House of the Dragon’s episode 8 was one of the finest instalments in the series, with the writing and the excelling at all fronts. The Lord of the Tides shows that Viserys’ health has deteriorated considerably, with Otto Hightower and Alicent ruling the kingdom. However, when the news of Rhaenrya’s children’s legitimacy comes to question, Viserys, despite his condition, decides to preside over the matter, eventually ruling in his daughter’s favour. After he sees his family at the table happy, Viserys returns to his bedroom, where the end of the story begins with A Dance with Dragons.
Viserys and his final words
After the dinner party, Alicent comes to serve Viserys his tea, and he begins to speak of Aegon’s dreams and ‘the prince that was promised’ prophecy. He says, “It is you. You are the one. This is what you must do. I believe Aegon should be heir, and you must make it happen.” While Alicent believes that it is her son Aegon Viserys is referring to, however, all this time, Viserys believes it was Rhaenrya. He means that Rhaenrya can unite the kingdom and that she must bear ‘the prince that was promised’ because she is the one who can stop the war. Alicent was able to hear this and it was a divine sign that she would carry on her decision to make Aegon King. So, she is willing to do whatever it takes to get her son onto the throne.
“The House of the Dragon can’t be univided and the crown cannot stand strong.”
You tried, Viserys. We are sure you did your best, Viserys. 😭
House of the Dragon
Episode 8, “The Lord of the Tides.”#HouseOfTheDragon #HouseOfTheDragonHBO #HOTD pic.twitter.com/h4Fu1Yk3pq— Aedelrys Targaryen, First of His Name (@edelmaximoff) October 10, 2022
Following his speech, Viserys extends his arms and says ‘my love’ before the screen fades to black. This gesture could be a sign that he’s finally reunited his wife Aemma whom he has loved for so many years. On several occasions, Viserys touches Aemma’s ring on his finger, indicating that he still thinks of her and is guilty of the fate that befell her due to his stubbornness to have a son. She suffered from multiple miscarriages and, despite the possibility of saving her, Viserys decided to adopt his son who also died. He also named Rhaenrya to his heir, and continued to support her throughout everything.
The screen ends indicating that he has died. He had prepared his daughter to inherit the throne, and seen peace in the family. (He is not aware of the conspiracy).
What’s possible right now
Alicent believes that the King supports her. There are several ways this could work out. Alicent won’t likely notify Rhaenrya about her father’s passing as it could cause obstacles for Aegon in obtaining his throne. Since Aegon is already in King’s Landing, the greens, with ample time in hand, will go ahead with the coronations and ensure the great houses back them. Aegon also has access the Iron Throne as well as the crown and the High Septon. This latter is keen to see Aegon become King. Knowing Alicent, she might not make Visery’s death public until after the coronation.
Mysaria Return
Mysaria in episode 8 🔥 #HouseOfTheDragon pic.twitter.com/XrXEKQF3Qm
— House Of The Dragon Source (@HOTDsource) October 10, 2022
Mysaria, Daemon’s former lover, a.k.a White Worm, was seen again in the show, indicating that she is back. Since the last time we saw her in episode 4, Mysaria’s circle has grown, with many powerful informants working with her. Episode 8 features Talya as Alicent’s handmaiden. This is important because Talya witnessed Alicent offer Dyana moon tea to Dyana, a housemaid that claimed Aegon had sexually assaulted them. She threatened and bribed the girl to expose the dangers of making such allegations. With Mysaria now aware of this, she has the weapon that can damage the green’s credibility.
Mysaria would play an important role in the civil war’s beginning, following Viserys death. As an unofficial master of whisperers for Daemon’s team, she is one of their most important allies for them.
Aemond’s speech
Love Aemond or hate him, Ewan Mitchell’s performance was absolutely everything we wanted from the books and more. We can’t wait to see more from him. #HouseOfTheDragon pic.twitter.com/XAdTjMxREQ
— out of context house of the dragon (@oochotd) October 10, 2022
Jake giggles when a pig is placed at Aemond’s table. This sends Aemond into a frenzy. Instead of hitting Jake, he, instead, gives a damning speech where he sly calls the ‘strong boys’, an underhand remark on their legitimacy. The boys attempt to fight him, but he stops them before the family intervenes. To keep their titles, they are aware that they must deny the claim. But this scene portrays how despite everyone’s effort, the Targaryens and the Velaryon boys will never see one another eye to eye. This scene sets up civil war and rivalries which will be the core of it.
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According to the lore, Aemond “One-Eye” confronts Lucerys when they both visit to meet House Baratheon before the beginning of the civil war. When Aemond’s attempt to fight Luke fails, he charges behind the boy with his dragon, with Luke and his dragon meeting their end. Luke’s death leads to more bloody events that will impact King Aegon II Targaryen. It’s clear that despite the loses, the nephews and uncles will continue their war until none are left.
