Daemon Targaryen takes front stage in Episode 5 of House of the Dragon.
Season 2's House Of The Dragon episode 5 picks up following the Battle at Rook's Rest. Though it's a little slower than the last episode, it's still a noteworthy one since it shows both sides of the civil war evaluating their losses and reorganizing.
Haunting Vues by Daemon Targaryen at Harrenhal
Daemon's Harrenhal visions get even more bizarre in this episode. We find him having sex with Alyssa Targaryen, his mother. Given she passed away when he was three, these visions imply Daemon is yearning the motherly love he never had. Though it's strange and unsettling for the Targaryens as well, it surely gives the narrative some interesting twist.
In this episode, Matt Smith gives an amazing performance capturing Daemon's vulnerability as well as his conceit. Daemon declares he wants to be king, not only a king consort; his visions inspire his ambition. This is an unexpected turn of events that will surely affect the narrative going ahead.
The aftermath of Rook's Rest
The sequences in King's Landing depict the terrible results of the Battle at Rook's Rest. Aemond Targaryen is totally embracing his villainous side while King Aegon is still under threat. Strong performances by Ewan Mitchell and Olivia Cooke highlight Alicent's composure's flaws.
The episode also not overlooks the common people. Those who live in King's Landing are seen battling food shortages and a threatening war. It serves as a sobering reminder of the practical fallout from the power conflicts among the nobles.
Examining the Still Unpublished Episodes
This episode is an interesting viewing even though there are some minor pacing problems. The story is developing toward some explosive narratives, and the hauntings at Harrenhal are a true highlight. The last House Of The Dragon episodes will surely be even more fascinating.
