"House of the Dragon" Season 2, Episode 5: Shifting Sands, Burning Bridges
"Smallfolk," the fifth episode of House of the Dragon season 2, is a masterclass in building tension, revealing subtle layers of character depth, and setting the stage for a cataclysmic climax. While the episode title may seem innocuous, it underscores the growing unrest among the common people, a force that will soon become a powerful player in the Dance of the Dragons.
The Greens: A House Divided
The episode opens with the Lannister army, led by Lord Jason Lannister, preparing for war. While the Lannisters are renowned for their ruthlessness and ambition, Lord Jason’s blatant disregard for the commoners and his condescending treatment of House Lefford highlight the internal divisions within the Green faction.
Aemond Targaryen, Prince Regent, is portrayed as a volatile and increasingly erratic figure. His power-hungry personality clashes with the more cautious and diplomatic approach favored by Ser Tyland Lannister and Alicent Hightower. This clash is highlighted by Aemond’s impulsive decision to pursue an alliance with the Triarchy, a Free Cities alliance known for its untrustworthiness – a risky proposition that even Ser Criston Cole dares to question.
Aemond’s ruthless ambition extends even to his own mother. He unceremoniously dismisses Alicent from the Green Council, relegating her to a position of "domestic pursuits," a thinly veiled insult that speaks volumes about the depth of his disregard for her. The scene underscores the simmering resentment and power struggle between Aemond and his mother, highlighting the fractured dynamics within the Green camp.
Rhaenyra and the Blacks: A Gamble of Dragons
Meanwhile, at Dragonstone, Rhaenyra Targaryen is driven by a desperate need to secure her claim to the Iron Throne. Their search for new dragonriders takes a tragic turn when Ser Steffon Darklyn perishes in a fiery encounter with Seasmoke, a riderless dragon who seems to possess a mind of its own. This loss fuels Rhaenyra’s determination, while also underscoring the chaotic and unpredictable nature of dragon-riding.
The episode further develops the relationship between Rhaenyra and Mysaria, the former courtesan turned powerful whisperer. Their shared past, their mutual respect, and their growing bond become a source of strength for both women. Their romantic embrace at the end of the episode is a significant departure from the show’s previous depiction of female characters, challenging traditional power dynamics and offering a glimpse of a more nuanced and less trodden path.
The Enemy Within
Daemon Targaryen, ever-chaotic and unpredictable, is struggling with lingering guilt and paranoia. His visions of King Viserys serve as a reminder of his past transgressions and his tumultuous relationship with his brother. While Daemon’s actions are often driven by personal ambition, these visions suggest a flicker of regret for his actions, a nuance that adds complexity to his character.
Alys Rivers, a character shrouded in mystery, continues to be an enigmatic force. Her cryptic pronouncements and calculated actions, combined with her ability to control the ancient hawk that rests on her arm, suggest a deeper connection to mystical forces at play. Her advice to Daemon and her influence over Ser Grover Tully‘s fate underscore her importance as a player in the unfolding war.
The episode explores the concept of internal strife, a theme that mirrors the conflict between the Greens and Blacks. Lord Larys Strong, the master manipulator, highlights this theme with his insidious warnings to Aemond about the "enemy within" – the growing discontent among the smallfolk of King’s Landing. Larys’s manipulative tactics and his eagerness to exploit the situation for his own gain emphasize the dangers of neglecting the needs of the common people.
The Dance Begins
"Smallfolk" ends on a cliffhanger, with Rhaenyra discovering that Seasmoke has found a new rider. The identity of the rider remains a secret, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats and sparking speculation about the impact of this discovery. The episode’s final moments also depict the growing unrest in King’s Landing, fueled by Rhaenyra’s clever manipulation. The riot that erupts amidst Alicent and Heleana’s visit to the Sept reveals how fragile the Green reign truly is.
"Smallfolk" is a potent blend of political intrigue, personal drama, and growing chaos. It showcases the evolving relationships between the key players involved in the Dance of the Dragons, highlighting the complexities of their motivations and the precarious nature of their alliances. As the war escalates, the episode reveals just how potent the power of the common people can be, reminding us that even the most powerful families are ultimately vulnerable to the tides of history. With only two episodes remaining in the season, "Smallfolk" has set the stage for a thrilling finale that will surely rewrite the fate of Westeros forever.
