In the world of “House of the Dragon,” Targaryens are famously known for their unique ability to bond with and ride dragons. However, the series reveals that Targaryens are not the only ones who can claim dragons, as seen through the character Addam of Hull and his bond with the dragon Seasmoke.
The Targaryen Legacy and Dragonriding
The Targaryens, with their Valyrian blood, have long been the primary dragonriders. Laena and Laenor Velaryon, children of Rhaenys Targaryen, possess dragons due to their lineage. Yet the show demonstrates that not all Targaryens automatically become dragonriders. Characters like Rhaena and Aemond did not have dragons as children, with Aemond claiming Vhagar only later in life. This indicates that even within the Targaryen family, dragonriding is not guaranteed.
The Unique Case of Addam of Hull
Addam of Hull and his brother Alyn are introduced as the illegitimate sons of Corlys Velaryon, a family of ancient Valyrian descent but without dragons. Despite this, Addam becomes a dragonrider, specifically bonded with Seasmoke. This raises questions about how he achieved this remarkable feat.
Seasmoke’s Bond with Addam
Initially, Seasmoke was bonded with Laenor Velaryon, Corlys Velaryon’s legitimate son. After Laenor’s death, Seasmoke remained riderless. When Rhaenyra Targaryen began searching for new dragonriders, Steffon Darklyn attempted to bond with Seasmoke but was rejected and killed by the dragon. Seasmoke then returned to Driftmark and pursued Addam of Hull. Contrary to Addam’s fears, Seasmoke stopped in front of him, signifying the dragon had chosen Addam as its new rider.
Theories Behind Seasmoke’s Choice
Several factors might explain why Seasmoke chose Addam:
1. Dragon Autonomy: Dragons possess the ability to choose their riders. Seasmoke’s acceptance of Addam highlights this autonomy.
2. Bloodline Connection: Although Addam is not a Targaryen, he shares blood with Laenor Velaryon. Seasmoke might recognize this connection, leading to its acceptance of Addam.
Broader Implications for Dragonriding
The case of Addam of Hull suggests that dragonriding might not be exclusive to Targaryens. The books and series provide other examples, such as the wild dragon Sheepstealer being claimed by an orphan named Nettles, who had no apparent Targaryen blood. This challenges the long-held belief that only Targaryens can bond with dragons.
The story of Addam of Hull and Seasmoke in “House of the Dragon” broadens the understanding of dragonriding. While Targaryens have the highest likelihood of becoming dragonriders due to their Valyrian blood, the series shows that other factors, such as shared lineage and the dragons’ own choices, also play crucial roles. This expands the lore of dragonriding, making it a more complex and intriguing aspect of the “House of the Dragon” universe.
