As a seasoned observer of the intricate tapestry of Westeros politics, I find myself deeply moved by the unfolding events surrounding Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen and Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower. Their lives, once intertwined through marriage and duty, now seem to be on a collision course that threatens to tear apart the very fabric of their world.
Warning: Full spoilers for House of the Dragon season 2 episode 8 ahead.
With the climactic end of House of the Dragon’s second season approaching, it appears that yet more bloodshed and fear are looming as we move forward into season 3.
In the eighth episode of Season 2, entitled “The Queen Who Ever Was,” Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen (played by Emma D’Arcy) reached a point where she was prepared to reclaim her true rulership. Accompanied by an army, her dragons, and her husband, Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith), who can be quite formidable, she made her move.
Although some may have anticipated a blazing conclusion, the episode managed to keep us guessing with a few unexpected twists – all things considered, given the issue they had to handle regarding the leak at HBO.
In our viewing experience, we encountered a wide array of surprises, such as an exceptionally portrayed gender-swapped admiral hailing from Essos, a significant plot twist centering around Daenerys Targaryen herself (played by Emilia Clarke), and numerous deviations from George RR Martin’s book “Fire and Blood.”
Kick-starting our anticipation for season 3, let’s delve into a recap of how House of the Dragon season 2 episode 8 concluded. Here are the key points you should keep in mind!
House of the Dragon season 2 ending explained: What does Daemon’s vision mean?
In this episode, a significant event stands out – Daemon’s profound vision that leads him to swear loyalty to Rhaenyra, instead of declaring his own claim.
Initially, Daemon encounters Sir Alfred Broome (Jamie Kenna), who presents himself as an envoy from Queen Rhaenyra. However, unlike serving her cause, he encourages Daemon to make his own claim instead. Daemon exhibits the self-assuredness one would expect, yet it’s disclosed that Sir Simon Strong (Simon Russell Beale) has overheard the conversation – and promptly informs Queen Rhaenyra of the situation.
Alys Rivers (played by Gayle Rankin) informs Daemon that he’s now prepared to uncover his destiny. She invokes a powerful vision, which seems reminiscent of weirwood sap oozing down a tree. Intrigued, Daemon touches the substance and is granted visions of significant events from A Song of Ice and Fire’s history.
The Bloodraven
Born out of wedlock to King Aegon IV Targaryen, though later legitimized, Bloodraven, also known by his birth name Brynden Rivers, played a significant role in the First Blackfyre Rebellion. During this conflict, he lost an eye, but whispers circulated about his alleged magical abilities and skill as a spymaster.
Significantly, Brynden Rivers eventually transforms into the enigmatic character called The Three-Eyed Crow (often referred to as The Three-Eyed Raven in the HBO series Game of Thrones). In the world of Game of Thrones, The Three-Eyed Raven guides Bran Stark. Eventually, Bran is chosen as the first ruler of the Six Kingdoms through an election.
The White Walkers
From the world of Game of Thrones, it’s clear that the White Walkers could prove a more formidable danger to Westeros than any internal conflict among houses, even long after the Game of Thrones era has passed. This is a point Alys successfully conveys to Daemon, leading him to renounce his claim to the throne and swear allegiance to Rhaenyra instead.
As a cinephile delving into the intricate world of “House of the Dragon,” I grapple with the unique challenge of weaving its narrative seamlessly with the original series, given its temporal distance of 107 years. Alas, this gap precludes any living characters from the original cast to reprise their roles.
To connect the story across ideas, themes, and artifacts, the recurring prophetic dream or vision of Aegon the Conqueror seems to be the common thread, serving as a bridge between any dramatizations of his conquest in the following century and the original series. This dream is what ties everything together.
“The depicted scenes serve as a subtle reminder throughout the narrative that there exists a vast, enigmatic force hovering above the storyline, which both characters and viewers are cognizant of and apprehensive about. However, this prophecy’s fulfillment remains unknown to everyone.”
Of course, since we’ve watched the original series, we recognize that the events depicted don’t directly impact the characters, yet we comprehend that they serve as underlying motivations, constantly lurking at the back of their minds.
“We’re in an era reminiscent of the Middle Ages, a time marked by deep-rooted superstitions. These beliefs seem to permeate the characters within our narrative, serving as a reminder of the grand mythical universe that we, too, are immersed in.”
