The Fearsome Reign of Balerion, the Black Dread
When we talk about the Targaryens and their dragons, one name stands head and shoulders above the rest: Balerion, the Black Dread. This colossal beast, whose shadow was said to darken the sun, was more than just a dragon; he was a symbol of Targaryen power and a crucial instrument in their conquest and reign over Westeros. But the question often arises: which Targaryen actually owned and rode this legendary creature?
Aegon the Conqueror and His Mount
The most famous and arguably the most significant rider of Balerion was none other than Aegon I Targaryen, the very man who set out to conquer the Seven Kingdoms. Aegon, alongside his sister-wives Visenya and Rhaenys, brought his three dragons – Balerion, Vhagar, and Meraxes – to Westeros, fundamentally changing the course of its history.
Balerion was Aegon's personal dragon, his most powerful weapon. During the Targaryen conquest, Balerion was instrumental in several key battles. His sheer size, fiery breath, and terrifying roar instilled fear in the hearts of Aegon's enemies. Aegon rode Balerion into battle, using the dragon's immense power to break armies and bring down fortifications. The most iconic example of this is the burning of the Field of Fire, where Aegon, with Balerion, Vhagar, and Meraxes, decimated the armies of the united kingdoms of the First Men and the Andals who dared to stand against him.
Balerion's Unmatched Legacy
Aegon I Targaryen was the first and most renowned rider of Balerion. He claimed the dragon when he was still a young man, and they were inseparable throughout Aegon's reign. Balerion’s reign of terror ended with Aegon’s death, but the dragon continued to serve the Targaryen dynasty.
After Aegon's passing, Balerion was bonded to Aegon's son and successor, King Aenys I Targaryen. However, Aenys was not as formidable a dragonrider as his father, and his reign was plagued by internal strife. Balerion was still a magnificent creature, but he was not as actively used in conquest under Aenys.
The next significant rider of Balerion was King Maegor I Targaryen, also known as "Maegor the Cruel." Maegor was a brutal and formidable warrior who reclaimed the Iron Throne through force. He famously rode Balerion during his bloody reign, using the dragon to quell rebellions and consolidate his power. It was during Maegor's time that Balerion's awe-inspiring presence was perhaps most terrifyingly felt across Westeros.
Following Maegor's death, Balerion passed to Prince Jaehaerys I Targaryen, who eventually became "Jaehaerys the Wise." Jaehaerys, known for his long and prosperous reign, was a capable dragonrider. While he didn't use Balerion for conquest in the same way Aegon or Maegor did, the dragon was still a significant part of his royal menagerie and a symbol of his inherited power.
The final rider of Balerion was King Viserys I Targaryen. By the time Viserys claimed Balerion, the dragon was ancient and infirm. Balerion died of old age during Viserys's reign, a truly monumental loss for the Targaryen dynasty. The great dragon had lived for centuries, witnessing and participating in the very foundation of Targaryen rule.
The End of an Era
Balerion's death marked the end of an era for the Targaryens. He was the last of the great dragons from the Conquest, and his passing signaled a shift in the dynamics of dragon power within the family. While other dragons existed, none could ever match the sheer legend and historical significance of Balerion the Black Dread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How old was Balerion when he died?
Balerion was incredibly old when he died, estimated to be around 200 years old. He had lived through the reigns of multiple Targaryen kings and was a living testament to the dynasty's long history in Westeros.
Why was Balerion called "the Black Dread"?
Balerion earned the moniker "the Black Dread" due to his immense size, his terrifying appearance (his scales were said to be black as night), and the sheer terror he inspired in his enemies. His shadow alone was enough to sow fear and despair.
Was Balerion the largest dragon ever?
Yes, Balerion is widely considered the largest and fiercest dragon ever to have lived in Westeros. His physical dimensions were unparalleled, and his fiery breath was so potent it could melt stone.
Did any other Targaryens ride Balerion besides those mentioned?
While Aegon I, Aenys I, Maegor I, Jaehaerys I, and Viserys I are the most famous and documented riders of Balerion, it's possible that other younger Targaryens may have had brief interactions or ridden him when he was very young and before he was claimed by Aegon. However, these are not historically detailed.
