WARNING: Spoilers for the sixth episode of House of the Dragon.
Tides of war begin to shift.
Motherly Duties
The latest episode kicks off with a round-table meeting for Team Green. After receiving a summoning to meet the Lannisters at the Golden Tooth, Aemond refuses. Aemond then tasks Tyland to ally with the Triarchy to weaken the blockade on the sea. The prince regent then orders Cole to Harrenhal despite the casualties from Rook’s Rest. Finally, he invites the challenge of Daemon, and dismisses the council; except for Alicent. After a brief exchange, Aemond thanked his mother for her duties on the council but relieved her of those duties. Claiming her needs were no longer necessary for the current war between his brother and half-sister. Alicent tries to appease her son’s humanity through his past but to no avail. At this moment, Alicent realizes every aspect of what she considers important to the throne is no longer present. Otto Hightower is gone, Aegon is bedridden after a dragon battle, and Aemond is going to war with fierce calculation and no regard for any consequences. Olivia Cooke delivers an outstanding performance by being able to portray a queen with the best intentions but selfish motives.
Strange Visions
Daemon Targaryen’s stay at Harrenhal continues to be quite the cursed experience. Littered with a multitude of visions and dreams haunting him for his past, Daemon then questions the loyalty of Simon Strong in a visible madness. While attempting to depart Harrenhal, Alys stops him and convinces him to stay after realizing he needs help if Team Black is to conquer Harrenhal and the Riverlands. Alys seems to be strangely clairvoyant, given the timing of Lord Tully’s passing following her advice to Daemon to stay put for an additional few days. Magic perhaps? It would not be out of the realm of Westeros to find out if Alys had some mysticism under her belt.
The Search for Dragonriders
In Dragonstone, Corlys is welcomed as the Queen’s hand. Rhaenrya decides to try and have the other dragons beneath the castle claimed by potential dragon riders. Unfortunately, the first attempt goes up in flames as Seasmoke ends up cremating Steffon Darklyn, and flees Dragonstone. Despite the discouraging results, Rhaenrya’s search for potential dragon riders continues. Mysaria also informs Rhaenrya of the smallfolk’s weary state of hunger inside the walls of King’s Landing. The opportunity to sway public favor presents itself when Rhaenrya sends boats full of food to the people in the city.
Brotherly Love
Aemond visits Aegon after gaining consciousness. While recovering from his wounds, he does not remember what happened during the dragon battle. Aemond reminds Aegon that he challenged Maelys and mocked his brother for the foolish act. Before walking out, Aemond comments to the Grand Maester that his brother is due for a long recovery. The intimidation game Aemond plays towards his brother feels like a victory after all the years of being mocked and tormented by Aegon. Ewan Mitchell portrays Aemond with a cold demeanor that establishes him as one of the most terrifying forces in Westeros at the moment. It is no wonder he welcomes a dragon clash with Daemon, he has no fear.
Residents Revolt
In the wake of receiving the food supply from Rhaenrya Targaryen, the townsfolk of King’s Landing succumb to their survival instincts, as well as irrational rage-filled disappointment with the current family in power being unable to tend to their common needs. So much so, that the townsfolk proceed to riot in the streets. Alicent and Helaena are nearly killed by the uprising, however in spite of this in an attempt to show a sense of compassion for the people even during a time of chaos, Alicent orders her guard to sheathe their swords. In light of all this turmoil, Alicent still feels compelled to, on some level, be peaceful. This showcase of humanity makes Alicent Hightower one of the most complex characters in House of the Dragon, as she is willing to be orderly in a time of complete disorder.
Dragon Selection
During this season of House of the Dragon, the brothers Alyn and Addam of Driftmark have struggled with their heritage. Upon finding out they are the children of Corlys, Alyn pursues a subdued path not yearning for the namesake and benefits from it. Addam, on the other hand, wishes to be recognized. In a wicked turn of events, Seasmoke makes itself known outside of Driftmark, and pursues Addam. The dragon has officially chosen a rider, and Addam will likely gain the fortune he most desires. The reactions from other people is sure to be surprising within the final two episodes of the season.
Unexpected Affection
This episode closes out with a touching conversation between Rhaenrya and Mysaria regarding the latter’s past involving her father, and revealing that she is no longer able to carry children due to her father’s actions. In this moment, Rhaenrya and Mysaria share a tender kiss, signifying a very personal level of trust between the two. Given that Rhaenrya has no other female allies on the council after losing Rhaenys, this slight romantic twist is sure to blossom even further with the remaining two episodes left in the season. The final moments of the episode see Rhaenrya fly off on Syrax to discover who Seasmoke’s rider is, hoping for a potential ally in the war against her half-brothers. Another strong episode in House of the Dragon’s sophomore season, and with two episodes left the penultimate and final episodes are sure to continue the standard set when the show began.
New episodes of House of the Dragon air on Sundays on HBO.