How did Yennefer become the leader of Aretuza?
"Magic is chaos, art, and science. It is a curse, a blessing, and a progression.” - Yennefer of Vengerberg.
One might argue that Yennefer of Vengerberg, portrayed by the enigmatic Anya Chalotra, is the epitome of this quote. Her journey, rife with adversity, self-discovery, and transformation, has led her down an intriguing path. This path became even more compelling when, in the explosive finale of 'The Witcher' Season 3, Yennefer becomes the unexpected leader of Aretuza. So, how did this rise to power transpire? Let's delve into the labyrinth of power and manipulation, passion and sacrifice, and unravel the events that culminated in this pivotal shift.
Following the devastating attack on Aretuza, a place once gleaming with magic and knowledge was left reeling. Yennefer, now bereft of her powers, found herself leading the surviving mages to the castle of Vilgefortz (played by Mahesh Jadu) in a desperate quest to find Ciri, who was rumored to have been abducted by Nilfgaard. Though they failed to find Ciri, they did stumble upon the gruesome remains of the Flesh Monster, a result of Vilgefortz's twisted experimentations. Displaying exceptional courage and empathy, the mages worked together to revert the creature to its human form, allowing the departed Aretuza apprentices to rest with dignity.
Simultaneously, the aftershocks of her past decisions were haunting Tissaia de Vries (MyAnna Buring), Aretuza’s former headmistress. Filled with guilt over the atrocities committed by her former lover, Vilgefortz, Tissaia made the tragic decision to end her life. In a heartfelt, painfully poignant letter, she left Aretuza to the one she considered her daughter, Yennefer.
Finding Tissaia’s farewell letter was a heart-wrenching moment for Yennefer. Not only did she lose a mentor, but she was suddenly thrust into a position of immense responsibility. In the face of this newfound authority, she found solace in the unlikeliest of places: Geralt of Rivia, who was recovering in the depths of the Brokilon forest. Despite their complex past, Geralt, portrayed by Henry Cavill, urged Yennefer to embrace her destined role and become the leader she was always meant to be.
Taking Geralt's words to heart, Yennefer displayed a heretofore unseen maturity and level-headedness. She used her healing magic to aid Geralt, pushing her own sorrows aside. After their farewell, she returned to Aretuza, filled with a renewed sense of purpose. Yennefer gathered the surviving mages, their hearts filled with doubt and fear, and spurred them on to a new mission – to bring the treacherous Vilgefortz to justice.
Yennefer’s ascension to the helm of Aretuza is a remarkable testament to her character's evolution throughout the series. Once a disenfranchised and abused child, then an ambitious and somewhat self-centered sorceress, Yennefer has now morphed into a resilient and inspiring leader. The path to her leadership was not smooth; it was strewn with betrayals, heartbreak, and immense personal sacrifice. Yet, she rose from the ashes of these trials, showing an iron will and dedication that left an indelible impression on those around her.
What lies ahead for Yennefer, and indeed for Aretuza, is an enticing mystery. It’s clear, however, that Yennefer’s tenacity, coupled with her ability to learn from her past and make difficult decisions for the greater good, will make her a leader to be reckoned with. As 'The Witcher' has shown us time and again, there's no predicting what the winds of destiny will bring. One thing is certain: Yennefer of Vengerberg, now the leader of Aretuza, will continue to shape the future of magic on the Continent. A destiny that is undoubtedly full of chaos, art, and science - a fitting path for our new leader, don't you think?
