SCREENRANT VIDEO OF THE DAY SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT Summary There are several critical narrative elements to remember going into House of the Dragon season 2. The acclaimed HBO fantasy drama returns on Sunday, June 16, for what looks to be an action-packed sophomore season. Season 1 re-introduced audiences to the world of Game of Thrones, roughly 200 years before the original series, in an era where the Targaryen dynasty reigns supreme with dragon power.
10 Alicent & Rhaenyra's Children Both Alicent & Rhaenyra's Children Create Issues Surrounding Rhaenyra's Succession Close Matters are made complicated for Rhaenyra Targaryen with the arrival of her children and the children of her childhood friend, Alicent Hightower. Alicent becomes Rhaenyra's stepmother upon her marriage to King Viserys following Aemma Arryn's death and helps fulfill the King's desire for a male heir.
This misunderstanding is critical to House of the Dragon season 1. The final two episodes show the fallout of Viserys' death from opposing viewpoints, with the Greens in episode 9 and the Blacks in episode 10. While many, including Alicent's father, Otto Hightower, had already sought to plant Aegon on the throne for personal gain and realm stability in having a male monarch, the misunderstanding in Viserys' final moments becomes the catalyst to see the decision through.
Regardless, Aegon is brought back to the Red Keep and prepared for his coronation. While he still has no responsible interest in statesmanship, Aegon is clearly affected by the new influx of power, and season 2 trailers indicate he'll quickly become impassioned by his new position in some capacity. On the other hand, Aegon's young brother, Aemond, craves that responsibility and desires opportunities to demonstrate his strength as a dragonrider, warrior, and leader.
Aemond, who rides the largest dragon in Westeros, chases after Lucerys and his dragon following their exit from Storm's End. While only meaning to scare him, Aemond loses control of his dragon, Vhagar, who goes in for the kill, eliminating Lucerys and his dragon. The House of the Dragon season 1 finale sees Rhaenyra reacting to the news of her son's death with a vengeful expression on her face.
3 Jacaerys Velaryon Was Sent To The Vale & Winterfell Rhaenyra's Eldest Son Was Sent To Delegate With The Starks Close While Lucerys Velaryon was sent to Storm's End to negotiate with House Baratheon, Jacaerys Velaryon was sent to The Vale and Winterfell to bring Houses Arryn and Stark to their side. Jacaerys is Rhaenyra's eldest son, and he proudly wishes to serve his mother and protect her right to rule and his own right as her heir.