House of the Dragon has been consolidating itself as a unique adaptation, mainly due to the deliberately unreliable nature of its inspiration, the book Fire & Bloodby George R.R. Martin. The series of HBOalthough faithful to the universe created by Martin, has distanced itself from the original work in some crucial aspects. Among the most notable changes are the childhood friendship between Alicent Hightower and Rhaenyra Targaryenthe false death of Laenor Velaryon and the omission of a murder between brothers in the Battle of Raven’s Rest. However, one omission that continues to draw attention is the absence of Prince Maelorthe third and youngest son of Aegon II and Helaena Targaryen.
Prince Maelor
The decision to cut Maelor of House of the Dragon has already altered the tragedy of Blood and Cheese, but without harming the central narrative. However, his absence complicates the next events of the plot, especially considering that the end of the second season makes it clear that Aegon can no longer have children. With that, the introduction of Maelor in the series becomes less and less likely. One solution, albeit a disturbing one, could involve Aemondbut how plausible would this option be?
House of the Dragon takes place about 200 years before the events of game of Thrones and chronicles the Targaryen civil war, also known as the Dance of the Dragons. The series, based on Fire & Blooddepicts the rise and fall of the Targaryens, focusing on the reign of King Viserys.
Second Fire & Blood, Maelor was two years old when the Dance of the Dragons began, four years younger than his twin brothers, Jaehaerys and Jaehaera. His first significant appearance in the book occurs during the Blood and Cheesewhere Helaena is forced to choose which of her children should die. Unlike the series, where the choice falls on Jaehaerys, in the book, Helaena chooses Maelorbut the assassins decide to kill Jaehaerys, making Maelor Aegon’s immediate heir.
The absence of Maelor in the series directly affects two important narrative lines: the participation of Daeron Targaryen and his dragon Tessarion in the war, and the escape of Aegon and Larys Strong. The destruction of Bitterbridge by Daeron, who avenges the death of Maelorit would be a remarkable scene for the character’s development. A possible solution to the “Maelor problem” would be to replace his death with that of Jaehaerabut that would open up new complications in the plot.
Aemond and Helaena
The most controversial solution would be to associate the paternity of Maelor the Aemond. Fans have been speculating since season one about a possible relationship between Aemond and Helaena. While this theory has gained traction, there is no clear evidence in the series that they had an affair. Their relationship in season two suggests a strained dynamic, making a future romance unlikely without significant adjustments to the story.
Another, even darker scenario, would be Aemond acting out of anger or desire for control and forcing Helaena to have a child. However, this option would be a drastic deviation from the profile of Aemond and the tone of the series so far. Aemond and Aegon have opposite personalities, and a sexual assault on Aemond’s part does not align with the behavior he has demonstrated thus far.
Alys Rivers
Alys Riversintroduced in Fire & Blood as a lover of Aemondcould also further complicate the plot. Although their relationship in the book is described as intense, Alys’s motivations remain ambiguous, giving the series flexibility to explore new directions. If House of the Dragon choose to merge narrative elements, Helaena could take Alys’ place, becoming Aemond’s “lady” and giving birth to Maelor.
With or without Maelor, House of the Dragon continues to stand out as a rich and complex adaptation, full of intrigue and twists. The future of the series promises even more challenges and surprises, especially as the plot moves away from its literary roots to explore new territories.
Summary for those in a hurry:
- House of the Dragon makes significant changes from the book Fire & Blood.
- Maelor Targaryenthird son of Aegon II and Helaenais absent in the series.
- Maelor’s absence directly affects the narrative of the Targaryen civil war.
- It is speculated that Aemond could be Maelor’s father, but this is unlikely without major changes to the story.
- Alys Rivers can further complicate the plot by getting involved with Aemond.
- The series continues to explore new directions, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
