The Dance of Dragons: A Historical Analysis
Intro
In the lore of Westeros, few events are as consequential and multifaceted as the Dance of Dragons. This gripping series of conflicts not only reshaped the Targaryen dynasty but also altered the fate of the realm itself. It serves as a rich context to explore power, betrayal, and the relentless struggle for supremacy. In this article, we aim to dissect the intricacies of this turbulent era, shedding light on key players and historical implications that echo to contemporary times.
Character Dissections
The Dance of Dragons is marked by a fierce competition among the Targaryen family members, primarily focusing on two main factions. Understanding these characters is essential to grasping the significance of their actions and decisions.
Rhaenyra Targaryen
Rhaenyra, the named heir of King Viserys I, embodies the struggle for power and recognition in a male-dominated society. Her ambitions are often viewed through the lens of a tragic figure whose dramatic arc is defined by her fierce determination. As she fights to claim her birthright, Rhaenyra's complexity is revealed through her relationships with allies and foes alike.
Aegon Targaryen
Aegon II, Rhaenyra’s half-brother, brings another layer of conflict. Instilled with a sense of entitlement, he represents the traditional values of primogeniture, where the eldest male holds the throne. His ambition often clashed directly with Rhaenyra’s, leading to a bitter feud fueled by misconceptions and alliances.
Key Figures in the Civil War
- Daemon Targaryen: Rhaenyra's second husband and a crucial ally. His boldness often tips the scales of warfare.
- Corlys Velaryon: Known as the Sea Snake, he plays an integral role with his naval power and loyal support.
- Otto Hightower: The Hand of the King, whose political maneuverings contribute immensely to the conflict.
The motivations and actions of these characters create a layered narrative that extends beyond personal vendettas, reflecting deeper themes of power and legacy.
Lore Explorations
Delving into the lore surrounding the Dance of Dragons reveals a comprehensive tapestry of political intrigue and familial loyalty. Key historical events fuel the backdrop of this civil war.
Historical Context
To understand the Dance of Dragons, one must first recognize the Targaryen lineage and their commitment to maintaining power over Westeros. The history of dragonlords and their volatile nature plays a significant role in shaping subsequent events.
Cultural and Mythical Aspects
The Targaryen's connection to dragons is pivotal. Dragons symbolize not just power but also the fragility of that power. The ability to tame and ride dragons dovetails into the theme of dominion, illustrating how quickly fortunes can shift.
Implications of the Conflict
The aftermath of the Dance of Dragons leaves a long-lasting impact on the Targaryen dynasty. Not just a tale of family conflict, it signals the beginning of a slow decline in their power. The implication of this civil war foreshadows future challenges, leading to both internal strife and external threats from rival houses.
"The Dance of Dragons serves as a cautionary tale of ambition and its consequences."
Culmination
The Dance of Dragons is more than an account of battles and betrayals; it encapsulates the complexities of human ambition and the harsh realities of power struggles. Understanding this pivotal moment in Westerosi history requires a deep dive into the motivations of key characters and their intertwined fates, highlighting the perpetual cycle of conflict and its ramifications on the fate of dynasties.
By exploring these facets, this article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Dance of Dragons, offering insights into both the past and its relevance to contemporary narratives.
Historical Context
Understanding the historical context of the Dance of Dragons is crucial for grasping its implications within the lore of Westeros. This civil war, which erupted within House Targaryen, was not just a feud between family members; it signified larger themes of power, legitimacy, and the consequences of ambition. The event set the stage for future conflicts and shaped the perception of the Targaryen family dynamics.
Before the Dance
Before the conflict began, the Targaryens were solidifying their power in Westeros. A deep understanding of their ancestry helps illustrate how dragons symbolized their dominance. The Mad King, Aerys II, is often remembered, but earlier figures like Aegon I and Aegon III laid the groundwork for the family's rule. The notable conquest of Aegon the Conqueror unified the Seven Kingdoms under one banner, which established a legacy of fire and blood.
The relationship among Targaryens was complex, marked by alliances and rivalries. Key figures like Rhaenys, Aemon, and Viserys shaped the political landscape before the conflict. These relationships, intertwined with ambition and jealousy, set the stage for the ensuing battle, illustrating how familial ties can devolve into bitter enmity.
