The conclusion of season 2 of House of the Dragon brought a mix of emotions and disappointments. While there were some emotionally charged moments, such as the reunion between Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) and Alicent (Olivia Cooke), the lack of major battles left viewers of the HBO series feeling like the finale felt more like a setup for the next season than a real payoff.
The expectations generated by the trailers, which suggested epic action scenes, were frustrated by an episode focused more on dialogue and politics than on combat.
Tyland Lannister and the negotiations in Essos
Tyland Lannister (Jefferson Hall), known for his difficulty with social interactions, faced one of the most humiliating moments of his life in Essos.
Sent to negotiate an alliance with the Triarchy, he found himself in a vulnerable position and was quickly outmaneuvered by the leaders of Lys, Tyrosh, and Myr. The deal, which was meant to strengthen Aemond’s position, resulted in him granting the Stepstones for naval support, something Tyland certainly did not want but was forced to accept.
In addition to the territorial concession, Tyland suffered a series of humiliations, including being forced to fight in the mud and sing for the commander of Lys, Sharako Lohar (Abigail Thorn). Despite all these efforts, the expected naval action did not materialize, leaving viewers waiting for a resolution that is expected only next season.
Tensions in Pedra do Dragão and Derivamarca
In Derivamarca the atmosphere of war is palpable. Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint), after repairing his warship, renames the vessel to The Queen Who Never Was (The Queen Who Never Was) in honor of his dead wife, Princess Rhaenys.
Together with his bastard son, Alyn de Casco (Abubakar Salim), he prepares to block the Goela. However, the relationship between father and son is marked by resentment. Alyn expresses his frustration and pain at being recognized only after the death of the legitimate heirs of Corlys.
At Dragonstone, Rhaenyra faces challenges with her new dragons and their riders. Ulf the White (Tom Bennett), one of the new dragonriders, appears disrespectful and arrogant, a behavior that contrasts with the more respectful attitude of his colleagues Addam (Clinton Liberty) and Hugh the Hammer (Kieran Bew).
Ulf’s actions point to trouble ahead, as he openly questions the legitimacy of Jacaerys (Harry Collett) and attempts to establish himself as an authority figure, something that could destabilize Rhaenyra’s plans.
Aemond and Helaena’s refusal to fight
Aemond (Ewan Mitchell), in a fit of rage, sets fire to the city of Ponta Aguda, revealing its growing instability and desire for destruction. His reckless behavior worries those around him, especially when he tries to convince Helaena to ride his dragon, Dreamfyre, into battle. However, Helaena (Phia Saban) refuses, citing her aversion to bloodshed.
Helaena’s refusal is all the more significant given her ability to foretell the future. She reveals to Aemond that she knows of his involvement in Aegon’s death and prophesies his dark fate, saying that he will die in the lake of the God’s Eye.
Daemon’s vision of Harrenhal and his decision to support Rhaenyra
Daemon’s (Matt Smith) journey to Harrenhal is marked by a series of visions, guided by Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin), that lead him to reflect on the future of his house and his role in the war. The most impactful of these visions includes the appearance of her, Daenerys Targaryen herself, symbolizing the continuity and resilience of House Targaryen in the face of adversity.
This moment not only connects House of the Dragon to the universe of game of Thronesbut it also reinforces the importance of Daemon and Rhaenyra in preserving their family’s legacy.
In the end, Daemon finally decides to fully support Rhaenyra, kneeling before her and acknowledging her as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne. This decision is the result of a series of intuitions and premonitions, including visions of important figures from his past, such as Viserys (Paddy Considine) and Laena (Savannah Steyn).
Alicent’s proposal to Rhaenyra
The final meeting between Rhaenyra and Alicent is filled with tension and emotion. Alicent, who has fought all season to maintain power and the status quo, offers Rhaenyra a deal that could end the war. She offers to surrender King’s Landing in exchange for her and Helaena’s freedom. Rhaenyra imposes one difficult condition: the surrender of Aegon, her main rival for the throne.
Alicent’s proposal is a desperate attempt to find a peaceful way out, but Rhaenyra’s request puts her in a delicate position. Alicent, finally acknowledging her past mistakes, agrees to the condition, but her silent acceptance reveals the weight of the decision.
But things won’t be that simple, as we see in a later scene in the episode showing Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) already on the run with Larys Strong (Matthew Needham), who takes the king to Braavos.
House of the Dragon Season 3 Preparations
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Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
