In the climactic final moments of House of the Dragon Season 1, Episode 10, “The Black Queen,” Daemon Targaryen ventures into the depths of Dragonmont and sings a High Valyrian song to awaken a slumbering beast. He summons Vermithor, the Bronze Fury, a dragon of significant size and power. This act is crucial for bolstering the Black Queen’s forces as the Dance of the Dragons looms large.
Vermithor: The Bronze Fury Revealed
Daemon’s visit to Vermithor is a pivotal scene, not just for the dramatic tension it creates, but also for the implications it holds for the coming war. Vermithor, formerly ridden by King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, is one of the largest and oldest dragons remaining, second only to Vhagar in size. His presence significantly strengthens Rhaenyra’s dragon-riding capabilities, a necessity given the number of dragons already aligned with Aegon II and the Greens. The somber, almost melancholic, tone of Daemon’s interaction with Vermithor speaks volumes about the gravity of the situation and the sacrifices that are to come. This scene confirms not only that Vermithor is available, but also hints at the challenges of bonding with a riderless, ancient dragon, steeped in history and possibly mourning its former bond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermithor and Daemon’s Connection
Below are frequently asked questions concerning Vermithor and Daemon’s interaction within the context of House of the Dragon, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the character and his significance.
H3: Understanding Vermithor’s History
FAQ 1: Who was Vermithor’s original rider?
Vermithor was originally ridden by King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, also known as the Old King. Jaehaerys rode Vermithor for many years, establishing a strong bond that lasted until the King’s death. This bond is significant because it links Vermithor directly to the Targaryen dynasty’s most prosperous period.
FAQ 2: Why was Vermithor riderless for so long after Jaehaerys I’s death?
After Jaehaerys I’s death, Vermithor remained unclaimed in the Dragonmont. Dragons often mourn the loss of their riders, making them less receptive to forming new bonds. Furthermore, the Targaryen family was in a state of political turmoil, with the succession crisis taking precedence over dragon-riding.
FAQ 3: What makes Vermithor so important in the Dance of the Dragons?
Vermithor’s immense size and experience in battle make him a formidable asset in the Dance of the Dragons. As one of the largest dragons in Westeros, his sheer power can significantly influence the outcome of aerial battles and ground assaults, providing a considerable advantage to whichever side he fights for.
H3: Daemon’s Connection and Interaction
FAQ 4: Why did Daemon choose to visit Vermithor specifically?
Daemon’s choice likely stems from a combination of factors. First, he recognized Vermithor’s raw power and potential to shift the balance of power. Second, Daemon might have sensed a vulnerability in the dragon, a lingering grief that he could exploit to forge a connection. Finally, Daemon’s own Targaryen heritage and understanding of dragon lore likely played a role in his decision.
FAQ 5: What was the significance of Daemon singing to Vermithor in High Valyrian?
The High Valyrian language is the ancestral tongue of the Targaryens and the language most commonly used to communicate with dragons. Singing to Vermithor in High Valyrian was an attempt to establish a connection, invoking the dragon’s ancestral memory and appealing to his primal instincts. It was a ritualistic act aimed at building trust and rapport.
FAQ 6: Did Daemon successfully bond with Vermithor in Episode 10?
While the scene strongly implies that Daemon intends to bond with Vermithor, the episode doesn’t explicitly show a successful bonding. However, Vermithor responding to Daemon’s song indicates a level of receptiveness. The full extent of their bond, and Daemon’s control over the dragon, will likely be revealed in future episodes.
H3: Vermithor’s Role in the Coming Conflict
FAQ 7: How does Vermithor strengthen Rhaenyra’s claim to the Iron Throne?
Vermithor’s presence on Rhaenyra’s side significantly boosts her military strength. Having a dragon of his size and power gives her a considerable advantage over Aegon II, whose forces are also reliant on dragons. The balance of dragon power is crucial in this conflict, and Vermithor helps level the playing field.
FAQ 8: Who is likely to ride Vermithor during the Dance of the Dragons?
While Daemon is the obvious candidate, the books suggest that Hugh Hammer, a blacksmith who is of dragonseed, will eventually claim Vermithor. This is a significant deviation from the show thus far and represents a major plot point in the war.
FAQ 9: How does Vermithor compare in size and power to other dragons, like Vhagar?
Vermithor is second in size only to Vhagar. While Vhagar is significantly older and has seen more battles, Vermithor is still a formidable dragon with immense strength and firepower. Their potential clash would be one of the most devastating and impactful battles of the Dance of the Dragons.
H3: The Implications for the Targaryen Dynasty
FAQ 10: What does Vermithor’s story say about the Targaryen dynasty’s reliance on dragons?
Vermithor’s story highlights the Targaryen dynasty’s complete reliance on dragons for power and influence. The availability of dragons determines the strength of their claim and their ability to wage war. Vermithor being riderless underscores the fragility of that power, dependent on bonding and the availability of suitable riders.
FAQ 11: Could Vermithor’s involvement in the Dance of the Dragons affect the future of dragon-riding?
Absolutely. The Dance of the Dragons and the subsequent death of so many dragons, including Vermithor, significantly reduced the dragon population and ultimately contributed to the extinction of dragons in Westeros for centuries. The conflict serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked power and the devastating impact of war on these magnificent creatures.
FAQ 12: Where in Dragonstone is Vermithor residing?
Vermithor resides in a cavernous part of Dragonmont, specifically known as the Smokepit. This region serves as a lair for riderless dragons, separated from the areas used by the dragons currently bonded to Targaryen riders. This seclusion emphasizes Vermithor’s isolation and underscores the challenge Daemon faces in attempting to form a connection.