House of the Dragon Premieres It’s Season 1 Finale with so Much Left to Unfold
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ve probably been anticipating the release of the prequel spin-off, House of the Dragons. Just like many others, I was not a fan of how Game of Thrones ended at all. Despite Daenerys’ weird switch and terrible decisions, I am still for House Targaryen leading my interest to watch House of the Dragons. I have not read any of the books so I have no back knowledge for House Targaryen or their civil war. I am watching the series with fresh eyes, but the internet has spoiled many future events for me. Granted, you never know how true a show is going to follow the books so none of us really know.
Season 1 was full of chaos, twisted characters, angst, surprises and more. I do think it could have used more actual dragon moments, but I am sure there is more to come. This season was definitely more of a set up to the eventual civil war within the house so we could establish the characters and their challenges. I know there is a huge love for Daemon out there and support for Team Black, but honestly watched most of this season thinking everyone is terrible. The complexities of each character made it hard to “root” for anyone, but that is what makes the show so interesting.
If you have not yet seen the show or finale, then get off this page right now because we are going to dive into some highlights from the season 1 finale. You’ve been warned, SPOILERS ahead.
So let’s get into it.
Rhaenyra’s Miscarriage
In episode 8, we learn Rhaenyra is pregnant with her third child with Daemon previously giving birth to two sons. Once hearing the news of Aegon taking the thrown and being publicly crowned, she goes into premature labor. This scene was beyond graphic and gut wrenching, but honestly didn’t surprise me. Rhaenyra dealing with the pain from her baby was reminiscent of her mother’s challenging delivery. This was Rhaenyra’s battlefield, but there is a much larger war she is about to fight.
By losing her baby, it gives her even more fuel to fight against the greens. The stress of the news caused this anguish and now she would have to face this battle. This is Rhaenyra’s first miscarriage and we have seen how much she cares for her children. She will use this grief as fuel I’m sure, but still trying to not let her emotions get the best of her.
Rhaenyra & Daemon’s Dynamic
Something a lot of viewers complained about in the finale was a scene between Rhaenyra and Daemon. So far we have seen immense chemistry between these two and a lot of love, but Daemon gets triggered. They are not seeing eye to eye on how to handle this conflict and Daemon starts to choke Rhaenyra. Gasp!
Daemon is pretty ruthless, but we have never seen him harm Rhaenyra so this did feel out of left field. However, I think this scene was more important than just not agreeing on war. Sure they are considering different approaches when it comes to the Greens, but this is deeper than that. Viserys shared a prophecy with Rhaenyra and information that Daemon had no clue about. This shows Viseyrs had no intention of sharing anything with Daemon or thought of him as his successor. Rhaenyra was chosen all along and while Daemon supports Rhaenyra, doesn’t mean he didn’t see himself on the throne.
Personally, I would have rather seen his frustration taken out another way. Viserys’ decisions have nothing to do with Rhaenyra so why attack her. Some theorize this was just a kink between them, but I didn’t see it as that. Although if I’m honest. I don’t feel as much chemistry between Matt Smith and Emma D’ Arcy as I did with him and Milly. From the 1st episode I saw a fire between Daemon and young Rhaenyra, but when the episodes moved forward in time, I saw less chemistry. Therefore I might not be reading what is happening between them correctly.
I think in the future we will see Daemon fight passionately for Rhaenyra’s honor and defend her, but I don’t think he will run by her for his decisions. He will take whatever approach he sees fit.
The Dragon Chase
Another one of the biggest complaints about this season’s ending was Aemond’s behavior after his dragon Vhagar killed Lucerys. Aemond decided to go for revenge and chase Lucerys with his dragon, but as we learned from Viserys, you can’t control dragons. A terrible “accident” occurs and Vhagar kills both Lucerys and his dragon. Aemond looks pretty shocked after this happens indicating this was not his intent. However, we have seen how ruthless Aemond has been even more so than his older brother, Aegon. So why would Aemond not just take ownership and be happy his nephew is gone? Honestly I think in general the writers are choosing to give more layers to the characters rather than making a bad guy evil.
Sure it be fun to make Aemond ruthless, but with so much anguish that is going to occur, why not have a small period of regret? With now Lucerys and Rhaenyra’s baby gone, I think she will be completely pushed off the edge. There is definitely no room with negotiating. I’ve heard of the Blood and Cheese story which we have already received hints. If you don’t know this story, I won’t spoil it for you. If you’re curious, you could look it up and see a really tragic event is to come. I’ve heard this moment will play out worse than The Red Wedding. I don’t know if I am ready.
Dragons are not Slaves
Season 2 Predicitions
I really enjoyed this season and dare I say it caught my attention more than Game of Thrones. One of my favorite parts of GOT was Tyrion’s character and humor. Sure GOT is very dark, but it was the fun moments for me that made me love the show. House of Dragons however is a whole other beast. It’s intense, dark, and even though I can’t root for a specific character, I’m invested. Every time I do like a character, the poor soul dies.
So much death and craziness already ensued, but it is only the beginning and only going to get more grim from here.
I don’t think Rhaenyra is going to play nice very much longer and may even decide with Daemon’s decision. Since Aemond seemed a bit regretful Lucerys died, I don’t think Alicent is going to take the news well at all. Alicent will know there is no hope to negotiate with Rhaenyra because she understands the length a mother will go through for her children. Otto will probably take the reigns and urge Aemond and Aegon to fight for Aegon to keep the throne. Alicent has been a puppet thus far and her strings will be held even tighter. What could she possible say or do at this point?
Everyone will just have to stick to their guns and take ownership for their actions. If the “Blood and Cheese” story plays out, it’ll probably be very early in the second season. George Martin claims it’ll take at least four seasons to tell the full of Dance of Dragons. The show writers however have mentioned House of the Dragon isn’t just the story of Dance of Dragons, but rather House Targaryen. With this being said, this show could very well last as long as GOT.
I am ready for this, but hopefully the writers have what it takes and no repeats of GOT Season 8. The writers don’t necessarily need to stick to the books, but the writing has to make sense. As I said before, having more layers to the characters adds to their complexity. We don’t need pure evil in every corner, but rather reasons behind the actions .
What did you think of Season 1? What was your favorite moment from the series? Are you Team Black or Team Green? Let me know in the comments below and be sure to like, share and subscribe to get notified of new posts. Have you checked out our new merch yet? Don’t miss out and check out Bombshell’s new store for cute apparel and accessories. Until next time my bombshells, Bye!
