Director Geeta Vasant Patel gave a deep analysis of the big surprise in season 2 episode 3 of House of the Dragon. In this latest part of the Game of Thrones sequel, Daemon Targaryen played by Matt Smith, went to Harrenhal to capture a key fort for the Blacks. At first, this mission seemed easy. Yet it turned complex when Daemon wandering the castle at night met a ghost from his history: a young Rhaenyra, portrayed once more by Milly Alcock.
In a chat with Screen Rant, episode 3 director Patel discussed Alcock’s comeback and described its effect on Daemon’s future tale. On being questioned if the vision of a younger Rhaenyra came from a period when she “respected [Daemon] more rather than less,” Patel answered, “You’re correct.” She went on:
In my perspective, that is what occurred. “That’s the Rhaenyra I recognize.” In this vision, she gazes at him. We focused on her expression; it conveyed everything from the previous episodes before she confronts him and scolds him. She calls him out, “Hey, you killed a boy. That isn’t acceptable.” Others have reiterated this throughout. Yet, it hits when young Rhaenyra points it out—his first moment feeling the impact. His first moment acknowledging his deeds, despite his history of violence from the start. Now, we witness his first expression of regret. We observe his emotions for the first time. During breaks, we discussed how this was a new side of Daemon we hadn’t seen. Matt insisted on multiple takes saying, “No, I need another take.” His dedication was evident, and then I noticed his face change after Milly’s look. I saw his hands relax and a tear emerge in his eye, which brought a tear to my own because we both felt that emotion. Even the crew was moved by that scene. It transcended being just about House of the Dragon; it reflected the profound remorse of a grievous mistake that injured another. That simplicity is what draws me to this show. I consider it a documentary with dragons. We strive to present it as real and relatable.
Explaining House Of The Dragon Season 2, Episode 3’s Big Comeback
Daemon Struggles with Blood and Cheese as Rhaenyra’s Memory Haunts Him
In House of the Dragon season 2 episode 3, Daemon arrives at Harrenhal alone. The last episode had him clashing with current Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) about his role in the terrible Blood and Cheese plot that killed Prince Jaehaerys, a child. Daemon showed no regret for his actions, yet Rhaenyra did not like what occurred and called him pathetic causing him to leave. The Daemon now staying at Harrenhal is scary, but he’s also struggling with being separated from his niece-wife.
Alcock played Rhaenyra in the first five episodes of House of the Dragon season 1, and these episodes set the stage for her marriage to Daemon. As a young woman, Rhaenyra had Daemon spending time with her often in secret places creating trust between them. Rhaenyra appeared to admire him in many ways. However, his involvement in Blood and Cheese, along with his harsh words to her in season 2, episode 2 worsened her view of him.
Daemon travels to Harrenhal and sees a vision of Rhaenyra stitching Jaehaerys’ head back onto his body. This vision shows Daemon’s latest failures: Jaehaerys’ unintended killing and Rhaenyra’s diminished trust. By showing Alcock’s face at that moment, Patel and the House of the Dragon team emphasize the gap Daemon senses between the past and present and make him face the consequences of his deeds.
Daemon sent assassins Blood and Cheese to murder Prince Aemond. However, they ended up killing Jaehaerys instead.
Daemon’s time at Harrenhal keeps going, and he might keep seeing spooky visions. It is unclear if Alcock will show up in any. Yet, her quick appearance in House of the Dragon season 2 is a good one because her acting was a standout in the first few episodes. The timeline of House of the Dragon covers many years now. Alcock’s short comeback shows how much several characters have grown and how much has shifted since her last scene.
