The second season of House of the Dragon continues to build up towards the Targaryen family’s civil war, which is the primary focus of the Fire & Blood book, which serves as source material for the series. The second season sees Daemon Targaryen on a collision course with Aemond, following the death of Lucerys in the season 1 finale.
The third episode of season 2 introduces a new and mysterious character with ties to both Daemon and Aemond. While the mystery character’s introduction sets up a major plot point for Aemond, it hints at a much darker fate for his uncle, which is consistent with Daemon’s fate in the books. Here is what the introduction of Alys Rivers means for the future of House of the Dragon.
House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 3 Introduces Aemond Targaryen’s Love Interest Alys Rivers
The second season of House of the Dragon follows Daemon Targaryen’s quest for revenge against his nephew Aemond Targaryen, played by Ewan Mitchell. In the third episode, titled The Burning Mill, Daemon heads to Harrenhal, where he has a disturbing vision, followed by an interaction with a mysterious woman.
The woman is none other than Alys Rivers, who goes on to become the primary love interest of Aemond. In the book, Alys is introduced as a child nurse working for the House Strong. However, she has the power to see visions of the future. The same is evident in her scene with Daemon where she foreshadows the Rogue Prince’s death.
After Aemond captures Harrenhal, in the name of Aegon II, he kills most of the House Strong for helping Daemon. However, he spares Alys, who becomes his love interest, leading to the birth of Aemond’s only child. Actress Gayle Rankin plays the role of Alys Rivers in the television adaptation and is expected to appear in a recurring capacity for season 2.
Alys Rivers’ Introduction Hints at Daemon Targaryen’s Death in House of the Dragon
In her first interaction with Daemon Targaryen, played by Matt Smith, Alys Rivers predicts that the Rogue Prince will die at Harrenhal. The tease sets up Daemon’s dark fate from the book, which sees him perish during the ultimate battle with Aemond.
The Game of Thrones spin-off has set up the impending confrontation between the uncle and nephew as Daemon remains steadfast in his quest for revenge against Aemond in the second season. In the source material, both men eventually lose their lives during a battle at Harrenhal, where they trade blows to death.
With Alys’ introduction early into the second season, it is safe to say that the House of the Dragon is moving to the impending battle at a breakneck pace. The third episode also sets up Aegon II and Criston Cole’s conquest of Harrenhal, with the fight between Daemon and Aemond taking place sometime later. Therefore, it is safe to say that Daemon’s demise is swiftly approaching and Alys’ introduction heralds the same.
House of the Dragon is streaming on Max.
