The fifth episode of the second season House of the Dragon traded the epic dragon battles of last week for dense, meaty politics and repositioning in the aftermath of Rhaenys (Eve Best) and her dragon Meleys’ tragic deaths, and King Aegon II (Tom Glynn-Carney) and his dragon Sunfyre’s severe injuries.
Spoilers Ahead
There’s a lot that happens in this episode. In fact, This episode was packed with so much information that it warranted multiple viewings and extensive note-taking. Rather than sticking to a chronological recap, let’s take a more thematic approach to unravel the intricacies of this dense hour of television.
King’s Landing
In King’s Landing, Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) and his army make a mistake that I believe will haunt them for the rest of this war. As they march home toward the Red Keep, they cart the lifeless head of the dragon Meleys through the streets. It’s meant to be seen as a trophy, but it just serves as proof to the smallfolk that dragons, and their riders, are not infallible.
Inside the Red Keep, the true cost of the battle becomes apparent. King Aegon II is found in a dire state, barely alive, his body charred and broken. The maesters work frantically to save him, while his younger brother, Prince Aemond (Ewan Mitchell), watches with a smirk. Aemond’s ambition is clear as he suggests someone must rule in Aegon’s stead, eyeing the throne for himself.
Alicent (Olivia Cooke) visits Ser Criston Cole, now known as the Kingmaker, and learns of the brutal battle at Rook’s Rest. The subsequent Small Council meeting sees Alicent clashing with her son Aemond, whom she suspects of playing a role in Aegon’s injuries. The council debates the matter of succession, and despite Alicent’s objections, Aemond asserts his authority.
Alicent’s realisation that she has been sidelined is palpable, marking a significant shift in the power dynamics of King’s Landing.
Shadows Over Harrenhal
Meanwhile, Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) is making his moves at the foreboding fortress of Harrenhal. Haunted by visions and influenced by the mysterious witch Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin), Daemon’s ambition grows. Despite his efforts, the lords of the Riverlands remain defiant, challenging his authority and refusing to rally to his cause. This scene underscores Daemon’s struggle to consolidate power and the deep-seated resistance he faces.
Mourning at Driftmark
Across the sea at Driftmark, Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steven Toussaint) mourns the loss of his wife, Rhaenys. His granddaughter Baela (Bethany Antonia) visits him with a proposal from Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy), asking him to serve as her Hand. Baela’s fierce determination and loyalty to Rhaenyra shine through as she urges her grandfather to rise above his grief and support their cause.
Rhaenyra’s Dilemma
Back at Dragonstone, Rhaenyra grapples with the realities of leadership and war. Her son Jace (Harry Collett) yearns to prove himself, but Rhaenyra’s protective instincts clash with his ambitions. The episode concludes with a pivotal discussion between Rhaenyra and Jace about the need for more dragons and riders. This conversation hints at the potential for new alliances and the desperate measures Rhaenyra must consider to secure her position.
Conclusion
Episode 5 of House of the Dragon masterfully balances political intrigue with personal stakes, setting the stage for the inevitable conflict. The shifting power dynamics, the deepening rifts within the Targaryen family, and the strategic moves by key players all contribute to a complex and engaging narrative.
Scattered Thoughts:
- Alicent’s interactions with Criston Cole reveal her increasing desperation and the strain on their relationship.
- The portrayal of Daemon’s ambition and the resistance he faces adds depth to his character arc.
- Alicent is finally realising how terrible her son Aemond is.
- The tension between Rhaenyra and Jace underscores the generational conflict and the burden of leadership.
