Alzur’s Thunder – A Potent and Powerful Spell
In the sixth episode of season 3 of ‘The Witcher,’ viewers witnessed the extraordinary power of Tissaia, a mage of Aretuza, as she single-handedly turned the tide of battle between mages and the Scoia’tael. Utilizing a spell called Alzur’s Thunder, Tissaia summoned thunder from the sky and unleashed devastating bolts upon her enemies. This awe-inspiring display of magic showcased why Tissaia was considered one of the greatest mages.
Alzur’s Thunder was no ordinary spell; it required channeling chaos through Aretuza and Tol Lara to create its thunderous effect. As Ciri remarked, this spell was a last resort due to its heavy toll on the caster’s body. Tissaia’s willingness to use such a powerful spell demonstrated her deep concern for the safety of her fellow mages and her home.
Desperation Amidst Betrayal
The events leading up to Tissaia’s use of Alzur’s Thunder were tumultuous. Vilgefortz, a trusted ally, revealed his true allegiance by betraying the mages of Aretuza, leading to a fierce battle with the Scoia’tael and Nilfgaardian forces. Tissaia witnessed the deaths of many friends and the heartbreak of Vilgefortz’s betrayal, leaving her with little hope for victory.
In a desperate attempt to alter the outcome of the battle, Tissaia channeled the powerful spell from the balcony of Aretuza. The darkened sky and sparking tower of Tol Lara signaled the impending storm of Alzur’s Thunder. Despite the toll it would take on her body, Tissaia was determined to protect her companions and home.
The Potency of Alzur’s Thunder
Alzur’s Thunder was not a spell to be taken lightly. One strike from this potent magic could swiftly eliminate its target. With a mere gaze, Tissaia could unleash thunder upon her foes, making it a devastating weapon against the unprepared Scoia’tael.
In the original books, Alzur’s Thunder was a spell created by the legendary mage Alzur, known for his expertise in lightning-based magic. In ‘The Witcher’ series, it was apparent that Tissaia’s mastery of this spell set her apart from other mages at Aretuza. Though the show depicted the spell as more destructive than its literary counterpart, its core essence remained the same—a single strike was enough to claim a life.
The Toll of Powerful Magic
Magic in ‘The Witcher’ universe comes at a cost, particularly for mages who must harness chaos to wield their abilities. The more potent the spell, the greater the toll on the mage’s body. This was evident when Yennefer used a powerful flame spell in season 1, severing her connection to chaos and rendering her unable to use magic in season 2.
For Tissaia, casting Alzur’s Thunder took a severe toll. As she rained thunder upon her enemies, her hair turned white, and her strength waned. The aftereffects left her visibly weakened.
The Price of Power
In the season’s final episode, Tissaia made a heart-wrenching decision. Feeling the immense cost of chaos, she believed that only her death could balance the scales after casting Alzur’s Thunder. Her suicide note revealed her conviction that the price of using such powerful magic was too high, prompting her ultimate sacrifice.
Tissaia’s willingness to employ Alzur’s Thunder exemplified her unwavering dedication to protect her fellow mages and her home. Her legacy as one of the most powerful mages in Aretuza would forever be etched in the annals of history.
