Episode 5 of House of the Dragon season 2 was the prototypical slow-down episode we have gotten used to in this world. After the massive war, we saw Prince Aemond jocking for position to take his seat on the throne while Jace found himself wheeling and dealing to help his mother prepare for the next phase of this war. As Queen Rhaenrya attempts to find a rider for the dragon, Aemond starts to make his plans to take over the Riverlands and Harrenhal.
House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 6 Recap and Spoiler Review
Lannisters have summoned Prince Aemond to help with Harrenhal, but Aemond is not pleased with his actions. Aemond suggests that Criston head to Harrenhal, but Criston fights back, saying he won’t be able to battle Daemon if he wins Riverlands. Aemond doesn’t care what he has to say and sends him onward. Queen Alicent attempts to reason with Aemond, which makes him upset, telling her he doesn’t want her sitting at the table anymore but doing domestic things instead.
Who does Queen Rhaenyra approach to ride the dragon?
Queen Rhaenyra approaches Steffon Darklyn to be the person who rides the dragon. She looks into the history of the Darklyns and Targaryen and realizes that he has some blood within them. Although council members don’t like the idea, Steffon agrees to do as the Queen asks. They take him to see Seasmoke, where Steffon calms him down and attempts to get on the dragon. Although it seemed to have worked, Seasmoke rose and spitfire on Steffon, killing him.
At Harrenhal, Daemon continues to experience visions, and we see the return of Viserys Targaryen. Viserys isn’t pleased with him and tells him that he must return to Runestone to be with his lady wife on the order of the King. Daemon continues to be frustrated, but Alys Rivers explains that it is all part of the curse. He asks Alys for help with the Riverlands. She tells him to do nothing now, and in three days’ time, the winds will shift.
Who does Prince Aemond want to be his hand?
Larys Strong informs Aemond that he must name the hand of the King. Aemond suggests putting it in the hands of Larys, who thinks he meant him, but Aemond insults him and says he wants him to find Otto Hightower as he will be his hand. The gathering was interrupted when it was told that King Aegon had awoken. Aemond visits him to see what he remembers and forcefully asks Aegon, who says he remembered nothing.
The people at Redkeep continue to be frustrated with the lack of food on the land. As a result, Meleys comes up with the idea that Queen Rhaenyra sends food to the land for those who are starving. Alicent takes Helaena to the church to light a candle for Aegon and the lost souls. However, at the same time, the people start to storm the Redkeep with the food. The guards rush to get Alicent and Helaena out of the church, but on their way to the carriage, they have food thrown at them and even attacked.
HBO’s House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 6 Ending Explained
Prince Daemon learns that Oscar Tully has taken over the Riverlands. In the woods, we see Seasmoke chase down Addam Velaryon, who is in fear for his life and running from him. However, Seasmoke breaks down before him, suggesting he might have found his new riders. Meleys informs Queen Rhaenrya that her plan to ruffle things at the Redkeep worked. Rhaenyra expresses her frustration with everyone asking to bring Daemon back into the fold. Meleys continues to talk up Rhaenyra, which leads to the two sharing a passionate kiss. A guard storms into the room and informs the Queen that they believe Seasmoke has found a rider.
Season 2, Episode 6 of House of the Dragon featured a strong performance from Emma D’Arcy. Queen Rhaenrya’s frustration with the lack of respect for her being in the leadership position finally came to a head. D’Arcy’s ability to capture these feelings and even break within those moments showcased their acting ability. Outside of that, the episode felt like another filler to tie us over for the things to come. It’s a good episode of House of the Dragon, but it leaves you wanting more.
What did you think of House of the Dragon Season 2, Episode 6? Comment below.
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7/10
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