Movies News Talk
The ending of House of the Dragon season 2, episode 6 gives Rhaenyra Targaryen and Mysaria fresh dynamic in their relationship. Their relationship as shown in George R. R. Martin's "Fire & Blood," the show's inspiration, might be greatly changed by this development.
During a very emotional conversation in which Mysaria and Rhaenyra share their darkest fears, past events, and provide each other support, their relationship unexpectedly changes. This close conversation exposes a degree of connection and trust between them that has developed.
Faced difficulties in her marriage to Daemon Targaryen, Rhaenyra turns to Mysaria's company for comfort and finds herself leaning into their developing closeness. This ends in a passionate kiss, broken by word of Seasmoke's rider, so leaving their moment unfinished.
Although Rhaenyra's past relationships have been with men (Criston Cole, Ser Harwin Strong, and Daemon Targaryen), House Of The Dragon hints subtly that she might have romantic feelings for Alicent Hightower. Writer Sara Hess noted "an element of queerness" in their relationship, and actress Olivia Cooke—who plays Alicent—feels their characters might have shared physical intimacy when they were younger.
Further implying Rhaenyra's attraction to women is the scene in House Of The Dragon season 2, episode 5, where Mysaria sends Rhaenyra's maid to knock on a woman's door. Given Rhaenyra's bolder and more daring attitude as Queen, one could see her yearning for Mysaria as a step toward embracing her bisexuality.
Although the source material, "Fire & Blood," does not specifically indicate a romantic relationship between Rhaenyra and Mysaria, it does imply that Rhaenyra might have felt something for Laena Velaryon. The book mostly addresses Rhaenyra's relationships with Daemon, Harwin, and Criston.
The book also traces Mysaria's relationship with Daemon, so establishing her position as his mistress. But the kiss in House of the Dragon season two, episode six suggests a change in their story, maybe substituting Rhaenyra for Daemon as Mysaria's main romantic partner.
Although their romantic relationship on the show is still unknown, it would be interesting to guess if Rhaenyra and Mysaria's bond would develop into a full-fledged relationship.
Given Rhaenyra's marriage to Daemon, it is interesting to consider the possible dynamic resulting from her relationship with Mysaria. Although their relationship is strained, the prospect of a lover for every one of them adds still another level of fascination.
Whether Rhaenyra and Mysaria's intimacy develops going forward or if it was an isolated incident is still to be seen. But this turn of events gives the already complex power conflicts and personal relationships in House of the Dragon still another dimension.