House of the Dragon Episode 9 explores the immediate events of King Visery’s death and the conspiracy-filled succession that followed. The latest episode is lined with Alicent’s attempt of proclaiming the Hightower blood on the Iron Throne and the dismantling of the smallest of mutiny from anyone inside the castle.
The episode features some high-class secret succession drama which is a usual break from the battle episodes(the trademark of the franchise) and a confidential yet illegal way of putting Aegon on the Throne.
The second last episode of the series has received some strong reactions from the netizens online. Many of them highlight the unfathomable greed of Otto Hightower, her daughter Alicent and their fellow conspirators. In fact, the whole coup to replace the King as silently as possible received mixed reactions from the fans.
The death of King Viserys, (played by Paddy Considine) marks the end of the end era for the Targaryens, and also a start to a new one. Although Viserys failed to live up to the legacy of his predecessor, he had some moments of his own. The always-injured and semi-drunk king made sure to live up to the hype and strengthen the claim of Princess Rhaenyra for the throne.
He even presided over the king’s council in his worst state possible, just to ensure his promise to the princess. However, the king also spoiled everything when he blabbered about the song of ice and fire to Alicent.
The Green Queen failed to understand the context behind the reference and took it as a green light for succession from her husband. The Hightower’s hand was smart enough to roll the dice and finally snatched Princess Rhaenyra from her destiny.
Also Read: House of the Dragon Episode 9 Review: Bend the Knee to the Green Council
Even though the episode primarily features Alicent Hightower, the entire process of replacing Viserys with Aegon is a dominant display of power. Particularly one that a section of fans had been expecting from a few episodes earlier. Now, it will be interesting to see the rise of the Green Council and the response from the Targaryen.
Furthermore, Alicent Hightower might have carried out the coup with success but not without objections and robust disagreements. She used full force to silence the dissent(without shying from blood and manslaughter) and was able to get past everyone except The Queen that was promised.
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