Difference between revisions of "Belwas"

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{{Character  
 
{{Character  
| Character_name         = Belwas
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| Character_name = [[File:Kingsguard.svg|50px|left]] Belwas [[File:Kingsguard.svg|50px|right]]
| image         = [[File:Strong_Belwas.jpg|250px|Strong Belwas by Amoka©]]
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| image = [[File:Strong Belwas.jpg|200px]]
| image_caption = Strong Belwas by [http://en.amokanet.ru/gallery/martin/martin.html Amoka©]
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| image_caption = Strong Belwas by Amok
 
| Alias = Strong Belwas<br>Belwas the Strong
 
| Alias = Strong Belwas<br>Belwas the Strong
 
| Title =
 
| Title =
 
| Allegiance = [[House Targaryen]]<br>[[Queensguard]]<br>[[Ruling council of Meereen]]
 
| Allegiance = [[House Targaryen]]<br>[[Queensguard]]<br>[[Ruling council of Meereen]]
 
| Race =
 
| Race =
| Culture = [[Meereen]]ees
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| Culture = [[Meereen]]ese
 
| Spouse =
 
| Spouse =
 
| Place_of_Birth =
 
| Place_of_Birth =
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| Place_of_Death =
 
| Place_of_Death =
 
| Date_of_Death =
 
| Date_of_Death =
| Books = [[A Clash of Kings]] (Appears)<br>[[A Storm of Swords]] (Appears)<br>[[A Dance with Dragons]] (Appears)
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| Books = ''[[A Clash of Kings]]'' (appears)<br>''[[A Storm of Swords]]'' (appears)<br>''[[A Feast for Crows]]'' (appendix)<br>''[[A Dance with Dragons]]'' (appears)
| coat-of-arms =
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| Coat-of-arms =
 
}}
 
}}
  
'''Belwas''', more commonly known as  '''Strong Belwas''', is a tanned [[eunuch]] colossus. His nickname Strong Belwas comes from the arenas of [[Meereen]] where he used to fight. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} He claims he never lost a fight and he allowed all his opponents to cut him once before they died.  
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'''Belwas''', commonly known as  '''Strong Belwas''', is a tanned [[eunuch]] colossus. His nickname comes from the [[fighting pits of Meereen]] where he used to fight.{{Ref|ACOK|63}} A former [[slave]],{{ref|ASOS|Appendix}} the [[pit fighter]] claims he never lost a fight and he allows his opponents to cut him once before they die.{{ref|ACOK|63}}
  
==Appearance==
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==Appearance and Character==
Belwas' skin is nut-brown. [[Daenerys Targaryen]] originally estimates Belwas to weigh 20 stones (127 kilograms/280 pounds). {{Ref|aCoK|63}} He has a gleaming bald head and the smooth cheeks of a [[eunuch]]. He leaves his upper torso mostly naked. Making visible pale old scars in his arms, chest, and belly. Daenerys considers his arms similar to tree-trunks, his chest huge, and his belly massive. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Belwas has 3 times the size of Daenerys. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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:''See also: [[:Category:Images of Belwas|Images of Belwas]]''
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Belwas's skin is nut-brown. He has gapped teeth, a gleaming bald head, the smooth cheeks of a [[eunuch]], a huge chest, a massive belly, and [[Daenerys Targaryen]] compares his arms to tree-trunks. Belwas is three times the size of Daenerys;{{Ref|ACOK|63}} she originally estimates Belwas to weigh twenty stone,{{Ref|ACOK|63}} and later fifteen stone.{{ref|ASOS|8}}
  
Later, Daenerys estimates Belwas to weigh 15 stones (95,25 kilograms/210 pounds). He wears baggy pants, a yellow silk bellyband and a tiny leather vest with iron studs. {{ref|ASoS|8}} He has gapped teeth, is bald and his arms and belly are huge. He is armed with a curved ''[[arakh]]'' and a small shield the size of a pie plate which he holds with his hand instead of strapped to his forearm like a knight. {{ref|ASoS|8}} {{Ref|aSoS|57}}
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Belwas wears baggy pants, a yellow silk bellyband and a tiny leather vest with iron studs.{{Ref|ASOS|8}} This leaves his upper torso mostly bare, making visible pale old scars in his arms, chest, and belly. He is armed with a curved ''[[arakh]]'' and a small shield the size of a pie plate, which he holds with his hand rather than strapped to his forearm like a [[knight]].{{Ref|ASOS|8}}
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Loud and boisterous, Belwas can be childlike.{{ref|ASOS|8}} He often slaps his belly.{{ref|ADWD|70}} The former slave greatly enjoys eating,{{ref|ASOS|8}}{{ref|ASOS|23}} especially [[horse]]meat{{ref|ADWD|52}} and onions with liver{{ref|ASOS|57}}{{ref|ADWD|70}} or plums.{{ref|ADWD|36}} He does not care for riding horses.{{ref|ADWD|52}}
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Strong Belwas claims to have never lost a fight. His signature move is to allow each opponent to cut him once, then to go on the offensive and kill them. He is proud of his scars, pointing that Daenerys can count them to find out how many opponents he has slain.{{Ref|ACOK|63}}{{Ref|ASOS|57}} He finds [[Dothraki]] "horse boys" to be amusing opponents.{{ref|ACOK|63}}
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
Belwas was a [[slavery|slave]], bred and trained in Meereen. {{ref|ASoS|8}} Belwas is a veteran pit-fighter, who earned a reputation at the [[fighting pits]] of [[Meereen]]. He claims to have never lost a fight. His signature move was to allow each opponent to cut him once, then to go on the offensive and kill them. He is proud of his scars. Pointing that you can count them and find out how many opponents he has slain. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} {{ref|ASoS|57}} He finds [[Dothraki]] "horse boys" to be amusing opponents. He clams to have killed many of them in the fighting pits, and their bells jingle while they die. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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[[File:Belwas by David Sondered FFG.jpg|thumb|300px|Strong Belwas by [https://davidsondered.deviantart.com/ David Sondered] © Fantasy Flight Games]]
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Belwas was a [[slavery|slave]] bred and trained in Meereen.{{Ref|ASOS|8}} He is a veteran [[pit fighter]] who earned a reputation at the [[fighting pits of Meereen]]. He clams to have killed many [[Dothraki]] in the [[fighting pits]], and that their bells jingle when they die.{{Ref|ACOK|63}}
  
Belwas was eventually sold away. From Meereen to [[Qohor]], and from there to Pentos. His latest owner was [[Illyrio Mopatis]], who he describes as a "fat man with sweet stink in his hair". He send Belwas across the sea to locate Daenerys for him. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Belwas remembers Illyrio weeping when news reached him of the recent death of [[Viserys Targaryen]]. He will later report this scene to Daenerys and Jorah. In reaction, Jorah wonders if Illyrio wept for Viserys, or because the death cancelled certain plans involving the claimant king. {{ref|ASoS|8}}
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Belwas was eventually sold from Meereen to [[Qohor]] and from there to [[Pentos]]. His latest owner is [[Illyrio Mopatis]], whom he describes as a "fat man with sweet stink in his hair".{{ref|ACOK|63}}  
  
 
==Recent Events==
 
==Recent Events==
===A Clash of Kings===
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===''A Clash of Kings''===
[[File:Strong Belwas TheMico.jpg|thumb|250px|Strong Belwas by The Mico©]]
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Accompanied by his aged squire [[Barristan Selmy|Arstan]], whom he names Whitebeard, Belwas is sent by Magister [[Illyrio Mopatis]] to protect [[Daenerys Targaryen]], whom he meets in [[Qarth]], and take her back to [[Pentos]]. He also tells Daenerys that he has three ships for her to travel in.{{Ref|ACOK|63}}
  
