Larys Strong

[FP1997]

Larys Strong

• Status: Lord Confessor
• Traits: Remorseless, power-hungry and perverted
• Famous quote: "When one is never invited to speak, one learns instead to... observe.”
• Family: Brother to Harwin Strong, Son of Lyonel Strong.

Larys Strong, often known as Larys Clubfoot due to his twisted foot, was a master of manipulation and intrigue during the latter part of King Viserys I Targaryen's reign and throughout the reign of Aegon II Targaryen. As the Lord of Harrenhal and the head of House Strong, Larys served as the master of whisperers and the Lord Confessor, wielding considerable influence from the shadows of the court.

Despite his physical disability, Larys' mind was sharp and cunning. He rarely spoke, preferring to listen and observe, which allowed him to gather valuable information and understand the intricate dynamics of the court. When he did choose to speak, his words carried significant weight, often revealing glib insights or crucial information.

When Larys was brought to the royal court by his father, Lord Lyonel Strong, who served as Hand of the King. Alongside his older brother, Ser Harwin Strong, and his two sisters, he was introduced to the political machinations of the Targaryen court. Larys joined the confessors of King Viserys I Targaryen, where he began to hone his skills in intelligence and subterfuge.

The Mysterious Fire at Harrenhal

In 120 AC, tragedy struck House Strong when both Lyonel and Harwin perished in a mysterious fire at Harrenhal. The cause of the fire was never conclusively determined, leading to widespread speculation. Some believed the fire was a result of the notorious curse of Black Harren, while others suggested more nefarious culprits, including Prince Daemon Targaryen, Lord Corlys Velaryon, King Viserys I, or even Larys himself. Regardless of the true cause, the deaths of his father and brother left Larys as the new Lord of Harrenhal, significantly increasing his power and influence.

Following the deaths of his father and brother, Larys ascended to the roles of Lord Confessor and master of whisperers on King Viserys I's small council. In these positions, he became a key player in the political landscape of the Targaryen court. His role as master of whisperers allowed him to gather and control crucial information, making him an invaluable asset to those who sought his counsel.

When King Viserys I died, the realm was plunged into chaos as factions formed around his successor. Larys aligned himself with the green faction, which supported Prince Aegon II Targaryen's claim to the throne over his older half-sister, Rhaenyra Targaryen. During the fateful meeting of the small council, Larys took a dramatic step by cutting his palm and having the male conspirators swear a blood oath to support Aegon II.

The Dance of the Dragons

As the Dance of the Dragons—a brutal civil war between the supporters of Aegon II and Rhaenyra—unfolded, Larys played a crucial yet enigmatic role. His true loyalties and motivations remain a matter of debate among historians. While he outwardly supported Aegon II, some suggest that his actions were driven more by a desire to avenge House Strong's tarnished honor, a consequence of Rhaenyra's affair with his brother, Harwin.

Larys's influence extended to Queen Alicent Hightower, Aegon II's mother. Their relationship was complex and unsettling, with Larys offering Alicent vital information about the spy network within the Red Keep, which included her lady-in-waiting, Talya. In return, he demanded disturbing sexual favors, taking advantage of Alicent's precarious position to satisfy his own perverse desires. This aspect of their relationship highlights the extent of Larys's manipulation and his ability to exploit weaknesses for his gain.

Who plays Larys Strong?

• Larys Strong is portrayed by Matthew Needham; a British actor known for his roles in Napoleon, Sandition and Endeavour. His role as Strong has recieved critical acclaim.