Euron Greyjoy and the Glass Candles

Euron Greyjoy and Urrathon Night-Walker: A Merging of Shadows in ASOIAF

In the vast universe of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire,” there are theories abound that delve into the hidden connections between characters. One such theory suggests that Euron Greyjoy, the enigmatic and menacing Lord of the Iron Islands, is in fact the mysterious Urrathon Night-Walker. This article explores the compelling evidence that supports this theory, drawing from various instances in the series.

The Singular Mention of Urrathon Night-Walker

Urrathon Night-Walker is a character shrouded in mystery, and even though the name is mentioned only once, in A Clash of Kings, this brief mention feels significant, as it is in the same book where Euron Greyjoy is first introduced. Coincidence? Could be, but allow us to explain further.

In the book, the character of Xaro makes mention of Urrathon Nightwalker to Dany. Telling her there is talk of glass candles lighting up in “the house of Urrathon Night-Walker.” He mentions these candles have not been lit in a hundred years.

These mystical artifacts are relics from Old Valyria, shaped entirely from dragonglass, tall and twisted, and they are said to burn with an unpleasantly consistent brightness to them. Their light “does strange things to colors (white becomes as bright as fresh fallen snow, yellow shines like gold, reds turns to flame, and shadows become so black that they look like holes in the world.” It is clear that these valuable objects denote the deep knowledge and extraordinary power of civilizations long gone.

In the following passage, it is hinted that the glass candles have come alive together with the birth of Dany’s dragons and the simultaneous resurgence of magic in the world:

Dany had laughed when he told her. “Was it not you who told me warlocks were no more than old soldiers, vainly boasting of forgotten deeds and lost  prowess?” Xaro looked troubled. “And so it was, then. But now? I am less certain. It is said that the glass candles are burning in the house of Urrathon Night-Walker, that have not burned in a hundred years. – Daenerys V, ACOK

Euron’s Presence Near Qarth

Euron Greyjoy is known to be near Qarth around the same time Urrathon Night-Walker is mentioned. This geographical proximity is crucial. Euron’s capture of a galleas from Qarth, along with warlocks and a cask of Shade-of-the-evening, places him directly in the vicinity of Urrathon Night-Walker. This coincidence is too striking to ignore, suggesting a possible connection between Euron and Urrathon.

Later, When Xaro visits Daenerys in Meereen, his words appear to corrobrate Euron’s presence in Qarth at the right time:

“Not all your enemies are in the Yellow City. Beware  men with cold hearts and blue lips. You had not been gone from Qarth a fortnight when Pyat Pree set out with three of his fellow warlocks, to seek for you in Pentos.” – Xaro (Daenerys III, ADWD)

The warlock (Pyat Pree) who set out to go after Dany to seek vengeance had the absolute worst luck to run in to (and be captured by) Euron about as soon as he set off with his cohorts. And later (in the Forsaken chapter of Winds) we learn that Euron had the man’s legs cut off and hanged from the rafters. By that time the man appears to have completely lost his mind, crying only “Pree! Pree!” as he swings from the rafters.

Shade-of-the-Evening

Another thing of note is that Euron has developed a significant taste for the warlock’s drink named shade-of-the-evening. As far as we know, the blue-leaved trees from which this drink is derived grow (far as we know) only in Qarth. Euron’s blue-colored lips signify heavy consumption of this dubious refreshment. But could that be solely from the cask he claims to have captured? Or does his preference for the drink go back further? If he has a house with glass candles in Qarth, it, in all likelyhood, stands to reason he’s been dabbling in the business of the dark arts (and dark potions) far longer than we might have been led to believe at first glance.

The Ironborn Connection

The name “Urrathon” is not common in the series, but it does appear in another context. It is the name of Urrathon Goodbrother, also known as “Badbrother,” a historical King of the Iron Islands. His story mirrors that of Euron in several ways, particularly in their spontaneous rise to power through a kingsmoot. This parallel between the historical figure and Euron Greyjoy lends weight to the theory that Euron could be masquerading as Urrathon Night-Walker. Given his story, it is not unthinkable to surmise that Euron adapted the moniker, if not only for shits and giggles.

Collection of Magical Artifacts (and Individuals)

Euron’s fascination with magical artifacts and practitioners further supports this theory. He possesses rare items like Valyrian steel armor, a (rather deadly) dragon-binding horn, and (potentially) a dragon egg. His collection of warlocks, a Red priest, a septon, and a Drowned Man, alongside his possible hiring of a Faceless Man, shows his deep involvement in the magical and mystical aspects of the world and his ironclad desires to achieve apoteosis. In order words, this a man that strives to become a god and seems to stop at nothing in doing so.

The Glass Candle: Visions and Dreams Made Easy

The glass candle, known for its ability to see across continents, send visions and appear in dreams, is a significant element in this theory. Euron’s appearances in the dreams of characters like Aeron Greyjoy and Daenerys Targaryen heavily suggest he might be using a glass candle to project himself into their dreams. The dreams are not only vivid but also contain elements that the dreamers could not have known, indicating external influence, likely Euron. When in possession of these artifacts, one would be able to extend influence and power across seas and faraway lands and even enter into the realm of dreams and visions.

Interestingly, fans have pointed out that Euron is described in ways that metaphorically resemble a glass candle – dark, tall, twisted. This symbolic description aligns with the physical attributes of the glass candles mentioned in the series. Glass candles are described in the same way with the addition of having “sharp edges” which suits Euron’s character as well. This parallel might indeed strengthen the theory that Euron is using a glass candle, possibly as Urrathon Night-Walker.

Conclusion

The theory that Euron Greyjoy is Urrathon Night-Walker is compelling if one takes into account the combination of geographical coincidences, collection of mystical artifacts, and symbolic descriptions that all seem to support this notion. Add to that the fact GRRM is known for his parallel narratives and it becomes less and less likely the Urrathon mention was just some throwaway line to be forgotten in the mists of the greater story. On the other hand, GRRM is no stranger to abandoning or redirecting plotlines, so I guess we shall have to wait (but not too long, hopefully) and see to find out.