The Rise of the Targaryens
The Targaryens’ journey from exile to rulers of Westeros is significant. Aegon I Targaryen's conquest is a key event in this trajectory. His ability to unite the kingdoms demonstrated both political acumen and the destructive power of dragons. The establishment of the Iron Throne from swords of defeated kings symbolized the new order in Westeros.
As the family grew, so did their internal strife. The rise of Rhaenyra and Aegon II marked a division within House Targaryen. Rhaenyra, the firstborn, believed she should inherit the Iron Throne, clashing with her half-brother Aegon. Their rivalry was not simple; it raised questions about gender roles in leadership and the line of succession, critical themes that would resonate throughout Westerosian history.
Prelude to Conflict
The lead-up to the Dance of Dragons is riddled with pivotal moments. Tensions mounted as factions began to form around Rhaenyra and Aegon II. Marriage alliances, proclamations, and betrayals transformed the familial conflict into a public civil war. Key events like the death of King Viserys I and the ensuing succession crisis acted as catalysts for the impending conflict.
Furthermore, political maneuvering from various houses, including the Hightowers and Velaryons, expanded the rift within the Targaryen dynasty. The stakes were high, with loyalty shifting swiftly among noble houses, which ultimately led to the violent confrontations that would characterize the Dance of Dragons. Every action taken by factions had lasting ramifications, demonstrating how intricate politics can unravel even the strongest of legacies.
Key Figures in the Conflict
The conflict in 'The Dance of Dragons' is marked by pivotal characters whose motivations and decisions shape the course of history within Westeros. Understanding these figures is essential to grasp the nuances of the Targaryen civil war. Each character brings their ambition, desires, and fears, reflecting the intricacies of power dynamics and familial loyalty.
Aegon Targaryen
Aegon II Targaryen stands as a controversial figure in this conflict. He was the firstborn son of King Viserys I and a key player in the civil war for the Iron Throne. His claim was contested by his half-sister, Rhaenyra Targaryen, leading to the titular "Dance" of dragons. His reign, albeit brief, was marked by decisions that revealed his character.
Aegon's ascension to the throne came after the death of his father. He believed himself to be the rightful king. Throughout the war, Aegon II exhibited a deep-seated desire to prove his supremacy. He leveraged his dragons, particularly Sunfyre, to bolster his position. Notably, he was known for his ruthlessness against opponents, which fueled the conflict's ferocity.
Key Points:
- Aegon II's pursuit of the throne highlighted the Targaryen struggle for power.
- His approach varied from diplomatic overtures to outright violence, leading to devastating consequences.
- Aegon II’s actions significantly shaped the political landscape of Westeros during his time.
Rhaenyra Targaryen
Rhaenyra Targaryen, often considered the rightful heir to the Iron Throne, played a crucial role in the familial conflict. Her claim was strongly supported by many traditionalists within the realm who believed in the legitimacy of her birthright. Rhaenyra's character is multifaceted, embodying both the grace of a noble ruler and the ferocity required in times of war.
After the untimely death of Viserys I, Rhaenyra was determined to assert her claim against Aegon II. She was known for eliciting loyalty from her supporters. Rhaenyra had her own dragon, Syrax, which she used both for military might and as a symbol of her claim. Her ability to inspire others was crucial during the conflict.
Considerations:
- Rhaenyra's narrative reflects themes of women's rights and authority in a male-dominated society.
- Her conflict with Aegon II also showcases the complexities of sibling rivalry within a royal family.
- She faced significant challenges, including betrayal and personal loss, making her story tragic yet compelling.
Supporting Characters
The Dance of Dragons was not solely a tale of two claimants. Numerous supporting characters influenced the course of events significantly. These individuals were crucial, either serving as allies or adversaries in the protracted struggle. Their actions often created shifting allegiances, contributing to the war's unpredictability.
Some notable supporting characters include:
- Corlys Velaryon: Known as the "Sea Snake," he was a powerful ally of Rhaenyra, providing naval strength through his formidable fleet.
- Otto Hightower: Aegon II's Hand of the King, his political maneuvering showcased the intricacies of court politics.
- Daemon Targaryen: Rhaenyra's uncle and third husband, who played a significant role in the early stages of the war.
These characters, among numerous others, were pivotal in shaping the conflict's legacy and demonstrating the diverse motivations within the Targaryen family.