Illyrio assigned [[Barristan Selmy]] to serve Belwas in his mission. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} They were both told to locate Daenerys and return her to Pentos. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Illyrio hires three ships for their transportation: ''[[Saduleon]]'', ''[[Summer Sun]]'', and ''[[Joso's Prank]]''. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Selmy uses the alias "Arstan". But during their voyage, Belwas nicknames him "Whitebeard". {{Ref|aCoK|63}}  
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===''A Storm of Swords''===
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Belwas, one of Daenerys's [[Queensguard]],{{ref|ASOS|Appendix}} travels with the queen on the ship ''[[Balerion (ship)|Balerion]]'', during which he is served by Arstan. On the ship all he does is eat. Belwas informs Daenerys and Ser [[Jorah Mormont]] that Illyrio wept when news reached him of the death of [[Viserys Targaryen]]. Jorah wonders if Illyrio wept for Daenerys's brother, or because the death canceled certain plans involving the claimant king.{{Ref|ASOS|8}}
  
In [[Qarth]], [[Daenerys Targaryen]] visits the horseshoe-shaped harbor to negotiate with ship captains, She seeks transportation out of Qarth. When she and her escort leave the ship ''[[Quicksilver]]'', Belwas and Selmy start following her. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} At some point, [[Jorah Mormont]] notices two men following them and alerts the khaleesi. He leads Daenerys towards a brass-sellers' booth and lifts up a polished platter. The platter works as a mirror and allows her to see the figures behind her. Daenerys notices the "fat brown man" (Belwas) and the "older man with a staff" ([[Barristan Selmy]]). She whispers that they might mean no harm, as they could be merely ogling her. She privately wonders if they are after the lordship offered by [[Robert Baratheon]] to whoever kills her, or working for the local [[warlocks]]. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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Strong Belwas is one of Daenerys's bodyguards when she goes to purchase the [[Unsullied]] from the [[Good Masters]] of [[Astapor]] at the [[Plaza of Punishment]]. He uses his ''[[arakh]]'' during the [[fall of Astapor]] to Daenerys.{{Ref|ASOS|27}}
  
Daenerys haggles with the brass-seller and turns around to walk off, supposedly offended by his prices. She uses the move to take a direct look at the men following her. She has some doubts if the men are enemy agents, since they openly stare at her. She feels than only fools would give away their intentions in such manner. She decides, however, to head back to the location where [[Jhogo]] and [[Aggo]] are waiting. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Daenerys and Jorah walk away, with the brass-seller following them and continuing to negotiate for his platter. Belwas and Selmy continue to follow them. The old man tries to mask his surveillance, But Belwas has eyes only for the khaleesi. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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Belwas is with Daenerys when she treats with the commanders of the sellsword companies before [[Yunkai]]. When [[Prendahl na Ghezn]], one of the three captains of the [[Stormcrows]], insults Daenerys, Strong Belwas offers to cut out his tongue. Daenerys refuses, saying that he has her safe conduct.{{Ref|ASOS|42}}
  
An agent of the [[Sorrowful Men]] attempts to assassinate Daenerys, using a [[manticore]]. Selmy use his walking staff to hit the hand of Daenerys, and then drives its lower end into the ground. Jorah mistakes this for an offensive move, and attacks Belwas. He slams the brass platter on Belwas' head. Belwas retaliates and shoves Jorah off his feet. Belwas then unsheathes his [[arakh]], while Jorah unsheathes his longsword. The two men are about to duel. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Meanwhile, Selmy explains that he was merely trying to knock the manticore out of Daenerys' hand. Daenerys notices the manticore crushed under his stuff. Daenerys runs between Belwas and Jorah, ending their fight. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Daenerys later notices that the hard head of Belwas left the brass platter badly bent. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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[[File:Strong belwas featuring spoilers by sir heartsalot.jpg|thumb|300px|Strong Belwas defiles [[Oznak zo Pahl]]'s corpse at [[siege of Meereen|Meereen]]- by Sir-Heartsalot ©.]]
  
Selmy introduces himself as both "Arstan" and "Whitebeard". He mentions the name "Belwas", which causes Daenerys to ask "who is Belwas?". Belwas sheaths his arakh, and swaggers forward to introduce himself. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Daenerys asks Belwas for his purpose. He identifies [[Illyrio Mopatis]] as his current owner and employer. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} "Arstan" further claims to squire for Belwas. Though Jorah finds him a bit old to be a squire. Daenerys welcomes them both in her service. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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When Daenerys [[Siege of Meereen|besieges Meereen]], [[Oznak zo Pahl]] rides out of the city on a white charger with a fourteen foot lance, challenging the besiegers to send forth a champion. Daenerys decides that Belwas is perfect since she can easily spare him, his death as an ex-slave would not give Oznak prestige, and a defeat to an ex-slave would be an insult. Belwas wounds Oznak's horse in the duel, leading to a sword fight. Belwas allows himself to be wounded in the stomach before he kills Oznak, severs his head, and holds it up high for those in Meereen to see. The defenders of the city fire arrows, but Belwas is too far away. He squats to defecate towards the city, wipes himself on Oznak's cloak, loots the corpse, and kills the horse. Because Daenerys had lost her husband, Khal [[Drogo]], to a similar wound, she forces the reluctant Belwas to be treated for his wound by a Yunkish freeman known for his healing skills when he returns to camp.{{Ref|ASOS|57}} Arstan, Belwas's squire, reveals to Daenerys that he is actually Ser [[Barristan Selmy]], once a member of the [[Kingsguard]] of her father, King [[Aerys II Targaryen]].{{ref|ASOS|57}}
  
Belwas is amused to find Daenerys in the company of her Dothraki [[bloodrider]]. He brags about his previous victories over "horse boys". Aggo takes offense and unsheathes his arakh, challenging Belwas. Daenerys stops Aggo. But instructs Belwas to treat her people with respect, or her will leave her service sooner than expected and gain new scars in the process. The smile of Belwas fades to a confused scowl. Daenerys estimates that Belwas is not used to being threatened by girls who stand at 1/3 of his own size. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} She smiles at Belwas, to take some sting off her rebuke. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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Later in the siege, Strong Belwas, Barristan, Jorah, and twenty other men enter Meereen though the sewers to take the city. Some of the freedmen in the group are afraid of huge rats until Belwas bites one of them in two. When they enter the city, Belwas leads the group to the nearest of the [[fighting pits of Meereen|fighting pits]], where they raise the enslaved [[pit fighters]] to revolt, enabling Daenerys to take the city. Later, when Daenerys dismisses Jorah from her service, Belwas drags the knight out of her throne room.{{Ref|ASOS|71}}
  
Daenerys asks Belwas, "what would Magister Illyrio have of me?". Belwas gruffly replies that Illyrio wants [[dragon]]s and the girl who makes them, Daenerys herself. "Arstan" clarifies that they were told to locate Daenerys and bring her to Pentos. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} Daenerys points that she is not alone. She has three dragons, a [[khalasar]] with more that 100 people, [[horse]]s, and their goods. Belwas is quite confident that their three ships can transport all of them. {{Ref|aCoK|63}}
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===''A Dance with Dragons''===
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[[File:Mark Evans Belwas Dany.jpg|thumb|Belwas by Mark Evans © Fantasy Flight Games]]
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Belwas serves as a member of Daenerys's protectors, standing at her side when she holds court. A young noble wants Daenerys to punish slaves who rose up and killed his family, but the queen has already issued pardoned crimes committed during the [[siege of Meereen]]. Belwas stops the youth from attacking Daenerys.{{ref|ADWD|2}} When [[Ghael]], an envoy from Astapor, spits in Daenerys's face after she refuses to aid his city, Belwas slams Ghael to the ground, cracking his teeth.{{ref|ADWD|16}}
  
===A Storm of Swords===
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As a former pit fighter, Belwas is among those in favor of reopening the [[fighting pits of Meereen]].{{ref|ADWD|11}} When the pits are finally reopened, Belwas attends the competition at [[Daznak's Pit]] and provides commentary on the [[pit fighters]] to Daenerys. Belwas becomes ill after eating [[Poisoned locusts|honeyed locusts]] offered to Daenerys by [[Hizdahr zo Loraq]].{{Ref|ADWD|52}}{{Ref|ADWD|55}} Daenerys disappears from the arena with [[Drogon]].{{ref|ADWD|52}}
[[File:Strong belwas featuring spoilers by sir heartsalot.jpg|thumb|300px|[[Strong Belwas]] fights hero before  [[Meereen]]- by Sir-Heartsalot ©.]]
 
