House of The Dragon Episode 5: A Twisted Wedding
The Overcast Sky and a Sinister Encounter
In episode 5 of House of The Dragon, the scene opens with an eerie atmosphere as Lady Rhea ventures out alone. As she encounters a cloaked figure dwarfed by the castle on a hill, we soon discover it is Daemon, who has come to see his wife. Rhea teases him about their unconsummated marriage and questions his intentions with the crown. Daemon’s stern expression prompts Rhea to reach for her bow, but her horse is startled and throws her off, leaving her vulnerable and defenseless. Seizing a rock, Daemon (off-screen) strikes her skull with brutal force, ending her life.
Viserys’ Ailing Health and Conflicting Loyalties
While Viserys suffers from a debilitating illness, Criston Cole finds himself growing fond of Rhaenyra. However, Alicent, Viserys’ wife, is discontented as her father has been ousted from his position as Hand of the King. In the pouring rain of the castle courtyard, she warns of an impending war that could engulf the land if Rhaenyra ascends the throne. Alicent grapples with conflicting emotions as she ponders the consequences of her own choices.
Viserys’ Arrival at High Tide and a Marriage Proposal
Viserys finally reaches High Tide, where he is met with a cold reception by Lady Laena. Lord Corlys, anticipating his arrival, noticeably delays offering a bow due to Viserys’ deep cough. The new Hand to the King, Lord Lyonel, receives warm words of encouragement from Corlys. Tragic news reaches them that Rhea has been killed in a “hunting accident” with her skull crushed. Aware of the threat posed by Daemon and unsure of Alicent’s loyalty, Viserys suggests a marriage between Corlys’ son, Ser Laenor, and Rhaenyra. However, Corlys, resistant to the idea of a woman ruling, expresses his reservations. Yet, Viserys captivates Corlys with his vision of a Second Age for Dragons, ultimately convincing him to accept the proposed union.
Rhaenyra and Laenor’s Complicated Understanding
Rhaenyra and Laenor reach their own agreement, vowing to “dine where they see fit” after fulfilling their responsibilities to the Kingdom. Though not explicitly stated, this cryptic phrase alludes to their respective romantic partners. Their unspoken understanding is subtly conveyed, adding depth to their characters and their predicament.
Crisis and Revelations at the Royal Wedding
During the boat journey back to King’s Landing, Criston Cole makes a bold declaration of love to Rhaenyra, proposing that they flee together, abandoning the crown. Rhaenyra fiercely asserts her identity, proclaiming, “I am the crown, Ser Criston,” swiftly rejecting his offer. Meanwhile, Viserys returns to King’s Landing weakened and collapses upon exiting the carriage. Alicent summons Criston Cole and learns of his betrayal and his intimacy with Rhaenyra. Facing severe consequences, Criston requests death instead of torture, and Alicent contemplates her decision.
The Frail King and a Defiant Wedding
Viserys, weakened yet determined to be remembered as a good king, is attended by the Maesters who offer him leeches and medicine. Left alone with Lyonel, his Hand, Viserys musters his strength in time for the royal wedding. Amidst the festivities, Alicent interrupts Viserys’ speech, stunning everyone with her presence in a striking green gown reminiscent of Oldtown’s war banners. Significantly, this attire foreshadows the forthcoming consequences of Rhaenyra’s marriage. During the celebrations, Alicent receives a nod of support from her Uncle, solidifying his allegiance to her cause.
Unveiling Secrets and the Unpredictable Wildcard
Ser Gerold Royce confronts Daemon, claiming he must pay for his crimes. As Rhea’s cousin, he is aware that her death did not occur through a mere hunting accident. Daemon cunningly reveals that Rhea was on the brink of inheriting Runestone—a succession now passed to him due to her demise. With plans to petition himself upon the conclusion of the wedding, Daemon effectively silences Royce. Intriguingly, Lyonel attentively absorbs this exchange.
Laenor discovers Rhaenyra’s affair with Criston Cole, prompting a confrontation with Ser Joffrey, who confesses their mutual investment in the marriage and the necessity of discretion. However, the true wildcard is Daemon, who boldly approaches Rhaenyra on the dancefloor, challenging her to abandon the Kingsguard and join him on Dragonstone.
A Chaotic Turn of Events
Amidst the chaos of the wedding hall, guards suddenly appear, causing pandemonium. Initially unclear, the ensuing commotion reveals Ser Criston Cole inflicting fatal blows upon Ser Joffrey, leaving him battered and lifeless. In the wake of this tragedy, Laenor and Rhaenyra proceed with their wedding, though Laenor struggles to contain his grief. Meanwhile, Alicent Hightower prevents Ser Criston from taking his own life. Sadly, this intervention fails to save Viserys, who collapses as the vows are exchanged.
Episode Review
House of The Dragon delivers another emotionally charged and exquisitely written episode. The dialogue in this chapter subtly conveys foreshadowing and hidden meanings through clever wordplay and visual metaphors.
Alicent’s decision to attend the wedding in a green gown serves as a powerful act of defiance, hinting at the significant consequences that will arise from Rhaenyra’s union. It wouldn’t be surprising if Alicent manipulates Ser Criston Cole, potentially igniting a war to prevent her “step-daughter” from ascending to the throne.
With Viserys presumed dead, one wonders if the Grand Maesters are complicit in his demise. Their constant fussing and ineffective remedies might suggest that they have worsened his condition rather than improving it. Although Westerosi lore is not my forte, one would expect them to administer milk of the poppy to alleviate his pain.
As the pieces move towards a strategic checkmate, the outcome of the impending conflict remains uncertain. Yet, Daemon, the unpredictable wildcard, is poised to overturn the established order, raising concerns about the fate of the realm.