House Velaryon

[FP1997]

Velaryon House Sigil

House Velaryon's legacy is one of resilience, loyalty, and maritime excellence. Their close ties to the Targaryens and their crucial role in numerous conflicts have cemented their place in Westerosi history. Despite the many challenges they faced, from the Dance of the Dragons to the decline of the Targaryen dynasty, the Velaryons have always managed to navigate the turbulent seas of politics and war. The upcoming series House of the Dragon promises to shed light on this illustrious house particularly during the tumultuous period of the Targaryen civil war, known as the Dance of the Dragons.

Origins

House Velaryon traces its lineage back to Valyria, the ancient and powerful empire known for its naval prowess in Westeros. The Velaryons were among the noble families who settled on the island of Driftmark in the Narrow Sea, just west of Dragonstone, before the Doom of Valyria. This strategic location allowed them to establish dominance over the seas and build a formidable fleet.

Unlike many other Valyrian houses, the Velaryons did not possess dragons. Instead, they focused on naval supremacy, becoming the premier seafarers of Westeros. Their proficiency in shipbuilding, navigation and trade made them wealthy and influential. As close kin to the Targaryens, they formed a vital part of the Targaryen power base during the conquest and subsequent rule of Westeros.

The Targaryen Conquest

During Aegon the Conqueror's invasion of Westeros, House Velaryon played a pivotal role. The Velaryon fleet, under the command of Lord Daemon Velaryon, served as the naval arm of Aegon's forces. Their ships transported troops, blockaded enemy ports, and provided crucial support in battles. This naval dominance was instrumental in securing Targaryen victories and ensuring the rapid submission of the Seven Kingdoms.

After the conquest, the Velaryons were rewarded with significant positions of power. Lord Daemon Velaryon was named the first Master of Ships on the Small Council, a position that would become synonymous with the house. Their seat at Driftmark flourished and their influence in King's Landing grew as they became indispensable to the Targaryen kings.

The Dance of the Dragons

The most defining period in House Velaryon's history is the Dance of the Dragons, the brutal civil war between rival Targaryen factions. The conflict erupted following the death of King Viserys Targaryen, who had named his daughter Rhaenyra Targaryen as his heir. However, upon his death, his son Aegon II usurped the throne, leading to a struggle for power.

House Velaryon, led by Lord Corlys Velaryon, known as the Sea Snake was a staunch supporter of Rhaenyra. Corlys, one of the wealthiest and most powerful lords in Westeros was married to Rhaenys Targaryen, the daughter of Prince Aemon Targaryen and a strong claimant to the throne. This alliance by marriage bolstered Rhaenyra's claim and provided her with the substantial naval and financial resources of House Velaryon.

Corlys Velaryon commanded the Black Fleet, which played a crucial role in the war. The Velaryon ships dominated the Narrow Sea, securing vital supply lines and conducting raids against enemy ports. The Sea Snake's diplomatic skills also secured alliances with other key houses, further strengthening Rhaenyra's position.

The Dance of the Dragons was marked by numerous naval battles including the Battle of the Gullet, where the Velaryon fleet clashed with the forces of King Aegon II. Despite initial successes, the war took a heavy toll on House Velaryon. Lord Corlys lost both his sons, Laenor Velaryon & Laenys Velaryon, in the conflict, leaving the future of his house uncertain.

Post-Dance Decline and Resurgence

The aftermath of the Dance of the Dragons left House Velaryon weakened. The loss of their heirs and the extensive damage to their fleet diminished their power and influence. However Corlys Velaryon, though aged and bereaved continued to serve the realm, advising successive Targaryen kings.

In the generations that followed House Velaryon gradually rebuilt its strength. Their loyalty to the Targaryens never wavered, and they continued to provide naval support and serve in key positions within the royal administration. Despite their reduced status, the Velaryons remained one of the principal houses of the Crownlands.

House Velaryon in House of the Dragon

The upcoming series "House of the Dragon" is set to bring House Velaryon back into the spotlight. The show, based on George R.R. Martin's "Fire & Blood," will delve into the events of the Dance of the Dragons and the critical role played by the Velaryons. Key figures like Lord Corlys Velaryon, his wife Rhaenys Targaryen, and their children will be central to the narrative.

Lord Corlys Velaryon, the Sea Snake, will be portrayed as a seasoned and formidable leader, whose wealth and naval power are crucial to Rhaenyra's cause. His character's depth will be explored, highlighting his ambitions, loyalties and the personal tragedies he endures during the civil war.

Rhaenys Targaryen, known as the Queen Who Never Was, will also feature prominently. Her claim to the throne and her marriage to Corlys Velaryon position her as a key player in the conflict. The show will explore her struggles, her influence over her husband's decisions, and her role in the broader Targaryen saga.