Did Varys Directly Influence Barristan to Join Daenerys?

The character of Barristan Selmy, along with his journey from Aegon the Sixth to the Unsullied to Daenerys Targaryen, represents a complex web of political maneuvering and intrigue within the richly detailed A Song of Ice and Fire books. When Barristan joined Daenerys, he brought about a significant change in the balance of power. The question of whether Varys, the notorious spymaster of King’s Landing, directly influenced this turning point has intrigued fans of the series.

The Arrival of Barristan at Qarth

Barristan’s arrival at Qarth in the company of Strong Belwas and alongside a fleet of ships from Illyrio Mopatis raises several questions. Although Barristan’s initial intention was to support Stannis Baratheon, the unexpected plot twist of his joining Daenerys Targaryen introduces a layer of complexity that requires deeper analysis.

The presence of Strong Belwas and the ships adds an interesting dimension to Barristan’s adventure, suggesting that he has significant resources at his disposal. The mention of Illyrio Mopatis, a character known for his far-reaching political connections and strategic moves, immediately draws parallels to none other than Varys. This curiosity alone hints at the intricate plot threads that connect these characters.

Illyrio Mopatis and His Connections

Illyrio Mopatis, who operates from Qarth, is described as working closely with Varys. Given this relationship, it is highly likely that Varys had a hand in arranging Barristan's journey and subsequent alliance with Daenerys. While the exact nature of their interactions remains ambiguous, the circumstantial evidence strongly suggests covert influence.

Indirect Persuasion and Strategic Maneuvering

Although Varys may not have directly instructed Barristan to switch sides, it is plausible that he indirectly shaped the circumstances leading to this decision. Varys, known for his exceptional ability to manipulate events behind the scenes, would not have missed an opportunity to exploit Barristan’s disillusionment with Stannis and his growing admiration for Daenerys.

Illyrio, as a key figure involved in both Stannis and Daenerys’ affairs, may have provided the catalyst for Barristan's change of allegiance. The knowledge of Stannis’ defeat and the revelation of Robert Baratheon’s will, which detailed his desire for Daenerys as his heir, could have influenced Barristan’s decision. Whether consciously or not, these events may have prompted Barristan to reconsider his loyalties and align himself with the Targaryen claimant.

The Politics of Westeros: A Broader Context

The broader context of the political landscape in Westeros further supports the idea that a more substantial hand was at play. The game of thrones is a fiercely competitive and often lethal contest, where loyalties shift constantly. Varys, with his vast network of informants and subtle manipulation, would not have been content with waiting for Barristan to make his own decision.

Barristan’s background as a renowned and trusted knight, coupled with his potential disillusionment with Stannis, makes him a valuable asset to any side. Varys strategically positioned himself to ensure that Barristan would find himself in a situation where his decision to join Daenerys seemed both logical and advantageous.

In conclusion, while the exact nature of Varys' involvement remains a subject of speculation, the evidence strongly suggests that he played a significant role in Barristan’s journey to Qarth and subsequent decision to join Daenerys Targaryen. The politics of A Song of Ice and Fire are intricate and ever-changing, and Varys’ influence on key events is a crucial element of this ongoing saga.