HOUSE OF THE DRAGON SEASON 2, EPISODE 4 REVIEW: A RED DRAGON AND A GOLD

RECAP OF THE LATEST EPISODE- HOUSE OF THE DRAGON SEASON 2, EPISODE 4 

This episode might just be the standout of the new season, as we finally witness dragons going to war, having their own intense "dance," which doesn't end well.

It kicks off with Daemon (Matt Smith) experiencing bizarre dreams at Harrenhal. He envisions a young Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) on the Iron Throne, accusing him of manipulating her, and he then beheads her. Daemon isn’t in the best shape and later encounters Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin), who gives him some herbs that deepen his visions and confusion.

We then switch to the small council at King’s Landing. Everyone is scheming for the upcoming battle, and Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) is enraged that his council doesn't heed his words. He discovers that Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) and his brother Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) are plotting a war behind his back.

Alicent (Olivia Cooke) is missing from the council but is shown drinking some abortion tea from Grand Maester Orwyle (Kurt Egyiawan). Alicent's past sins seem to be catching up with her. After a meeting with Rhaenyra, she begins reading Viserys' (Paddy Considine) old history books to understand if Viserys really changed his mind about Rhaenyra. She remarks, "The war will be fought, many will die, and the victor will eventually ascend the throne. The significance of Viserys' intentions died with him."

Rhaenyra returns to Dragonstone and finally decides her next move. With the throne her father gave her having been at peace for 80 years, she needs to ensure she does the right thing. She faces the choice: fight for her claim or die.

Rhaenyra, despite what her councilmen might think, is very thoughtful about the impending war. She makes calculated decisions and proves to be a strong leader. She sends Rhaenys (Eve Best) on her dragon to battle Ser Criston Cole.

Meanwhile, in King's Landing, Aegon gets a harsh reality check from his mother. Alicent asks him if he thinks wearing a crown also gives him wisdom and that he should do what's expected, that is, nothing. Nevertheless, he heads to battle on his dragon Sunfyre and gets injured in his clash with Meleys and Rhaenys.

Ser Criston Cole, though despised for his personal choices and attitude, showcases great war skills. He effectively commands his fleet. The dragon fight is brutal, and the bloodshed from dragons going to war is intense.

Vhagar, Aemond’s dragon, and the largest dragon of House of the Dragon, kills Meleys and Rhaenys, giving us flashbacks to Lucerys' death in last season’s finale.

This season has been full of lies, strategies, and scheming up until Rhaenyra met Alicent. Now, we’re witnessing the war for the crown among the House of the Dragon. There’s more to come, and it's not looking good.

Images: HBO