House of the Dragon Inches Ever Closer to All-Out War, as a New Player Enters the Game
The third episode of House of the Dragon’s second season, “The Burning Mill,” is a turning point for the series, dramatically escalating the tensions between Team Black (supporters of Rhaenyra Targaryen as Queen) and Team Green (backed by Alicent Hightower and her faction). With whispers of war echoing throughout the realm, the episode throws us into a web of intrigue, betrayal, and a burgeoning conflict that feels inevitable.
The episode opens with a fiery conflict in the Riverlands, a region historically marked by feuds between House Bracken and House Blackwood. This time, those old grudges are exacerbated by the looming presence of the Dance of the Dragons, as each house aligns itself with either Rhaenyra or her half-brother, Aegon II. The episode paints a grim picture of the war’s impact on the smallfolk, who are caught in the crossfire of power struggles.
Meanwhile, Dragonstone, Rhaenyra’s seat of power, is gripped by grief and anger following the death of Lord Corlys Velaryon’s twin sons, Lucerys and Joffrey. Their double-burial serves as a stark reminder of the escalating violence and underscores the mounting pressure on Rhaenyra. Rhaenys Targaryen, ever astute, advises Rhaenyra to seek reconciliation with Alicent Hightower, reminding her that a war between kin would be both brutal and sacrilegious. “There may be another way”, she whispers, “Alicent Hightower… she knows war is coming and that it will be savage beyond all compare. There is no war so hateful to the gods as a war between kin. And no war so bloody as a war between dragons.”
The episode cleverly underscores the contrast between Rhaenyra’s brooding leadership and Daemon Targaryen’s characteristically ruthless approach to war. While Rhaenyra deals with the political intricacies of securing her claim to the throne, Daemon is already on the move, making his way to Harrenhal, the largest castle in Westeros. This fortress, a relic of the past, is riddled with history and whispers of tragedy, setting the scene for a potentially dark turn.
Daemon’s arrival at Harrenhal is marked by the encounter with Ser Simon Strong, a veteran knight who is not enthusiastic about supporting Team Green. Daemon’s intention to raise an army in the Riverlands is met with skepticism by Ser Simon, who points out the frail health of Lord Grover Tully, the region’s liege lord. In a moment of humor and revealing Daemon’s pragmatism, he remarks: “We march on King’s Landing and take the throne,” before adding, “It’s a big chair… made of swords.”
Back in King’s Landing, Cole, now Hand of the King, is preparing to lead the Team Green army into the Riverlands, accompanied by Alicent’s brother, Ser Gwayne Hightower. Their relationship is frosty at best, hinting at a potential source of friction within the Team Green camp. Cole’s departure is marked by a subtly unsettling goodbye to his former lover, Alicent, a scene that highlights the lingering complexity of their past – a past that feels more relevant than ever given the context of the war.
The episode continues to explore the complexities of power, loyalty, and family, highlighting the struggles of women navigating a world increasingly dominated by conflict. Rhaenyra, despite her ambitions, is forced to rely on the counsel of seasoned advisors – both men and women (in particular, Rhaenys and Mysaria). She is not a naive queen; her actions and decisions are carefully calculated, but she is also a woman burdened by the weight of her lineage, her choices, and the growing threat of a war that will forever alter the course of Westeros.
As the episode progresses, a new figure emerges: a mysterious man in King’s Landing, revealing himself to be the bastard son of Baelon Targaryen, making him Daemon and Viserys’ half-brother and Rhaenyra’s uncle. This intriguing revelation adds another layer to the complex web of relationships in Westeros, leaving us with questions regarding his motives and his role in the unfolding war.
While King Aegon II, fueled by self-indulgence and a thirst for power, is easily manipulated by the cunning Ser Larys Strong, he remains an unpredictable wild card. His impulsiveness and detachment are a stark contrast to Rhaenyra’s strategic approach, further highlighting the contrasting leadership styles that drive the conflict.
The episode’s highlight is the long-awaited confrontation between Rhaenyra and Alicent in the Great Sept of Baelor. Their encounter is a poignant reminder of their shared history and their descent into the abyss of conflict. Rhaenyra’s plea for peace and reason falls on deaf ears as Alicent, deeply entrenched in her own beliefs, refuses to acknowledge the misunderstanding that has driven the conflict.
“There’s been no mistake,” Alicent declares, “Otto’s been kicked out of court, Cole is on the march, you know what Aemond is, and it’s too late.”
The scene leaves a lingering sense of despair, as the possibility of reconciliation evaporates. Rhaenyra’s realization that Alicent is unwilling to compromise is a chilling turning point, pushing the two women – and the entire realm – further into an inevitable war.
“The Burning Mill” is a masterclass in building tension and laying the groundwork for a truly devastating conflict. The episode skillfully introduces new players, explores the complex motivations of existing characters, and elevates the personal stakes involved in the Dance of the Dragons. As we head toward the heart of the war, one question looms large: Can Rhaenyra and Alicent find a way to unite the realm, or will their clash of ambitions lead to utter destruction?
