Why did Laena Valaryon commit suicide at the House of the Dragon

*WARNING: Spoilers ahead for House of the Dragon*

Death lurks around every corner in Game of Thrones and while we’ve seen every manner of gory murder, the spin-off HBO Maxhas also highlighted the dangers of childbirth in the medieval-esque time period.

This has been evident from the first episode which showed the gruesome death of Aemma, King Viserys’s first wife, and now episode 6 has mirrored that scene with Laena Velaryon.

However, Laena didn’t allow herself to die on the birthing bed, instead choosing to have her dragon kill her – but why exactly did Laena choose to kill herself in House of the Dragon?

Laena Velaryon’s death in House of the Dragon

We find out that Daemon Targaryen has now been married to Laena Velaryon, a 10-year jump in time between episodes 5-6.

They are currently guests of Prince Reggio, Pentos. Daemon is not willing to leave Westeros to get involved in the troublesome politics.

Baela, Rhaena and Rhaena have already had two daughters. A third child is in the works.

However, complications arise during the birth as the infant is in breach and the attending maesters aren’t able to deliver the baby naturally.

The scene mirrors that of Aemma’s death in episode 1 as a maester asks Daemon if he should attempt to remove the baby by way of the blade, which would kill Laena in the process.

Unlike Aemma’s death, Laena decides not to die on the birthing bed and walks outside to her dragon Vhagar and orders the enormous creature to kill her.

Laena Velaryon commits suicide?

Vhagar asks Laena to execute her because she is determined to die on her terms.

Earlier in the episode, Laena mentions that she wants to die a dragon rider’s death.

However, complications during birth almost guarantee her death. But that’s until Laena decides she wants to handle the situation herself.

While it may not quite be dying in battle, having Vhagar incinerate her is the closest thing available to a dragon rider’s death and so she chooses that over having the maesters cut her open in a futile effort to save the baby.

What happens to Daemon Targaryen after Laena’s death?

After Laena’s death, Daemon will marry Rhaenyra Tarrayen, his niece.

In the same year as both Laena and Laenor’s deaths, Rhaenyra and Daemon tie the knot and begin living together on Dragonstone, causing much controversy in the process.

Their union produces two more sons, Aegon The Younger and Viserys. A stillborn daughter, Visenya, is also born.

Daemon is a soldier in the Targaryen Civil War, joining his wife’s side after the death of King Viserys. He also takes part in many battles during the conflict.

House of the Dragon will air weekly on HBO The USA and Canada Sky After premiering on August 21st, 22 and 22 respectively, the UK premiered it.

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