“House of the Dragon” Season 1 Episode 2 Recap: The Rogue Prince
Welcome back to our series movie recap session! In this episode of “House of the Dragon,” titled “The Rogue Prince,” we witness the aftermath of the recent attacks on shipping lanes by the Sellswords from the Step Stones. Corlys Velaryon, who lost four ships in these attacks, demands action from the council. Princess Rhaenyra suggests sending the Dragon Riders to deal with the threat, but Otto opposes her. Instead, she is given the task of finding a replacement for one of the King’s guards.
A Potential Heir and a Vulnerable Crown
As the discussions continue, it becomes clear that Rhaenyra is concerned about her position as the chosen successor. The suggestion of Viserys remarrying and the possibility of a male heir in the future unsettles her. Corlys, on the other hand, believes that the enemies of the Crown have moved to the Red Keep and that swift action is necessary to prevent any uprisings. He proposes joining their two families together, combining the power of the Dragons and the Valyrian fleet.
Viserys shares this idea with Otto, seeking his advice. Otto believes it would be beneficial for the region to prevent open war or rebellion. However, Viserys worries about Rhaenyra’s reaction to this alliance. While Rhaenyra remains optimistic about her future as queen, Viserys is more skeptical, acknowledging the resistance men have towards a woman ascending the Iron Throne.
A Stolen Dragon’s Egg and a Tense Confrontation
An emergency meeting is called as news of a stolen Dragon’s egg reaches the small council. Meanwhile, Daemon has seized Dragonstone and is taunting the Crown with a note inviting them to his wedding to Mysaria. Viserys wants to go personally, but Otto insists it is too dangerous and offers to go in his place.
When Otto and the King’s guards confront Daemon, tensions rise. Both Otto and Daemon draw their swords, but suddenly, a dragon appears atop the castle. Otto realizes the futility of fighting and puts away his weapon. Rhaenyra arrives riding a dragon and confronts Daemon, claiming Dragonstone as her own. The only way out for Daemon is to kill his niece and seize the position of heir. After a tense moment, Daemon eventually turns and leaves, handing over the stolen egg to Rhaenyra.
A Controversial Decision and Fractured Alliances
Viserys confronts Rhaenyra about her independent actions, expressing his concern for her safety. In the morning, Viserys decides to take a new wife, Lady Alicent Hightower, despite speaking to Rhaenyra about his intentions to marry her. This decision causes outrage and fractures the council. Corlys, furious with the decision, seeks an alliance with Daemon, believing they should work together to protect the realm.
Crabfeeder, the leader of the Sellswords, is backed by powerful allies from the Free Cities who want to weaken Westeros. Corlys sees an opportunity to rid the world of Crabfeeder and prove Daemon’s worth. However, if Daemon succeeds, it would leave the series with even fewer allies.
And that’s the end of this episode! Stay tuned for the next one and don’t forget to like and subscribe!