Arya Stark and Sandor Clegane, also known as the Hound, undoubtedly form one of the greatest duos in Game of Thrones. However, describing their relationship as complicated is an understatement, which is why Arya chooses not to kill the Hound in season 4.

During seasons 3 and 4 of Game of Thrones, Arya reluctantly travels north with the Hound, who hopes to receive a reward for returning her to her family. Arya is far from thrilled about this arrangement, especially since the Hound had killed her friend Micah back in season 1. As a result, the Hound finds himself on Arya's list of names, though he happens to be one of the few characters not killed by her hand.

Despite having multiple opportunities to kill the Hound, Arya chooses not to do so at the end of season 4. Following his epic duel with Brienne of Tarth, a truly remarkable swordfight, the Hound is left severely wounded. This presents Arya with the perfect opportunity to deliver a killing blow. However, instead of ending his life, she leaves him for dead on a desolate hillside. This decision grants the Hound several more seasons of survival and raises questions about Arya's motives for sparing him.

Arya's choice to spare the Hound's life is complex and cannot be attributed to a single reason. On one hand, killing him immediately would have been a more merciful death.

Given her resentment towards him, Arya likely has no desire to show Sandor Clegane any mercy. She believes he is undeserving of it, serving as the primary motivation behind her decision. Arya coldly stares into his eyes as he pleads for mercy, only to walk away without granting it.

Paradoxically, the Hound serves as a companion and protector to Arya throughout seasons 3 and 4 of Game of Thrones. Losing him undoubtedly leaves a void, adding yet another layer to her choice to spare his life. At this moment, however, Arya is undoubtedly conflicted. Despite their often abrasive interactions, a bond forms between them during their journey.

The Hound endeavors to reunite Arya with her family and saves her from the infamous Red Wedding when she foolishly rushes into the chaos. With her loved ones gone, Arya has few individuals she can truly rely on, making the Hound's absence all the more significant.

Arya and the Hound's complicated relationship exemplifies one of the most captivating character pairings in Game of Thrones. The series consistently creates compelling connections between unlikely characters, with the friendship between Arya and the Hound serving as a prime example. Their affection for one another becomes apparent in the final season when the Hound convinces Arya to abandon her thirst for revenge and prioritize her own life.

This interaction showcases the Hound's evolution throughout the series and demonstrates that Arya has let go of her animosity towards him. It is these intricate dynamics that make Game of Thrones an outstanding series and solidify the show's choice to prolong the lives of certain characters.

All eight seasons of Game of Thrones are available for streaming on Max. The compelling bond between Arya and the Hound is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the show, showcasing the depth and complexity of their relationship.