Key Points:
- Baela Targaryen rejects Corlys Velaryon’s offer to be his heir, preferring a life of dragonriding.
- Despite her wishes, Baela ends up as the wife of the Lord of the Tides at Driftmark after the war.
- The show hints at a less favorable future for Baela compared to her story in Fire & Blood.
House of the Dragon has altered the fate of many characters from George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, including Baela Targaryen. In the show, Baela’s rejection of Corlys Velaryon’s offer to become his heir hints at a less ideal future. This article explores how the series changes Baela’s ending, making it less favorable than in the book.
How Does Baela Reject Corlys’ Wish To Make Her Heir To Driftmark?
In House of the Dragon Season 2, Episode 5, Baela Targaryen’s conversation with Corlys Velaryon marks a significant change from the book. Corlys offers Baela the chance to become his heir and rule Driftmark. However, Baela rejects this offer, saying, “I am blood and fire. Driftmark must pass to salt and sea.” This statement highlights her Targaryen blood, showing her preference for dragonriding over ruling the sea. Baela’s heart lies in the skies, riding her dragon Moondancer, rather than sailing the seas.
Baela’s decision is influenced by her heritage and passions. She takes after her parents, Laena and Daemon, who also preferred lives of dragonriding over ruling. Baela’s rejection of Driftmark doesn’t mean she disrespects her Velaryon heritage; instead, it shows her recognition that she isn’t the right person to lead Driftmark. Her focus is on upholding the Targaryen legacy, especially as she’s betrothed to Prince Jacaerys Velaryon, the heir to the Iron Throne.
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What Happens to Baela After the War?
Despite Baela’s clear preference for dragonriding, her future unfolds differently in Fire & Blood. After the Dance of the Dragons, many Targaryens are dead, and dragons are almost extinct. Baela faces tragedy as Prince Jacaerys dies during the Battle of the Gullet, and her dragon, Moondancer, is killed. She is captured by King Aegon II at Dragonstone but survives the war.
Post-war, Baela’s life changes dramatically. She is pressured into a politically beneficial marriage by Aegon III’s regents. Seeking refuge from these pressures, Baela flees to Driftmark and marries her uncle, Alyn Velaryon, who becomes the Lord of the Tides after Corlys’ death. This outcome is a stark contrast to Baela’s wishes expressed in the show. Instead of ruling Driftmark or continuing as a dragonrider, she ends up living at Driftmark, fulfilling a role she had previously rejected.
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How Is Baela’s Ending Different From the Book?
In Fire & Blood, Baela’s ending is more positive compared to other Targaryen characters who suffer great losses during the Dance of the Dragons. However, House of the Dragon hints at a more bittersweet conclusion for Baela. Her rejection of Corlys’ offer shows her desire to follow her passions rather than accept a role she doesn’t want. Yet, circumstances push her into a life at Driftmark, much like in the book.
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Baela’s story in the series suggests a shift from her initial ambitions, mirroring the tragic fates of many characters in the Targaryen saga. The series underscores the inevitability of her destiny despite her strong will and Targaryen spirit. Baela remains at Driftmark with Alyn Velaryon, bearing two children and living out her days away from the skies she loves.
House of the Dragon continues to air new episodes on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max.
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