Episode 7 of House of the Dragon, titled “Driftmark,” saw a pivotal shift in the balance of power with two new dragon riders emerging from the Targaryen ranks. This event marks a critical escalation in the brewing conflict between the blacks and greens, and solidifies the coming “Dance of the Dragons”.
Aemond Targaryen Claims Vhagar
The most significant event of the episode was undoubtedly Aemond Targaryen’s bold claim of Vhagar, the largest and oldest living dragon in Westeros. Vhagar had been riderless since the death of Laena Velaryon, and Aemond, despite facing disapproval and even physical confrontation from his cousins, successfully bonded with the formidable beast. This claim instantly elevates Aemond’s status within the Green faction and provides them with an unparalleled aerial advantage.
Rhaena Targaryen Fails to Claim a Dragon
While Aemond’s success was undeniable, Rhaena Targaryen was unable to claim a dragon. While Rhaena had previously bonded with a dragon egg, it failed to hatch, leaving her the only dragon-blooded child without a dragon. This loss deeply affects her, highlighting the complex relationship between the Targaryens and their dragons and the inherent grief involved in being born into the house, but not given a dragon.
The Implications of These Dragon Claims
These dragon claims have far-reaching consequences. The addition of Vhagar to the Green side significantly tilts the scales of power. This event serves as a significant catalyst, accelerating the drift towards open warfare between the Targaryen factions. Vhagar is more than just a dragon; she is a symbol of Targaryen power and a devastating weapon capable of inflicting immense damage.
Aemond’s Acquisition: A Tactical Advantage
Aemond’s decision to claim Vhagar signals to his family and allies that he will go to any lengths to support their cause. The fact that the beast was previously bonded to Laena Velaryon, now a casualty of their family’s increasing turmoil, adds to the emotional weight of the situation. As the greens find themselves backed into a corner and challenged at every turn, Vhagar becomes their most prized possession.
Rhaena’s Loss: A Symbol of Vulnerability
While Aemond gains power, Rhaena’s inability to claim a dragon highlights a vulnerability within the Black faction. It also showcases the fickle nature of dragon bonds and the disappointment that can come with being a Targaryen who cannot connect with these majestic creatures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is claiming Vhagar such a big deal?
Vhagar is the largest and oldest living dragon. She fought in Aegon’s Conquest and possesses immense destructive power. Her size and experience make her a crucial asset in any conflict. Beyond power, she is a living relic, a link to their glorious past. Losing this dragon, especially to their enemies, would mean a fatal blow to their family’s image and status.
Q2: How did Aemond claim Vhagar?
Aemond approached Vhagar cautiously, speaking to her in High Valyrian. He demonstrated bravery and confidence, proving himself worthy in the dragon’s eyes. Despite being significantly younger and smaller than Vhagar’s previous riders, his actions ultimately secured the bond.
Q3: What are the requirements for claiming a dragon?
There’s no guaranteed method. Dragon claiming is a complex process often involving a natural affinity and a display of courage and respect. A strong bond between a rider and dragon is essential for successful flight and control. The specific methods can vary depending on the dragon’s temperament and the potential rider’s personality.
Q4: What happened to Vhagar’s previous rider?
Vhagar’s previous rider was Laena Velaryon, Daemon Targaryen’s wife. She died earlier in the season due to complications during childbirth. Her death left Vhagar riderless and vulnerable, creating the opportunity for Aemond to claim her.
Q5: Did Rhaena ever have a dragon?
Rhaena bonded with a dragon egg as a child, but it never hatched. This left her dragonless, a source of grief and disappointment, especially given the significance of dragons within her family.
Q6: What dragons do the other Targaryen children have?
Rhaenyra Targaryen rides Syrax, Daemon Targaryen rides Caraxes, Jacaerys Velaryon rides Vermax, and Lucerys Velaryon rides Arrax. Aegon II rides Sunfyre, Daeron Targaryen rides Tessarion, and Helaena Targaryen rides Dreamfyre.
Q7: How will Aemond claiming Vhagar affect the war?
Aemond claiming Vhagar drastically shifts the balance of power in favor of the Green faction. Vhagar’s size and strength provide a significant aerial advantage, making the Greens a formidable force in the coming war. Vhagar represents a substantial increase in destructive capability.
Q8: Why was Rhaena so upset about not having a dragon?
In Targaryen society, dragons represent power, status, and a connection to their ancestral heritage. Being dragonless signifies vulnerability and a lack of agency. Rhaena’s disappointment stems from her feeling excluded from this powerful aspect of her identity.
Q9: Could Rhaena still claim a dragon in the future?
Yes, it’s possible. While challenging, she could potentially bond with another dragon later in life. However, the larger, more powerful dragons are generally already claimed, which would make the process considerably more difficult.
Q10: How does Aemond’s claim impact the relationship between the children?
Aemond’s bold act of claiming Vhagar, combined with the altercation that followed, further deepens the rivalry and animosity between the children, solidifying the division between the Black and Green factions. The loss of an eye also makes Aemond a changed character, now determined to seek revenge.
Q11: What are the names of all the dragons mentioned in this episode?
Vhagar, Syrax, Caraxes, Vermax, Arrax, Sunfyre, Dreamfyre, Tessarion.
Q12: Where do these dragons get their strength?
Dragons are magical creatures and have great strength by nature. Also, the dragon’s size, strength, experience and age are all part of what makes it powerful. Dragons possess the ability to breathe fire, can fly at great speeds, and boast thick scales that offer protection from most weapons. These physical capabilities, combined with their inherent connection to the Targaryens, make them formidable forces in battle.