Why Did Aemond Ask Helaena to Go to War? HOUSE OF THE DRAGON’s Ewan Mitchell Chimes in on This Finale Moment

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As a gamer with countless hours spent navigating the intricate politics and power plays of medieval-themed strategy games, I can’t help but see parallels between Aemond’s actions and the classic ‘overextension’ strategy that often leads to downfall in these virtual worlds.

In the finale of House of the Dragon’s second season, we witness the consequences of Aemond’s anger towards Rhaenyra’s new dragonriders. He not only destroys Sharp Point, but also demands his sister, Queen Helaena, to mount Dreamfyre for battle. This request is puzzling given that Helaena is a peace-loving seer rather than a warrior. The question arises: Why did Aemond seek Helaena for war? Is he desperate to win or is he aiming to safeguard his family from imminent doom? Ewan Mitchell shares insights on Aemond’s intentions.

“Mitchell explained to us that it seems like a mix of scenarios. It’s about survival, but it’s also a matter of choosing who survives – either them or their opponents. Given our disadvantage in numbers (we’re outnumbered seven to three by dragons), if we don’t unite and conquer Harrenhal, defeat Daemon, and eliminate his power in the Riverlands, we’ll find ourselves in a weak position.”

He continues, “…he is desperate at that moment. He’s been made a fool in Rhaenyra raising new dragonseeds, and he had to make a U-turn and fly back to King’s Landing, and he definitely has to feel like he has to overcompensate.”

Indeed, Helaena had no interest in the task at hand and courageously warned her brother that he would meet his end on the battlefield. Although many disregard her prophecies, Mitchell is certain that Aemond will heed this warning in the upcoming third season.

“I’ve always believed I controlled my destiny, but this fresh insight certainly gives me pause,” I admit. “I suspect Aemond will find this revelation convincing. Deep down, though, he’s reluctant to accept it.”

Indeed, that’s a balanced situation. We’ll observe if Aemond manages to persuade Helaena to fight alongside him in the upcoming season… and whether her ominous prediction materializes.

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2024-08-08 00:02