In the latest episode of HBO's 'House of the Dragon,' Alys Rivers reveals a significant secret hidden at Harrenhal: a cache of five dragon eggs laid by the dragon Dreamfyre. This discovery ties into the history of the original Rhaena Targaryen, a prominent figure in George R.R. Martin's 'Fire & Blood.'
Alys presents the eggs to Aemond Targaryen, explaining that they were laid by Dreamfyre after the death of Rhaena's daughter. According to Alys, these eggs have remained at Harrenhal for a century. She proposes a future where Aemond stays with her at Harrenhal, becoming a 'dragonlord' and fathering Targaryen princes who could hatch and ride these dragons. Aemond's presence appears to stir one of the eggs, suggesting a connection to the dragon's latent warmth.
The original Rhaena Targaryen, granddaughter of Aegon the Conqueror and Rhaenys, faced a tumultuous life. Following her father Aenys I's death, she and her brother were next in line to the throne but were usurped by their uncle, Maegor the Cruel. Rhaena was one of Maegor's "Black Brides" and later gifted the sword Blackfyre to her younger brother, Jaehaerys.
After marrying Androw Farman, Rhaena settled on Dragonstone with her daughter Aerea and Elissa Farman. Elissa, a sailor, stole three of Dreamfyre's eggs to fund an expedition, which some fans believe may have eventually reached Daenerys Targaryen. Aerea, Rhaena's daughter, died from a mysterious illness after an ill-fated flight on Balerion the Black Dread to Old Valyria.
Devastated by Aerea's death, Rhaena retreated to Harrenhal, where she lived for another 17 years. During this period, Dreamfyre is believed to have laid the final clutch of eggs discovered by Alys Rivers. The narrative raises questions about Alys's knowledge and potential mystical abilities.
Dreamfyre itself is a significant dragon in the lore. In 'House of the Dragon,' the dragon's current rider is Helaena Targaryen, though Dreamfyre is often kept in the Dragonpit. Both Rhaena and Helaena, as Dreamfyre's riders, are depicted as starting as shy individuals who grew stronger after bonding with the dragon, with Rhaena reportedly beginning the tradition of placing dragon eggs in cradles.