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In the engrossing universe of "House of the Dragon," Rhaenyra Targaryen's son Jacaerys Velaryon assumes a more active participation in the Dance of the Dragons. But this increased assertiveness carries a possibly fatal risk, reflecting a major mistake done by Robb Stark in "Game of Thrones." Although Jacaerys is always present in "House of the Dragon," his activities have mostly been limited to Dragonstone, collaborating with his mother and her supporters. But as the narrative progresses, Jacaerys sets out on a mission that might have catastrophic results, mirroring the sad destiny of Robb Stark.
Jacaerys's plan calls for a critical alliance with House Frey, The Twins' lords of the castle in charge of the Trident passageway. Natural barrier separating the North from the Crownlands is the Trident, a group of rivers running across Westeros. The Twins provides the most quick and safe path for everyone looking to visit several areas. House Frey has traditionally used this strategic advantage to get favors and control those trying passage.
Jacaerys's choice to ask the Freys for support reflects Robb Stark's fatal error in "Game of Thrones." Unaware of the Freys' cunning, Robb trusted them to let his army cross The Twins on their march south. This act of faith turned out disastrous, leading to the Red Wedding, a savage betrayal whereby Robb, his pregnant wife, and his mother were mercilessly killed.
Unquestionably, Jacaerys's approach and Robb Stark's gamble have similarities, which begs a vital issue: will Jacaerys's reliance on the Freys end in disaster? Although the historical record upon which "House of the Dragon" is based shows that Jacaerys's plan finally works, it does not absolve the inherent risk involved.
Jacaerys's faith in the Freys draws attention to a recurring motif in Westeros: the perils of alliances based on convenience and perceived power. Although the Freys eventually prove their word in this case, their past and reputation point to a great chance of treachery. Jacaerys's choice captures the unstable character of power in Westeros, where trust is a rare resource and even apparently strong alliances can fall apart quickly.
Though there is always danger, Jacaerys's approach produces favorable results. The Stark army can cross the Twins and strengthen Rhaenyra's army by the Freys honoring their agreement. In "House of the Dragon," this act of trust finally opens the path for a turning point that results in the ascent of Cregan Stark as Hand of the King.
Their young son Aegon III inherits the throne after the deaths of Aegon II and Rhaenyra. Acting as Aegon III's Hand, Cregan upholds his promise to Jacaerys and rules the kingdom under a period known as "The Hour of the Wolf." Though dangerous, Jacaerys's alliance with the Freys finally helps to cause a major change in the balance of power, resulting in the ascent of a strong person who will define Westeros's future.
The analogy between Jacaerys and Robb Stark emphasizes in Westeros the value of history. Past events—even those apparently far-off—can affect the present and the future. Jacaerys's choice to believe the Freys is evidence of the perils of repeating past mistakes and emphasizes the need of prudence and careful preparation for negotiating the intricate network of alliances and betrayals in this planet.
"House of the Dragon" offers a complex picture of ambition, power, and treachery. The choices the people make throughout the narrative will keep determining the destiny of Westeros. The similarities between Jacaerys and Robb Stark remind us of the lessons from the past and the need of avoiding past errors.