why doesn't aemond have a dragon

3 min read 15-04-2025

Aegon II Targaryen's claim to the Iron Throne is steeped in controversy, but one question frequently arises among fans of House of the Dragon: why didn't Aegon II bond with a dragon? His lack of a dragon mount significantly impacted the Dance of the Dragons, altering the course of the war and adding another layer of complexity to his character.

The Significance of Dragons in Westerosi Politics

Before delving into Aegon II's situation, it's crucial to understand the profound political weight dragons carried in Westeros. Dragons weren't merely magnificent beasts; they were symbols of Targaryen power and legitimacy. Possessing a dragon was tantamount to possessing divine right to rule. Therefore, Aegon II's lack of a dragon profoundly weakened his position, both militarily and symbolically.

The Claim to the Throne and the Dragon's Role

Aegon II's claim was contested from the start, challenged by his half-sister Rhaenyra. The dragons, powerful symbols of Targaryen dominance, became critical tools in the ensuing conflict. Those who controlled dragons held a significant advantage, influencing the balance of power and shifting the tides of the war. Aegon II’s failure to claim a dragon placed him at a severe disadvantage against Rhaenyra and her dragon riders.

Aegon II and Sunfyre: A Complicated Relationship

Aegon II did have a connection to a dragon: Sunfyre. Sunfyre was considered one of the largest and most beautiful dragons in the Targaryen collection. However, his relationship with the dragon was not one of a bonded rider. While Aegon II could ride Sunfyre, he was never the dragon’s primary rider.

The Significance of the Bond

The bond between a Targaryen and their dragon wasn't merely a matter of riding; it was a profound, almost mystical connection. The rider and the dragon shared a deep understanding, a symbiotic relationship exceeding simple control. This bond was a crucial element in the effectiveness of a dragon rider in battle. Aegon II's lack of this intimate bond with Sunfyre significantly hindered his ability to effectively utilize the dragon's power.

Speculation on Aegon's Relationship with Sunfyre

Several factors could have contributed to Aegon II's relationship with Sunfyre. Perhaps he wasn't considered worthy by the dragon itself, as bonding was not always guaranteed. It could be a matter of personality incompatibility. Or, perhaps Sunfyre’s bond with earlier riders (possibly a strong bond with Aegon I, his father) simply hindered the formation of a connection with Aegon II.

The Impact of Aegon II's Dragonless Status on the Dance of the Dragons

Aegon II's lack of a bonded dragon dramatically influenced the Dance of the Dragons. His inability to command a dragon as effectively as Rhaenyra and her allies significantly hampered his military strategies. The war was largely defined by who had dragon support, and Aegon II's deficit in this area contributed to several critical defeats. He had to rely on other means, often with far less effective results.

Aegon’s Military Strategy and its Limitations

Aegon II’s military decisions were frequently dictated by his lack of a reliable dragon mount. He relied heavily on his allies and their dragons, a situation that made him vulnerable to shifting alliances and betrayals, ultimately impacting his strategic options. His reliance on his own military skill and shrewd political maneuvering was often insufficient to overcome the advantages possessed by Rhaenyra’s forces.

Conclusion: The Dragonless King

Aegon II Targaryen's reign, marked by war and internal strife, was deeply impacted by his inability to bond with a dragon. His lack of a strong dragon rider status symbolizes his lack of unquestionable authority, even within his family. This absence dramatically weakened his position in the Dance of the Dragons and continues to fuel debate and speculation among fans about the nature of the bond between Targaryens and their dragons. It serves as a stark reminder of the pivotal role dragons played in the Targaryen dynasty and the political landscape of Westeros.