The prequel series explores the Targaryen dynasty at the zenith of its influence, commanding over 15 dragons. Historically, both real and fictional empires tend to decline from such lofty positions. For the Targaryens, this gradual descent starts nearly 193 years before the events of Game of Thrones, when King Viserys Targaryen disrupts a century-old tradition by appointing his daughter Rhaenyra as the successor to the Iron Throne. However, when Viserys later has a son, the court is taken aback as Rhaenyra remains the designated heir, planting the seeds of discord and tension throughout the kingdom.