SPOILER ALERT: Do not read further if you haven’t watched the Season 1 finale of HBO‘s House of the Dragon, currently streaming on HBO Max.
The Dance of Dragons has begun, adding to the mounting body count in House of the Dragon.
The Season 1 finale showcases intriguing parallels with earlier moments, from Rhaenyra Targaryen’s harrowing birthing scene to Otto Hightower confronting Rhaenyra at Dragonstone and Aemond Targaryen’s intense stand-off with Lucerys Velaryon.
Daemon’s Ruthless Ambition
Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) dives headfirst into war mode after learning that Aegon Targaryen has taken the Iron Throne. His military fervor is evident as he starts rallying forces for his wife, Rhaenyra’s cause.
Speaking about Daemon, Matt Smith commented, Come on man, Jimmy. Who would win in a fight between Jon Snow and Daemon? Mate, I’ve got a dragon. I’ve got a dragon. Listen, I’ve got a lot of respect for Jon Snow. Jon Snow’s a bad boy, don’t get me wrong. Kit Harrington, lovely man. Lovely guy, I have a lot of respect. But don’t get it twisted, I would f*** [him] up. I’ve got a dragon!
Aemond’s Aggressive Nature
Aemond Targaryen (Ewan Mitchell) is another fierce character shaped by violence. Having lost his eye in battle, he now wears a conspicuous sapphire in its place.
In both book and series, Aemond’s aggressive disposition is notable early on. A pivotal moment occurs when he taunts Lucerys Velaryon by demanding an eye for an eye at Storm’s End.
Strained Relationships and Violent Confrontations
Tension boils over between Daemon and Rhaenyra. In a gripping scene, Daemon chokes Rhaenyra during an argument about their path forward in the civil war. It echoes their complicated bond where Daemon’s ambition often overshadows familial ties.
Aemond and Lucerys’ Dramatic Encounter at Storm’s End
The confrontation at Storm’s End escalates when young Luke arrives only to face Aemond and his colossal dragon. What might have been mere intimidation turns fatal when Arrax and Vhagar clash fiercely in the stormy skies.This brutal encounter sets off the Dance of Dragons. Luke’s tragic end reverberates through Westeros.
Reflecting on Parallels Between Daemon and Aemond
Despite their differences, Daemon and Aemond embody strikingly similar traits – unyielding ambition, violent tendencies, and destinies interwoven with dragons. Their actions are bound to dramatically shape the coming conflict in Westeros without a doubt.
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