Episode 8: “The Lord of the Tides” – House of the Dragon
A Somber Family Dinner and Tensions Rise
As we explore Episode 8 of House of the Dragon, we are treated to a poignant family dinner that serves as a bittersweet farewell to Paddy Considine’s portrayal of Viserys. This episode, titled “The Lord of the Tides,” marks a significant time jump, with six years passing since the events of the previous episode. The narrative takes us through the aftermath of a naval battle, where Corlys Velaryon, played by Steve Tousssaint, is gravely injured while fighting against the Triarchy’s resurgence. This incident raises concerns regarding the succession of Driftmark, as Laenor’s sons are not his biological children and Laena’s daughters are still young. Rhaenys, brilliantly portrayed by Eve Best, assumes her husband’s place on the Driftwood Throne. However, Vaemond Velaryon, the Sea Snake’s younger brother played by Wil Johnson, seizes the opportunity to assert his claim as the Lord of the Tides.
Drama Unfolds at Dragonstone
Meanwhile, at Dragonstone, Rhaenyra Targaryen, portrayed by Emma D’Arcy, Daemon, played by Matt Smith, and their family experience a relatively peaceful and quiet life. Daemon is depicted searching for new dragon eggs within the island’s caves, while Rhaenyra assists Jacaerys, played by Harry Collet, with his High Valyrian studies. However, their peaceful existence is abruptly disrupted when they receive a message informing them of Vaemond’s intentions to travel to King’s Landing and request an audience with the Hand of the King. He seeks to plead his claim to Driftmark, hoping to undermine Rhaenyra’s second child, Lucerys, played by Elliot Grihault. To quell doubts surrounding the legitimacy of their children, Rhaenyra and Daemon decide to join Vaemond on his journey to the capital.
A Challenging Situation in King’s Landing
Upon their arrival at the Red Keep, Rhaenyra and her family are confronted with a completely transformed environment. King Viserys I Targaryen, masterfully portrayed by Paddy Considine, is no longer fit to rule, leaving his duties in the hands of Queen Alicent, portrayed by Olivia Cooke, and Otto Hightower, played by Rhys Ifans. The absence of a welcoming party and the replacement of Valyrian decorations with symbols of the Faith of the Seven clearly indicate the current power dynamics within the realm. The control lies predominantly with House Hightower and Queen Alicent.
Viserys’ Deteriorating Condition and Family Reunions
Rhaenyra and Daemon pay a poignant visit to Viserys in his chambers, only to find a mere shadow of the man they once knew. Confined to his bed, Viserys is heavily dependent on the milk of the poppy to alleviate his pain and anxiety. Despite his condition, Daemon urges Viserys to affirm Lucerys’ right to Driftmark. In an attempt to brighten the atmosphere, Rhaenyra introduces Viserys to her younger children, Aegon (III) and Viserys (II). Meanwhile, Alicent is compelled to address her son Aegon II’s actions following an alleged assault on a servant girl named Dyana. Alicent initially displays sympathy towards the girl but ultimately takes measures to ensure her silence by providing monetary compensation and forcing her to consume moon tea. Alicent’s confrontation with Aegon does not yield significant results. Finally, Alicent begrudgingly welcomes Rhaenyra and Daemon to King’s Landing, emphasizing her control over Lucerys’ inheritance, alongside her father’s role in the decision-making process.
Tensions Escalate and Alliances Form
In the courtyard, Jace and Luke, Rhaenyra’s sons, experience disdainful looks from those who still view them as illegitimate children. Their attention is diverted when a fight erupts between Ser Criston Cole, portrayed by Fabian Frankel, and Aemond, played by Ewan Mitchell. As the events unfold, Vaemond Velaryon arrives at the Red Keep, casting disapproving glances at Jace and Luke before proceeding to meet with the Queen and the Hand. Here, the Greens strike a deal with Vaemond, granting him control over Driftmark to gain more allies in the impending war and