Why Did Aemond Steal Aegon’s Dagger (& How Will It Be Useful To Him?)

by

Why Did Aemond Steal Aegon's Dagger (& How Will It Be Useful To Him?)

As a dedicated gamer with years of experience under my belt, I have seen my fair share of power-hungry characters who will stop at nothing to claim the throne for themselves. Aemond Targaryen from “House of the Dragon” is one such character that leaves me utterly disgusted and appalled.

In the House of the Dragon, Aemond Targaryen holds the position of leader for the Greens. Currently, he acts as Prince Regent and guardian of the realm. He is Alicent Hightower’s second-born son and third child in total. After incapacitating Aegon with the fire breath of Vhagar at Rook’s Rest, Aemond ascended to the Iron Throne. Amongst the Greens stationed in King’s Landing, Aemond is considered the most detested due to his ruthless act – taking the throne by killing his own brother.

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the world of “House of the Dragons,” I can’t help but feel a strong connection to the character of Aemond. I, too, believe that I hold the rightful claim to the Iron Throne, just like Aemond does. Rhaenyra may currently sit on that throne, but in my eyes, she is nothing more than a pretender. Aegon, unfortunately, seems unfit for the role.

What Happened At Rook’s Rest In House of the Dragon?

Why Did Aemond Steal Aegon's Dagger (& How Will It Be Useful To Him?)

At the end of the battle near Rook’s Rest, Aemond seizes Aegon’s steel dagger as his war prize, second in significance only to his symbol of triumph. Witnesses, including Criston Cole’s soldiers, extol Aemond’s bravery, but few understand the true events that transpired there. Alicent harbors doubts about how the victory was obtained and suspects Aemond may be connected to Aegon’s injury. In contrast, Alicent’s brother, Ser Gwayne Hightower, doesn’t view Rook’s Rest as a triumph.

Strange victory if it was one.

At Rook’s Rest, Cole intended for his armies to engage in a disguised conflict with the Blacks. The significance of Rook’s Rest’s position notwithstanding, it was a deceitful tactic meant to provoke the Blacks into hasty actions. A skirmish was initiated between Cole’s and Staunton’s soldiers, but the true battle would unfold in the heavens. As both Lord Commander and Hand, Cole erred in granting unrestrained authority to Aemond, who would launch his dragon from the sky. Cole reasoned that no dragon among the Blacks could counter Vhagar. Anticipating a dragonless army from the Blacks, they sent one of their dragons as bait. However, the battle’s outcome deviated from expectations when Aegon unexpectedly arrived to “support” those fighting in his name.

I was there, witnessing Aegon’s bravery as he donned his Valyrian steel armor and wielded his dagger. Atop Sunfyre, we soared above Rook’s Rest, but danger lurked nearby. Meleys, the fierce dragon, latched onto Sunfyre, causing injury to Aegon and throwing him off balance during the ensuing attacks. Just when things seemed hopeless, a shadow fell over us. Aemond, hidden in the forest, suddenly appeared and shouted, “Dracarys!” Rhaenys quickly flew away, but unfortunately, I was caught in the line of fire.

The Significance Of The Valyrian Steel Dagger In House of the Dragon

Why Did Aemond Steal Aegon's Dagger (& How Will It Be Useful To Him?)

Without a shadow of a doubt, Aemond targeted his brother Aegon with Vhagar during the skirmish at Rook’s Rest. Before taking to the skies for battle, they clashed in a heated disagreement at the small council gathering. Aemond found Aegon’s lifestyle distasteful and endured his taunts when questioned about their unsanctioned battle plans. However, Aemond hadn’t anticipated the chance Rook’s Rest provided to eliminate the one person (Aegon) obstructing his path to the crown. After the fight had ended, Aemond approached Aegon, sheathing his sword at Cole’s behest. Instead, he grabbed the Valyrian steel dagger that once belonged to Aenar, Aegon the Conqueror, and Viserys Targaryen. Pointing it at his injured brother, who was surrounded by Sunfyre, Aemond prepared to end the life of the one standing between him and the throne.

In the world of “Game of Thrones,” the dagger is a frequent symbol. This weapon played a pivotal role in igniting the conflict between the Starks and Lannisters, as well as being an essential tool. Arya utilized it to slay the Night King during the Battle of Winterfell, and at present, she carries it with her. In the prequel, “House of the Dragon,” Viserys informs Rhaenyra that Aegon concealed his vision – the Song of Ice and Fire – on the dagger’s blade, inscribed in High Valyrian. When heated, the inscription emits a glow.

“From my blood, come The Prince That Was Promised and his will be the Song of Ice and Fire.”

In the world of “House of the Dragon,” the Valyrian steel dagger is taking on a more significant role, akin to Chekhov’s gun. Introduced early in the prequel series, the dagger has piqued audience interest and serves as a reminder that this story is connected to larger events in the “Game of Thrones” universe. Viserys Targaryen first highlighted its importance to Rhaenyra, and later, Aegon received it as a symbolic heirloom.

At present, Aemond is oblivious to the dagger’s ancient importance, which includes its connection to the Valyrian steel and the Song of Ice and Fire. He holds onto it to strengthen his position as Prince Regent and Defender of the Realm. This particular weapon has a rich history, having belonged to kings and Aenar the Exile who shielded his kin from the Doom of Valyria. The unique dagger symbolizes Aemond’s newfound authority. With it, he has accomplished the Targaryen triad: an heirloom from his Valyrian lineage (a Valyrian steel weapon), a dragon, and the Iron Throne.

Read More

2024-07-21 17:05