The characters of 'The Dance of Dragons' highlight not just the clash of dragons but also the multifaceted nature of human ambition and relationships.
The Dragons of War
The phrase "Dragons of War" encapsulates a defining characteristic of the Targaryen legacy during the conflict commonly referred to as the Dance of Dragons. The involvement of dragons fundamentally altered the dynamics of warfare in Westeros. It highlights not only the Targaryens' immense power but also the catastrophic consequences that ensued from wielding such forces. The dragons served as both instruments of destruction and symbols of political ambition, dramatically influencing the course of events during this turbulent period.
Targaryen Dragons
Targaryen dragons were not just weapons; they were integral to the identity of the house. Each dragon, such as Balerion, Vhagar, and Meraxes, carried the weight of history and tradition, representing the might of their riders. Their size and strength gave the Targaryens a decisive advantage in battles. For instance, Balerion, known as the Black Dread, was said to be large enough to swallow an elephant whole. The size alone intimidated enemies and provided a psychological edge.
Moreover, the dragons were raised with a bond to their riders, showcasing a unique relationship. This bond added a layer of complexity to the dynamics between Targaryens, often leading to deeply personal rivalries and conflicts that transcended mere politics. The Targaryens believed their dragons were reflections of their own power and destiny, making the stakes in the Dance of Dragons particularly high.
The Role of Dragons in Warfare
In the context of warfare, dragons transformed traditional battle strategies. They were capable of launching devastating fire attacks that could turn entire armies to ash within moments. This ability created a tactical landscape where direct confrontations on the ground became less appealing, leading to a reliance on ambush tactics or surprise assaults from the sky. The war halted not just troop movements but also dictated overall strategies. Once a dragon engaged, the battlefield would shift, often leading to swift and dramatic victories.
However, harnessing dragons was not without risks. Their immense power could backfire. A single misstep could lead to a catastrophic loss, as seen in numerous instances during the Dance. Also, dragons needed to be managed carefully, as their unpredictable nature could lead to unintended consequences, affecting both allies and enemies alike. This duality made their role in warfare both valuable and perilous, rendering the strategies surrounding them significantly more complex.
Notable Battles Involving Dragons
Several battles during the Dance of Dragons showcased the might of these creatures, changing the outcomes of conflicts and shaping the war itself.
- The Battle of Rook's Rest: This crucial encounter depicted Aegon II using dragonfire strategically to outmaneuver his opponents. Loss of life was immense, underscoring the destructive potential of dragons in warfare.
- The Second Battle of Tumbleton: In this pivotal clash, the Targaryens faced severe casualties, with dragons falling to enemy fire, showing that even the mightiest could be vulnerable.
- The Battle Above the Gods Eye: This aerial showdown between the rival Targaryen dragons highlighted the spectacle and danger of dragon combat. The consequences included loss not only of men but of critical heirlooms and significant shifts in power.
Ultimately, the presence of dragons in these battles exemplified how the Targaryens manipulated their might for political gain while also revealing the inherent risks they faced. The victories may have been significant, but the losses transformed the entire trajectory of their dynasty.
"Dragons may turn the tide of battle, but the ties of blood make the fight personal, and the consequences dire."
Significant Events during the Dance
The Dance of Dragons marks a critical period in the lore of Westeros. This segment of the Targaryen history is defined by significant events that shaped the trajectory of the dynasty. Understanding these events provides deeper insights into the motivations, consequences, and legacy that followed this brutal conflict. The clashes during this dance were not merely fights for power, but they also had lasting effects on the characters involved and the realm itself.
The Start of Hostilities
The conflict began with a series of tensions primarily rooted in succession disputes. Aegon II Targaryen and Rhaenyra Targaryen, both heirs to the Targaryen legacy, found themselves at odds over the Iron Throne. The formal declaration of hostilities can be traced back to specific acts that signaled the implications of the feud.
Aegon II claimed the throne upon King Viserys I’s death despite Rhaenyra's clear claim as the named heir. The ensuing chaos saw allegiances shatter, villages pillaged, and relations sour among the Great Houses of Westeros.
• Key actions, such as Aegon II’s coronation, fueled the flames of war.
• Rhaenyra’s initial response involved rallying support from her half-brother’s enemies.
These initial moves were crucial as they set the stage for the bloody confrontations that were to follow.
