House of the Dragon Episode Recap

In the latest episode of HBO’s House of the Dragon, Criston Cole leads his remaining Green soldiers into a trap set by Team Black. As they realize the deception, someone shouts, “It’s a trap!” The Greens find themselves surrounded, and Roddy the Ruin and Oscar Tully taunt Cole. He attempts to spare his men but is killed by arrows, notably one striking his zygomatic bone. His downfall is orchestrated by Alysanne Blackwood, last seen at the Battle by the Lakeshore.

Meanwhile, at Rhaenyra’s Small Council meeting, Daemon mourns the 25 Gold Cloaks murdered in the previous week’s incident. He wants to retaliate against Ormund, recognizing the risks to innocent lives. Alyn and the council suggest using precision tactics instead of unleashing Rhaenyra’s dragons, but the army is still weeks away. Rhaenyra opts to send assassins. Daemon, tasked with finding the Gold Cloak killer, confronts challenges as the soldiers, unpaid and in fear, resign.

Daemon attempts to lure Ormund’s spies by disguising himself as a Gold Cloak. He succeeds and kills a high-ranking spy who previously allowed Rhaenyra to reclaim the throne. Meanwhile, Sabitha Frey faces her demise.

Rhaenyra meets a small delegation from House Baratheon, who profess loyalty but have limited support. Upset by this snub, she dispatches assassins to take on Ormund and “King” Daeron. Hugh the Hammer and Ulf watch over Tumbleton, with Ulf expressing dissatisfaction over Rhaenyra’s restrictions on his social life. Despite Daemon’s earlier encounter with Ulf, tensions linger.

Elsewhere, Alicent and Helaena escape confinement but choose to remain discreet. Helaena’s condition is known to Mysaria, who deceives Alicent and then silences her maid for security. Alyn urges his father, Corlys, to assist in replacing the Gold Cloaks. Corlys agrees but faces danger from Hightower soldiers.

In Rook’s Rest, Aegon, Larys, and Tyland deal with last week’s murder and plan to flee to Essos. Aegon considers Larys’ criticisms but moves forward. In Vale, Rhaena attempts to contact her sister, Moondancer, but struggles against Lady Jeyne Arryn’s skepticism.

At Harrenhal, Alys and Aemond share a complex relationship, hindered by Aemond’s identity awareness. Alys reveals five dragon eggs, suggesting future plans with Aemond.

Throughout the realm, love and intrigue unfold. Alyn and Baela grow closer, but tensions surface as Addam admires Baela. In Tumbleton, Gwayne contends with Ormund’s arrogance and resurfaces romantic dynamics. When assassins target Daeron, Gwayne intervenes, using his instincts and awareness, ensuring survival amidst chaos.

Alicent bargains with Rhaenyra to remove Helaena from danger, offering insight into Aemond’s location. Rhaenyra devises a plan involving Alicent and Aemond’s trusted connections. The queen processes failed assassination attempts and contemplates next moves, reflecting on the throne’s symbolic rejection.

Key considerations include Helaena’s fate, Tumbleton’s safety, Gwayne’s resilience, and Alys and Aemond’s ambitions. Anticipation builds around Rhaenyra and Alicent’s possible reactions to Criston Cole’s demise.