The Resurgence of the White Walkers in Game of Thrones: Surviving the Most Recent Winters
With the return of the White Walkers, the realm of Westeros faces an unprecedented challenge. This article delves into the historical context and the ancient legends that predict how the people of Westeros might have survived the White Walkers in the past winters. Join us as we explore the myths and realities of this terrifying threat, and what it means for the future of the Seven Kingdoms.
A Lost Era and Azor Ahai's Sacrifice
For thousands of years, the White Walkers have remained dormant, a mere legend in the annals of Westerosi history. They were last seen during the time of the Long Night, a period marked by eternal darkness and untold suffering. According to ancient lore, the White Walkers were defeated by the combined efforts of humans and the Children of the Forest in a battle known as the Battle for Dawn.
The key figure in these legends is Azor Ahai, a legendary hero who is believed to have forged the first Valyrian steel sword with the power to defeat the White Walkers. This sword, known as Lightbringer, was said to be forged in literal lava over 40 days and took 40 more days to cool before it was plunged into Azor Ahai's wife's heart to complete its creation. This sacrifice opened the way to defeat the White Walkers, but at a heavy cost.
The Long Night and the Demons of Essos
During the Long Night, the White Walkers allied with various other creatures, including the Night King and his army of wight. However, their eventual defeat marked the beginning of a long period of peace in Westeros. Meanwhile, Essos was significantly more dangerous, with demons and other malevolent beings attacking the lands beyond the wall.
As a result, Westerosi were largely spared the brunt of the White Walker threat. The last time the White Walkers showed up, Westeros was not yet united, and even then, there was no coalition strong enough to face them. The conflict with demons in Essos was such that the inhabitants there were too preoccupied to assist.
Survival Strategies in Past Winters
Despite this, historical records suggest that certain heroes and groups played pivotal roles in keeping the White Walkers at bay. The Children of the Forest, with their ancient magic, formed part of the alliance that defeated the White Walkers. Their secrets and weapons were crucial in maintaining the balance against the nocturnal threat.
In the decades and centuries that followed, the inhabitants of Westeros gradually forgot about the White Walkers. They became characters in stories and songs, serving as a cautionary tale rather than a living memory. The existence of Azor Ahai and the Children of the Forest was passed down through generations, with legends like Old Nan's tales to Bran Stark emphasizing the importance of these figures.
The Present: White Walkers Re-emerge
The return of the White Walkers marks a dramatic shift in the fate of Westeros. This reopening of a long-forgotten chapter of history has profound implications for the world's regions and the human inhabitants. While many resist the notion that the White Walkers are real, the evidence of their return is undeniable.
Ned Stark's skepticism is understandable given the fearsome reputation of the White Walkers. It is uncertain if he will rally the lords of Westeros to prepare for the incoming apocalypse or if other heroes, entrusted with the destiny of humanity, will rise to meet the challenge. Some may call for the rekindling of ancient alliances, such as with dragons and the Children of the Forest, while others might wait for signs of the Prince that Was Promised, a mythic figure prophesied to defeat the White Walkers.
Only time will tell how the current generation of Westerosi will handle the impending threat. The past offers some clues, but the present and future remain uncertain and fraught.
Conclusion
Westeros has not faced the White Walkers for millennia, making this sudden resurgence doubly perilous and shocking. As the White Walkers loom over the horizon, the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. Whether through reawakened heroes, ancient relics, or prophesied saviors, the outcome of the battle against the White Walkers could determine the future of the Seven Kingdoms.