15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

As a long-time fan of George R.R. Martin’s world and someone who has patiently weathered the storm that was the final season of Game of Thrones, I must say, I find myself both intrigued and slightly perplexed by the turn of events in House of the Dragon.


Warning: This post contains spoilers for the Season 2 finale of House of the Dragon.

The second season finale of “House of the Dragon” didn’t conclude as expected, with the highly anticipated Battle of the Gullet, instead opting for a series of scenes that left viewers puzzled. Who captured Otto Hightower? Is it possible Rhaena rode Sheepstealer? Frankly, where on earth is Daeron?!

As a longtime fan of George R.R. Martin’s epic saga, I can’t help but wonder about the upcoming conference between Rhaenyra and Alicent. Given my years of watching these characters navigate the treacherous waters of Westeros, I have learned to expect the unexpected. Will both sides hold true to their promises? Only time will tell, but based on past events, it seems unlikely that all parties involved will keep their word.

As a devoted fan and critic, I eagerly anticipate the unraveling of enigmas and the glimpse into the future that Season 3 of House of the Dragon promises to deliver. Here are some questions I fervently hope this captivating series will address, along with speculations about potential plot developments.

Where is Otto Hightower being held?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

In Episode 3 of Season 2, we haven’t seen Otto (Rhys Ifans) since then. His expulsion from the castle occurred when Prince Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) chose to replace his grandfather’s role as advisor, designating Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) instead. However, after Aegon’s brother, Aemond (Ewan Mitchell), seized power in King’s Landing, he recognized Otto’s strategic acumen and perceived that Cole was less than intelligent. Consequently, Aemond called for Otto to return to his post.

But the summons—and Alicent’s letters to her father—went unanswered.

In the thrilling season finale of House of the Dragon, I found myself unraveling the mystery behind Otto’s unexpected absence in my nephew’s life. In a swift, almost imperceptible scene, the series shockingly disclosed that Otto Hightower has been taken captive by an unknown entity, hidden somewhere far from our reach. The identity of his captor and the reasons behind his confinement remain a mystery at this point.

If Emma D’Arcy’s character Rhaenyra had captured him, she certainly would have shared it; as for Otto, his current whereabouts mark a significant deviation from the books, where he was still serving on the King’s Council during this period.

When will we see the Battle of the Gullet?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

Various viewers anticipated that the Season 2 finale would encompass the Battle of the Gullet, a significant confrontation from the Dance of Dragons saga. The stage seems set: In this battle, Team Green, in conjunction with the Triarchy, attempts to breach the Sea Snake’s blockade. Dragons make their appearance. Casualties mount heavily.

However, we’ll need to wait for another season to witness this grand battle, unless the truce between Rhaenyra and Alicent could potentially rearrange the sequence of events as depicted in George R.R. Martin’s book “Fire & Blood”. Let’s delve into their clandestine meeting on a later occasion…

Did Rhaena mount Sheepstealer?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

It was as anticipated by many that Rhaena (Phoebe Campbell) chose to leave her charges behind, venturing instead to locate the feral dragon residing in the Vale, whose path is marked by charred sheep carcasses. This action, regrettably, contradicts the impression she gave of treating House Targaryen’s children with maternal care. In one of the last scenes of the season, Rhaena encounters this dragon feasting on some tasty mutton, yet there is no indication that they interact. The question remains whether she can master riding this dragon, considering her past struggles in forming connections with other beasts due to her lineage. Keep in mind that her history has shown difficulty in bonding with animals.

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Where is Daeron?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

Lay off with the suspense, House of the Dragon! For two whole seasons, Alicent’s youngest son Daeron (and significantly, his dragon) have been nowhere to be found. This prolonged absence has left book enthusiasts rather anxious, as they anticipate the significant part he might play in upcoming seasons.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but notice the constant chatter among Team Green members in the latter part of Season 2. They simply can’t stop raving about young Daeron! Even the King’s Council member shared with Prince Regent Aemond Targaryen that Daeron’s dragon is thriving and will soon be battle-ready.

In another instance, Alicent (played by Olivia Cooke) questions her sibling, Gwayne (Freddie Fox), regarding Daeron. It appears Daeron has been nurtured outside of King’s Landing in Oldtown. Gwayne comforts her, explaining that Daeron, unlike Alicent’s other two sons, is a compassionate individual. This exchange holds emotional weight for Alicent, who is dismayed by the actions of her older sons, although it’s difficult to accept that the son she didn’t rear is the only one who isn’t a ruthless killer.

