House of the Dragon wastes no time in plunging viewers into the brutal realities of the Targaryen civil war. The horrific murder of Prince Jaehaerys, though not as graphic as the events in George R. R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” sets the stage for a relentless escalation of violence.
Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen is furious upon learning she’s been blamed for the murder. This act, orchestrated by her husband Daemon, drives a wedge between them. Daemon insists he gave specific instructions, but the fallout weakens Rhaenyra’s claim to the throne and damages her relationships with potential allies.
The death of his son sends King Aegon II Targaryen into a rage, fueling his desire for revenge. His grief also leads to a split with Otto Hightower, his Hand. Otto, however, sees an opportunity to manipulate the situation. He advises a public display of mourning to garner sympathy for the Greens, the name given to Aegon’s faction.
The perpetrator of the murder is apprehended, revealing Daemon as the mastermind. Consumed by vengeance, Aegon personally executes the man. Meanwhile, the planned procession to mourn Jaehaerys turns chaotic. Queen Helaena, overwhelmed by the crowd, nearly flees the event.
Ser Criston’s Guilt
Guilt plagues Ser Criston Cole, who was with Alicent Hightower the night of the murder. Unable to reveal the truth for fear of exposing their affair, he takes drastic measures. He orders Ser Arryk Cargyll to infiltrate Dragonstone and kill Rhaenyra, a move that has disastrous consequences.
Aemond Targaryen, another member of the Greens, expresses remorse for his role in Lucerys Velaryon’s death. He acknowledges his temper caused innocent suffering.
Otto, however, faces the harshest blow. Aegon, frustrated by his cautious approach, removes him as Hand and appoints Ser Criston in his place. A furious Otto vows revenge.
Alicent, caught between her loyalty to her family and her forbidden relationship with Criston, attempts to confess her infidelity to Otto. He dismisses it as unimportant, pushing her further towards Criston. Their encounter ends violently, showcasing a deepening darkness within Alicent.
