House Of The Dragon Season 3 Theory: Rhaenyra’s Key Scene in Season 2 Alters Predictions for the Saddest Death

Warning: Major Spoilers Ahead for Fire & Blood, the inspiration behind House of the Dragon.

A theory has emerged regarding the tragic death of a character in House of the Dragon season 3, and a pivotal moment involving Rhaenyra in season 2 hints at this possibility. The HBO prequel draws from George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, which serves as a companion to the acclaimed A Song of Ice & Fire series. However, as is common with adaptations, the series has made several alterations to the original material, sparking mixed reactions from viewers.

Season 2 of House of the Dragon faced criticism, particularly for its conclusion that left fans wanting a more impactful climax. More notably, the adaptation took significant liberties with the storyline, which created contention among the audience. Notable alterations included the dramatic instances of Blood & Cheese, the Battle of Rook’s Rest, and the Sowing of the Seeds. Each of these key events deviated from Martin’s text, suggesting that future pivotal moments may also unfold differently in the upcoming season.

Will Jacaerys Experience Betrayal at the Battle of the Gullet?

Could There Be Early Betrayals?

The anticipated death of Jacaerys Velaryon during the Battle of the Gullet is shaping up to be an emotional moment for viewers, who have come to appreciate Harry Collett’s portrayal of the character. Despite his youth, Jacaerys shows unwavering determination to protect his family’s claim to the Iron Throne. Throughout season 2, he grapples with feelings of self-doubt, complicating his quest for honor and recognition. According to Fire & Blood, his eventual demise occurs when he flies too low in battle and is struck by enemy crossbow fire, resulting in him falling from his dragon.

A compelling theory posits that Jacaerys’ death may be intensified by betrayal at the hands of Ulf. This scenario could echo Aemond’s treachery against Aegon during the Battle of Rook’s Rest, with Ulf turning against Jacaerys, ultimately placing him in a vulnerable position for enemy attack. While Jacaerys’ death in the original text carries poetic significance, the narrative impact of his reckless choice to engage in combat against Rhaenyra’s guidance can still resonate strongly with viewers.

Rhaenyra and Jacaerys’ Conflict Exit Strategy for The Betrayal

Jacaerys Exhibits His Resistance to Dragonseed Inclusivity

Harry Collett as Jacaerys in House of the Dragon season 2 episode 5

Jacaerys is driven by a furious disdain towards Rhaenyra’s proposition of the Red Sowing, perceiving the new dragonseeds as unworthy of their dragon mounts. His insecurities stemming from his illegitimacy further fuel his concerns—that without dragon dominance, his claim to the throne holds no merit against the other contenders. This intra-family conflict is unique to the show, diverging from the source material while enhancing House of the Dragon‘s broader narrative dimension.

Should Ulf betray Jacaerys, it would both validate Jacaerys’ criticisms of the dragonseeds and highlight the pitfalls of elitist attitudes he exhibits. Their rivalry culminates in tumultuous emotions as they engage in aerial combat, leading to an explosive conflict that could redefine their relationship. The implications of such an act would delve into themes of betrayal and loyalty, underscoring the reality that Jacaerys’ views on dragonseeds stem from elitist notions, rather than a fair evaluation of Ulf as an individual.

Accelerated Arc for Ulf Through Betrayal

An Earlier Betrayal for Ulf?

Ulf (Tom Bennett) preparing for war — Image via Max

Ulf is recognized for his eventual treachery against Rhaenyra during the First Battle of Tumbleton; however, the show has positioned him as a character lacking steadfast loyalty. His acquisition of Silverwing facilitates his ambition for power and wealth. As season 3 unfolds, Ulf’s aspirations may drive him to seek greater rewards than those offered by Rhaenyra, aligning him with other characters, like Hugh, who also plot against the Blacks.

Engaging Ulf in a betrayal of Jacaerys at the Battle of the Gullet would hasten this arc, weaving complexity into the narrative. If this act occurs within enemy territory, Rhaenyra’s loyal supporters might remain oblivious to the betrayal. Furthermore, if Hugh witnesses Ulf’s actions, it could catalyze his own moral dilemmas regarding allegiance, setting a stage for richly layered character development. Although this remains speculative, House of the Dragon has laid the groundwork for intricate interactions between Jacaerys and Ulf, promising engaging plotlines ahead.

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