Warning, spoilers follow! Right in the first few minutes, the 3rd episode of House of the Dragon surprises us with a time jump that makes us three years in the story forward brings. However, it’s not the only interesting development coming up with the new Game of Thrones series. Especially in the last breaths of the episode, the events overturn.
We explain the end of the episode, the meaning of the white stag and the (supposed) victories and defeats of Daemon and Rhaenyra.
House of the Dragon: Daemon and Rhaenyra fight bitterly for recognition in Episode 3
The framework for this forms the Battle for the Stepping Stones. For three years, Prince Daemon (Matt Smith) has been trying in vain to defeat the fearsome Crabfeeder (Daniel Scott-Smith) and his followers. When his brother, King Viserys (Paddy Considine), sends reinforcements, he sees them as a mockery.
Daemon isn’t the only member of the Targaryen family to break away from the king doesn’t feel taken seriously. Even Princess Rhaenyra (Milly Alcock) can no longer find access to her father. Last but not least, he fathered a son with her once best friend, Alicent (Emily Carey), who disputes her succession to the throne.
The trailer for House of the Dragon Episode 3:
House of the Dragon – S01 E03 Trailer (English) HD
All of Westeros assumes that Viserys will soon announce that young Aegon, who is just celebrating his second birthday, will one day take the Iron Throne. This is the only way to prevent major riots. That with Rhaenyra one Woman rule as queen over Westeros could, many do not want to see.
This is most evident with the proud Lord Jason Lannister (Jefferson Hall) simply assuming that Aegon Rhaenyra has been supplanted in the line of succession. The 3rd episode of House of the Dragon however, contains two key sceneswho clearly contradict this assumption, starting with the king himself.
The Weak King remains true to the only brave decision he’s ever made
So far we have come to know Viserys as a weak ruler. Also in the new episode he is presented several times. in one thing but he surprisingly shows backbone: in the line of succession. Contrary to the expectation of many others, he stands by his decision that the throne would pass to Rhaenyra upon his death.
© HBO
Milly Alcock as Rhaenyra Targaryen in House of the Dragon
With this, Viserys even disregards his own doubts. Last but not least, in a dream he saw his son wearing the crown of Aegon the Conqueror. Another event may invalidate this dream: the unexpected one Appearance of the white deerwhich stands for the royal in Westeros.
Despite all the resources that Viserys uses in the hunt, he cannot get hold of the animal. Instead, the white stag presents itself to Rhaenyra as if he were her confirm as true heir to the throne. Though the possibility presents itself, Rhaenyra refrains from killing the stag – an important contrast to Daemon.
The end of House of the Dragon Episode 3: Rhaenyra recommends itself as ruler, Daemon as tyrant
Where Rhaenyra gets to know her father again in a conciliatory one-to-one conversation, Daemon is only spurred on in his selfish war drive by his brother’s letter. Instead of growing beyond yourselfDaemon gives in to his baser instincts and rushes into battle alone.
© HBO
Theo Nate as Laenor Velaryon in House of the Dragon
The victory Daemon achieves to finally gain recognition is basically a sad defeat for his character. He paves his way to the throne with fire and blood. The Crabfeeder was called abysmal evil reflection integrated in the series. But Daemon has long overtaken him in his unbridled anger.
No wonder the gruesome opponent blesses the time after episode 3. He has served his purpose. Daemon returns to King’s Landing thinking he’s invincible, huh fuel his ego and thirst for power should. Despite Viserys’ promise, Rhaenyra’s claim to the crown is once again in jeopardy.
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