mentioned as fighting a bunch, rather seeking peaceful solutions or having Daemon fight. It could be the Old King foresaw such a dynamic I bet i'm forgetting something and while i could look it up, I enjoy asking people in comments as some great answers can be had.

[@nanimator0]

Regarding the third-source tweet, I've seen a video clip of that same scenario at a convention with George but I'm not sure how to find the clip.

[@justineharper3346]

I’ve never heard Daenerys suggested as a wielder of Dark Sister, but I absolutely love it. As much as I love Arya, it belongs in a Targaryen hand. It would be awesome to see her go against Aegon wielding it

[@Michael-bn1oi]

Has she *ever* held a sword? If she gets it, she's dying with it lol

[@julioulloa5403]

Good ol' brinden did it again

[@carter9449]

I wouldn't say Egg had "had enough of his uncle", he knew he had to punish him to legitimize himself as a ruler, if he didn't his own claim would be put into question as Bloodraven had broken guest right to remove a rival claiment. If he didn't that action would reflect upon him. Also white walkers don't exist in the books either

[@marcospatricio8283]

Yes! What happened to bloodeaven was an Attianus situation! It surprises me how many people don't get it!

[@lyannatargaryen3223]

I've heard all sorts of theories about different characters getting Dark Sister, Meera Reed, Arya Stark, and Danny Flint. I think it is currently in Blood Raven's cave and that Bran will take it when he leaves, but who will he give it to? Arya makes the most sense.

[@wholockedholmes5600]

I think Meera will probably take Dark Sister from Raven's cave, she'll use it for a while before dying, then Bran will carry it until he gives it Jon who gives it to Ayra, mirroring Needle, and then Ayra wil die, live a second like as her direwolf, and then Daenerys will have it. Then Faegon will have the cerimonal sword that's never seen hardship but will guareentee him a one way ticket to the throne and Daenerys will have the battleworn sword that has suffered battle but it will also mark her by the connotation of its past owners as someone to mistrust by the people.

[@jamesmullen3068]

Blackfyre was used in several noteable duels and carried into battle many times. Daemon the first Blackfyre, was observed by Ser Eustace Osgrave to have been an absolute demon when fighting with Blackfyre. I disagree with the statement that weapon was primarily ceremonial in use. Although it did symbolize the legitimacy of the monarch. Ice, the valyrian blade of House Stark, is more aptly described as ceremonial, being used often in ritualistic execution, and Lord Eddard is notably described as carrying another longsword for daily use while serving as hand of the king.

[@DENDROSMOK3]

Euron with Dark Sister?

[@Ranben.]

I really doubt Brynden would take the remaing Targ ancestral sword away from Egg when Bittersteel was still out there with the Blackfyre sword

[@sonofbjorn1826]

Ok couldnt Bran learn about Jon Snow real parentage tell bloodraven and bestow dark sister to bran to give to jon snow which is a targaryen wielding this blade

[@jamesmullen3068]

Would love to read a whole book about Bryndon Bloodraven's time at the wall.

[@BlackstreetBoys2Men]

Love the Daenerys idea bro

[@bbtfan7957]

Some things about Dark sister don't make sense to me, the first being why was it given to Bloodraven? If it was Daeron who bestowed you t, I'd think he'd more likely give it to his son Baelor; it would make sense to keep the remaining Valerian steel sword in the Royal Family l. And why would Aegon V let Bloodraven take it with him to the Wall?

[@OnlyShadowkin]

I thought the Cat's paw was Dark sister when Bran asks Arya if she knows who owned that blade. I hope Arya gets the sword, it seems to be made for her, and I would be glad if it was in her hand to fight White walkers with. Riding on Nymeria lol

[@piu922]

My personal headcannon, why do the lowly and poor Lords, The Mormonts own a Valryian Steel sword? I think Dark Sister is Longclaw, just with a shiny wolf pommel on it.

[@roebuckmckinney]

Shh... you're making too much sense.

