If HBO’s House of the Dragon is any indication, we’re about to experience dance like no other—the dance of dragons, to give it its proper name. On the way, though, we witnessed a royal wedding that, in true George R. R. Martin fashion, came to a hasty end. During the fifth episode, “We Light the Way,” King Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine) travels to High Tide, the new home of House Velaryon, to negotiate a marriage between the two ancient Valyrian families. Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steven Toussaint), whose health was negatively affected by the journey, consents to the marriage of his offspring Prince Rhaenyra (Milly Alcock) and Ser Laenor (Theo Nate).
Several narrative threads were developing simultaneously during the introduction ceremony at the Red Keep. However, it would burst with the unlikeliest of personalities when Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) sprang for Laenor’s lover, Ser Joffrey (Solly McLeod), and beat him to death in front of all the guests. One of the first things we see in the sneak peek for the next episode is a change in time and some new characters. Emma D’Arcy has replaced Alcock as Rhaenyra, while Olivia Cooke has taken over the role of Alicent Hightower from Emma Carey.
Viserys is still very much alive despite being unwell and fermenting mischief at the Stepstones, despite the fact that the king collapsed shortly after the wedding vows were exchanged in the last episode. Prince Aegon, Viserys’ eldest son, appears to be gearing up to contest his half-claim sister to the Iron Throne, and he and other older versions of the royal family are introduced in the teaser. After the death of his first wife, Lady Rhea Royce (Rachel Redford), Prince Daemon (Matt Smith) wed Lady Laena Velaryon (Savannah Steyn). The teaser suggests some disturbing developments in the Stepstones, but there are also more dragons than in prior episodes.
Another family member is being accused of adultery based on the colour of their children’s hair, which might have implications in the battle for the Iron Throne. It also appears like Cooke’s Alicent will play a larger role in the plotting required to take the Iron Throne, at least according to the teaser. Every episode brings the Seven Kingdoms closer to open conflict. When war is proclaimed for the “Great Iron Chair,” the alliance between the Targaryens and Velaryons, at least on the side of Princess Rhaenyra, cannot be good news.
House of the Dragon chronicles the nearly two hundred years before the events of Game of Thrones.
The series, which is based on George R.R. Martin’s writings, will chronicle the civil conflict within the Targaryen family, which ultimately leads to the destruction of the Dragon’s Keep. On September 25th, Season 6 of Game of Thrones will launch on HBO and HBO Max.