In the latest episode of HBO's 'House of the Dragon' Season 3, Episode 2, Rhaenyra Targaryen firmly establishes her claim to the Iron Throne by executing Otto Hightower. The gripping scene sees Rhaenyra, aided by Daemon and a switched allegiance from the City Watch, retake King's Landing and the Red Keep.
Retaking the Red Keep
The episode culminates with Rhaenyra and Daemon's arrival at the Red Keep, facing minimal resistance from the remaining Hightower loyalists. The City Watch, led by Ser Luthor Largent, ultimately sides with Rhaenyra, recalling the loyalty owed to Daemon from his time as head of the City Watch. This shift in allegiance proves crucial in Rhaenyra's reclamation of power.
The Execution of Otto Hightower
Prior to ascending the throne, Rhaenyra learns that her half-brother, Aegon, has escaped. Daemon, however, presents Otto Hightower, the former Hand of the King, as a more immediate target. Larys Strong had previously revealed Otto's imprisonment to Daemon. Following Daemon's insistence, Rhaenyra executes Otto, a moment that is depicted as a difficult but decisive act.
This execution aligns with the events described in George R.R. Martin's 'Fire & Blood,' where Otto Hightower is the first to be beheaded after Rhaenyra retakes King's Landing. The show portrays the personal struggle Rhaenyra experiences during the execution, highlighting the metaphorical destruction of the old regime and the emergence of a new era.
Emma D’Arcy, who plays Rhaenyra, described the scene as revealing the "child in Rhaenyra" at the moment she crosses the threshold of killing someone for the first time. D'Arcy also noted the regressive nature of returning to a family home and how this moment represented an extreme version of that, leading to an abandonment of her adulthood as she takes the throne.
Daemon's Political Maneuvers
Immediately after Rhaenyra's execution of Otto, Daemon swiftly executes Lord Jasper Wylde. Matt Smith, who plays Daemon, explained that this was a deliberate act of political theater, intended to send a clear message to the populace and solidify Rhaenyra's position as the true queen. Smith also acknowledged Daemon's complex history with Otto, noting their shared upbringing despite their animosity.
Alicent's Reaction
The episode concludes with Alicent and her sister Helaena being apprehended as they attempted to flee the city. They are brought before Rhaenyra and witness the execution of their father, Otto Hightower. Olivia Cooke, portraying Alicent, stated that her character was attempting to process her next move, and seeing her father beheaded was the culmination of a series of devastating events.