Warning: Spoilers for the latest episode of HBO’s House of the Dragon.
The clock has jumped forward two years in the real world, and only moments have passed in Westeros. With that in mind, let’s revisit the key events from earlier seasons, especially for those keeping track since the time of the Biden Administration.
Credits roll, revealing the intricate tapestry of scenes: the Doom of Valyria, Aegon’s Conquest, and the tragic end of Viserys. It also recaps Season 1 with Aegon and Rhaenyra on their thrones, Lucerys’ tragic demise, among others, and takes viewers through the events of Season 2, such as Rhaenys’ death and Rhaenyra’s efforts to rally dragonriders.
The scene opens in the Vale where Rhaena finally bonds with the wild dragon, Sheepstealer. Their initial hesitation gives way as the dragon shares roasted mutton with Rhaena, solidifying their bond through actions rather than words.
At the Red Keep, Aemond discovers King Aegon and Larys hiding in a carriage heading north. Aegon struggles with opiate withdrawal, nicknamed ‘going cold pheasant.’ It leads to soldiers loyal to Rhaenyra intercepting the pair due to Aegon’s behavior, but Larys manages to sway them to bring the brothers to Rhaenyra.
Back on Dragonstone, Rhaenyra plans to fly to King’s Landing to claim the throne. Her assurance stems from Alicent’s promise that the city will be vulnerable, thus making it a seemingly safe endeavor. Despite doubts from her council, Rhaenyra is adamant and sends orders to support her plan.
Upon returning to King’s Landing, Alicent finds Aemond claiming the throne, changing the narrative as he plans not to fly to Harrenhal. Alarmed by incoming challenges from Ormund Hightower’s forces, Alicent confronts the daunting reality of breaking promises and rising threats.
In the Riverlands, Daemon leads armies against the Lannisters, revealing allies in Roddy the Ruin’s Winter Wolves. They present the head of Jason Lannister to Daemon, a grim Westerosi tradition comparable to a casual gift exchange.
Elsewhere, Criston Cole, influenced by nihilistic perspectives, crosses paths with Ulf and other dragonseeds on the Isle of Faces. The island’s mystical atmosphere raises ancient fears and tensions as Alys Rivers emerges, hinting at greater powers at play.
Back in the Red Keep, Alicent forges letters in Aemond’s name to manage the advancing Hightower army without compromising safety.
In maritime conflicts, Corlys and his son Alyn face a Triarchy fleet led by Tyland Lannister and Sharako Lohar. A tactical disagreement leads to the enemy’s assault on Driftmark. Chaos reigns, prompting Corlys to navigate dangers while Alyn grapples with battle choices.
As Rhaenyra prepares to aid her fleet, the Battle of the Gullet unfolds. Dragons engage in a volatile clash, resulting in losses and triumphs, notably involving Rhaena’s intervention on Sheepstealer amid unfolding despair.
As the episode concludes, questions linger around survivors such as Tyland Lannister and Corlys’ fate. The absence of Daeron and his dragon remains a mystery, yet the naval battle showcases strategic prowess greatly surpassing previous depictions.
With the loss of Sharako, similarities arise between her fate and the Crabfeeder’s brief presence, each character’s impact lasting an episode each.
Anticipation builds as viewers await new episodes on HBO every Sunday at 10:01 p.m. Eastern Time for more intrigue and daring adventures in Westeros.
Leave a Reply