  
Belwas travels with [[Daenerys Targaryen]] in the ship, ''[[Balerion (ship)|Balerion]]'', where he is served by "Arstan". On the ship all he does is eat.{{ref|ASoS|8}} Belwas claims that Illyrio sent him to guard the khaleesi. Daenerys is not certain if this is the full extent of his instructions, but agrees that she needs guards. {{ref|ASoS|8}} The big man has earned [[freedmen|freedman]] status. It is left unclear whether he was granted this status by Illyrio or Daenerys. {{ref|ASoS|8}} Daenerys finds Belwas to be quite nimble for his size. {{ref|ASoS|8}}
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Belwas survives the [[poison]] due to his huge bulk,{{ref|ADWD|59}} although his strength and weight are somewhat sapped by the experience.{{ref|ADWD|70}} He is made part of the [[ruling council of Meereen]] instituted by Ser Barristan. As the city is surrounded by Daenerys's enemies, Barristan holds a war council wherein Belwas volunteers himself for a duel between champions. The other attendees favor a more traditional battle.{{Ref|ADWD|70}}
  
"Arstan" converses with Daenerys, offering some details on [[Aerys II Targaryen]] and [[Rhaegar Targaryen]]. When Belwas rises from his sleep, "Arstan" prepares to leave to attend to the needs of the eunuch. {{ref|ASoS|8}} Belwas roars that he is hungry, addressing  no one in particular. He demands food. Once he sees "Whitebeard" approaching him, he asks him to deliver food. {{ref|ASoS|8}} Jorah dismisses Belwas as a common "oaf" and finds the subservient role of "Arstan" suspicious. Daenerys also finds something "queer" in the role of "Arstan". {{ref|ASoS|8}} Daenerys contemplates that Jorah and "Arstan" have each saved her from a previous assassination. She wonders if Belwas will save her from the next one. She worries because of Belwas' childlike intellect and behavior. Finding that as a protector, the big man is rather inadequate. {{ref|ASoS|8}}  
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==Quotes by Belwas==
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{{Quote|Strong Belwas they name me in the [[fighting pits of Meereen]]. Never did I lose. I let each man cut me once, before I kill him. Count the cuts and you will know how many Strong Belwas has slain.{{Ref|ACOK|63}}|Belwas to [[Daenerys Targaryen]]}}
  
For a week, the ships of Daenerys were becalmed (unable to move due to lack of wind). They had to rely on using oars, but travelled in a painfully slow pace. When the wind returns, the crews cheer up. Belwas lets out a great bellow and performs a little dance. {{ref|ASoS|8}} At night, Jorah visits Daenerys at her cabin. He is still troubled with suspicions over the role and intentions of Belwas, "Arstan Whitebeard", and Illyrio Mopatis. Daenerys finds his thought patterns repetitive. He connects these men with the warnings about betrayals which Daenerys received from the [[Undying Ones]]. {{ref|ASoS|8}}
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{{quote|'''Jhiqui''': We would braid your hair and hang a [[bells (Dothraki)|bell]] in it, Strong Belwas, but you have no hair to braid.<br>
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'''Belwas''': Strong Belwas needs no tinkly bells. Strong Belwas needs liver and onions.{{ref|ASOS|57}}|[[Jhiqui]] and Belwas}}
  
Daenerys points to "Arstan" saving her life as evidence of his good intentions. Jorah suspects, however, that Belwas and "Arstan" were in league with the Sorrowful Man. The rescue, in his view, could be a ploy for them to win the trust of Daenerys. She laughs at this suggestion and expresses her trust for the two men. Jorah reminds her that these two work for Illyrio, not for her. {{ref|ASoS|8}} Jorah criticizes Daenerys for surrounding herself with men she does not really know. He points to the self-important eunuch as a prime example of this tendency. He warns Daenerys against trusting in liars and schemers. She counters that Belwas is neither, since he could not even scheme his way to breakfast. {{ref|ASoS|8}}
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{{Quote|Bad fighting, good dying. Strong Belwas hates it when they scream.{{Ref|ADWD|52}}|Belwas to [[Daenerys Targaryen]] after the [[Spotted Cat]] kills his opponent}}
  
Jorah points that if Daenerys finds Belwas suitable for service, they could sail for [[Meereen]] and acquire hundreds of pit-fighters there. Even better, they could sale towards [[Astapor]] and purchase [[Unsullied]]. {{ref|ASoS|8}} Jorah soon manages to convince Daenerys to change course for [[Slaver's Bay]]. But she wonders whether [[Groleo]], "Arstan", and Belwas will oppose this decision. Jorah points this will determine where their loyalties lie. {{ref|ASoS|8}}
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==Quotes about Belwas==
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{{quote|Strong Belwas could not scheme his way to breakfast.{{ref|ASOS|8}}|[[Daenerys Targaryen]] to [[Jorah Mormont]]}}
  
Balerion has found port near [[Astapor]]. Daenerys steps down from her litter. She finds Belwas seated on a piling, eating a "haunch" (leg and loin of an animal) of brown roasted meat. He seems quite happy and offers to share his food with the khaleesi. His grin makes evident the grease in his mouth. He is eating [[w:Dog|dog]] meat and recommends the good dogs available in Astapor. Daenerys thanks him for his kindness, but declines his offer. While she has eaten dog before, at the time her thoughts are preoccupied by the puppies of the Unsullied. She sweeps past Belwas and walks up the plank onto the deck of Balerion. {{ref|ASoS|23}}
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{{quote|He had once crossed [[known world|the world]] with Strong Belwas, and he knew he could rely on him, should all this come to swords.{{ref|ADWD|70}}|thoughts of [[Barristan Selmy]]}}
  
Daenerys enters Astapor to complete negotiations with the [[Good Masters]] of [[Astapor]], agreeing to purchase the available Unsullied. The slavers meeting her take care to always be attended by 2 to 6 body slaves, making a show of their social status. Daenerys does not wish to appear alone like a beggar. So she takes with her most of her entourage: [[Irri]], [[Jhiqui]], "[[Barristan Selmy|Whitebeard]]", Belwas, her [[bloodrider]]s ([[Aggo]], [[Jhogo]], [[Rakharo]]), and [[Jorah Mormont]]. Her group of 8 includes Belwas and all her available bodyguards, so her personal safety is never in question during the meeting. {{ref|ASoS|27}}  
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==References==
 +
{{References|2}}
  
