House of the Dragon Season 2 continues the brutal tradition of its predecessor, Game of Thrones, featuring significant character deaths. The prequel, set roughly 170 years before the original series, maintains the tension and unpredictability that fans have come to expect from George R.R. Martin’s universe.
5. Erryk Cargyll- Commits Suicide After Killing Arryk Cargyll
Erryk Cargyll, loyal to Rhaenyra, is forced into a fatal duel with his brother Arryk. After killing Arryk, Erryk is overwhelmed by guilt and the taboo of kinslaying, leading him to take his own life. This act not only adds to the season’s body count but also deepens the emotional and moral complexities of the Targaryen civil war.
4. Arryk Cargyll- Killed by Erryk Cargyll While Attempting to Assassinate Rhaenyra
Arryk Cargyll, aligned with the Greens, attempts to assassinate Rhaenyra under Criston Cole’s coercion. Disguised as his twin brother, Erryk, Arryk infiltrates Dragonstone but is ultimately killed by Erryk in a tragic confrontation. The duel between the Cargyll twins highlights the intense personal conflicts within the larger war.
3. Cheese- Hung in the Streets of King’s Landing
Cheese, the second assassin involved in Jaehaerys’ murder, meets his end through Aegon II’s ruthless retaliation. Known for his background as a ratcatcher, Cheese’s death, along with many innocents, is a significant deviation from the ambiguous fate presented in the book. His execution, part of Aegon II’s mass hanging of ratcatchers, underscores the brutal lengths the king is willing to go to avenge his son.
2. Blood-Killed by Aegon II as Vengeance for Jaehaerys
Blood, one of the assassins hired by Daemon Targaryen, is captured and killed by Aegon II. After Blood is apprehended by Larys Strong, he quickly reveals Daemon’s involvement. Unlike in the book, where Blood endures prolonged torture before revealing his secrets, the show has Aegon II personally execute him, using this event to further vilify Rhaenyra and gain political leverage.
1. Jaehaerys Targaryen-Killed by Blood & Cheese in the Red Keep
Jaehaerys Targaryen, the eldest son of King Aegon II and Helaena Targaryen, was the heir to the Iron Throne. Introduced properly in the season 2 premiere, Jaehaerys’ life was cut short by the assassins Blood & Cheese. Ordered by Daemon Targaryen in retaliation for Lucerys Velaryon’s death, the assassins infiltrate the Red Keep but, failing to find Prince Aemond, kill Jaehaerys instead. This act plunges Aegon II into a violent frenzy, setting the stage for further bloodshed.
Conclusion
House of the Dragon Season 2 does not shy away from the grim realities of Westerosi politics, where betrayal and death are ever-present. Each episode brings new layers of tragedy and conflict, ensuring that the Dance of the Dragons is a memorable and harrowing saga.
Stay tuned for further updates and analyses as the season progresses, revealing more about the fates of House Targaryen and their allies.
