Jacaerys Velaryon
The Prince of Dragonstone who forged alliances before drowning after falling from Vermax when the dragon was shot by crossbow bolts.
Jacaerys "Jace" Velaryon is the firstborn son of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and her husband Laenor Velaryon, appearing in George R. R. Martin's *Fire & Blood* and the novellas *The Princess and the Queen* and *The Rogue Prince*. While publicly presented as a Velaryon heir to secure an alliance, rumors persist that his biological father is Ser Harwin Strong due to Jace's dark hair and eyes. Born in 114 AC, he was named Prince of Dragonstone in 120 AC, and became a key diplomat during the Dance of the Dragons, successfully securing alliances with the Vale and the North. Portrayed by Harry Collett in *House of the Dragon*, Jace is remembered for his boldness, political savvy, and tragic death when he drowned after falling from Vermax.
- Character
- Jacaerys Velaryon
- Affiliation
- Black Faction
- Parentage
- Rhaenyra Targaryen & Laenor Velaryon (publicly); Ser Harwin Strong (rumored)
- Dragonrider
- Vermax
- Status
- Deceased
- Role
- Prince of Dragonstone, Diplomat, Commander
Lore & Background
Born in 114 AC to Rhaenyra Targaryen, Jacaerys grew into a strapping boy with dark hair and eyes, fueling rumors that Ser Harwin Strong was his true father—a suspicion shared by his rivals in House Hightower who mocked him and his brothers as "Strong boys." To prepare for war, Jace served as a squire, likely under the tutelage of his stepfather Daemon Targaryen. His diplomatic skills were pivotal when he traveled to the North at age fourteen, personally securing the Pact of Ice and Fire with Lord Cregan Stark. Although Archmaester Gyldayn dismisses rumors that Jace secretly married Cregan's half-sister Sara Snow, his success in the Vale and the North proved instrumental for the Black cause. The 'Sowing of the Seeds' was initiated by Rhaenyra and her council, not by Jace.
In Their Own Story
While Jace's brother Lucerys was murdered by Aemond Targaryen, Jacaerys took command of the Black fleet and orchestrated the "Sowing of the Seeds," recruiting four dragonseeds—Addam of Hull, Hugh Hammer, Ulf White, and Nettles—to bond with unclaimed dragons. As the Triarchy mercenary fleet threatened to break the Velaryon blockade, Jace led these new riders into the Battle of the Gullet. During the chaos, his dragon Vermax was struck by a grapnel harpoon from a sinking galley and pulled down. Though Jace managed to free himself from the drowning beast, he was shot dead by crossbow bolts before he could reach safety, sinking into the sea alongside his dragon.
Reader's Guide
Jacaerys Velaryon's journey is defined by his dual role as a statesman and warrior. He began as a diplomat, leveraging his status to win over Lord Cregan Stark and secure vital northern support for Rhaenyra. When war became inevitable, he transitioned to military command, notably initiating the Sowing of the Seeds to bolster Black dragon power after losses at Rook's Rest. His leadership extended to protecting his younger brothers; he sent Joffrey to Gulltown and attempted to send Aegon the Younger and Viserys to Pentos, though only Aegon escaped the ensuing attack on their convoy. Jace's death during the naval engagement against the Triarchy was a devastating blow, leading to Rhaenyra's grief-stricken rage and the eventual betrayal of dragonseeds Hugh Hammer and Ulf White.
Did You Know?
- He drowned after falling from Vermax when the dragon was struck by crossbow bolts and crashed into the sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jacaerys Velaryon?
Jacaerys 'Jace' Velaryon is the eldest son of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and her husband Laenor, though many suspect his true father is Ser Harwin Strong due to his dark features. Publicly recognized as a Velaryon heir, he served as Prince of Dragonstone and was a central figure in the Black Faction during the Dance of the Dragons.
What role does Jacaerys play in the story?
He acts primarily as a skilled diplomat who secures crucial alliances with the Vale and the North for his mother's claim to the throne. Later, he also commands forces alongside his brothers and rides the dragon Vermax into battle.
How does Jacaerys Velaryon die?
Jace is killed during the Battle of the Gullet when a crossbow bolt strikes him while he is attempting to land on the ship of Lord Jason Lannister. His death occurs at sea before he can reach safety, marking a significant turning point for the Blacks.
Why is Jacaerys considered important?
His diplomatic success was vital in expanding Rhaenyra's support base early in the conflict, preventing the Greens from easily isolating her. Additionally, as the heir to Dragonstone and a dragonrider, his loss dealt a devastating blow to the Black faction's morale and leadership.
Is Jacaerys Velaryon truly a Targaryen?
While legally acknowledged as Laenor Velaryon's son, widespread rumors suggest he is actually the biological child of Ser Harwin Strong because he possesses dark hair and eyes rather than silver-gold. This ambiguity regarding his parentage fueled political intrigue but did not stop him from being named Prince of Dragonstone.
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