Immediately after his reveal, though, Daemons characterization is shaded with grays.
In an affectionate voice, he tells Rhaenyra he brought her something.
Either read impedes what could have been one-note characterization.
Image via HBO
This is exactly what makes him one ofHouse of the Dragons most fascinating characters.
With a slight smirk, he watches the brutality and even decapitates one of the prisoners.
Later, he throws witty barbs at Otto (Rhys Ifans), the Kings Hand.
Image via HBO
Daemon offers his wife (whom he detests) to Otto as a replacement for Ottos recently deceased one.
After the passing of Viseryss wife and infant son, a reserved Daemon displays a moment of compassion.
At the funeral, Daemon stands by Rhaenyra, offering her guidance and an empathetic ear.
Image via HBO
As she stands, overcome by conflicting emotions, Daemon reminds her to signal the dragons fire.
Clearly his compassion for Rhaenyra leads him to avoid causing chaos at this moment.
His connection to Rhaenyra is further evidenced in the show’s second episode, The Rogue Prince.
Hoping for a battle with Viserys, Daemon is instead greeted by Otto.
Rhaenyra interrupts the impending clash and confronts Daemon.
She sees through his thinly veiled attempt to goad her father and questions his announcement.
Daemon seemingly does not possess the ability to lie to Rhaenyra and quickly ends his ruse.
Rhaenyra invites him to strike her since she is the object of his ire.
Rather than attack her, Daemon returns to his castle and tosses the egg to her.
In this move, Daemon appears to identify with Rhaenyra.
Though she claims responsibility for Daemons exile, he understands his brother is the cause of his current anguish.
Viserys exiles Daemon from Kings Landing and removes him from the line of succession for this act.
He tells Corlys, I will speak of my brother as I wish.
There are abundant possibilities for where Daemons character goes after the first two episodes.
He has the potential to veer into villainy and take up the mantle of the series primary antagonist.
He may be persuaded to fight for the king again, should they be able to reconcile.
House of the Dragonpremieres new episodes every Sunday on HBO and HBO Max.
