The third episode of 'House of the Dragon' Season 3 introduced Prince Daeron Targaryen, the youngest son of Alicent Hightower and Viserys I Targaryen, a character whose absence has been notable. The episode's climax reveals that the young prince, along with his dragon Tessarion, is with the Hightower forces in Tumbleton, a strategic town recently captured.
This revelation comes after a tense negotiation where Lord Ormund Hightower seemingly agreed to surrender to Rhaenyra Targaryen. However, Daemon Targaryen's insistence on taking Prince Daeron to King's Landing as a hostage unraveled the apparent peace. Rhaenyra ultimately spared the boy, even facilitating a reunion with his mother, Alicent. The child presented to Alicent, however, was revealed to be an imposter, confirming Daeron's continued presence with his uncle, Ormund.
In George R.R. Martin's books, Daeron is described as a significant figure. He was sent to Oldtown to be raised among the Hightowers, where he developed into a capable young man, skilled with both a lute and a sword, earning the nickname "Daeron the Daring." He joined Ormund Hightower's forces with his dragon, Tessarion, and played a crucial role in battles, including the Battle of the Honeywine. His presence with the Hightower army as they advanced on Tumbleton is a key element in the ongoing conflict.
The identity of the actor portraying Daeron has been a subject of speculation. While a young boy, identified as Ormund's squire and played by Charlie Gordon, was presented as Daeron, the imposter's reveal suggests a different actor might be portraying the true prince. Fans have theorized that Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, who appeared as Ormund's squire in the season premiere, may be the actual Daeron. This aligns with Alicent's past concerns about the legitimacy of Rhaenyra's sons, potentially leading her to send her youngest child away to avoid similar scrutiny due to his appearance.
New episodes of 'House of the Dragon' are released on Sundays on HBO and HBO Max.