King Consort Daemon Targaryen submerged in water
Here, we have to get into some book spoilers – so look away if you don’t want to know what happens!
As a long-time fan of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, I must say that Daemon Targaryen’s final battle with Aemond on dragonback above Harrenhal is an exciting and fitting conclusion to their rivalry. Having read the books multiple times and watched the show, I can appreciate the foreshadowing that Helaena provides moments later in the narrative. From my perspective as a reader, it feels like Daemon’s death scene is a poignant reminder of the high stakes and brutal nature of the world Martin has created. The vivid imagery and emotional impact make this moment stand out among many others in the series. It seems fitting that Daemon’s life ends in battle, given his warrior spirit and complex character development throughout the books. Overall, I believe that this scene is a testament to Martin’s ability to create memorable and engaging characters and events that keep readers hooked on the story.
Queen Daenerys Targaryen as the Prince That Was Promised
In the end, Daemon witnesses a prophetic image: The Prince/Princess that was Foretold, destined to unify the lands – Daenerys Targaryen, who appears from the flames and hatches her dragons.
Queen Helaena Targaryen
It appears Helaena is directly addressing Daemon, implying she possesses psychic abilities we hadn’t fully realized before. She confides in Daemon that he understands his role in the impending narrative, and what actions he needs to take.
Following Daemon’s vision, Rhaenyra reaches Harrenhal. Upon inquiring about his allegiance, he forewarns her of impending darkness before kneeling and vowing fealty. Eager to battle till the end, he rallies his troops for Rhaenyra.
What happened to Prince Regent Aemond Targaryen?
Upon learning that Rhaenyra has trained dragon riders, Aemond becomes enraged – a state known to bring out his greatest peril. In this fury, Aemond and his dragon, Vhagar, torch the town of Sharp Point, resulting in the tragic deaths of countless innocents.
In their struggle towards the battlefield, Helaena confronts Aemond, revealing that she is aware of his actions in burning Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney). She warns him that he may regain his kingship, but ultimately will meet a grim end, suggesting that he will perish within the God’s Eye – foreshadowing his demise.
What happened to King Aegon II Targaryen and Lord Larys Strong?
King Aegon is progressively regaining physical strength, yet remains confined to bed due to Aemond’s fiery attack. Larys (Matthew Needham) pays a visit to warn him of Aemond’s wrath and urges him to depart from King’s Landing, seeking refuge in Essos, for his own safety instead.
He tells Aegon about Rhaenyra’s new dragonriders and states plainly what Aegon already knows – that Aemond will kill him. Aegon suggests taking his brother prisoner, but Larys points out he will then be left without Vhagar.
In an effort to bolster Aegon’s spirits amidst his wounds, I find myself appealing to him with words of encouragement. I subtly remind him that the people of our realm will undoubtedly acclaim him as he returns, not just as Aegon, but as Aegon the Rebuilder – a title that speaks volumes about his potential for renewal and restoration.
Toward the closing moments of the episode, it becomes clear that Aegon has unwillingly sought refuge, traveling covertly alongside Larys within a carriage.
What armada did Ser Tyland Lannister raise?
The episode starts in Essos where Ser Tyland Lannister (Jefferson Hall) is trying to negotiate for a naval force to help the Greens break their blockade. However, the people of Essos aren’t easily swayed and demand the Stepstones or a fleet of warships instead. In a hesitant manner, Tyland agrees, but there’s a catch: they want the commander of this fleet to accompany them as well.
Indeed, let’s introduce Admiral Lohar, portrayed by Abigail Thorn who is known for being an actress and YouTube sensation (often recognized as Philosophy Tube). Unlike her counterpart in George RR Martin’s book, Admiral Lohar is a gender-flipped character. She proposes a playful mud fight to Tyland, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.
Lohar appears pleased and mentions she’ll think about his proposal, but playfully tries to persuade him that it would be beneficial for him to consume the meat of his adversaries. Prior to their meal, he has a delightful, melodic conversation. In the end, Lohar consents to fulfill his wish.
What happened to Lady Rhaena Targaryen?
Meanwhile, Lady Rhaena Targaryen (portrayed by Phoebe Campbell) persists in her quest to locate the dragon of the Vale, famously known as Sheepstealer. To clarify, this narrative arc was originally assigned to a character named Nettles in the books. However, viewers have observed that Nettles has been omitted from the series. It seems that Rhaena’s and Nettles’ stories have been merged during the creation of the show.