As a longtime fan of the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, I must say that my excitement for the upcoming appearance of Daeron in the show has reached an all-time high. With his reputation as a charismatic figure and a favorite among the ladies of Oldtown, it’s no wonder that both book and show fans alike are eagerly awaiting his debut.

They better cast someone ridiculously charming in this role. I hear Glen Powell can play young.

Did Tyland Lannister just father a bunch of pirate babies?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

During an unexpected and entertaining turn of events in the season finale, Tyland Lannister (Jefferson Hall) negotiates a pact with the pirates from the Triarchy. This agreement involves the pirates siding with Team Green, which would grant them control over the Stepstones and the ability to impose taxes on goods passing through there. To finalize the deal, Tyland engaged in a wrestling match in the mud with Lohar (Abigail Thorn), the commander of their fleet.

That evening, Lohar puts forth a suggestion: “You possess an attractive masculinity and have demonstrated your capabilities. I harbor a desire to bear offspring with you.” To further elaborate, “I wish for you to engage in intimate relations with my wives.”

“Tyland inquires about the number of wives you have,” translated to a more conversational style could be: “Tyland wonders how many wives you’ve got.” Now, if you’ve been around the block a few times with that pirate’s harem, well, Tyland might just have a colorful past! And who knows, there might be some Lannister offspring roaming Essos unbeknownst to us. This is quite amusing because, as I’m sure you remember, Tyland is more timid and cautious compared to his outgoing twin, Jason.

Will we ever see Dreamfyre?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

In the last episode of Season 2, Dreamfyre, Helaena’s dragon, received recognition. Aemond requested that Helaena (played by Phia Saban) join him in combat. However, Helaena refused his request, disappointing fans who were eager to see Dreamfyre appear onscreen. We only know that it is blue and silver, and most likely quite beautiful.

Will Aegon be able to rule again?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

Aemond’s plan, which involved dosing his brother with opium milk to keep him from making royal declarations, lasted for several episodes. However, Larys Strong (played by Matthew Needham) figured out Aemond’s trickery and has been subtly aiding Aegon, who Larys can control more easily, in his recovery from severe dragon burn injuries.

In a truly astonishing turn of events, Aegon miraculously recuperated just in the critical moment. Larys suggests to Aegon in the last episode of the season that they covertly escort him out of King’s Landing before Aemond can carry out fratricide. We observe their furtive departure. Will Aegon return to King’s Landing? And if he does, will his absence affect Rhaenyra’s negotiations with Alicent—a son for a son agreement?

Has Maelor officially been written off the show?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

Has it been implied that young Maelor, Aegon and Helaena’s son, was written out of the series due to a traumatic event known as the Blood and Cheese incident? In this storyline from the book, when asked which son they should kill by those planning to murder Aemond, Helaena chooses her younger son Maelor. However, the assassins end up killing Aemond’s elder brother Jaeherys instead. After this traumatic experience, it seems that Helaena becomes so emotionally scarred that she is unable to look at Maelor. (It should be noted that the incident was more severe in the books than on screen.)

It was assumed by some viewers that Maelor would appear later on in the series. However, the show House of the Dragon made it clear in its Season 2 finale that this was not the case. This became evident when Aegon told Larys that his “reproductive ability is no longer functioning.” So, it seems Maelor won’t be fathering any more offspring. I apologize for Maelor, but it appears he has met his reproductive end.

What was Alys Rivers’ motivation?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

Look, I’m not saying isolating Matt Smith, one of the best actors on this show, from all the other main characters in a haunted castle so he can lose his mind was a waste of time this season. I would never suggest that. I sat patiently through Dany in Meereen on Game of Thrones. I can handle a season of Daemon doing Macbeth-core.

Instead, let me ask a few more questions. Characters like Alys Rivers, portrayed by Gayle Rankin, have been consistently drugging and unsettling Daemon throughout the series. It appears her intention was to change Daemon from a potential threat into a devoted ally to Rhaenyra. Over time, he became convinced that supporting Rhaenyra was necessary following dreams about his brother Viserys (Paddy Considine) and later, visions of Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) and the White Walkers.

Indeed, could Alys’ loyalty towards Rhaenyra stem from her belief in her rightful claim to the throne? Or perhaps it was a camaraderie between women that drove their alliance? Alternatively, did she see an opportunity to reform someone perceived as troublesome, like Daemon, or was there some other influence at play, such as a mysterious message from an owl? The truth behind her actions might remain hidden.

Was Daenerys the Prince That Was Promised after all?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

While it’s been some time since the finale of “Game of Thrones,” the series left unresolved the identity of The Prince That Was Promised. Prophecies in George R.R. Martin’s works often don’t pan out as expected, but it’s surprising to see such focus on this specific prophecy in “House of the Dragon.” In fact, both Rhaenyra and now Daemon have used this prophecy as a reason for their actions.

