The initial two episodes of House of the Dragon Season 2 starkly illustrate that rationality can no longer navigate the intricate web of conflicts, now drenched in copious bloodshed. The impending war appears inevitable, driven purely by the pursuit of power and status—a sentiment shared by both Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) and Alicent (Olivia Cooke). Episode three cautiously examines both factions, the Greens and the Blacks, as they steadily advance towards an imminent and perilous confrontation.
Who initiated the conflict?
It was the short-sighted actions of men like Daemon (Matt Smith) and Criston (Fabien Frankel) who recklessly escalated tensions, setting the stage for further violence and bloodshed. Rhaenys encapsulates it succinctly: “The young men have seized control. They seek retribution, vengeance. Soon, they will forget what initially sparked the war.
She stands beside Rhaenyra near the gravesite after the events of the second episode. While the preceding episodes were filled with plotting and action, the contemplative third episode, written by David Hancock and directed by Geeta Vasant Patel, focuses more on processing the mutual pain and regret on both sides. This is portrayed through poignant dialogues and emotional scenes.
What is Daemon doing?
Amid these developments, this episode presents a compelling storyline for Daemon, who finds himself at Harrenhal, a foreboding castle in the Riverlands reminiscent of a horror film setting. This eerie atmosphere suits Daemon well, highlighted by a darkly humorous sequence where he navigates the castle’s shadowy halls only to stumble upon the entire household dining, seemingly unaffected by his presence. Here, there is a poignant reflection on young Rhaenyra, underscoring how Daemon grapples with his past actions. Matt Smith delivers a captivating performance. Additionally, a notable scene unfolds in a brothel involving Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) and King Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney), effectively exploring their fraught relationship dynamic.
It all culminates in a flawlessly performed sequence during the final moments of this hour-long episode, where the two women finally confront each other independently, free from male influence. This familial conflict has left a trail of blood, with hardly a moment spared to reflect.
Yet, despite their shared pain and regrets, as Alicent recalls a past conversation with Viserys, Rhaenyra finally realizes that much of their strife stemmed from willing miscommunication. Olivia Cooke and Emma D’Arcy deliver incredible performances, drawing on their characters’ personal histories. Their evolving dynamic is portrayed through subtle shifts in body language and dialogue delivery. War looms ahead, and blood will be shed. One has lost hope, while the other is resolute and defiant. The voice of reason grows faint.