Towards the close of the adventure, she locates the elusive dragon she’s long sought – and appears ready to seize control over Sheepstealer.
Why is Prince Jacaerys Velaryon so angry?
Throughout the finale, we see Prince Jacaerys (Harry Collett) insecure about the dragonriders.
listens in as Ulf White (Tom Bennett) and Hugh Hammer (Kieran Bew) converse, finding himself enraged by what he perceives as Ulf’s poor etiquette.
Ulf teases Jace over his dark hair, likening himself to a prince and suggesting they’re of similar origin, which angers Jace profoundly. He’s sensitive about his lineage due to the gossip circulating throughout the kingdom, and yearns to distance himself from the dragonseed/Targaryen offspring, whom he views as inferior and strives to be above.
Jace warns Ulf that if he interferes with the Blacks’ actions, Ulf will face execution, and Ulf swiftly retracts his position.
Baela reprimands Jace sternly, emphasizing that he must demonstrate his worthiness. To add fuel to the fire, during dinner, Rhaenyra raises a toast to her fresh dragonriders and vows that if they serve her loyally, they’ll earn knighthood. She informs them that they will take flight in the next two days.
In this scenario, Ulf has the knack of irritating people, yet stops just short of crossing a line. However, Rhaenyra gets a warning from Ser Simon Strong, expressing concerns about potential betrayal. Consequently, she summons Addam (Clinton Liberty) to accompany her to Harrenhal.
What happened to Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen and Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower?
In the realm of our shared knowledge, I find myself opening up to you, Corlys, about my new dragonriders. Admittedly, their true natures remain shrouded in mystery for me. Interestingly enough, Addam of Hull is someone you’re acquainted with – a detail that has yet to cross my awareness. You speak highly of him, praising his integrity, and express regret over not having been more involved in his life.
In due course, perhaps triggered by feelings of guilt, Corlys provides Alyn (Abubakar Salim) with paternal counsel; however, this wisdom is swiftly dismissed by the son who had not been previously recognized.
Corlys encourages Rhaenyra to act swiftly, and though she thought the dragonriders would discourage others, she listens carefully as he mentions Helaena and Dreamfyre, her powerful dragon, along with Aemond’s wrath. In a moving instant, Corlys shares that he has renamed his cherished vessel after his deceased wife, Rhaenys Targaryen (Eve Best) – The Queen Who Never Was.
Regarding the battle preparations, Aemond demands a checkup prior to any vessels entering the harbors, which would undeniably add to the troubles of the commoners who rely on fishing boats for livelihood. He justifies this by asserting that everyone should bear their own sacrifices. Simultaneously, Helaena inquires from her mother about the reason behind such hostility towards them and expresses her contentment when she was not a queen yet.
While Alicent brings up the possibility of departing from King’s Landing, Aemond arrives and tries to take Helaena away for fighting. Alicent swiftly intervenes, and straightaway informs the grand maester that she requires a secretive journey to another location.
Mysaria offers guidance to Rhaenyra, who finds herself grappling with the burden of causing countless deaths. Suddenly, Alicent appears, leaving Rhaenyra taken aback as she confesses her error. In the end, Alicent informs Rhaenyra that Aemond will be teaming up with Criston Cole, and if she travels to King’s Landing, she can witness the soldiers yield peacefully without any spilled blood.
Rhaenyra believes she needs to execute Aegon in order to claim her throne and instructs Alicent to participate in this plot. Alicent consents to carry out the plan. Although Rhaenyra acknowledges that history may label her as a villain, Alicent doesn’t care – all she desires is freedom. She pleads with Rhaenyra to accompany her, but Rhaenyra remains firm – she understands her part in this drama. Alicent departs, knowing the task at hand.
A concluding sequence highlights the entire Westeros readying for conflict – Rhaenyra’s dragon-riding forces, Lady Laena who uncovers the dragon she had been seeking, Daemon’s soldiers, Tyland Lannister’s assembled navy, and Corlys’ maritime troops.
Afterward, scenes show Alicent and Rhaenyra, each deep in thought, gazing off into the horizon, considering what lies ahead for them.
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2024-08-05 05:38