Everything we know about Vhagar in House of the Dragon

In the world of House of the Dragon, the Game of Thrones prequel series based on George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Blood, Vhagar stands out as one of the most impressive dragons. This ancient and powerful beast played a crucial role in shaping the history of Westeros, from Aegon’s Conquest to the Dance of the Dragons.

Who was Vhagar?

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Vhagar was one of the three original dragons used in Aegon’s Conquest of Westeros. Named after a god of Old Valyria, she was initially ridden by Queen Visenya Targaryen. Vhagar’s scales were bronze with greenish-blue highlights, and her eyes were bright green. By the time of the Dance of the Dragons, she had grown to be almost as large as Balerion, capable of swallowing horses whole and melting knights in their armor.

Quick facts

• One of the three dragons used in Aegon’s Conquest
• Lived for 181 years, the oldest dragon during the Dance of the Dragons
• Had multiple riders throughout her life
• Played a significant role in major battles and conflicts
• Known for her immense size and destructive power

In House of the Dragon

Credits: HBO

Early mentions and appearance

In Season 1 of House of the Dragon, Vhagar is first mentioned by Queen Aemma Arryn, who notes that Princess Rhaenyra chose a dragon egg resembling Vhagar’s for her unborn sibling. King Viserys later reveals that Vhagar, too large for the Dragonpit, had made her nest along the Narrow Sea coast.

Laena Velaryon as rider

Vhagar becomes Laena Velaryon’s mount, showcasing the dragon’s immense size and power. Tragically, Laena’s connection with Vhagar ends when she commands the dragon to end her life during a difficult childbirth.

Claimed by Aemond Targaryen

Following Laena’s death, Prince Aemond Targaryen claims Vhagar, forming a new and significant bond. This event marks a turning point in the brewing conflict between the Targaryens.

Battle at Shipbreaker Bay

Vhagar plays a crucial role in the confrontation between Aemond and Prince Lucerys Velaryon above Shipbreaker Bay. The massive dragon easily overpowers Lucerys’ younger dragon Arrax, resulting in a tragic outcome.

Battle of Rook’s Rest

Vhagar participates in the Battle of Rook’s Rest, demonstrating her formidable power against other dragons. Her involvement proves decisive in this conflict, further cementing her reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

Read More: House of The Dragon wows viewers with a brief look at Vhagar at the European Premiere

In Fire and Blood

Credits: John McCambridge

During Aegon’s Conquest

Fire and Blood details Vhagar’s role in Aegon’s Conquest, including her participation in the Field of Fire and the submission of the Vale. Ridden by Visenya Targaryen, Vhagar helped secure victories that led to the unification of the Seven Kingdoms.

Reigns of Aenys I and Maegor I

The book describes Vhagar’s activities during the reigns of Aenys I and Maegor I, including her role in suppressing rebellions and enforcing Targaryen rule. After Visenya’s death, Vhagar remained riderless for nearly three decades.

Jaehaerys I’s reign

Prince Baelon the Brave claimed Vhagar during Jaehaerys I’s reign. Together, they participated in the Fourth Dornish War, showcasing Vhagar’s continued military importance.

Dance of the Dragons

Fire and Blood provides a detailed account of Vhagar’s role in the Dance of the Dragons. Under Aemond Targaryen’s command, Vhagar becomes a key player in major battles, including the confrontation at Shipbreaker Bay and the Battle of Rook’s Rest.

Final battle and legacy

The book describes Vhagar’s final battle above the Gods Eye against Daemon Targaryen and Caraxes. This epic confrontation resulted in the deaths of both dragons and their riders, marking the end of Vhagar’s long and storied life.

Read More: Here’s a size by size comparison of all 17 dragons in House of The Dragon

Quotes

“What that rogue Aemond has done, in winning Vhagar to our side. The boy was right. It’s worth a thousand times the price he paid.” – Otto Hightower

Quick answers

How old was Vhagar during the Dance of the Dragons?

Vhagar was 181 years old at the time of her death during the Dance of the Dragons, making her the oldest and largest living dragon in Westeros at that time.

Who were Vhagar’s riders?

Throughout her life, Vhagar had several riders, including Visenya Targaryen, Baelon Targaryen, Laena Velaryon, and finally, Aemond Targaryen.

What was Vhagar’s most significant battle?

While Vhagar participated in many important battles, her role in the Field of Fire during Aegon’s Conquest and her final battle above the Gods Eye during the Dance of the Dragons are among her most significant engagements.

Read More: What happened during the Fall of King’s Landing?

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