The second episode of HBO's "House of the Dragon" Season 3 introduces a pivotal encounter between Prince Aemond Targaryen and Alys Rivers, the enigmatic figure known as the "witch" of Harrenhal. The episode reveals the circumstances under which Aemond, also known as "One-Eye," and Alys first meet, setting the stage for a significant relationship.
Aemond, astride his dragon Vhagar, arrives at Harrenhal and quickly dispatches the garrison left by Daemon Targaryen. Upon entering the castle, he confronts Ser Simon Strong, the castellan. In contrast to Daemon's approach, Aemond insists on a fight and ultimately kills Ser Simon and his sons. However, during the ensuing conflict, Aemond sustains a critical stab wound to the back, leaving him severely injured and vulnerable.
In his weakened state, Aemond turns to the only other person remaining standing: Alys Rivers. This moment marks their first interaction and his reliance on her for aid.
Stars Ewan Mitchell, who plays Aemond, and Gayle Rankin, who portrays Alys, shared their perspectives on filming the scene. Mitchell described the experience as "really nice seeing Aemond that vulnerable, like physically." He noted the contrast with Aemond's usual stoic and calculated demeanor, stating, "And there in that moment it just, you know, it spins it on its head."
The actors also hinted at the romantic connection that develops between their characters, a storyline alluded to in George R.R. Martin's "Fire & Blood." Mitchell found it "lovely" to foreshadow this bond, remarking on "That kind of connection that we have and that energy and what might be there in the future."
Rankin described the scene as a "huge breath" and a "wonderful cliffhanger," suggesting that viewers may not anticipate the directions the season will take. "I think everybody thinks they know how this is going to go. And I think that’s what’s so wonderful about the season is that every turn the show tells you, ‘No, you don’t, no, you don’t,’" she said.
Both actors acknowledged the anticipation surrounding Aemond and Alys's relationship, with fans often describing them as a pair who "match each other's freak." Rankin expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness about fan reception, stating, "I hope you like it." Mitchell responded enthusiastically, calling themselves "a power couple."