The “House of the Dragon” season 1 finale trailer has sparked intense speculation among fans, hinting at a significant upcoming Targaryen death. The teaser, which aired after the dramatic events of the ninth episode, suggests that the civil war known as the Dance of Dragons is about to claim another major character. This war was ignited when the Greens, led by the Hightowers and their supporters, seized the Iron Throne following the death of Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine). They crowned Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney) instead of Viserys’ chosen heir, Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy).
For those familiar with George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” the book on which the HBO series is based, the trailer’s hints are particularly ominous. A major death occurs early in the civil war, and the trailer seems to be setting the stage for this tragic event.
The new trailer centers on Rhaenyra’s reaction to Alicent Hightower’s betrayal. Princess Rhaenys (Eve Best) warns Rhaenyra of the Greens’ plans, having witnessed the coronation and made a dramatic interruption with her dragon, Meleys, during the ceremony. In response, Rhaenyra appears to be preparing for war by sending her children, Lucerys (Elliot Grihault) and Jacaerys (Harry Collett), and her husband Daemon to rally supporters.
Additionally, Ser Erryk Cargyll (Elliott Tittensor), who helped Rhaenys escape from King’s Landing, is seen giving Viserys’ crown to Rhaenyra, symbolizing her claim to the throne. Aegon II, on the other hand, was crowned with the crown of Aegon the Conqueror, adding to the tension between the two factions.
The final episode of “House of the Dragon” season 1 airs on HBO, and fans are eagerly awaiting the resolution of the cliffhangers and the potential major death that has been teased.
The season one finale of “House of the Dragon” ended with a shocking twist, even by Westeros standards. (Warning: spoilers ahead!) The explosive last episode saw the death of young Lucerys “Luke” Velaryon (Elliot Grihault), who was killed by his uncle Aemond Targaryen (Ewan Mitchell) during a dramatic dragon chase. This tragedy only intensified the already strained relationship between Luke’s mother, Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy), and her half-brother Aegon II (Tom Glynn-Carney), who usurped her throne.
As viewers saw in the final moments of season one, Luke’s death escalates the sibling rivalry into a full-blown civil war. The official trailer for season two gave fans a sneak peek at how the “Dance of the Dragons” succession war will unfold. The premiere episode, set to air on HBO, will feature a scene where Rhaenyra’s husband Daemon (Matt Smith) discusses his stepson’s death with his cousin Rhaenys Targaryen (Eve Best).
In a new clip aired during a recent interview with actor Matt Smith on CBS Mornings, Daemon expresses concern that Rhaenyra took off alone on her dragon Syrax after learning of Luke’s death. “What if Aemond were to happen upon her?” Daemon worries. Rhaenys, however, believes Rhaenyra was wise to “recuse” herself and not give in to vengeful impulses against her half-brothers.
Given Rhaenyra’s enraged state at the end of season one, her restraint is notable. In season two, Rhaenyra is expected to be even more fired up, reportedly more so than in “Fire & Blood.” However, her husband Daemon will be portrayed as a “much weaker” character this time around. Matt Smith revealed that Daemon becomes “softer, lazier, fatter, slower,” haunted by his past deeds.
Smith also teased that “House of the Dragon” season two will feature more dragons and intense battle scenes. The trailer includes a shot of Criston Cole being chased by a dragon, hinting at a significant change from the book’s events. Baela Targaryen’s unexpected presence at Rook’s Rest suggests a major shift in the Targaryen civil war, setting her up to replace Rhaenys after a tragic event.
Whether you’re rooting for Rhaenyra and Team Black or Aegon II and Team Green, the second season of “House of the Dragon” promises to be a thrilling continuation of the Targaryen saga. Fans can catch up on the first season with a Max subscription and stay tuned for the new episodes.
Source: Deadline, Tom’s Guide
