In the climactic episode 10 of House of the Dragon season one, titled “The Black Queen,” Daemon Targaryen ventures into the depths of Dragonstone to awaken a fearsome beast: Vermithor, the Bronze Fury. Once ridden by King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, Vermithor had remained unclaimed in the Dragonmont for decades, awaiting a new rider, and Daemon sought to bind him to the cause of Rhaenyra Targaryen.
The Significance of Vermithor’s Awakening
Daemon’s journey to claim Vermithor isn’t merely about acquiring another dragon for Rhaenyra’s cause; it’s a strategic maneuver that significantly shifts the balance of power. Vermithor, being one of the largest and oldest dragons remaining, represents an immense military asset. This action highlights Daemon’s proactive nature and unwavering dedication to his wife’s claim to the Iron Throne. The awakening of Vermithor signals a clear escalation of the brewing civil war, known as the Dance of the Dragons.
A Deeper Dive into Dragon Lore and Vermithor’s History
Vermithor’s significance extends beyond his size and age. He holds a unique position within the Targaryen dragon lineage. Understanding his history provides context for Daemon’s bold decision to claim him, and the implications it carries for the future conflict.
The Bronze Fury: A Dragon of Kingly Caliber
Vermithor is described as a large, bronze-colored dragon with brown wings. His roar is said to shake the very foundations of Dragonstone. More importantly, his connection to King Jaehaerys I, known as “The Wise,” elevates Vermithor to a dragon of almost legendary status. Jaehaerys’s long and prosperous reign shaped Westeros, and Vermithor was his faithful companion. This historical association adds symbolic weight to Daemon’s claim; it suggests a desire to align Rhaenyra’s cause with the strength and stability of a bygone golden age.
Remaining Unclaimed: A Dragon Waiting for a Rider
After Jaehaerys’s death, Vermithor remained unclaimed, residing within the Dragonmont of Dragonstone. This is notable because Targaryen tradition dictates that dragons are bonds passed down through the bloodline. The fact that Vermithor chose to remain riderless suggests a possible pickiness or a need for a rider of particular strength and connection. Daemon, with his Targaryen blood and proven dragon-riding abilities, clearly possessed the qualities that the Bronze Fury sought.
Daemon’s Calculated Risk: The Implications of Claiming Vermithor
Daemon’s decision to claim Vermithor was not without risk. Dragons are unpredictable creatures, and attempting to claim one, especially one as powerful and experienced as Vermithor, could have ended disastrously. His success speaks volumes about Daemon’s courage, dragon-riding skill, and sheer force of will.
A Power Imbalance: Strengthening Rhaenyra’s Claim
With Vermithor on their side, Rhaenyra’s forces gain a significant advantage. In a war where aerial dominance is paramount, possessing one of the largest and most experienced dragons dramatically alters the strategic landscape. Vermithor’s presence serves as a powerful deterrent to Aegon II Targaryen and his supporters, potentially preventing attacks and influencing the decisions of wavering lords.
A Risky Endeavor: The Dangers of Dragon Bonding
While successful, Daemon’s attempt to claim Vermithor could have gone very wrong. Dragons are powerful, independent creatures, and forcing a bond could lead to resistance and even death. The scene in episode 10 emphasizes the inherent danger of this act, highlighting the respect and understanding required to form a true connection with a dragon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermithor and Daemon’s Bond
Here are answers to common questions about Vermithor, his connection to Daemon, and his role in the Dance of the Dragons.
FAQ 1: How old is Vermithor at the time Daemon claims him?
Vermithor is approximately 100 years old during the time Daemon claims him in episode 10. This makes him one of the oldest dragons alive, second only to Vhagar, ridden by Aemond Targaryen.
FAQ 2: Why was Vermithor unclaimed for so long?
The exact reason Vermithor remained unclaimed is never explicitly stated. However, it is implied that he was waiting for a rider who possessed the necessary strength, bloodline, and perhaps even a certain temperament that resonated with the dragon.
FAQ 3: How did Daemon claim Vermithor?
Daemon approached Vermithor in the Dragonmont and sang to him in High Valyrian, a language dragons understand. This act of respect and connection, combined with Daemon’s Targaryen blood and dragon-riding experience, allowed him to form a bond with Vermithor.
FAQ 4: What is Vermithor’s color?
Vermithor is primarily bronze-colored, earning him the nickname “The Bronze Fury.” He also has brown wings, adding to his distinctive appearance.
FAQ 5: How does Vermithor compare in size to other dragons like Vhagar?
While precise measurements aren’t provided, Vermithor is considered one of the largest dragons alive during the Dance of the Dragons, rivaling even Caraxes in size, although generally accepted to be smaller than Vhagar, who is the largest dragon at this point in time.
FAQ 6: Did Daemon previously ride another dragon?
Yes, Daemon Targaryen previously rode the dragon Caraxes, the Blood Wyrm. He retains his bond with Caraxes even after claiming Vermithor, allowing Rhaenyra’s side to field two dragons.
FAQ 7: What role does Vermithor play in the Dance of the Dragons?
Vermithor plays a significant role in the Dance of the Dragons, participating in various battles and contributing to the overall conflict. His presence strengthens Rhaenyra’s forces and influences the strategic decisions of both sides.
FAQ 8: What happened to Vermithor after the Dance of the Dragons?
During a major battle known as the Battle at Rook’s Rest, Vermithor fought against Sunfyre and Grey Ghost. He inflicted mortal wounds on Sunfyre, but ultimately succumbed to his injuries and died alongside them.
FAQ 9: Is there any significance to Daemon singing to Vermithor in High Valyrian?
Singing to dragons in High Valyrian is a tradition deeply rooted in Targaryen culture. It’s a way to communicate with them, express respect, and potentially establish a bond. The specific song Daemon sings is a dragon song that conveys emotions and intent.
FAQ 10: Does Vermithor have any special abilities or characteristics?
Beyond his size and experience, Vermithor is known for his powerful roar, which is said to be capable of shaking the ground. He also possesses the typical dragon abilities of breathing fire and flying at great speeds.
FAQ 11: Why is claiming Vermithor important for Rhaenyra’s claim?
Claiming Vermithor drastically improves Rhaenyra’s chances in the Dance of the Dragons. It gives her more air power, which is crucial in medieval warfare where dragons hold so much sway.
FAQ 12: Are there any other dragons living in Dragonstone alongside Vermithor?
Besides Vermithor, Dragonstone houses other unclaimed dragons. These dragons represent a potential reserve of power for either side of the conflict, should someone dare to claim them. One such dragon is Silverwing, who also belonged to the Old King Jaehaerys’s wife, Alysanne Targaryen. She plays a pivotal role in later episodes.