The following day, Daenerys enters the city to complete the purchase. Daenerys rides [[the Silver]]. The mare is surrounded on all sides by the trusted followers of the Targaryen: Aggo walking in front of it, Belwas to its right, [[Missandei]] to its left, and Mormont right behind it.  Daenerys is dressed as a [[Dothraki]] and her entire [[khalasar]] follows her into the city.  {{ref|ASoS|27}} Daenerys has agreed to offer one of her dragons, [[Drogon]], to the Good Masters. She walks to the litter where the chained dragon waits. Belwas and Jorah escort her to the litter, again ensuring her safety.  {{ref|ASoS|27}} Daenerys receives the harpy's fingers, a nine lashed whip that symbolizes her ownership of the Unsullied. She soon uses it to whip [[Kraznys mo Nakloz]], the signal for her followers and dragons to start attacking. Belwas pulls out his arakh and charges against the Astapori. He takes part in the [[Sack of Astapor]]. {{ref|ASoS|27}}
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{{Queensguard of Daenerys}}
  
Daenerys and her forces march against the city of [[Yunkai]]. During the march, Aggo, Jhoho, and Rakharo take command of the "tiny" cavalry force available to their khaleesi. Serving more as captains than bodyguards. As a result, the responsibility of protecting Daenerys falls on the shoulders of Belwas and "Arstan". {{ref|ASoS|42}} Daenerys and Jorah look at the enemy forces from afar, estimating their numbers and composition. They then return to their camp. "Arstan" stands guard at the entrance of Daenerys' tent, while Belwas sits cross-legged on the nearby grass. Belwas eats [[w:Common fig|figs]] from a bowl. {{ref|ASoS|42}}
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[[Category:Characters from Meereen]]
 
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[[Category:Courtiers and followers of Daenerys Targaryen]]
Daenerys has arranged a meeting with the captains of the sellsword companies working for the Yunkai'i. The captains of the [[Stormcrows]] arrive first. Jorah escorts [[Daario Naharis]], [[Prendahl na Ghezn]], and [[Sallor]] to Daenerys' tent. Belwas still stands guard during the meeting. Prendahl insults Daenerys by calling her "a horselord's whore", in reference to her previous wedding to [[Drogo|Khal Drogo]]. He also threatens to breed Daenerys to his stallion. Belwas takes offense at the words of the sellsword captain and pulls out his arakh. He offers to cut out the tongue of Prendahl and to then give it to "the little queen". Daenerys holds him back, pointing that she promised safe conduct to all three of the enemy captains. {{ref|ASoS|42}}
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[[Category:Eunuchs]]
 
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[[Category:Members of the Kingsguard]]
As midnight approaches, Belwas still stands guard. Jorah suddenly arrives and bulls his way past the guard and into the tent. He reports that the Unsullied have captured an enemy sellsword, when the man attempted to sneak into their camp. He has already identified the man to be Daario. {{ref|ASoS|42}} Daario has come to offer his allegiance and that of the Stormcrows. Jorah warns Daenerys against trusting him. He is also against accepting the nominal allegiance of five hundred sellswords of uncertain loyalty. Daenerys is quite frustrated with his constant warnings against trusting any potential ally. She points out that Jorah daily comes to her with concerns about Belwas being a braggart and "Arstan" an assassin. She feels that to listen to him would result in isolating herself from the world, and relying solely on Jorah. Which she guesses is the actual purpose behind his words. {{ref|ASoS|42}}
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[[Category:Pit fighters]]
 
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[[Category:Ruling council of Meereen]]
Past midnight, Belwas and "Arstan" still stand guard. Daenerys has trouble sleeping and eventually invites "Arstan" to converse with her. {{ref|ASoS|42}} While they speak, the [[Battle of Yunkai]] takes place. "Arstan" is in the process of explaining the musical preferences of [[Robert Baratheon]], when Daenerys recognizes the soubd of approaching horses. Outside, Belwas shouts something. Daenerys recognizes his bellowing voice, though she fails to understand what Belwas is saying. The horsemen turn out to be led by Jorah, who arrives to report their victory at the Battle. {{ref|ASoS|42}} Two days later, the [[Wise Masters]] released a large number of slaves to Daenerys. [[Missandei]] explains to them that they owe their freedom to Daenerys. She then had to translate their new term for Daenerys: "Mhysa", Ghiscari for "Mother". The Targaryen mounts [[the Silver]] to greet the new arrivals. The new [[freedmen]] wish to approach Daenerys and her bodyguards fail to stop them. Belwas grunts and growls in dismay while trying to hold back the crowd. {{ref|ASoS|42}}
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[[Category:Slaves and freedmen]]
 
