House of the Dragon vs Fire And Blood: Book changes in Episode 206, “Smallfolk”

As a longtime fan of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, I’ve grown fond of the intricate characters and their complex narratives. Having read “Fire & Blood,” I was excited to see how HBO’s “House of the Dragon” would adapt these stories for the small screen. Yet, after watching the latest episode, I find myself feeling a tad disconnected from the source material.

In the sixth episode of “House of the Dragon” titled “Smallfolk,” the long-awaited progression of events unfolds. The armies previously mentioned are advancing, tensions among the starving populace are escalating, and the complicated situation in the Riverlands begins to untangle. This installment effectively moves the narrative forward more successfully than its predecessor, “Regent,” which is crucial as there are only two episodes remaining in the current season.

In the adaptation called “Smallfolk,” several elements differ from George R.R. Martin’s original work, “Fire & Blood.” However, it’s fortunate that some of these alterations enhance the storyline’s appeal. Let’s explore the modifications and their effects on the narrative.

The Greens

In the story, Aemond asks Tyland Lannister to form an alliance with the Triarchy to lift the Velaryon blockade surrounding King’s Landing and destroy Corlys Velaryon’s fleet. However, in the book, Otto Hightower had already dispatched ravens to the Triarchy after Daemon seized Harrenhal. By making this alliance Aemond’s idea in the show, it highlights that he too is a capable strategist and military mind, demonstrating his autonomy from Otto’s influence.

Aemond sends Criston Cole on ahead to Harrenhal instead of flying there with his dragon Vhagar. He intends to join Criston later when the moment is right. In the original text, Aemond rides directly with his host. The explanation for this shift is that Aemond desires undisputed control and doesn’t want constant counsel from his advisors, so he sends Criston to lead in battle and dismisses Rhaenys, the Queen Dowager. Removing Rhaenys from the council is a melancholic occurrence, and she recognizes the gravity of the situation without her calming influence. However, Aemond summons Otto Hightower back to King’s Landing to resume his role as Hand. Otto is known for prudence; however, unless he utilizes the magical portals accessible to “Game of Thrones” characters, he might not arrive before the season concludes.

Alicent deeply yearns for her father’s presence and is growing anxious with each passing day without receiving any word from him. It is conceivable that Otto is not in the location he claimed to be? Alicent anticipates finding him in the Reach, perhaps advising his brother Lord Ormund Hightower or tutoring Prince Daeron, the Blue Queen Tessarion’s youngest nephew and rider. However, if he remains silent, it’s plausible that he could be elsewhere. Quietly arranging alliances notwithstanding his demotion? Might he have traveled to Essos to negotiate with the Triarchy personally? It’s a long shot, but this absence seems overblown in this episode; even Gwayne acknowledges that his father will reappear once there is favorable news to report.

Larys Strong, known for his deceitfulness, only expresses admiration for Aemond’s schemes but secretly pledges loyalty to Aegon against his brother. He even draws comparisons between himself and the king, both having physical limitations, and advises Aegon to rely on his intelligence as a key strength. It is clear that Larys was manipulating both brothers in “Fire & Blood.”

The Blacks

After the unfortunate death of her loyal knight Ser Steffon Darklyn in dragonfire (as depicted in the book), Rhaenyra might believe her situation has worsened significantly. However, she may be underestimating the improvements taking place unbeknownst to her. The intricate scheme orchestrated by the Queen and Mysaria to gain the favor of King’s Landing citizens is bearing fruit. Although this plotline is an addition for the show, it effectively enhances Rhaenyra’s journey.

The process of discovering new dragon riders is progressing more gradually than depicted in the book, where Jace issues a public invitation for anyone, regardless of social status, to attempt bonding with a dragon. Contrary to what happened in the story, there are numerous casualties beyond just poor Ser Steffon.

Not all those who came forward in answer to the prince’s call were seeds, nor even the sons or grandsons of seeds. A score of the queen’s own household knights offered themselves as dragonriders, amongst them the Lord Commander of her Queensguard, Ser Steffon Darklyn, along with squires, scullions, sailors, men-at-arms, mummers, and two maids. “The Sowing of the Seeds,” Munkun names the triumphs and tragedies that ensued (crediting the notion to Jacaerys himself, not Mushroom). Others prefer “the Red Sowing.” (…) Steffon Darklyn was burned to death whilst attempting to mount the dragon Seasmoke. Lord Gormon Massey suffered the same fate when approaching Vermithor. A man called Silver Denys, whose hair and eyes lent credence to his claim to be descended from a bastard son of Maegor the Cruel, had an arm torn off by Sheepstealer.

