Balerions

Balerions, also known as the "Black Dread," was a legendary dragon of Old Valyria and later of House Targaryen. He was one of the largest and most fearsome dragons ever to exist, renowned for his immense size, dark scales, and fiery breath. Balerions was hatched from an egg in Old Valyria and was ridden by the Targaryen dynasty for over a century.

During the Targaryen conquest of Westeros, Balerions played a crucial role. He was ridden by Aegon the Conqueror, the first Targaryen king, and his fiery breath was instrumental in defeating the armies of Westeros, most notably at the Field of Fire. Aegon's victory led to the establishment of the Targaryen dynasty and the unification of the Seven Kingdoms.

After Aegon's death, Balerions was passed down to his son, Aenys I Targaryen, and then to Aenys's son, Jaehaerys I Targaryen. Jaehaerys rode Balerions extensively throughout his long reign, using the dragon to enforce his rule and to travel across his kingdom. Balerions was a symbol of Targaryen power and a constant reminder of their dragon-riding heritage.

Balerions died of old age during the reign of Jaehaerys I. By the time of his death, he was ancient, and his bones were said to be as large as small castles. His skull was preserved in the Red Keep in King's Landing, serving as a testament to his power and a stark reminder of the Targaryens' lost connection to dragons. The dragon's legacy continued to inspire awe and fear for generations.