House of the Dragon season 2 finale recap: Helaena shares a vision with Aemond

House of the Dragon season 2 finale recap: Helaena shares a vision with Aemond

As a long-time follower of the Targaryen dynasty, I must say that this latest turn of events has left me quite intrigued. The vision of Aegon the Conqueror and the Three-Eyed Raven, along with the appearances of White Walkers, Daenerys, her dragons, and a drowning Daemon, not to mention Rhaenyra on the Iron Throne, has certainly shaken things up.


In the final episode of ‘House of the Dragon’ season 2, there were many significant events unfolding. Initially, it might appear to be a tranquil episode, but its subtleties serve as an excellent foundation for the upcoming season 3.

Caution: This post contains spoilers from the House of the Dragon season 2 finale.

In the final act, we’ll concentrate on seven key storylines that significantly impact the upcoming third season. Let’s start with Rhaena’s narrative as our initial focus.

In the closing moments of the last episode, she fled into the unforgiving wilderness of the Vale. This rash decision led to a series of hardships in the final installment. She’s grappling with finding potable water and is poorly equipped to handle the weather conditions.

It appears that her journey culminates in success, as she encounters the wild dragon residing in the Vale. The narrative concludes with Rhaena and the presumably infamous Sheepstealer dragon standing off against one another. One wonders if Rhaena will now possess a dragon of her own?

Rhaenyra deals with her new dragonriders in the House of the Dragon season 2 finale

Addam, Ulf, and Hugh are tasked with mastering the art of dragon-riding. Jace continues to resent that these supposedly non-legitimate Targaryens have seized dragons. How might this affect the Targaryen dynasty?

In a striking interaction, Jace and Baela share a significant moment when she encourages him to tough it out. I admire Baela’s resilient spirit in all situations. She reminds Jace that he’s not the first noble prince born outside the traditional line of succession. He should learn to accept this reality and move past the past narratives. As the Crown Prince under his rightful Queen, he must stand by her side and claim his position.

At the dinner table with the three newly-appointed dragonriders, he behaves quite differently. While Hugh and Addam maintain their respect for the queen and remember their origins, Ulf seems intent on drawing attention to himself. His actions suggest it’s just another night at the tavern, which irks everyone in his vicinity. Rhaenyra and Jace attempt to rein him in, but their efforts fall flat.

As a devoted follower of Rhaenyra’s leadership, I can attest to her clear instructions: we must swiftly grasp the intricacies of our dragon companions, as we have merely two days before mounting them for the ride ahead. Following Corlys’ wise counsel, it has become apparent that immediate action is required. Our inexperienced riders will set off towards Oldtown and Lannisport, targeting the Hightowers and the Lannisters in an imminent attack.

Baela and the novice dragon riders seem taken aback by Rhaenyra’s apparent readiness to harm blameless individuals. However, Rhaenyra and her ally Jace assert that such actions are necessary under the circumstances; it is crucial to strike while they have the upper hand.

House of the Dragon season 2 finale recap: Helaena shares a vision with Aemond

Corlys renames his ship to The Queen Who Never Was

As a seasoned strategist who has been involved in numerous battles and conflicts, I believe it is crucial to always be aware of one’s surroundings and anticipate potential threats. In this case, Corlys’ message to Rhaenyra highlights the importance of vigilance and adaptability. The Greens possess dragons, some of which may not be as powerful as Dreamfyre, but they are still dangerous. Furthermore, it is unwise to underestimate an opponent, especially when their motivations and capabilities remain unknown. Helaena’s potential involvement in the conflict should not be dismissed lightly, as she could prove to be a formidable adversary. Rhaenyra must remain vigilant and prepared for any eventuality, lest complacency cost her dearly.

He’s returning seaward with his vessel, which is no longer known as the Sea Snake. Instead, he’s chosen to name it “The Queen Who Never Was,” as a heartfelt homage to Rhaenys.

Later, we observe him confronting Alyn about his behavior. Despite not desiring the position of First Mate, Alyn doesn’t seek recognition. Instead, we witness a significant scene where Alyn bravely challenges Corlys about their past. Although Corlys had a legitimate heir previously, he neglected Alyn and Addam. However, with Laenor gone, Corlys now requires an heir. In response, Alyn makes it clear that he has no interest in Corlys after everything that has transpired. Previously insignificant, Corlys will remain so.

We’ll see how that works out. After all, Joffrey being Corlys’s heir is debatable.

House of the Dragon season 2 finale recap: Helaena shares a vision with Aemond

Aegon confirms Sunfyre’s fate in the House of the Dragon season 2 finale

In the fiery destruction of Sharp Point, I found myself moved to action. I, Larys, ventured to find Prince Aegon. With a sense of urgency, I shared my concerns about our safety within the city, imploring him to consider our immediate departure.

Initially, Aegon harbors a desire to ascend the Iron Throne. However, upon Aemond’s return, he is apprehended. Larys manages to dissuade Aegon from this plan, emphasizing that they currently require Vhagar. Rhaenyra already possesses an abundance of dragons.

Rhaenyra appears poised to capture King’s Landing shortly. It would be wise for them to leave town swiftly. Aegon seems disheartened, as he feels his identity and the loss of Sunfyre—indicating the dragon’s demise—seem pointless. Larys assures them that they can resist from afar, but they require Aegon alive in order to do so.

