How Daemon Targaryen Took Harrenhal Without a Fight in the Books
Daemon and Caraxes won the castle from Simon Strong in late 129 AC through fear alone
Film Paradise (AI-assisted)3 November 2026Editor: Digital Fox Talent Editorial TeamOn YouTube since 2023 · more than 58,000 subscribers
In the books, Daemon Targaryen's campaign to take Harrenhal comes in the latter part of 129 AC. At that point the castle was held by House Strong, led by Simon Strong, and Daemon won it without a single battle.
Caraxes gave Daemon the advantage at Harrenhal
Daemon approached Harrenhal on Caraxes, and the sight of a dragon and its renowned rider created a psychological advantage. Caraxes, with its distinct red scales and serpentine body, is one of the most fearsome dragons alive. Daemon's reputation as a fierce warrior and seasoned commander also preceded him.
Why Simon Strong surrendered
When Daemon and Caraxes arrived, Simon Strong, the castellan, understood that resistance was futile. The presence of a dragon made defense nearly impossible. The soldiers garrisoned at Harrenhal were already demoralized by the chaos of the civil war and were not inclined to face a dragon in battle.
Simon Strong and his men surrendered Harrenhal without a fight. Daemon entered the castle, took control, and secured a key strategic position for Rhaenyra's faction. Once he held it, Daemon used Harrenhal as his base of operations.
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Adapted with AI from Film Paradise's video of 5 July 2024 and checked against the video before publication. Editorial standards · Corrections
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