Season 2, Episode 6 Ending Explained House of the Dragon
The exciting climax of House of the Dragon season 2, episode 6 leaves viewers with a wealth of story points to examine. For some important characters navigating the continuous Dance of the Dragons, the episode marks a turning point. Let's dissect a few of the most important events and explore their relevance more closely.
The New Rider for Seasmoke:
Rhaenyra Targaryen gets word at the end of the episode that the unclaimed dragon, Seasmoke, has a new rider. Rhaenyra first meant for her reliable knight, Steffon Darklyn, to claim Seasmoke. Steffon did, however, sadly die during the attempt. Now enter Addam of Hull, a character quietly introduced on Driftmark over the season.
When Addam comes upon Seasmoke, he is fishing. He is first afraid, but as the scene develops he seems to see the dragon poses no threat, suggesting a possible bond. This growth fits the events in Fire & Blood, the show's source material, whereby Addam finally rides Seasmoke. Given Seasmoke was ridden by Lord Corlys Velaryon's true-born son, Laenor Velaryon, Addam, a bastard son of Lord Corlys Velaryon, claims the dragon appropriately.
Rhaenyra Targaryen and Mysaria's Romance
The romantic link between Rhaenyra and Mysaria marks one of the most surprising developments in House of the Dragon season 2. The show has shown a developing closeness between them, while their relationship in the book is essentially strategic and political. This is their first physically intimate episode. Rhaenyra's yearning for Mysaria appears motivated by a need for connection and authority. Only Mysaria really believes in her as a queen; this emotional support seems to attract Rhaenyra to her.
Rhaenyra's sentiments for Mysaria might also be a means of control over Daemon. Regarding Mysaria, her sentiments for Rhaenyra seem sincere, but her complicated relationship with Daemon could also be relevant in her behavior.
Daemon Targaryen's Behaviour and Loyalty
Daemon's words from Harrenhal in this episode betray Rhaenyra. He has not physically harmed her; rather, he has purposefully declared himself king and cut off contact to induce in her desperation. Daemon seems to want Rhaenyra to reach out to him and to be acknowledged. Rhaenyra decides, though, to not play his game and sends Ser Alfred Broome as a substitute.
Daemon's deeds in this season reflect his reasons for pilfering the dragon egg in season 1. Dramas and attention are his favorite things; he wants to get people around him to start begging desperately. Daemon might stick to Rhaenyra despite his manipulations since he might need her as much as he wants her to need him.
Death of Grover Tully and Alys Rivers
The episode reveals that Lord Paramount Grover Tully's death was facilitated in part by Alys Rivers, a character with enigmatic powers. According to Ser Simon Strong, Alys sought to "heal" Grover; Daemon's response suggests she ended his life with her powers. Daemon sees this as a possible benefit for his schemes since Grover's grandson, Ser Oscar Tully, is the new Lord Paramount and he can thus control Oscar.
Alys Rivers has been a mystery; some ideas hold she is a ghost or a manifestation of Daemon's subconscious. But the disclosure in episode six validates her presence as a real person with some magical ability. Although Alys seems to be helping Daemon to unite the Riverlands for Rhaenyra's cause, it is yet unknown how she fits into his visions.
Understanding Daemon's Visions
In this episode Daemon's last vision shows Paddy Considine returning as King Viserys Targaryen. This vision rewinds a moment from the series premiere when Viserys declared Rhaenyra his heir. This choice was taken following Daemon's insult of Viserys by calling his dead baby son "Heir for a day."
This vision captures Daemon's great guilt and brother-related fear. It emphasizes the result of Daemon's inner strife all through the season. His plot centers on his constant quest of power, which causes him to regularly fail his brother and on his inferiority complex toward Viserys. For Daemon, this vision marks a turning point in his awareness since he admits his flaws and understands he lacked the traits to be the heir of Viserys. He also sees his brother's chance to atone and back Rhaenyra.
Looking ahead: Season 2, Episode 7 House of the Dragon
Rhaenyra's confrontation with Addam of Hull—now riding Seasmoke—is the most expected event in episode 7. Trailers for the season have hinted at this scenario, which might be a turning point for Rhaenyra and maybe provide a new ally. This occasion prepares the ground for the "Sowing of the Seeds," whereby other Valyrian descendants will be able to assert their own dragon claims.
Regarding Daemon, his visions are fading and Grover's death lets him go from Harrenhal and the Riverlands, gathering his troops to face the approaching Lannister army. Given the developing differences between Aemond and Criston Cole about military strategy, the Greens might find themselves in conflict with the army of the Riverlands. The last episodes of House of the Dragon season 2 look to feature dramatic confrontations and intense action.
Set 172 years before the events of Game of Throne, House of the Dragon chronicles the rise and fall of the Targaryen dynasty, the only family of dragonlords to withstand the Doom of Valyria. Emma D'Arcy and Olivia Cooke in the older versions replace Milly Alcock and Emily Carey, who are the younger Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower on the show. Paddy Considine plays Rhaenyra's father, King Viserys Targaryen; Matt Smith plays Prince Daemon Targaryen.
