HBO has returned with a new season of House of the Dragon. Season 3 follows the war between Team Black, which honors Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Team Green black, which honors Alicent and Viserys’ family. The series returns with familiar cast members such as Olivia Cooke, Emma D’Arcy, Matt Smith, Ewan Mitchell, and Fabien Frankel. 

Characters are continuously waiting for something to happen — for answers, for movement, or for the next conflict in this episode, which significantly emphasizes the sense of anticipation. Rhaenyra is still unsure if she and Alicent can reconcile to put an end to the conflict. Aemond, meanwhile, is uncertain if his brother Aegon’s illness was destiny for him to ascend to the throne. This episode revolves around the idea of longing and waiting. The previously mentioned individuals, as well as Jacaerys, Addam of Hull, and Alicent, are torn between what they want and what they know is coming. 

Another theme used during this episode is fear. While Rhaenyra is afraid of losing this war and those she loves, her son Jacaerys is afraid of losing her. There is a scene where he makes a very bold decision in order to protect her. We see a lot of decision-making by Jace, and it’s incredible to see him stand up for what he believes in, even if it ends up being reckless. 

Helaena discusses the topic of Aegon and Aemond with her mother, Alicent. She tells her mother that Aemond is afraid, which is something that is taken seriously, considering he has a very hard shell and is always angry with something. In this franchise, more so in this series, it’s been mentioned that in Westeros, fear is often more powerful than loyalty— and this episode shows how quickly uncertainty can change people. Aemond was ready to take the lead and become king, but now he is unsure. 

There are a lot of different dialogues and multiple scenes with different groups, but all with similar issues: children and their parents. Aemond struggles to find a balance in terms of opinions and decisions with Alicent, while Jace does the same with Rhaenyra, and Alyn with Corlys. 

There is plenty of action toward the end of the episode, with the massive Battle of the Gullet, a battle between ships and dragons at sea. Flames are thrown, dragons are trapped, and the water crashes around the ships. The visuals were dark and gloomy, with an aura of danger and war. 

Overall, this was a great episode to start season 3, with a lot of action and sadness. A lot was going on, which is very predictable for House of the Dragon; there’s always one thing after another. A performance that stands out is Harry Collett as Jacaerys, and his ability to make demands and showcase an emotional bond between a boy and his mother. It’s both exciting and nerve-wracking to find out what’s to come this season.

Rating: 10/10