Through an unlikely event, she gains a dragonrider inAddam of Hull (Clinton Liberty)reinvigorating her mission.
Rhaenryra takes her cues from that, embracing the religious implications and even using them herself.
Yet, as she uses religion to push her agenda, Rhaernyra uses this doctrine to justify her actions.
The reign of House Targaryen begins with this prequel to the popular HBO seriesGame of Thrones.Based on George R.R. Martin’sFire & Blood,House of the Dragonis set nearly 200 years beforeGame of Thrones, telling the story of the Targaryen civil war with King Viserys.
But Season 2 has taken a different direction, making her more fanatic than paranoid.
WhenSteffon Darklyn (Anthony Flanagan)fails to claim a dragon, she was horrified by the carnage.
Yet, as many more die terrible deaths, she watches intently, sad but determined in her mission.
Alicent has been shown as a devout member of the Faith, often going to the Sept to pray.
This added comparison shows just how different the two former friends are.
Alicent seems to use religion as a comfort, whereas Rhaernyra sees it as justice.
When the episode ends, Rhaenyra has gainednew dragonriderswith whom she may stand a chance against her enemies.
Instead,she idolizes the dragons themselves and, by extension, herself as the Dragon Queen.
However, her actions in Season 2, Episode 7 called that belief into question.
Image via HBO
This is a departure from the source material.
It’s not an uncontrollable fear but an arrogance that tears her down.
It’s dark and creepy but fitting for Westeros.
The franchise isn’t new to cults.
But what’s most important is that it gives the Blacks a new dynamic.
New episodes ofHouse of the Dragonair weekly on Sundays on Max.