Major Battles
As the war escalated, several key battles defined the struggle for supremacy. Each battle had its own tactical nuances and showcased the ferocity of the Targaryen dragons in combat.
One notable encounter was the Battle of Rook's Rest, marked by ferocious dragon duels. Dragons clashed high above the battlefield while warriors fought beneath. The outcomes of such battles influenced the political landscape profoundly and determined control over territories.
• The Battle of Tumbleton saw a dramatic shift as Aegon II lost considerable ground.**
• In contrast, Rhaenyra’s forces experienced successes through strategic alliances.
Such battles were more than markers of physical territory; they represented the struggle for legitimacy and power between two factions of the same bloodline.
Key Turning Points
Key turning points in the Dance of Dragons shaped the course of the conflict. The advantage swung multiple times between Aegon II and Rhaenyra. Strategic insights reveal how decisions made during these moments altered the dynamics of the war.
The death of major players was particularly impactful. For instance, the death of Queen Rhaenyra's son, Prince Joffrey, during the Battle of Tumbleton became a rallying point for Rhaenyra's side.
• Aegon's own military losses contributed to wavering morale among his troops. • Rhaenyra's temporary successes often came at high personal costs, showcasing the complexities of loyalty and ambition within the Targaryen family.
These moments encapsulated how personal tragedy intersected with broader political shifts, lending a poignant gravity to the conflict.
“The Dance of Dragons changed Westeros; it was not just a battle for the throne, but a fight that forever altered the fabric of Targaryen history.”
Through evaluating these significant events, one gains a clearer perspective on how the Dance of Dragons is an emblematic tale of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of power.
Aftermath and Consequences
The aftermath of the Dance of Dragons is crucial in understanding the long-term implications of this catastrophic conflict. This civil war not only altered the fate of the Targaryen dynasty, but also reshaped Westeros' political landscape. The consequences were felt across generations, influencing future power struggles and alliances.
Legacy of the Dance
The legacy of the Dance of Dragons can be seen in many aspects of Targaryen history. It marked a significant turning point that weakened the once-mighty family. After the war, the Targaryens faced a significant decline in their dragon population, which reduced their military might. The loss of powerful dragons like Vhagar and Sunfyre not only diminished their legendary status but also created an environment of vulnerability. This set a precedent for later conflicts and uprisings against them, demonstrating how deeply intertwined the fates of dragons and Targaryens were.
Impact on the Targaryen Lineage
The impacts on the Targaryen lineage were profound and multifaceted. By the end of the Dance, the Targaryens experienced significant loss of life. Many members of the family died, leading to a fractured royal bloodline. The direct heirs were often embroiled in subsequent disputes over succession, creating a breeding ground for political intrigue and betrayal. The civil war left scars on the family, affecting the way future generations viewed their legacy of fire and blood.
Cultural Reflections
Culturally, the Dance of Dragons has become a symbol of ambition and tragedy. Stories of the war have been passed down, leading to folk tales and songs that reflect the complex nature of power and its consequences. The tragedies of Rhaenyra and Aegon II serve as cautionary tales about the costs of ambition. In contemporary discussions, these themes resonate with notions of power struggles found in modern politics.
"The Dance of Dragons illustrates how loyalty can falter under the weight of ambition."
The conflict invites reflection on the dynamics of familial loyalty and betrayal, raising questions about the nature of power and the lengths individuals will go to achieve it. It encourages scrutiny of how history reverberates through culture and identity.
Comparison to Other Conflicts
The exploration of the Dance of Dragons gains depth when placed alongside other historical conflicts within the lore of Westeros. Each conflict has unique dimensions but often mirrors patterns of power struggles and personal ambitions that transcend time and geography. Understanding these parallels not only enhances the appreciation of the Dance of Dragons but also provides insights into recurring themes in conflicts throughout history.
The War of the Five Kings
The War of the Five Kings is one of the most notable conflict in the history of Westeros, serving as a complex tapestry of alliances and betrayals among various houses. Initiated after the death of King Robert Baratheon, it illustrates a rapid disintegration of loyalty and order within the realm, quite similar to the internal fractures present during the Dance of Dragons.
Key points of interest include:
- Multiple claimants to the throne: Each king claims legitimacy in their quest for power. This echo's the motivations of Aegon II and Rhaenyra Targaryen, both of whom believed they had rightful claims to the Iron Throne.