[@jackbiesty3729]

I don't take much stock in Blood Raven taking Dark Sister to the Wall and beyond no matter what George off handedly said. Why would Egg, who was then king and who hates Blood Raven let him take a priceless family artifact after he has now become a criminal. Even if Egg did trust BR with the sword what did he think the Nights Watch, a place full of thieves and murders was gonna do after he died? Just give it back?

[@goffokfm6821]

I think hate is probably a bit strong of a word to describe their relationship. I mean, Jeor was already at the wall when he was given back longclaw. Despite his sister, a warrior, being the new head of house Mormont. Im pretty sure even after Daemon was exiled, he was allowed to keep Darksister.

[@ArrakisHeir88]

Egg watched 5 civil wars happen, every single one of them because targaryens had too many symbols of legitimacy

[@MaynardCrow]

Egg didn't hate his older, distant cousin. He was prone to repeating silly spooky stories and rumors about people as a child and maybe didn't love him closely, but sending him to the wall was a necessary formality to salvage the validity of his word as a king. The old bear later brought Longclaw with him and no one thought twice. Egg was a progressive and radical king who didn't put huge value on tradition or symbols(outside the common obsession with dragons).

[@zeoxyman]

What if we consider male wielders? In terms of arguably edgy or angry dudes who don't already have a cool sword, we have: Stannis (would have been more relevant if Renly was still alive; maybe fits his more bitter nature but he probably will die before it arrives) Tyrion (not a warrior, but he did fight a few times early on. No clue how he'd end up with it though) Victarion (kinda same as Stannis but even less likely) I would also find it really funny if like, a random Sand Snake picked up the sword for a bit. But again, probably not happening

[@shawnwilt7196]

I have thought that it would ve funny if GRRM did a reverse gender thing with a new targaryan conquest. I female two males establish a new dynasty. Danni, John, and fArgon form a thruple.

[@popeJohnthetwelth]

That sounds awesome, I hope it happens!

[@craig7405]

dany and aegon will fight in the books. grrm has confirmed that a second dance of the dragons will happen in twow

[@Dadecorban]

The Targs coming to Westeros did not increase the number of Valyrian Steel swords in Westeros, except for their own two swords. In fact the only other difference in number was simply that as time goes on, swords are lost. Most Valyrian Steel swords were acquired before the doom, and before the Targs ever settled in Westeros. So trying to connect the status/power of the Lannisters having two swords, somehow to the Targs coming to Westeros in inaccurate.

[@geraintcampbell9765]

Blackfyre = Longclaw Bloodraven took both swords north and hid Blackfyre in Lord commanders tower then using mormonts raven has mormont lie to Jon Snow about Blackfyre so Azor Ahai can have Blackfyre. Jeor Mormont is the only source for longclaws existence before the wall no other mormont not even jorah mentions longclaw.

[@ToucanBinks]

Got you with the like and comment 👍

[@davidhooper259]

Since it disappeared mainly during the Blackfyre rebellions, I’m thinking it is the ceremonial sword of leadership of…the Golden Company

[@badyoutuber1986]

I completely forgot about my favorite sword,where is she anyway

[@0bskureference]

I think dany might actually end up with blackfyre since so far it’s never been wielded by a woman

[@glitchkrown]

Daemon with Darksister reminds me of Elric of Melnibone with Stormbringer

[@roebuckmckinney]

Does anybody else wonder why people think Valyrian blades are all that important in the endgame of the series? I get that they're amazing against other humans who are carrying plain old castle-forged steel, and I definitely think that they are equivalent to Dragonsteel and can therefore kill an Other in the same way that obsidian does, but the Others aren't going to fight that way. They're not going to engage in direct frontal assaults where they could get cornered into a sword fight. They're going to use waves of wights and wighted beasts like they did at the Fist of the First Men, in which case, a sword is just a sword. Even if it destroys the wights with a glancing blow, there's another 10 wights behind those wights, and 10 more and 10 more and so on. And what good does Dark Sister do for Dany flying around on a dragon? Narratively, Valyrian steel has exactly two points of relevancy for the Long Night. 1) someone is cornered by an Other, like Sam in ASOS, and the sword helps him cut his way out 2) one of the Others agrees to single combat for some wacky reason, which seems profoundly unlikely to me

[@dominicpalmer3130]

First time commenting as whilst I've read the books a few times I don't overly think through theories etc, but enjoy listening to them. But is there a world where Jon Snow ends up with Dark Sister to show his Targaryan heritage?

