Well, the season is over. These eight episodes sure went by quickly. While a lot seems to be happening this season, it also feels like we’re making no progress in this war. I’m sure the season finale will give us a big payoff. Maybe I was too hopeful.
The episode begins with Tyran Lannister trying to barter to end the blockade and bring the pirates to his side. In fact, most of the episode is wasted on him and his back and forth with Admiral Lohar. While these scenes are comedic and he clearly succeeds in his goals in the end, this could have been resolved in a scene or two.
The shot of Aemond riding on Vhagar’s back after he burns the spikes is really beautiful. The moment doesn’t last long and we see Eamond sulking in bed, begging for alcohol. I almost felt sorry for him. One of my favorite characters is Orwyle. He literally just did his job and left. Lalys told Aegon that they must leave King’s Landing. He has arranged everything so that when he comes back, he will be regarded as the hero who ended the war. Aegon wanted to know why he was leaving, and Lalys told him bluntly – Aemond would kill him, and Aegon and Lalys did begin to live in obscurity until one side prevailed.
Rhaena traveled the plains until she found the dragon. I don’t know why this couldn’t have happened earlier in the season, she could have gone back to Dragonstone to be reunited with her family where she was needed because Ulf was acting like an idiot. His disrespect for Jace was hilarious, but I felt bad for Jace because he was already questioning his status. At least Bella scolded him a little. I feel like Adam’s wimpy comments will come into play next season.
COris Rhaenyra gave him sound advice, but his son Arryn rebuked him, which was much needed. Now he wants to be in his life, but it leaves him starving. Also, for some reason, Christon has a scene that I’m not sure the significance of. He seemed to be facing death, but now we know everyone knows about him and Allison.
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| “Once Upon a Queen” – “House of the Dragon”, pictured: Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys Velaryon.all rights reserved |
Speaking of Alicent, when Aegon tried to bully Helena into piloting her dragon, she finally stood up and resisted. However, the most shocking scene comes when she visits Rhaenyra and offers her a path to the throne. Once Aemond left and joined Kriston, she had the guards surrender and allowed Rhaenyra to take the throne. This conversation was everything I needed to hear from Allison, her finally admitting her mistake. Whether their plan will work remains to be seen, but the call to “son for son” is epic.
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| “Once Upon a Time” – “House of the Dragon”, pictured: Ivan Mitchell as Prince Aemond and Olivia Cooke as Queen Allison.All rights |
Daemon’s time at Harrenhal finally paid off. He had a vision of the Three-Eyed Raven, and I found out that it was Helena who showed him the vision of Daenerys when the dragon hatched with the Night King. Ser Alfred eventually arrived at Harrenhal, hinting that he would support Daemon if he declared himself king, and Lord Strong sent a message to Rhaenyra. She confronts Daemon in person and, shockingly, due to the vision, Daemon kneels and so does his army. I like that they speak in High Valyrian.
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“Once Upon a Time” – “House of the Dragon”, pictured: Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen. |
The ending montage shows everyone preparing for war, while Otto Hightower appears to be locked up. While there were great moments here and there, the ending seemed a little lackluster, leaving us waiting until next season to see the actual war. The whole season was a bit inconsistent, I’d give it a 7/10. What did you think of the season finale and season 2 overall? Leave a comment and remember to contact me at @jereereviews to discuss more.
About the Author – Je-Ree Olenik
Je-Ree is the definition of a Jersey girl. A true nerd who loves her comics. When not watching television, she works as a paralegal during the day. She enjoys writing, reading, watching all the latest shows, and spending time with her family. Twitter @jereereviews
