In season 1, episode 2 of House of the Dragon, we’re already seeing big plays towards control of the Iron Throne. There’s Lord Corlys Velaryon pushing for power in an upfront and diplomatic way. And then there’s Daemon with his underhanded tactics. But why did Daemon steal the egg in House of the Dragon? What are his motivations? Here’s why.
Warning: The following article contains spoilers for House of the Dragon, Season 1 Episode 1 and Episode 2.
Why Did Daemon Steal the Egg in House of the Dragon?
Long story short: to get his brother’s attention. Of course, that was only a single facet of Daemon’s plan to force a visit with Viserys in House of the Dragon. In the premiere episode of House of the Dragon, Viserys sent Daemon away, back to Runestone to his wife but not before Daemon was disinherited. Viserys’ daughter would now be heir to the Iron Throne.
In addition to swiping a dragon egg, Daemon also:
- Rounded up Gold Cloaks as his own personal army
- Seized Dragonstone
- Announced that he would marry Mysaria
For starters, having your own personal army stationed at Dragonstone isn’t a good look; Dragonstone is a seat that the heir inherits, which he no longer is. Secondly, Daemon is already married to Lady Rhea Royce. Before Daemon seized Dragonstone, he was supposed to return to Lady Rhea Royce at Runestone.
Still, it’s quite the power move. Had King Viserys I Targaryen taken the bait, which he almost did, there’s no telling what may have happened. After all, Viserys wouldn’t have a dragon at his call, and we already know Daemon thinks Viserys is a weak king.
Which Egg Did Daemon Steal?
What makes Daemon’s theft particularly egregious is that the dragon egg was to be given to King Viserys’ late son, Prince Baelon, the newborn baby that appeared in episode 1. According to Targaryen tradition, a dragon egg is placed in the cradle of trueborn Targaryens. Daemon had intentions of giving it to his own heir someday.
So, that’s why Daemon stole the egg in House of the Dragon. If he plans to take the Iron Throne, however, he’ll have to try better than that. For more on House of the Dragon, find out here if there will be a season 2 of House of the Dragon.
Featured Image Source: HBO Max
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