- Brutality and loss: Just as the Dance resulted in massive casualties and the downfall of families, the War of the Five Kings showcased relentless bloodshed where many great houses fell.
- Manipulation and strategy: The subtlety of political maneuvering plays a crucial role in both conflicts, shedding light on how cunning and guile often prevail over sheer might.
Understanding these dynamics allows fans to see how the layers of treachery, ambition, and human nature create a recurring cycle of violence in Westeros.
The Stark-Lannister Rivalry
The animosity between House Stark and House Lannister illustrates another complex layer of Westerosi politics. Rooted in personal grievances, this rivalry emphasizes the moral and ethical divides that fuel conflict. Unlike the overt war of succession seen in the Dance of Dragons, the Stark-Lannister conflict operates more undercurrents, characterized by betrayal and vengeance.
Key aspects to consider:
- Honor versus ambition: The Starks often embody honor and virtue, while the Lannisters represent raw ambition and ruthlessness. This stark ideological divide resonates with the themes in the Dance of Dragons where loyalty and betrayal shaped the fates of many.
- Family ties and rivalries: The intertwining of family interests creates tension, showcasing how personal relationships can lead to broader conflict. This mirrors the familial strife of the Targaryens during their civil war.
- Collateral Damage: Just as innocent lives are lost in both the Dance and Stark-Lannister tensions, the impact of conflict reaches beyond its immediate combatants, often wreaking havoc on the common people.
The intricate interplay of these rivalries reminds us that at the heart of war lies human ambition, desire for control, and the consequences that follow.
Themes and Motifs
In exploring the Dance of Dragons, it is essential to address the prominent themes and motifs that provide a framework for understanding the conflict. This section delves deeply into the complexities that define the narrative structure. Here, power and ambition, betrayal and loyalty, and the fragility of power stand out as central components. These elements not only enrich the story but also mirror aspects of contemporary life, making them relevant to modern audiences.
Power and Ambition
The pursuit of power is a driving force behind the actions of characters in the Dance of Dragons. Aegon II Targaryen and Rhaenyra Targaryen both embody ambition, seeking to secure the Iron Throne for themselves. Their conflict illustrates how ambition can blind individuals to the consequences of their actions. Decisions made in haste or out of greed often lead to disastrous results, not just for the rivals, but for entire families and populations. Characters are caught in a web of desire for domination that shows how power can corrupt even those with noble intentions.
The Targaryens, known for their regal lineage, showcase ambition on an epic scale, which ultimately leads to their own downfall. This theme of power manifests in various events, from the initial battles to the aftermath of the Dance, influencing the structure of Westeros itself. Thus, ambition stands as both a motivating force and a cautionary tale of what can happen when the quest for power overshadows morality and reason.
Betrayal and Loyalty
Betrayal is a recurrent motif in the Dance of Dragons, serving as a stark contrast to the notion of loyalty. Characters such as Ser Harwin Strong embody the conflicting allegiances that are pivotal during this tumultuous time. The shifting loyalties among factions showcase the volatility inherent in political intrigue. Trust is a fleeting commodity. Allies become enemies, and friends turn to foes with little warning.
Loyalty, on the other hand, is depicted as both a strength and a vulnerability. Many characters remain steadfast to their chosen leaders, even when it leads them to ruin. This dichotomy highlights how loyalty can sometimes lead to the tragic downfall of characters, as blind allegiance can ignore the truth of a situation. The exploration of betrayal and loyalty deepens the narrative, exposing the personal sacrifices made in the name of ambition and the desire for power.
The Fragility of Power
Power is often perceived as something permanent, but the Dance of Dragons demonstrates its fleeting nature. The rise and fall of the Targaryens illustrates how easily authority can be undermined by internal conflict and external pressures. Both Aegon II and Rhaenyra ultimately realize that their control is precarious. The dragons, symbols of their might, also serve as reminders of how quickly power can shift.
The story serves as a reflection on the nature of power itself – how it can embolden or destroy individuals and families. The consequences of fighting for power often result in devastation that carries forward into future generations. The reader is left to ponder the worthiness of ambition if it leads to a cycle of violence and ruin.
"The Dance of Dragons is not merely a tale of fire and blood; it serves as a profound commentary on power dynamics and human ambition itself."