 
During the [[Siege of Meereen]], defender [[Oznak zo Pahl]] issues a challenge to the besieging forces. He calls for them to send a champion to meet him in single combat. Daenerys and Jorah are both in favor of simply ignoring the challenge, until "Arstan" points out that this is matter of morale. As long as the challenge goes unanswered, the besieged population of Meereen will feel confidence in their own combat prowess. While their own forces will start doubting their chances of victory. While Aggo, Jhogo, Rakharo, and Daario all volunteer to face Oznak, Daenerys decides to summon Belwas and offer him this task. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Belwas is located at the shade of Daenerys' pavilion, while eating a [[w:Sausage|sausage]]. Informed of his new task, Belwas seems quite calm. He quickly finishes his meal, and wipes the grease from his hands on his trousers. He instructs "Arstan" to fetch his weapons. Belwas' arakh is in good condition, having been sharpened and oiled every day by "Arstan". Belwas squints at his blade, then places it within its leather sheath. He finally ties his swordbelt around his waist and grasps his shield with his left hand. The shield is made of steel, round in shape, and in size similar to a pie plate. Daenerys notices that Belwas keeps holding his shield, instead of strapping it to his forearm. The latter method is more frequently used by Westerosi fighters, and Daenerys assumes that Belwas is unfamiliar with it. {{ref|ASoS|57}} Belwas instructs "Arstan" to find some [[w:Liver (food)|liver]] and [[w:Onion|onions]] for him. He explains that he will need them after the fight, as "killing" always makes him hungry. He is quite confident that he will win this fight. He then leaves the camp to face Oznak. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Rakharo questions the wisdom of sending Belwas out there to fight. In his view, the man is fat and stupid. Daenerys points out that Belwas is a former slave from the fighting pits of Meereen. If one of their own former slaves defeats a Meereenese nobleman, the event would humiliate the [[Great Masters]]. If the former slave is instead killed in combat, Oznak would not gain much prestige. Defeating someone considered inferior would earn him no honor in the eyes of his peers. {{ref|ASoS|57}} Privately, Daenerys has further reasons for choosing Belwas. First, he is expendable. She is quite aware that she could instead have sent out out someone else among her current subordinates: Jorah Mormont, Daario Naharis, [[Ben Plumm|Brown Ben Plumm]], Aggo, Jhogo, and Rakharo. But she considers them all too valuable to loose. These are the men who she trusts to lead troops, plan battles, and give her counsel. Belwas can not be trusted with any of these tasks. In her experience with him, all that Belwas does is eat, boast, and bellow at "Arstan". Second, she is still uncertain of his value as a protector. This is one way to assess the man. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
As Belwas plods his way towards his opponent, shouts and jeers can be heard from within the walls of [[Meereen]]. Oznak mounts his horse, arms himself with a lance, and waits for his opponent to approach. He then lowers his lance and charges. Belwas stops with his legs spread wide, the arakh in his right hand, and the shield in his left hand. Daenerys realizes too late that her champion is not wearing any armor. She states out loud that they should have given him chainmail to wear. Jorah disagrees, as the armor would onl slow him down. As a former pit fighter, Belwas should be used to fighting without armor. {{ref|ASoS|57}} As Oznak charges, Belwas stands his ground. Daenerys notes the lack of expression in his face, as if the eunuch is made of stone. When Oznak aims for Belwas' chest, Belwas spins sideways and evades the lance. He makes no offensive move of his own. Jorah realizes that Belwas is giving the crowds a show, using showmanship skills honed at the fighting pits. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Oznak charges his opponent for a second time, and Belwas simply spins and knocks the point of the lance aside. The booming laughter of Belwas echoes across the plain. Jorah realizes that Oznak's lance is too long and cumbersome. The 14-foot (4,27 meters) lance is simply impractical. He also notes a flaw in the strategy of the nobleman. He is determined to pierce Belwas with the lance, forgetting that he could simply trample the man with his horse. As long as Belwas manages to avoid the point of the lance, he remains safe. Daenerys herself notes that Oznak's moves are reminiscent of Westerosi jousting, while a Dothraki would have already attempted to ride down his foe. The flat level ground allows the horse of Oznak to build speed, but also also Belwas to move without losing his balance. {{ref|ASoS|57}} Oznak charges for a third time. When Belwas starts to dodge as expected, Oznak swings his lance sideways. He had expected, however, that Belwas would spin sideways as before. Instead, Belwas drops down and the lance passes harmlessly over his head. Belwas starts rolling on the ground, using the arakh to slash the legs of Oznak's horse. The wounded horse falls and Oznak tumbles from the saddle. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Oznak manages to stand up and pull out his sword. Oznak and Belwas meet each other in a sword duel, with fast and furious blows. Belwas allows his opponent to wound him, with a slice right below his breasts. At the same time he plants his arakh on the head of his opponent, right between the "ram's horns" formations of Oznak's hairstyle. Belwas easily wrenches his blade loose, and proceeds to decapitate his opponent with three blows to the neck. He picks up the severed head and holds it up high, demonstrating it to the besieged population of Meereen. He finally flings the head towards the city gates. {{ref|ASoS|57}} The defenders at the walls start firing their crossbows, attempting to wound or kill Belwas. Their arrows fall short of their target. Belwas turns his back to this raid of arrows, lowers his trousers, squats, and defecates in the direction of the city. He wipes himself with the cloak of Oznak. He takes his time to loot the corpse of Oznak, and to euthanize the wounded horse. He then returns to Daenerys' camp. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
The besiegers welcome Belwas back in their ranks. The Dothaki hoot and scream, the Unsullied bang their spears against their shields. Both moves intended to honor the victor of the duel. Jorah congratulates Belwas on a job well done. Ben Plumm tosses Belwas a ripe [[w:Plum|plum]], and proclaims: "a sweet fruit for a sweet fight". [[Jhiqui]] praises Belwas, claiming it is a pity that Belwas has no hair. Else, she and her fellow handmaidens would braid his hair and hang a bell in it. {{ref|ASoS|57}} Belwas answers that he needs no "tinkly bells". He eats the plum offered at him, and then asks for his liver and onions. Daenerys assures that he will have his food. But she is concerned with the wound below his breasts. It has continued to bleed since the duel, covering his stomach in blood. Belwas is quite dismissive of her concern, pointing that his many scars resulted from previous cuts on his flesh. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Daenerys insists on getting him medical treatment, having lost Khal Drogo to a similar wound which got infected. She sends Missandei to locate a healer. The man, unnamed in the text, is a Yunkish freedman "renowned for his skill in the healing arts". Belwas howls and complains, reluctant to be treated. Daenerys scolds him and calls him out for acting like a big bald baby. Belwas finally agrees to be treated. The healer first uses vinegar to stanch the wound. He then sews it shut and binds Belwas' chest with strips of linen soaked in fire wine. Daenerys stands nearby during the process and leaves once it ends. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Daenerys later called for Missandei to have the Silver and the girl's own horse saddled, in preparation for a visit to the camps. She decides to use "Arstan" as her bodyguard for this visit, finding that Belwas talks too much. {{ref|ASoS|57}} After "Arstan" rescues the khaleesi from an assassination attempt, Daenerys asks Jorah to knight "Arstan". Both men refuse and "Arstan" is forced to admit that has already been knighted. He claims to have told the truth about squiring [[Manfred Swann]]. He also told the truth about serving Illyrio Mopatis and Belwas. But in between these two periods, he was a knight in [[Westeros]]. He avoided direct lies, but withheld truths. He also did not lie when he claimed that people call him "Arstan". Many people have called him by this alias, during his travels with Belwas. He never caimed it was his true name. Jorah finally recognizes that "Arstan" is Barristan Selmy. {{ref|ASoS|57}}
 
 
 
Strong Belwas, Ser [[Barristan Selmy]], Ser [[Jorah Mormont]] and twenty other men enter Meereen though the sewers to take the city. These "sewer rats", as Jorah calls their group, are a mixed force of sellswords, Unsullied, and freedmen. A few of the freedmen are scared of the actual [[w:Rat|rats]] in the sewers, which have grown to a huge size. Belwas catches a huge rat and bites it, severing its body to two pieces with his skin. He thus demonstrates to his fellows that they can face the rats with no problems. {{ref|ASoS|71}} Once the "sewer rats" find their way to the surface, Belwas leads them to the nearest fighting pit. The small group is able to surprise the guards and free the slaves from their chains. Securing help from the present pit fighters. Within an hour, half the fighting slaves in Meereen had revolted. Enabling Daenerys to take the city. {{ref|ASoS|71}}
 
 
 
With Meereen fallen, Daenerys chose [[the Great Pyramid]] as her new seat. Daenerys gives orders, for someone to instruct Belwas to fetch her two knights (Jorah Mormont, Barristan Selmy). Belwas soon marches through the doors of her [[Audience chamber (Great Pyramid)|audience chamber]], each of his hands wrapped around the arm of a knight. Daenerys notes that Belwas is puffing, evidence that climbing the stairs of the Pyramid tires him. {{Ref|aSoS|71}} All three men halt before the ebony bench of the queen. Belwas then steps back, and stands with his arms crossed across his chest. {{Ref|aSoS|71}}
 
 
 
In this meeting, Selmy proclaims his conviction that Daenerys is the "trueborn heir of Westeros". He offers to serve her to the end of his days. As a knight, if she grants him permission to bear a sword. As a squire to Belwas, if Daenerys wishes him to remain unarmed. Daenerys points that she could also appoint him as her "fool" ([[w:Jester|jester]]), or her cook. Selmy is willing to accept either position, and points out that he already knows how to cook. Daenerys is finally convinced of his loyalty. {{Ref|aSoS|71}} On the other hand, Jorah fails to convince her of his loyalty. She banishes him from Meereen. She gives him time until dawn to leave the city with his property. If he fails to obey and remains within the walls, she will have Belwas twist his head off. {{Ref|aSoS|71}} She then instructs Belwas to remove the "liar" from her sight. Belwas seizes Jorah by the arm and drags him out of the audience chamber. {{Ref|aSoS|71}}
 
 
 
===A Dance with Dragons===
 
 
 
In Meereen, the [[Sons of the Harpy]] start a campaign of assassinations. [[Skahaz mo Kandaq]] points out that the enemies of Daenerys are already known. He lists a number of old slaving families which are seen as hostile to the new regime. Among them is the [[House of Pahl]]. Daenerys herself considers the death of [[Oznak zo Pahl]] at the hands of Belwas to be a primary reason of the "blood" between her and this House. {{Ref|aDwD|2}}
 
 
 
