Who was Prince Aemon the Dragonknight?

Game of Thrones showcased many legendary figures from Westeros. Now, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms explores an era shaped by heroes like Prince Aemon the Dragonknight, whose story George R.R. Martin immortalized in The World of Ice and Fire.

Who was Aemon the Dragonknight?

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Prince Aemon served as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard and wielded the Valyrian steel sword Dark Sister. Born to King Viserys II, he protected four kings, including his brother Aegon the Unworthy.

Read More: Getting Ready For House of The Dragon : Meet The Dragons – Part 2

Quick facts

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• His legend influences knights in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
• Characters often reference his heroic deeds
• His relationship with Queen Naerys inspired many songs
• Died protecting Aegon IV, changing the realm forever
• His honor contrasted with his brother’s corruption

Book

• Wielded the Valyrian steel sword Dark Sister
• Joined the Kingsguard at seventeen
• Saved King Daeron from a poisoned arrow
• Survived imprisonment in a viper pit
• Fought as the Knight of Tears

In the books

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Early life and character

Aemon entered the world as a strong, beautiful child. His brother Aegon struck him with a dragon egg in his cradle, showing an early hatred.

His deep affection for sister Naerys began in his youth. Both shared a pious nature, unlike their brother Aegon. The siblings wept at Naerys’s wedding to Aegon.

Aemon’s martial prowess earned him Dark Sister. He joined the Kingsguard at seventeen under King Aegon III. His skill and nobility became legendary.

Tales of his exploits spread throughout the Seven Kingdoms. Common folk and nobles alike celebrated his deeds. His legacy endured a century after his death.

Many called him the noblest knight who ever lived. His service to four kings proved his dedication to duty.

Service under the Young Dragon

Aemon joined King Daeron I’s invasion of Dorne. He took a poisoned arrow meant for the young king.

After recovery, he returned to battle and defeated a Dornish champion. His victories brought great acclaim throughout the Seven Kingdoms.

The Dornish later ambushed them under a peace banner. Three Kingsguard died defending Daeron, while another yielded.

Lord Wyl captured Aemon and placed him in a cage above vipers. The cruel imprisonment tested his legendary courage.

King Daeron died in the ambush, changing the course of the war. Aemon’s captivity would end only with King Baelor’s intervention.

Rescue and later service

King Baelor walked into the viper pit to free Aemon. Snakes bit the king multiple times during the rescue.

Aemon carried the poisoned king north on his back. They reached a village where a septon provided clothes and transport.

At Blackhaven, maesters treated Baelor’s wounds. The king remained in a coma until they reached Storm’s End.

Aemon later defended Queen Naerys against accusations of adultery. He defeated Ser Morgil Hastwyck in trial by combat.

Aemon entered a tournament as the Knight of Tears against Aegon’s wishes. He crowned Naerys queen of love and beauty instead of the king’s mistress.

Final sacrifice

Ser Terrence Toyne’s brothers sought revenge against King Aegon. They ambushed the king despite past conflicts.

Aemon died defending his unworthy brother. His sacrifice epitomized his dedication to Kingsguard vows.

Queen Naerys followed him in death a year later. Aegon attempted to tarnish their reputations afterward.

The realm remembered Aemon as a legendary hero. His name ranked alongside figures from the Age of Heroes.

His legacy inspired future generations of knights. Even a century later, warriors aspired to match his example.

Read More: Game of Thrones fans started a $20 Million Kickstarter campaign to fix the Dorne plot

Quotes

“The days when men like Ryam Redwyne and Prince Aemon the Dragonknight wore the white cloak are gone to dust and song.” —Varys to Eddard Stark regarding Robert I Baratheon’s Kingsguard

Quick answers

Why was Aemon called the Dragonknight?

The books show he earned this name through his Targaryen heritage and legendary service in the Kingsguard.

What was Aemon’s relationship with Queen Naerys?

In the books, they shared a close bond from childhood. He defended her honor in trial by combat and crowned her queen of love and beauty.

How did Aemon die?

According to Fire and Blood, he died protecting his brother King Aegon IV from assassins seeking revenge for Ser Terrence Toyne’s execution.

Compilation

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (A Song of Ice and Fire)

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Taking place nearly a century before the events of A Game of Thrones, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms compiles the first three official prequel novellas to George R. R. Martin’s ongoing masterwork, A Song of Ice and Fire.

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12/19/2024 08:47 pm GMT