In a prophetic vision at the Weirwood tree, Daemon foresees the approaching danger of the White Walkers, and it appears likely that the one Targaryen capable of halting them is Daenerys, accompanied by her trio of young dragons.

I’m sure George R.R. Martin will have something to say about this on his blog shortly.

Is Rhaenyra turning into a cult leader?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

Discussing women resembling dragons who even drink their own Kool-Aid, Rhaenyra resorted to using language typical of cult leaders much too hastily during Season 2’s second-to-last episode, upon learning that Addam of Hull (portrayed by Clinton Liberty) could command a dragon. She rationalized endangering the lives of many common people with silver hair in pursuit of a few dragonriders by declaring it was the divine will.

It could be risky reasoning: Keep in mind, it was her father, King Viserys I, who ignited the fight for the Iron Throne due to his intense fixation on the prophecy of the Prince That Was Promised and his belief that he and his line were chosen by the gods to safeguard Westeros from an imminent catastrophe.

Indeed, contrary to the prophecy known as the Prince That Was Promised, it’s not a Targaryen who rules the Seven Kingdoms when Jon Snow’s army meets the White Walker danger. Instead, a Lannister reigns. Moreover, it’s a Stark, rather than a Targaryen, who brings an end to the war by slaying the Night King.

What will be the fallout of the Rhaenyra-Mysaria kiss?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

One intriguing development in this season was Rhaenyra unexpectedly kissing her advisor, Mysaria, who is also the ex-lover of Daemon. Actress Sonoya Mizuno mentioned that D’Arcy enhanced the kiss during interviews. Consequently, no immediate repercussions from the kiss were shown in the concluding episodes of Season 2. However, it remains to be seen if the writers will delve into this situation in Season 3. Could we possibly witness a romantic triangle with Daemon’s potential return to Dragonstone?

What’s up with the Starks?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

In the northern region, approximately 10,000 experienced soldiers, led by them, marched to aid Queen Rhaenyra. This arduous journey southward from the Wall spanned an entire Season 2. Could we anticipate the return of Cregan Stark (Tom Taylor) in the upcoming season? There’s a possibility that he and Jacerys might rekindle their friendship again.

Who will Corlys name as his heir?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

In the course of their lives, both legitimate sons of Corlys have risen to prominence. Alyn (Abubakar Salim), who once saved Corlys’ life in Season 1, now commands his fleet. On the other hand, Addam is currently a dragonrider.

As a movie critic, I find myself intrigued by the complex character of Corlys, portrayed masterfully by Steve Toussaint. Interestingly, he seems reluctant to acknowledge, let alone embrace, two sons in the storyline. For now, Addam appears to be going along with this enigma.

Meanwhile, Alyn rejects his father’s attempts at reconciliation. In the end, Alyn recalls observing Corlys with his true-born son Laenor (John Macmillan), wrapped in fur, while Alyn and Addam were struggling to get through winter. He harbors bitterness because Corlys is suddenly taking notice of him now that his two legitimate children have passed away.

Nevertheless, Corlys has found himself without an heir since, as far as he knows, Laenor passed away. Alyn, his eldest illegitimate son, has proclaimed himself a man “of the sea,” and appears to be the most suitable candidate for the role, if only Corlys can convince him.

Will Alicent hold up her end of the deal with Rhaenyra?

15 Questions House of the Dragon Needs to Answer in Season 3

The pivotal question revolves around an imaginary dialogue between Alicent and Rhaenyra. In this fictional conversation, Alicent decides to peacefully open the gates of King’s Landing for her longtime friend without resistance. However, what makes this scene striking is that Alicent surprisingly agrees to Rhaenyra ordering the beheading of Aegon, a move intended to solidify Rhaenyra’s claim to the Iron Throne: “A son for a son.”

As a longtime fan of the Game of Thrones universe, I find it rather unlikely that Alicent will keep her promise, given our knowledge of the political intrigue and power struggles that characterize Westeros. When Rhaenyra arrives in King’s Landing with Aegon gone, Alicent may seek revenge by demanding another head on a platter instead. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if Rhaenyra, in turn, allows Alicent, Helaena, and Jaehaera to live in peace, at least for the time being, as she has her own battles to fight and allies to secure. But given the complexity of the storyline and the many episodes of dragon-fueled conflict yet to come, it seems too simple for Alicent and Rhaenyra to simply coexist peacefully.

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2024-08-05 06:07

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