Daenerys holds court at the [[Audience chamber (Great Pyramid)|Hall]] of [[the Great Pyramid]]. Belwas stands nearby as her protector. {{Ref|aDwD|2}} A young Meereenese boy demands justice from the Queen. During the fall of Meereen to her forces, two of the household slaves of his family rose up in revolt. They killed his father and elder brother, raped and killed his mother, and scarred his own face. One of the killers claimed his family house for his own, the other has joined the [[Mother's Men]]. The boy wants them both executed for their crimes. Daenerys denies his request, as she has already declared a "blanket pardon" for all crimes committed during the Sack of Meereen. The boy then rushes at Daenerys, attempting to assault her. He tangles his feet at his own [[tokar]] and falls to the floor. Belwas instantly grasps him with one of his hands, and yanks him up with minimal effort. Belwas shakes him around, in a movement which reminds Daenerys of a mastiff shaking a rat. She calls on Belwas to release the boy. Then she allows the boy to walk away, since his attempt failed. Noticing the boy's eyes, she is painfully aware that she has created another enemy. Another Son for the Harpy. {{Ref|aDwD|2}}
 
 
 
Belwas, [[Galazza Galare]], [[Reznak mo Reznak]], and [[Skahaz mo Kandaq]] are all in favor of the petition to re-open the [[fighting pits]], though each for his own reasons. Belwas remembers his time as a champion, and offers Daenerys a simple advise concerning the pit fighters: "Let them fight". {{Ref|aDwD|11}}
 
 
 
Daenerys again holds court at the Hall, and Belwas again stands nearby as her protector. The first petitioner of the day is [[Ghael]], an envoy from [[Astapor]]. He requests military assistance for his city, which is currently threatened by the forces of [[Yunkai]]. When Daenerys refuses to aid Astapor, Ghael accuses her of sentencing the Astapori to death. The same population to which she once offered freedom. Ghael then spits on her face. Belwas seizes the envoy by the shoulder, and then slams him down on the marble floor. He uses sufficient force to break several of Ghael's teeth. As Ghael is transported out of the Hall, the man leaves behind him a trail of broken teeth and blood. {{Ref|aDwD|16}}
 
 
 
[[Xaro Xhoan Daxos]] has offered 13 galleys to Daenerys, sufficient to transport at least part of her forces to [[Westeros]]. She seriously considers the proposal. At afternoon, Daenerys summons a council, meeting with representatives of her various supporters. Belwas stands right behind her with his arms crossed. He seems to be there to defend Daenerys from any threat. {{Ref|aDwD|16}}
 
 
 
[[Daario Naharis]] and the [[Stormcrows]] return to the city. Daario reports that a number of enemy mercenaries defected to their side. Among them is an axeman from the [[Basilisk Isles]], a brute bigger than Belwas. {{Ref|aDwD|36}} When Daario reports that [[Ben Plumm | Brown Ben Plumm]] and the [[Second Sons]] have defected to the enemy, the gathered courtiers react in various ways. Belwas thumps his scarred belly with his fist. He swears to eat the heart of Brown Ben with [[w:Plum|plums]] and [[w:Onion|onions]]. {{Ref|aDwD|36}}
 
 
 
A number of Westerosi mercenaries have recently defected from the [[Windblown]] to the Stormcrows. Daario wants to introduce them to Daenerys. The queen notices that "Greenguts" ([[Archibald Yronwood]]) has arms thick enough to rival Belwas. {{Ref|aDwD|43}} The following day, the wedding of Daenerys and [[Hizdahr zo Loraq]] takes place. Belwas waits for the bride at the [[Base (Great Pyramid)|Base]] of the Great Pyramid, eating [[w:Grape|grapes]]. {{Ref|aDwD|43}} Daenerys’s wedding procession forms up inside the gates. When they are ready to depart, Belwas bellows for the gates to be opened. It is unclear whether he himself is part of the procession, or just sees them depart. {{Ref|aDwD|43}}
 
 
 
Games are held to celebrate the re-opening of the [[fighting pits]]. Daenerys prepares to leave the Great Pyramid and attend the games, escorted by a guard consisting of [[Brazen Beasts]]. [[Barristan Selmy]] expresses his concerns about the lack of experience and doubtful loyalty of the Beasts. He would have preferred an escort guard consisting of [[Unsullied]], who he considers more reliable. Daenerys reminds him that both Selmy himself and Belwas will be there to protect her. Selmy still has doubts if they can provide sufficient security to their queen. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Selmy transfers a message from [[Meris|Pretty Meris]] to the queen. According to her words, the [[Tattered Prince]] is willing to switch sides in the conflict. For a price. He seeks an alliance with Daenerys against the city of [[Pentos]]. Daenerys turns down the offer, since she already has an ally in Pentos: [[Illyrio Mopatis]]. She feels obligated to Illyrio, since he was the one who secured the services of Selmy, Belwas, and [[Groleo]] for her. {{Ref|aDwD|52}}
 
 
 
The royal procession crosses the streets of Meereen. Belwas walks in front of the Brazen Beasts. Daenerys notes that Belwas has no love for horses, which is the reason the eunnuch chose to walk instead of ride towards [[Daznak's Pit]]. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Two towering statues stand at the gates of Daznak's Pit, depicting warriors locked in mortal combat. As Daenerys and Hizdahr pass beneath the statues, Belwas and Selmy position themselves at either side of the royal couple. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Hizdahr has prepared a box (small separated area) for himself, his wife, and their escort. Food and drinks are available to them. Belwas takes special note of a big bowl of [[Poisoned locusts|honeyed locusts]]. He seizes the bowl and begins to eat them by the handful. {{Ref|aDwD|52}}
 
 
 
While Belwas eats, Hizdahr comments that the locusts are very tasty. He suggests that Daenerys should try a few for herself. In his words, the combination of spice and honey used to prepare them, makes them both sweet and hot. Daenerys turns down his offer, in favor of eating figs and dates. She notices that Belwas is sweating, which she attributes to the effects of eating the locusts. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Hizdahr opinionates that [[Khrazz]] is the best pit fighter ever. Belwas protests that he was better in his prime. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} The [[Spotted Cat]] faces an obscure opponent. Daenerys notes that this pit fighter has a height similar to [[Goghor the Giant]] and a breadth similar to Belwas. But she also notes that his movements are slow, which turns into a fatal flaw when facing the agile Cat. She is not surprised when the Cat kills his opponent with relative ease. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} By the time Cat finishes his opponent, Belwas has finished all the honeyed locusts. Belwas comments that the unnamed man fought badly but was better in death. He died without screaming, and Belwas claims that he hates it when the dying scream. He then belches and takes a swig of [[wine]]. {{Ref|aDwD|52}}
 
 
 
Among other types of [[w:Blood sport|blood sport]], the games include instances of animal fighting. Hizdahr points out that the carcasses of the animals are not wasted. They are taken by butchers and added to [[w:Stew|stew]], which is available to the hungry masses of the city. Anyone can ask for a bowl of stew at the Gates of Fate. A later fight involves fighters equipped similar to Westerosi knights against horsemen equipped similar to the [[Dothraki]]. All horses and horsemen are killed. Daenerys jokingly asks whether these "carcasses" will also be added to the stew. Hizdahr answers that the horses will indeed be added to the stew, but not the corpses of their riders. Belwas seems pleased at the availability of horsemeat. He insists that [[w:Horse meat| horsemeat]] and onion have nutritional value, making a person strong and healthy. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} <ref> Horse meat indeed has nutritional value. It has high levels of protein (21% of its contents), nearly identical to the levels found in [[w:Beef|beef]] and [[w:Pork|pork]]. While at the same having lower levels of fat (6% vs. 14-16&). See more details in [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2882581/ Nutritional characteristics of horsemeat in comparison with those of beef and pork]. Onions (and garlic) contain allicin, a chemical compound useful in decreasing blood pressure. Allicin also has recognized antibacterial and antiviral properties. </ref>
 
 
 