In sum, these themes and motifs create a nuanced understanding of the Dance of Dragons. They resonate across time periods, bridging past conflicts with modern struggles for power, loyalty, and ethical considerations. Engaging with these concepts allows for a richer appreciation of the narrative and its implications, ensuring the Dance leaves a lasting imprint on its audience.
Relevance in Contemporary Discussions
The Dance of Dragons provides a critical lens through which one can examine not just the historical narrative of Westeros but also its resonances with current global discourses. The relentless struggle for power and its consequences as illustrated through the Targaryen civil war offers a pattern that modern societies can study. This article endeavors to unpack the significance of this conflict within both the narrative framework and the socio-political consciousness of today's world.
Parallels in Modern Politics
In today's political landscape, the Dance of Dragons echoes the tumultuous rivalries often seen in governance and leadership. The dynamics between Aegon II Targaryen and Rhaenyra Targaryen can mirror contemporary power struggles within political parties or factions. The motivations behind their claims to the Iron Throne reveal underlying themes of legitimacy and authority that resonate in current political debates.
Certain patterns arise in these modern parallels:
- Factionalism: Just as the Targaryens were divided, modern political parties often face internal divisions that affect their coherence and strength.
- Media Manipulation: The role of communication, akin to how allegiances were swayed through rumors during the Dance, reflects the current era of information warfare where narratives can be crafted to shape public opinion.
- Historical Legacy: As the Targaryens' actions had consequences for generations, today's political leaders must consider the long-term impact of their decisions on future governance.
Such parallels serve as a reminder of how history, even in a fantastical realm, can offer instructive lessons about power and consequence.
The Appeal of High-Stakes Drama
The Dance of Dragons is marked by its intense drama, capturing the essence of conflict and the human condition. This high-stakes environment not only draws audiences into the narrative but allows reflection on the motives that drive individuals to extremes. The intense emotions displayed by characters like Rhaenyra and Aegon reverberate with the audience, highlighting the duality of human nature: ambition versus loyalty, love versus hatred.
High-stakes drama serves several purposes today:
- Engagement: It captivates audiences, drawing them into the complexities of character motivations and moral dilemmas.
- Critical Reflection: As viewers observe the struggles of others, they are given opportunities to reflect on their own values and decisions in their lives.
- Cultural Commentary: The intense narratives can function as commentaries on contemporary issues, encouraging discourse on justice, power, and societal values through an accessible storytelling medium.
These high-stakes dynamics create not just entertainment but also provoke thought that resonates with audiences, sparking discussions about deeper societal structures and relationships.
"The Dance of Dragons teaches us that every power struggle comes at a significant cost, not just for the contenders but for the fabric of society itself."
End
The conclusion of an analysis on The Dance of Dragons holds substantial significance. It invites readers to reflect on the events explored in previous sections of the article, highlighting the complex interplay of ambition, power, and conflict that resonates throughout this historical account. In a world characterized by intrigue and betrayal, the legacy of the Targaryens serves as a reminder of the intricate web of relationships that define Westeros.
Summation of Key Points
The Dance of Dragons is not merely a tale of war; it represents a critical moment in Targaryen history. Here are the essential elements discussed:
- Historical backdrop: Understanding the Targaryen rise sets the stage for comprehending the subsequent conflict.
- Key players: Aegon II and Rhaenyra Targaryen epitomize the struggle for the Iron Throne and the devastating impact of their rivalry.
- Dragons in warfare: The utility of dragons shifts the nature of combat, impacting strategies and outcomes.
- Significant battles: Events such as the start of hostilities and major clashes demonstrate the ferocity of this civil war.
- Aftermath repercussions: The legacy left by the Dance considerably influences the future of House Targaryen.
- Contemporary reflections: Modern parallels can be drawn, enhancing the relevance of this historical narrative.
This summation encapsulates the intricate dynamics that not only shaped the fate of a family but also the realm of Westeros itself.
Final Thoughts on the Targaryen Legacy
The Targaryen lineage, though splintered and scarred, continues to captivate the imagination. The Dance illustrates that the foundation of their legacy is not solely one of dragons and thrones; it is also a narrative of human folly and the cost of conflict. As fans of Game of Thrones reflect on this story, the lesson carved into history remains clear: power often exacts a heavy toll.
