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Since its release in late 2022, House of the Dragon has won over fervent fans and critics alike, establishing itself as a worthy successor to its parent series, Game of Thrones. And rightly so, as George RR Martin himself, alongside Ryan Condal, played a fundamental role in its creation. Now, after the resounding success of both audiences and critics, fans' eager eyes are focused on what's new about the 2nd season of House of the Dragon.
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The Origins of the Plot
Based on events described in the book “Fire and Blood” (2018) by George RR Martin, the series takes place about a century after the unification of the Seven Kingdoms, a period that precedes the events of Game of Thrones and the birth of Daenerys Targaryen. With an extensive cast, House of the Dragon chronicles the events that preceded the decline of House Targaryen, amid a devastating war of succession known as the “Dance of the Dragons”.
The End of the First Season
The first season of House of the Dragon reached its grand conclusion after ten episodes full of twists, time jumps and, of course, the imposing presence of dragons. War broke out within House Targaryen with the death of Viserys I, leading to the coronation of Aegon II with the influence of the Hightowers – specifically Sir Otto Hightower and Lady Alicent Hightower. Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, riding her dragon, flies urgently to communicate the news to Rhaenyra, the rightful heir to the throne.
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Shaken by the news, Rhaenyra immediately goes into labor, while sending her two sons, Jace and Lucerys, as emissaries to negotiate alliances. Each of them mounts their dragon and sets out on a mission, but the Hightowers have the same idea. Lucerys, the youngest, faces Aemond, the son of his grandfather Viserys I and Alicent, triggering an ancient rivalry that ends tragically for Lucerys.
The Second Season Plot
The second season is set to continue the narrative from the internal war between the Targaryens, a war that Rhaenyra interprets as an act of hostility following Lucerys' death. This is the starting point for the long-awaited Dance of Dragons, symbolizing the conflict between the Hightower clans and Rhaenyra's followers, led by Daemon and his allies. The second season promises to bring more complexity and drama to the plot.
We can expect tensions to escalate between Rhaenyra and Daemon, possible surprising alliances, and the revelation of ancient secrets. Heritage, whether familial or political, will be a central theme as characters face the consequences of their predecessors' choices.
New Characters and Houses
Season two will introduce new characters and noble houses, further expanding the world of Westeros and adding new layers to the power dynamics. With the arrival of these new cast members, the plot will become even more complex, full of intriguing rivalries and alliances.
The Return of the Cast
While some faces may have changed throughout the first season due to time jumps, the second season will maintain a consistent main cast. Emma D'Arcy (Rhaenyra), Matt Smith (Daemon), Olivia Cooke (Alicent), Rhys Ifans (Otto), Steve Toussaint (Corlys), Eve Best (Rhaenys) and Fabien Frankel (Criston Cole) are expected to return.
Four new faces will also join the saga, bringing even more depth to the story. Alys Rivers, played by Gayle Rankin, is a healer with mystical visions. Simon Russell Beale will play Ser Simon Strong, squire of Harrenhal and great-uncle of Lord Larys Strong. Freddie Fox will play Ser Gwayne Hightower, son of Otto Hightower and brother of Queen Alicent, while Abubakar Salim will play Alyn of Hull, a sailor in the Velaryon fleet.
The Number of Episodes
The second season will have eight episodes, two fewer than the first season. However, this is part of a long-term plan for the series, which includes HBO confirming a third season. The reduction in episodes was justified by the narrative, and the House of the Dragon creative team already envisions the series with three or four seasons.
A Long Wait
Season 2 of House of the Dragon is currently in the filming phase and is not expected to return to screens until 2024. Like the first season, it will be available on HBO Max. So fans should prepare themselves for an anxious wait as the story unfolds. continues to unfold in the fascinating world of Westeros.