The games also include a comical number, featuring a pair of jousting dwarfs ([[Tyrion Lannister]] and [[Penny]]). Belwas finds their antics amusing. His snorting laughter can be heard throughout the box. On the other hand, Daenerys is nor particularly amused. She can only master a forced smile. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} The dwarfs are followed by the next performance, featuring [[Barsena Blackhair]]. Hizdahr considers Barsena to be the bravest woman known to him. Belwas has heard that Barsena earned her reputation by fighting other women. He comments that fighting girls is not a particularly brave activity. He brags that Barsena should fight him to prove her courage. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Barsena faces a [[w:Wild boar|wild boar]]. Selmy doubts her chances to succeed as Barsena is equipped with a sword, while she really needs a spear. Barsena indeed looses her duel with the boar and is mortally wounded. As Barsena screams in pain, Daenerys poignantly asks Belwas whether this desperate fight was brave enough for him. Belwas admits that fighting pigs is a brave deed. But loud screaming is not equally brave. He complains that the scream caused pain in his own ears. He starts rubbing his swollen stomach. He complains about feeling "sick in his belly", though he considers this to be another side-effect of the scream. {{Ref|aDwD|52}}
 
 
 
Barsena is either dying or already dead, when [[Irri]] and [[Jhiqui]] start arguing. The two handmaidens argue about who will win in the upcoming duel between [[Belaquo Bonebreaker]] and [[Goghor the Giant]]. Daenerys momentarily turns her attention to the two arguing women. But then returns her attention to Belwas, who has a "queasy" (nauseated) look on his face. He admits to eating too many locusts and asks for milk. Hizdahr ignores him and his request. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} [[Drogon]] flies above the pit and most eyes turn skyward. Meanwhile, Belwas moans. He then stumbles from his seat and falls to his knees. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Drogon starts feasting on the corpses of both Barsena and the boar. Meanwhile, Belwas vomits noisily. Daenerys turns her attention to Hizdahr, who has a strange facial expression. She seems to recognize a mix of emotions in this expression: fear, lust, and rapture. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Daenerys leaves the safety of the box and enters the pit, intent on facing Drogon. Meanwhile, Belwas is still vomiting. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} Selmy later recalls Belwas on his knees. The eunuch vomiting [[w:Bile|bile]] and blood. The scene is repeatedly featured in the dreams of Selmy. {{Ref|aDwD|55}}
 
 
 
Daenerys faces Drogon in the pit. The dragon flies away with the queen. Following Daenerys' disappearance, Hizdahr becomes the sole ruler of Meereen. Several loyalists of the queen refuse to serve him. Others are dismissed from service. Belwas lingers at death's door. {{Ref|aDwD|52}} {{Ref|aDwD|55}} Belwas has been transferred to the [[Temple of the Graces]], where he receives treatment from the [[Blue Graces]]. Barristan Selmy half suspects that they are finishing the job those honeyed locusts had begun. In other words, he suspects them of trying to kill Belwas instead of healing him. {{Ref|aDwD|55}}
 
 
 
Skahaz and Selmy have a secret meeting by the stables of the Great Pyramid. Skahaz claims to have already captured the poisoner, the man behind the poisoned locusts. The man served as the confectioner of Hizdahr. The [[Sons of the Harpy]] had abducted this man's daughter and blackmailed him, exchanging the life of Daenerys for that of the missing girl. Once the locusts failed to kill Daenerys, the remains of the daughter were returned to the poisoner. Skahaz points that the plot failed due to Belwas and Drogon, who both unwittingly saved Daenerys' life. {{Ref|aDwD|55}}
 
 
 
Belwas continues to suffer from the effects of the poisoning. The [[Blue Graces]] claim that only his size and freakish strength were able to save him, so far. His continued survival is still uncertain. {{Ref|aDwD|59}} Selmy reports the poisoning plot to [[Quentyn Martell]]. He clarifies that it was only by chance that Belwas got poisoned instead of Daenerys. He also reports on the current health status of Belwas. Quentyn seems genuinely shocked. Selmy next warns Quentyn that he can be accused of being behind this plot, a convenient scapegoat. Quentyn pales in response. Selmy mentally notes that either the young man is innocent and completely unaware of the poisoning plot, or Quentyn is a "master mummer". {{Ref|aDwD|59}} Later, Selmy confronts Hizdahr about the poisoned locusts. According to Hizdahr, Reznak holds the Dornishmen responsible for this plot. He has no proof on the matter. But claims the [[Dornishmen| Dornish]] are all poisoners who worship snakes. {{ref|aDwD|67}} Selmy points out that [[Daznak's Pit]] belongs to Hizdahr. He was the one who provided the box and their seats. He was the one who had provided their food and drinks, including the locusts. He provided everything, and urged Daenerys to taste the locusts. But never tasted a single locust himself. Hizdahr claims that he simply doesn't like hot spices. But fails to convince Selmy. {{ref|aDwD|67}} Hizdahr points at another suspect for the poisoning. [[Daario Naharis]], the jilted lover of Daenerys. He suggests that Daario could have attempted to murder both Daenerys and Hizdahr himself. He again fails to convince Selmy. Who is certain that Daario is a killer, but not a poisoner. {{ref|aDwD|67}}
 
 
 
Selmy deposes Hizdahr in a coup d'état. Following the successful coup, Selmy serves as [[Hand of the King|Hand of the Queen]]. A new [[ruling council of Meereen]] is formed and Belwas serves as a seated member. His near-death experience has marked him. Belwas has lost 2 stones of weight (12,70 kilograms/28 pounds). His skin hangs on him in loose folds, sagging and wobbling. To Selmy it seems as if Belwas wears a robe three times his current size. Belwas' step is slow and uncertain. {{Ref|aDwD|70}} Selmy is, however, glad to see his old companion. Having crossed much of the world with Belwas at his side, Selmy feels that he can trust the other man. He feels that he can rely on Belwas, more so than he can rely on the other council members. He keeps his thoughts to himself, but vocally welcomes Belwas. {{Ref|aDwD|70}}
 
  
Belwas greets "Whitebeard", as he continues to call Selmy. He smiles at his old companion, then asks for liver and onions. He is aware that he is not as strong as before. He wants to eat and to recover his strength and size. He is also eager for revenge. He knows that someone is responsible for poisoning him. And someone must die for this act. Selmy just asks him to take a seat. In his thoughts, the knight is certain that someone will die for the poisoning plot. Probably many "someones". {{Ref|aDwD|70}} Belwas seats and crosses his arms. Selmy informs his fellow members that [[Galazza Galare]] has been send to negotiate with the Yunkishmen. Selmy expects her to return by the noon of this day. Several council members expect the mission to fail. Selmy proclaims that he is ready to serve "fire and blood" to the enemy. In response, Belwas slaps his belly and comments that this is better than liver and onions. The council proceeds to discuss war plans. {{Ref|aDwD|70}}
+
[[es:Belwas]]
 
+
[[fr:Belwas]]
The [[Spotted Cat]] suggests challenging the enemy to decide the war in single combat between champion fighters. Volunteering to serve as Meereen's champion. Belwas supports this proposal, though he wants the role of champion for himself. The proposal does not seem to win the support of any other council member. Most of them are prepared for a regular battle between armies and suggest appropriate tactics. {{Ref|aDwD|70}} Somewhere in the [[Dothraki Sea]], Daenerys contemplates Belwas and the poisoned locusts. Wondering who was behind this plot. She variously suspects Hizdahr, Reznak, the Yunkai'i, and the Sons of the Harpy. {{ref|aDwD|71}}
+
[[ru:Бельвас]]
 
+
[[zh:贝沃斯]]
==Quotes==
 
{{Quote|I let each man cut me once, before I kill him. Count the cuts and you will know how many Strong Belwas has slain. {{Ref|aCoK|63}} }}
 
