The House of the Dragon Season 3 premiere delivered a devastating blow to Team Black. The episode ended with the death of Jacaerys Velaryon (Harry Collett) and his dragon Vermax during the Battle of the Gullet. Now, Episode 2 will show the aftermath of this tragedy. Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy) has lost another child, and her grief will push her toward vengeance. The upcoming episode is set to feature a major attack on King’s Landing.
Rhaenyra’s Grief and Transformation
Jace’s death marks a turning point for Rhaenyra. She has now lost three children since the Dance of the Dragons began. The circumstances of his death make it even more painful. Jace ordered her Kingsguard to lock her in her chambers so he could fight in her place. His decision cost him his life.
Episode 2 will show Rhaenyra unleashing her anger. Reports suggest she will blame those who contributed to Jace’s death. Ser Lorent Marbrand (Max Wrottesley) obeyed Jace’s order to confine her. He may not survive her wrath. Baela (Bethany Antonia) and Rhaena (Phoebe Campbell) could also face Rhaenyra’s fury. Baela agreed to Jace’s plan, and Rhaena’s dragon Sheepstealer lost control during the battle.
“Jace’s death will send her over the edge. She’ll punish whoever contributed to Jace’s death.”
Rhaena’s Role in Jace’s Death
The show changed the Battle of the Gullet from the book. In Fire & Blood, Sheepstealer does not lose control during the battle. The series made Rhaena and her dragon responsible for Jace’s downfall.
Sheepstealer attacked both sides, forcing Jace and Baela to pull back. The chaos left Jace exposed to enemy fire. Rhaena now carries the guilt of her stepbrother’s death. She will likely flee back to the Vale, unable to face Rhaenyra.
King’s Landing Attack
With King’s Landing undefended, Rhaenyra and Daemon (Matt Smith) will finally descend upon the capital in Episode 2. Alicent (Olivia Cooke) convinced Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) to fly to Harrenhal to fight Daemon. This leaves the capital vulnerable to attack.
The Weeks Ahead trailer shows glimpses of soldiers dead at the castle. Rhaenyra will claim the Iron Throne in this episode. However, her grief over Jace will darken the victory.
Otto Hightower’s Return and Execution
Leaks suggest that Episode 2 will feature the return of Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans). Otto was last seen locked in a cell at the end of Season 2. According to unconfirmed reports, Rhaenyra will execute him after taking King’s Landing.
Reports claim Rhaenyra will use Visenya’s sword, Dark Sister, and will not kill him with her first blow. Alicent will reportedly enter the throne room moments after to find her father dead. This aligns with the book, where Rhaenyra beheads Otto after taking King’s Landing.
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What to Expect Next
Episode 2 will continue to show Rhaenyra’s transformation from the Realm’s Delight into a ruthless queen. The attack on King’s Landing will shift the balance of power in the war. With Aemond heading to Harrenhal and the capital undefended, Team Black has a major opportunity.
House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 2 will air on June 28, 2026, on HBO and HBO Max at 9 p.m. ET.
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