In the television series, Rhaenyra asks Ser Steffon to make a claim on Seasmoke based on an alleged connection between the Darklyns and Targaryens, six generations prior. She asserts that Steffon’s grandmother’s grandmother was Princess Aeriana Targaryen. However, this information is not provided in the books, where Steffon’s attempt to ride Seasmoke is portrayed as a brave or reckless act driven by his loyalty to his queen. The proposed relationship seems dubious; if we trace back six generations from Rhaenyra, we find Rhaenyra-Viserys-Baelon-Jaehaerys-Aenys-Aegon. We are familiar with all the Targaryens during Aegon I’s reign and afterward. If this marriage had taken place before Aegon’s Conquest, then the title of “Princess” mentioned by Rhaenyra would be inaccurate.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the intricate world of Game of Thrones, I must admit that there are moments when the narrative seems to present inconsistencies, and the show’s portrayal of dragon riders is one such instance. At first glance, it appears that the creators are emphasizing the significance of Valyrian bloodlines in the ability to tame dragons. However, I cannot help but wonder if this idea will ultimately contradict itself, as we’ve seen characters like Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow defy these supposed requirements.

In summary, the situation appears to be improving for the Queen despite appearances. Following the incident where Ser Steffon met his end, Seasmoke continues his search for a new mount, carrying on from where he left off in Episode 202.

Regarding Rhaenyra’s personal connections, it’s evident that Jace is becoming frustrated with being excluded from her schemes. He deeply cares for his mother and defends her strongly, but his patience is wearing thin as he’s left out of important discussions. In this instance, she keeps him in the dark about sending provisions to the capital and then suddenly departs on dragonback without informing him of her destination. I’m concerned that this pattern may lead Jace to take matters into his own hands when he can no longer bear witnessing misfortune for their family.

In simpler terms, it’s significant that Rhaenyra frequently meets with Mysaria privately instead of involving her in official business or including her eldest son in her plans. However, their bond goes beyond that of a queen and her whisperer. Mysaria not only supplies intelligence and spies but also offers emotional support, providing a listening ear and sound advice during Rhaenyra’s frustrations. Furthermore, she gives trust and understanding, especially concerning Daemon, with whom both women share a complex history. Their prolonged hug and unexpected kiss hint at an unconventional relationship that some readers have long believed to be more than just a queen and her counselor. In my upcoming article, I will delve deeper into the intricacies of Rhaenyra and Mysaria’s unique connection.

Daemon Targaryen at Harrenhal

It appears that the Queen and her husband, Daemon, are gradually mending their relationship after a long period of animosity. Previously, even mentioning each other’s names was unbearable for them. However, in recent events, they have started to openly discuss their concerns and address their differences. In the beginning of the episode, both Rhaenyra and Daemon express their deepest suspicions: that their partner might be plotting against them. Daemon questions Ser Simon Strong about this, yet finds it hard to believe that Alys, with whom he shares a magical potion, could be a threat. It’s perplexing to me that Daemon places his trust in Alys instead of being cautious around her. In the book, it is mentioned that Daemon was supposedly immune to Alys’ enchantments. I cannot help but worry that the show might alter this relationship, making Alys Daemon’s supposed lover rather than Aemond based on the current developments. For now, let us set aside this speculation.

“Daemon justifies his temper tantrum by stating she never truly desired the crown herself and gave it no consideration. On the other hand, Rhaenyra sees the allure of being with Daemon – carefree, dangerous, and a man. I, too, long for their reunion, as they complete each other and are crucial to achieving success.”

In the end, Daemon confronts what may be his greatest regret: not supporting Viserys during his time of need. Two insightful visions, featuring the talented Paddy Considine, help Daemon acknowledge and rectify his past error.

