Warning: This article contains spoilers about House of the Dragon episodes 1-7.
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With DriftmarkEpisode 7 House of the DragonSince episode 4, the show has clearly shown that there is a distinct faction between the greens and blacks. One of the critical aspects of this was Daemon and Rhaenyra’s relationship, which further cements this divide. After years of subtly dropping hints, the two finally spoke out. This was a huge step.
READ ALSO ‘House of the Dragon’ episode 7 review: Two unexpected endings after a spectacular hour-long drama
The show was still controversial due to the dark scenes. Miguel Sapochnik directed the episode. He was also responsible for the production of the Game of Thrones’ The Long Night. The complaint was due DriftmarkBeing one of the most important episodes that provided a clear path for character development and the future direction of the series.
I’m obsessed by this picture. The way rhaenyra holds her head high, like a queen, and daemon is the one lowering… that’s cinema! pic.twitter.com/nOmxM6LiKe
— elleth 🍃 (@shxmandalie) October 3, 2022
In addition, one of the other significant reasons for such criticism was Rhaenyra and Daemon finally consummating, which the fans couldn’t see. The scene was brief, and one couldn’t see any details (including the mark on Daemon’s shoulder that wasn’t seen in the first episode). Fans shouldn’t be disappointed. One of the most fascinating aspects of their union was the conversations they had before getting intimate.
Rhaenyra was always unsure about Daemon’s feelings
Since the first episode, they had been in some form of attraction. The Heirs of the Dragon. But, they would always rely on subtle hints for their feelings. High Valyrian conversations was one example of this aspect. As the show progresses, they switch to this language to talk secretly as other people may hear them.
Daemon clearly didn’t think Rhaenyra would still want him so he kept away until she moved. He said “Rhaenyra…”, she said “I’m no longer a child” *kissed him* and “I want you”.
He did the right thing, so there are no regrets or drinking at this time🙃#HouseOfTheDragon pic.twitter.com/oPbUpuybdI
— 🐣 (@gonlyb) October 3, 2022
Although they had the intention to, they didn’t speak out on their feelings at all when they were presented. They spoke only about marriage and how women can enjoy sex. He even encourages her to claim the things she wants while they are in the brothel. After a few minutes, he finally gives in and abandons her. They clearly had several subtexts and undertones in their conversations. This gave us a glimpse into their feelings.
The marriage of Rhaenyra to Daemon was in the works
Viserys hears from Otto Hightower about this the next day. He fires him, and even fights Daemon about it. But Daemon never clarifies anything, instead asks for Rhaenyra’s hand, which makes Viserys more suspicious. The incident eventually culminates in Rhaenyra’s marriage with Laenor and Daemon’s wedding with Laena. Furthermore, the 10-year gap and the other problems (such as the legitimacy of Rhaenyra’s sons) only made fans certain of their eventual union, even if they had not read the book Fire & Blood.
We as a community need more information about daemon intercepting Criston, but STILL LETTING RHAENYRA MANAGE THE SITUATION. She immediately came to check on her wounds once she was out of it the victor! daemon is in his knight-consort era and i’m living
— c (@weaverofsnares) October 3, 2022
Final acceptance
In DRiftmarkAfter the funeral, they catch up on the beaches. Daemon Westerosi hears Rhaenyra say that she and Laenor attempted to have biological children. But it never worked. She adds, “It was not joy.” That was something I had found elsewhere. It was a good feeling to be desired.” It was a reference for Ser Harwin Strong who has since died. She clarified that it was her duty.
When Rhaenyra accuses Daemon depravity of abandoning her when she needed him, the conversation turns to their marriages. He responds, “I spared your life, you were a child.” Rhaenrya is referring to the fact that Daemon wasn’t there for her when she needed him most, even when he left her at the brothel.
A Valyrian wedding. Inside the episode. The producers discuss the symbolism behind Rhaenyra’s wedding to Daemon. #HouseOfTheDragonHBO #HouseOfTheDragon #HoTD pic.twitter.com/mSXgKbpY2s
— Celinde (@celinde_louisa) October 4, 2022
Daemon however justifies it as his goodwill. He said that he was stopping before further damage could be done to their relationship, and even the unequal power. He wasn’t even there when she got married. Despite their differences, Rhaenyra and her uncle had a strong connection.
Although she acknowledged that her life had been difficult, she was curious if Daemon still loved Laena, his wife. Daemon admitted that they were happy enough. Both admit to missing each other after their separation. Rhaenrya then gives him a kiss, after which she confirms that she is not a child anymore and reiterates her belief that she has made the right choice.
The happy phase
I love the way Daemon tenderly holds his own hand here, almost like he’s cradling his own heart in his hands. When Rhaenyra proposes marriage, it seems almost too good to be true for him and he doesn’t want to get hurt again #daemyra #HouseOfTheDragon #hotd #HouseOfTheDragonHBO pic.twitter.com/GYRA3gYkD8
— nic ❤️🔥 (@targaryencunt) October 3, 2022
DriftmarkFinally, the characters are on equal ground. They accept each other’s feelings and eventually have sex. The conversation was their longest ever, and they were pondering over their pasts and embracing the future. Although their intimacy is shrouded by darkness, it speaks volumes about the depth of their love and longing.
Eventually, she proposes marriage to him in High Valyrian, speaking plainly, unlike episode 5’s goading. She has grown up and realizes they have to be together. It’s not because of Alicent’s plotting, but because of their love, as she reminds him, “You and I are made of fire. Our hearts were made to burn together. Their reconciliation wouldn’t have happened if the two were not ready to accept and admit their feelings. The two men come up with a plan for Laenor to be released by inventing his death. They then marry on Dragonstone. The kingdom believes they would kill Laenor’s husband to get a political advantage, but they are aware that they stand on equal ground now.