[@lonemotheo1964]

The's a theory out there that Rhaeghar gave Lyanna a dragons eggs meant for Jon and Ned hid it in the Winterfell Crypts which is how Jon will find out he's a Targaryen

[@dominicpalmer3130]

@@lonemotheo1964 thank you for sharing

[@Gray_ninja]

Jon Snow will be badassacly weidling both Dark Sister and Longclaw, representing northern and targ legacy brought together. (Bloodraven obviously knows Jon Snow is son of Rhaegar and could think he is the rightful king(cause there is not weirwoods around Aegon), which would probably make BR want to have Jon Snow wield it)

[@targaryen-timelord3093]

I personally thinks its on Blood raven's cave and could see it passing through Meera to Arya

[@SouthernPotato97]

Did Rhaenys have a Valyrian steel sword? ( Most likely). Perhaps it's somewhere in Dorne?😅 Anyway, just spitballing here

[@mappingshaman5280]

I imagine fire and blood or AWOIAF would mention it if she did.

[@QuinnTheGM]

People have theorized that her blade was the Valyrian Steel catspaw dagger.

[@JoVicttor49]

And all these Valyrian swords are making its way to Winterfell, to be used on the battle against the Others. Right!?

[@caniaccharlie]

In the show Meera pics up a sword in the cave. It would've been cool if they had somehow made that sword Dark Sister.

[@dudec3]

What about Aegon's ARMOR! The whole set was forged out of VALYRIAN steel which would definitely be more in terms of weight than those two blades!!! The last we hear of Aegon's armor we hear it being pried off of AEGON II (after he gets burned alive in it), however in the show it seems the armor remains largely undamaged by the flames. Which means the whole set (probably weighing more than the combined swords) is still missing.

[@dominic3797]

Good video! The audio level is a little low btw

[@Dell-ol6hb]

I’m honestly surprised the Targaryen only had two Valyrian swords, you’d think being one of the 40 families they’d have tons of the Valyrian metal stuff, like armor, weapons, tools, etc. Was it really that expensive even in Valyria to get Valyrian Steel?

[@Shade_razor-79]

How did the sword get from aemonds eye to the blood raven cave?

[@Koudey]

Hi Quinn

[@n1k0abc34]

Also another point for Arya, she has dark hair and dark eyes compared to her auburn haired and blue eyes sister. Literally making her the dark sister

[@hankogle6858]

Hopefully that sword will make it to Jon Snow. I know he has a good sword but Dark Sister has meaning as a Targaryen

[@darren806]

I don't know why but I also feel like Jon will end up with dark sister

[@adbenkunkus]

Daemon Blackfyre’ first last name was Waters, not Rivers, since he was born in King’s Landing, as was his mother, another Targaryen.

[@fishpastethe4th340]

LOL whar do you mean about danys dress? I thought it was cute on her 😂

[@mpalfadel2008]

Bloodraven has the blade way beyond the wall up north

[@Rizu-kc3ze]

I hope Bloodraven doesnt go out the way he did in the show. He is too precious a character , just like Tywin, to lose for the human side. The old man need not always die.

[@timdavis7239]

I think Bran gets a hold of dark sister once he leaves blood ravens cave and gives it to Arya instead of the cats paw dagger.

[@Kassiaterabbitslayer]

I think it foolish that everyone is obsessed over this sword and potentially what may happen to it. It 1 lore heavy sword and it potential for Dany as a sign of legitimacy is huge. However the same argument could be said for Jon, or Sansa. I don't think Arya will part with needle or see her trade it for valyerian steel sword. She has too much love for Jon and her sewing needles. Why would bloodraven give it away to bran when presumably bran is the next inherent to a much greater gift with weirwood network. I don't think the long night going be won the way many think in some epic battle. I think peace treaty is much more likely and the 2nd pact of the first men and white walkers will happen more likely to stay true to George's own anti war views. His conflict of human heart fighting itself.