Valyrian Steel, renowned for its unparalleled strength and mystical properties, is a rare metal originating from the ancient city of Valyria. This extraordinary metal has been crafted into legendary weapons throughout Westeros, known for their ability to vanquish White Walkers. The Valyrian Steel Catspaw Dagger, for instance, played a pivotal role in the defeat of the Night King in Game of Thrones. In the current timeline of House of the Dragon, several noble houses still possess these formidable weapons, with Aegon II notably donning a full set of Valyrian Steel armor. Let’s delve into some of the iconic Valyrian steel swords that were present during the Dance of the Dragons and may feature in House of the Dragon.
Dark Sister
Dark Sister stands as one of the most storied Valyrian steel swords in Westeros. Initially wielded by Visenya, the sister-wife of Aegon the Conqueror, this sword has been passed down through generations of notable Targaryens, including Prince Aemon the Dragonknight and Brynden “Bloodraven” Rivers. In House of the Dragon, Dark Sister is in the hands of Prince Daemon Targaryen. Daemon famously used Dark Sister in numerous battles, most notably during the Battle Above the Gods Eye, where he drove the sword into Aemond Targaryen’s eye.
Nightfall
Nightfall, a Valyrian steel longsword, is the prized possession of House Harlaw. Distinguished by its moonstone pommel, it is currently wielded by Ser Harras Harlaw in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series. Nightfall has been instrumental in many battles, with Ser Harras achieving several victories with it. The origins of how House Harlaw acquired Nightfall remain shrouded in mystery. Initially owned by Lord Dalton Greyjoy, known as the Red Kraken, he claimed the sword from a fallen corsair. Lord Dalton has been referenced multiple times in House of the Dragon, having played a significant role in Fire and Blood by ravaging the Westerlands. His potential appearance in Season 3, wielding Nightfall, is highly anticipated.
Lady Forlorn
Lady Forlorn is the ancestral Valyrian steel sword of House Corbray, passed down through generations. This sword, adorned with a heart-shaped ruby in its pommel, is renowned for its smoke-grey blade. Lady Forlorn has a rich history, having been used in numerous significant battles, including the Battle of the Seven Stars. It has been wielded by various members of House Corbray, playing a crucial role in the family’s legacy. During the Dance of the Dragons, Ser Corwyn Corbray wielded Lady Forlorn. In Fire and Blood, Rhaena Targaryen’s affection for Ser Corwyn suggests that both he and Lady Forlorn may appear in House of the Dragon.
Longclaw
Longclaw, a Valyrian steel bastard sword, served as the ancestral weapon of House Mormont for five centuries. It was bestowed upon Jon Snow by Jeor Mormont as a token of gratitude for saving his life from a wight. Before presenting it to Jon, the pommel was redesigned to feature a direwolf, the emblem of House Stark. Longclaw played a significant role in Jon’s journey, particularly in battles against the White Walkers. Although Bear Island is under Winterfell’s jurisdiction, the Northmen’s involvement in the Dance is limited to Cregan Stark’s greybeards, the Winter Wolves. This makes Longclaw’s appearance in House of the Dragon uncertain, yet its iconic status leaves room for possibility.
Red Rain
Red Rain, another Valyrian steel sword, belongs to House Drumm. The sword was famously seized by Hilmar Drumm, known as “Hilmar the Cunning,” from an armored knight using only a wooden cudgel, adding to its legendary status. Some speculate that Red Rain once belonged to House Reyne, whose sigil is a red lion. House Reyne was famously annihilated by Tywin Lannister, inspiring the song ‘The Rains of Castamere.’ During the Dance of the Dragons, House Reyne was still in existence. Martin Reyne, a member of this house, is depicted as Aegon’s drinking companion and later a member of his Kingsguard. Red Rain may yet appear in House of the Dragon, wielded by a member of this house.
