Full spoilers follow for House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 3. The adage "you either win or you die" in the Game of Thrones is put to the test as Rhaenyra faces the daunting task of ruling, beset by a myriad of petty yet important decisions. This episode opens with a visually striking scene: Ormund Hightower (James Norton) surrendering to Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith), backed by not one, not two, but three dragons, highlighting the scale of the Targaryen threat.
The episode's central twist revolves around the supposed surrender of Daeron, Ormund's nephew and a son of the late Viserys. But in a surprising reveal, the "Daeron" handed over is an imposter, with the real Daeron safe under Ormund's protection. This deception is uncovered when Alicent (Olivia Cooke) exhibits a momentary confusion upon seeing the fake Daeron, later admitting the truth to Rhaenyra. Ormund's brief fealty is short-lived, as he swiftly seizes control of Tumbleton, setting the stage for his significant role in the season.
A Crown Built on Spite and Rats
Rhaenyra's reign is marked by constant challenges, from the literal infestation of rats in the palace (due to the execution of ratcatchers in the previous season) to the more figurative threats of betrayal and hunger among the smallfolk. In an attempt to address these issues, she hosts a dinner for minor nobles, serving them a rat-based meal while announcing the redistribution of their hoarded food. Also, this move, akin to a form of feudal communism, is unlikely to win her favor among the nobility.
Her interactions with Alicent and the High Septon further illuminate the difficulties of her position. Alicent poignantly observes that being good and ruling effectively are mutually exclusive, especially with the treasury depleted and the city on the brink of starvation. Here's the thing: the High Septon refuses to crown Rhaenyra, citing the lack of Aegon II's body and his belief in dragons being abominations, adding religious strife to her woes.
Dragons, Betrayals, and One Rats
Daemon is dispatched to the Vale on a dual mission: to find the rider of Sheepstealer and to secure gold from the Lady of the Vale. Unbeknownst to him, the rider is his daughter Rhaena, complicating potential future confrontations. Before his departure, Daemon advocates for abandoning the troubles of the Seven Kingdoms for a life of unchecked power elsewhere, suggesting Dorne as an attractive alternative for its climate. Rhaenyra resists, valuing the restraint her father once preached over unbridled power, though Daemon sees this as weakness.
The episode culminates with Rhaenyra learning of Ormund's betrayal and seizure of Tumbleton. Faced with the dilemma of either burning her subjects alive by targeting the city or ignoring the provocation and risking further Green loyalist rallying, Rhaenyra's challenges as a ruler are starkly highlighted. The absence of Aemond, armed with the unpredictable Sheepstealer, looms large, ensuring the tension will only escalate.
A Throne Built on Sand, Not Fire
This episode of House of the Dragon earns a review score of 9, reflecting its masterful weaving of political intrigue, character development, and the escalating stakes of ruling. Rhaenyra's predicament, caught between doing good and doing well, is palpably tense. The twist involving Daeron, while surprising, raises questions about the morality and cunning of the characters, particularly Ormund, whose actions will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences.
The dynamics between Rhaenyra and Daemon continue to be a highlight, with their debate over power and restraint offering depth to the narrative. The looming presence of dragons, both as tools of war and symbols of power, keeps the fantastical elements of the show sharply in focus. As the season progresses, it's clear that Rhaenyra's true battle is not for the throne, but for survival on it, amidst a sea of threats, both within and outside the palace walls.
