Is Sunfyre dead? What became of King Aegon's dragon in House of the Dragon?
The last episode of House of the Dragon gave viewers an update on King Aegon's state following events at Rook's Rest. Viewers still question, though, about Sunfyre, Aegon's magnificent dragon's future. The fate of Sunfyre will be discussed in this article together with the dragon's whereabouts and its part in the Dance of the Dragons.
Sunfyre's fate: wounded but alive.
Though not without repercussions, Sunfyre—known for its vivid golden scales—emerged as a standout in the fight at Rook's Rest. Following a flaming encounter with both Meleys and Vhagar, the ferocious dragon was badly wounded. Although Sunfyre's condition is not specifically addressed in the show, Aegon and his dragon both emerged from the terrible struggle.
The show notes that the dragon would need time to heal, much as Vhagar, suggesting the degree of Sunfyre's injuries. Sunfyre has slowed down the pacing compared to the books, thus viewers will probably not see Sunfyre returning to the show for a while. Several events need to happen before Sunfyre's next show appearance.
Sunfyre's part in the Dragon Dance
Sunggyre is still a major participant in the Dance of the Dragons despite his injuries. Sunfyre's future participation will probably be major as the war develops.
The programme shows Aegon's head returning to the capital with Meleys. However, the Greens would have to carry the wounded dragon should they bring Sunfyre back to King's Landing, so compromising their discretion. The books show Sunfyre left to heal close to Rook's Rest under Criston Cole's protection. The Blacks try to kill Sunfyre at one point, but the dragon fiercely resists and finally gets sufficient strength to fly away.
Aegon's destiny and his reunion with Sunfyre
In the books Aegon spends a good amount of time bedridden. For television, though, he most likely will come to and speak sooner than shown in "Fire & Blood," the source material.
At last Rhaenyra captures King's Landing, forcing Aegon to flee and hide on Dragonstone. There he meets the partially healed Sunfyre once more. Though they do not fight big battles, Aegon and Sunggyre are very important in a pivotal point.
Sunfyre's last stand and sacrifice
After Ser Alfred Broome betrays Dragonstone to the Greens, Baela tries to defend the castle on her dragon, Moondancer. Sunfyre triumphs in the skirmish despite his injuries at Rook's Rest, so sadly killing Moondancer.
The Greens seize Rhaenyra when she returns to Dragonstone looking for safety. A turning point toward the end of the "House of the Dragon" series, Aegon II finally orders Sunfyre to carry out Rhaenyra.
Sunfyre's Death: Courage Left Behind
Tragic results of the war, many dragons die during the Dance of the Dragons. Beloved by book readers for its bravery and tenacity, Sunfyre suffers many terrible conflicts before at last healing its scars.
Sunfyre stays on Dragonstone after murder of Moondancer. Its body finally gives in to the total damage it suffered over the war. From the fight with Rhaenyra, Sunfyre's condition is already critical. Aegon dreams of his dragon recovering, but Sunfyre dies finally. Aegon's immediate need for a fresh dragon egg, yearning for a "new Sunggyre, prouder and fiercer than the last," captures the effect of his dead dragon.
Sunfyre's path in the "House of the Dragon" series is far from finished, but its future is yet unknown, which fuels much of the excitement and mystery about the dragon's fate.