In the initial vision, Daemon once more finds himself in the opulent Red Keep throne room, where a robust Viserys sits on the Iron Throne. The exchange between them is a repetition of their dialogue from the series debut regarding Daemon’s “heir for a day” prank. Despite Viserys’ unchanged words, Daemon’s reactions now differ. If Daemon had acted otherwise that fateful night, might Viseris have leaned on him instead of banishing him? Could Daemon have prevented Otto’s influence and married Alicent himself, averting civil war? Viseris seems more weary in this reenactment, possibly because Daemon is privy to the future. Viseris weeps, yet Daemon longs to depart from the chamber; however, the doors stubbornly refuse to yield.

The next time Daemon experiences a vision, instead of pulling away, he consoles Viserys with a heartfelt hug and wipes away his tears. It appears that Daemon has come to terms with his inner struggles and is prepared to leave them behind.

The Dragonseeds

In this current storyline, the Hulls’ circumstances have been hinting at future developments. I found it intriguing how Seasmoke set Ser Steffon ablaze and then the subsequent scene introduced Addam. It seems that Addam is growing increasingly uneasy with his simple existence and yearns for excitement, while Alyn becomes more rooted in his ways, refusing Corlys’ proposal to serve as his first mate. Previously mentioned, it appears their roles have been reversed compared to the source material, making Alyn the elder sibling instead of Addam.

On the television program, Alyn regularly shaves his head to conceal his white hair and keep his true heritage hidden. In contrast, in the book, neither character attempts to hide their distinctive silver hair and purple eyes. With Addam’s claim of Seasmoke at the show’s end, any deception could soon unravel. A significant departure from the novel is that Addam did not actively seek out Seasmoke; instead, it sought him out in the series. In “Fire & Blood,” both boys take part in the Sowing of the Seeds event. Additionally, there’s a possibility that Marilda, the legendary sea captain and their mother, may not appear in the show or has not been mentioned yet.

In the capital King’s Landing, Ulf White persists in making bold declarations publicly, as I mentioned a few episodes prior. His audacity towards Targaryen/Hightower guards and his belief that he can speak freely about the royal family raised some intriguing questions for me. Could it be possible that Ulf is secretly working for Larys, the Master of Whispers? This theory makes sense since Ulf doesn’t seem to fear any consequences. Furthermore, this plotline explains why Ulf is in King’s Landing instead of Dragonstone as depicted in the books. I have my doubts about Ulf’s claim that he’s a bastard son to the late Prince Baelon, but it doesn’t rule out the possibility that he could be a dragonseed, born from a liaison between a Targaryen and another woman.

In the valley of the Vale, Rhaena comes across signs of a dragon’s presence. It’s likely this dragon is Sheepstealer, adding fuel to the theory that the character of Nettles, who lays claim to Sheepstealer in the book, will not appear in “House of the Dragon.” Instead, Rhaena could seize the opportunity to assert her ownership over Sheepstealer and inherit Nettles’ storyline. Given her recurring frustration at being without a dragon and feeling powerless, this could be her chance. I’d welcome such a development for Rhaena but would regret losing Nettles, a fan-favorite character. The outcome remains uncertain.

Other Thoughts

Didn’t we see Baela in this episode? I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a bonus scene where she went scouting, as it would have been nice to know if they intended to exclude her completely.

I support one modification: In the text, Rhaena and Baela are labeled as “Ladies,” but in your writing, you call Rhaena “Princess Rhaena.”

When Mysaria expressed, “Permit me, Your Grace… this suits you,” and Rhaenyra gave a gentle smile before timidly averting her gaze and placing the sword aside, I let out an excited exclamation. This delightful exchange left me thrilled.

We’re thrilled that Paddy Considine reappeared in our screens. Let’s make an effort to recognize his exceptional portrayal of King Viserys Targaryen in the Emmys by nominating him for Best Cameo. Shall we kick off this campaign?

Intriguing isn’t it, that during Viserys and Daemon’s conversation in the latest episode, Viserys’ lines were remarkably similar to those from the series premiere. However, there’s a noticeable difference: “Instead of standing by my side and Rhaenyra’s, you opted for your own triumphant moment.” In this new scene, Viserys failed to include Rhaenyra; it seems Daemon can only process one relationship or trauma at a time.

The seeds have been planted, all pieces are in place for another clash on the chessboard. We’re excitedly looking forward to the final two episodes of the season.

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2024-07-22 05:42