 
 
{{Quote|Bad fighting, good dying. Strong Belwas hates it when they scream. {{Ref|aDwD|52}}}}
 
 
 
==References and Notes==
 
{{references|3}}
 
 
 
[[Category:Slaves and freedmen]]
 
[[Category:Smallfolk]]
 
[[Category:Characters from the Free Cities]]
 
[[Category:Courtiers and followers of Daenerys]]
 
[[Category:Ruling council of Meereen]]
 
[[fr:Belwas]][[zh:贝沃斯]]
 

Revision as of 18:33, 21 February 2020

Kingsguard.svg
Belwas
Kingsguard.svg
200px
Strong Belwas by Amok

Aliases
  • Strong Belwas
  • Belwas the Strong
Allegiances
Culture Meereenese
Books

Belwas, commonly known as Strong Belwas, is a tanned eunuch colossus. His nickname comes from the fighting pits of Meereen where he used to fight.[1] A former slave,[2] the pit fighter claims he never lost a fight and he allows his opponents to cut him once before they die.[1]

Appearance and Character

See also: Images of Belwas

Belwas's skin is nut-brown. He has gapped teeth, a gleaming bald head, the smooth cheeks of a eunuch, a huge chest, a massive belly, and Daenerys Targaryen compares his arms to tree-trunks. Belwas is three times the size of Daenerys;[1] she originally estimates Belwas to weigh twenty stone,[1] and later fifteen stone.[3]

Belwas wears baggy pants, a yellow silk bellyband and a tiny leather vest with iron studs.[3] This leaves his upper torso mostly bare, making visible pale old scars in his arms, chest, and belly. He is armed with a curved arakh and a small shield the size of a pie plate, which he holds with his hand rather than strapped to his forearm like a knight.[3]

Loud and boisterous, Belwas can be childlike.[3] He often slaps his belly.[4] The former slave greatly enjoys eating,[3][5] especially horsemeat[6] and onions with liver[7][4] or plums.[8] He does not care for riding horses.[6]

Strong Belwas claims to have never lost a fight. His signature move is to allow each opponent to cut him once, then to go on the offensive and kill them. He is proud of his scars, pointing that Daenerys can count them to find out how many opponents he has slain.[1][7] He finds Dothraki "horse boys" to be amusing opponents.[1]

History

Strong Belwas by David Sondered © Fantasy Flight Games

Belwas was a slave bred and trained in Meereen.[3] He is a veteran pit fighter who earned a reputation at the fighting pits of Meereen. He clams to have killed many Dothraki in the fighting pits, and that their bells jingle when they die.[1]

Belwas was eventually sold from Meereen to Qohor and from there to Pentos. His latest owner is Illyrio Mopatis, whom he describes as a "fat man with sweet stink in his hair".[1]

Recent Events

A Clash of Kings

Accompanied by his aged squire Arstan, whom he names Whitebeard, Belwas is sent by Magister Illyrio Mopatis to protect Daenerys Targaryen, whom he meets in Qarth, and take her back to Pentos. He also tells Daenerys that he has three ships for her to travel in.[1]

A Storm of Swords

Belwas, one of Daenerys's Queensguard,[2] travels with the queen on the ship Balerion, during which he is served by Arstan. On the ship all he does is eat. Belwas informs Daenerys and Ser Jorah Mormont that Illyrio wept when news reached him of the death of Viserys Targaryen. Jorah wonders if Illyrio wept for Daenerys's brother, or because the death canceled certain plans involving the claimant king.[3]

Strong Belwas is one of Daenerys's bodyguards when she goes to purchase the Unsullied from the Good Masters of Astapor at the Plaza of Punishment. He uses his arakh during the fall of Astapor to Daenerys.[9]

Belwas is with Daenerys when she treats with the commanders of the sellsword companies before Yunkai. When Prendahl na Ghezn, one of the three captains of the Stormcrows, insults Daenerys, Strong Belwas offers to cut out his tongue. Daenerys refuses, saying that he has her safe conduct.[10]

Strong Belwas defiles Oznak zo Pahl's corpse at Meereen- by Sir-Heartsalot ©.

When Daenerys besieges Meereen, Oznak zo Pahl rides out of the city on a white charger with a fourteen foot lance, challenging the besiegers to send forth a champion. Daenerys decides that Belwas is perfect since she can easily spare him, his death as an ex-slave would not give Oznak prestige, and a defeat to an ex-slave would be an insult. Belwas wounds Oznak's horse in the duel, leading to a sword fight. Belwas allows himself to be wounded in the stomach before he kills Oznak, severs his head, and holds it up high for those in Meereen to see. The defenders of the city fire arrows, but Belwas is too far away. He squats to defecate towards the city, wipes himself on Oznak's cloak, loots the corpse, and kills the horse. Because Daenerys had lost her husband, Khal Drogo, to a similar wound, she forces the reluctant Belwas to be treated for his wound by a Yunkish freeman known for his healing skills when he returns to camp.[7] Arstan, Belwas's squire, reveals to Daenerys that he is actually Ser Barristan Selmy, once a member of the Kingsguard of her father, King Aerys II Targaryen.[7]

Later in the siege, Strong Belwas, Barristan, Jorah, and twenty other men enter Meereen though the sewers to take the city. Some of the freedmen in the group are afraid of huge rats until Belwas bites one of them in two. When they enter the city, Belwas leads the group to the nearest of the fighting pits, where they raise the enslaved pit fighters to revolt, enabling Daenerys to take the city. Later, when Daenerys dismisses Jorah from her service, Belwas drags the knight out of her throne room.[11]

A Dance with Dragons

Belwas by Mark Evans © Fantasy Flight Games

Belwas serves as a member of Daenerys's protectors, standing at her side when she holds court. A young noble wants Daenerys to punish slaves who rose up and killed his family, but the queen has already issued pardoned crimes committed during the siege of Meereen. Belwas stops the youth from attacking Daenerys.[12] When Ghael, an envoy from Astapor, spits in Daenerys's face after she refuses to aid his city, Belwas slams Ghael to the ground, cracking his teeth.[13]

As a former pit fighter, Belwas is among those in favor of reopening the fighting pits of Meereen.[14] When the pits are finally reopened, Belwas attends the competition at Daznak's Pit and provides commentary on the pit fighters to Daenerys. Belwas becomes ill after eating honeyed locusts offered to Daenerys by Hizdahr zo Loraq.[6][15] Daenerys disappears from the arena with Drogon.[6]

Belwas survives the poison due to his huge bulk,[16] although his strength and weight are somewhat sapped by the experience.[4] He is made part of the ruling council of Meereen instituted by Ser Barristan. As the city is surrounded by Daenerys's enemies, Barristan holds a war council wherein Belwas volunteers himself for a duel between champions. The other attendees favor a more traditional battle.[4]

Quotes by Belwas

Strong Belwas they name me in the fighting pits of Meereen. Never did I lose. I let each man cut me once, before I kill him. Count the cuts and you will know how many Strong Belwas has slain.[1]

—Belwas to Daenerys Targaryen

Jhiqui: We would braid your hair and hang a bell in it, Strong Belwas, but you have no hair to braid.
Belwas: Strong Belwas needs no tinkly bells. Strong Belwas needs liver and onions.[7]

Jhiqui and Belwas

Bad fighting, good dying. Strong Belwas hates it when they scream.[6]

—Belwas to Daenerys Targaryen after the Spotted Cat kills his opponent

Quotes about Belwas

Strong Belwas could not scheme his way to breakfast.[3]

He had once crossed the world with Strong Belwas, and he knew he could rely on him, should all this come to swords.[4]

—thoughts of Barristan Selmy

References