And so, the finale ends with us seeing Aegon and Larys getting out of the city for now.

Helaena shares her vision of death and a wooden throne

Indeed, Aemond requires Helaena to join him in combat by riding on Dreamfyre. However, Helaena firmly declines this task. She’s a gentle spirit, who seems to find little joy in her position as queen. During their conversation about the blockade at the Gullet, overseen by Tyland Lannister beyond the Narrow Sea, in an effort to negotiate with the Triarchy for its removal, Helaena reminisces that she was most content when she wasn’t a queen.

As a devoted fan, I found myself struck by an insight during our discussion. However, before I could share that thought, Aemond resorted to threats against Helaena. You see, Helaena’s role in this conflict is significant because it’s part of our birthright. But here’s the twist: Helaena steadfastly refuses to harm innocent lives. Her dragon may have been destined for such actions, but that’s not who she chooses to be.

In due course, Helaena confides in Aemond about the incident where he allegedly torched Aegon and let him plummet. Aemond neither admits nor denies it, yet he’s puzzled as to how Helaena could know this secret. However, Helaena accuses him of treachery with nonchalance, showing no concern about his reaction.

In a future turn of events, Aegon is set to regain his throne, although it will be a simple wooden seat. Simultaneously, tragedy awaits Aemond within the God’s Eye. This prophecy troubles Aemond deeply, leading him to threaten Helaena for her supposed treasonous remarks. However, Helaena argues that her death won’t alter anything, implying that her demise might occur imminently, as hinted by this exchange.

House of the Dragon season 2 finale recap: Helaena shares a vision with Aemond

Daemon has another vision that’s hopefully his last

At Harrenhal, Daemon experiences yet another vision. Hopefully, this will be his final one. Indeed, it appears to be the climactic one. Alys guides him to the sacred grove and encourages him to touch the holy tree.

In this scenario, Daemon finds himself immersed in a prophetic vision featuring characters such as the Three-Eyed Raven, an individual resembling Aegon the Conqueror, White Walkers, Daenerys and her three dragons. At one point, it appears that he is struggling to survive in deep water. Moreover, Helaena speaks to him, suggesting that everything he sees is merely a tale.

At this critical juncture, Daemon experiences a significant shift in his aspirations. Until now, he harbored ambitions for ruling the Iron Throne personally. However, after witnessing Aegon the Conqueror’s vision, he acknowledges that his goal cannot be achieved. Instead, he recognizes Rhaenyra as the Rightful Queen, and pledges allegiance to her cause. Consequently, when Rhaenyra arrives at Harrenhal following Ser Simon Strong’s message about Daemon’s intentions, he submits himself. His troops also submit to Rhaenyra, reinforcing her power over the Riverlands.

House of the Dragon season 2 finale recap: Helaena shares a vision with Aemond

Alicent comes to see Rhaenyra in the House of the Dragon season 2 finale

In the final episode of the season, much like Rhaenyra did earlier, the Dowager Queen makes a perilous journey accompanied by only one person, aiming to meet at Dragonstone.

As a seasoned warrior who has seen my fair share of battles and betrayals, I can’t help but feel uneasy about Aemond leaving with Criston Cole’s Army. From what I’ve gathered, Criston seems to be grappling with his oath and harboring feelings for Alicent, the woman who saved him from death not once, but twice. However, my personal sentiments towards him are of little importance in this dire situation. What truly matters is that we are all marching into a war between dragons. The stakes are high, and I can’t help but wonder if any of us will make it out alive. The dragon’s roar echoes in the distance, a haunting reminder of the impending doom that awaits us all.

Indeed, I can’t help but notice Alicent seems to share my sentiment as well. Determined to halt the impending events, she expresses her desire for change. After confessing to years of envy towards Rhaenyra, stemming from her sense of duty and Rhaenyra’s attempts to sidestep these feelings, Alicent comes remarkably close to conceding her past errors. She acknowledges that Rhaenyra would make a capable queen.

In this scenario, Viserys consistently stood firm in his desire to position Rhaenyra as the ruler of the Iron Throne. Alicent suspects that this unwavering support stemmed from Viserys’ deep affection for Aemma, a bond Alicent could never match. Therefore, when Rhaenyra doubts whether Alicent genuinely believed Viserys altered his decision on his deathbed, Alicent’s expression clearly indicates she misunderstood the situation.

To compensate for this, she will arrange for the gates to be opened in three days. This will give Rhaenyra and her group the opportunity to enter King’s Landing and claim the Iron Throne peacefully. She requests that both herself and Helaena be kept safe during these proceedings. It’s worth noting that Rhaenyra would never endanger Helaena, but Alicent might face some challenges.

Rhaenyra inquires of Aegon. Although Alicent desires her son’s pardon, Rhaenyra stresses that it’s impossible. When she states “an eye for an eye,” we are reminded of the initial episode. Rhaenyra didn’t command Jaehaerys’ death, but she demands justice for Luc’s demise. She insists that Aegon must face punishment, and she is aware Alicent comprehends this. Alicent doesn’t wish to consent, but at the moment, she has no other option.

Certainly!

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2024-08-05 05:24