House of the Dragon episode 2 aired on Sunday night, and has backed up what the first episode had hinted at: Game of Thrones is back to form.
There was less violence, shocks, and sex than there was two weeks ago, but what we got was an episode which greatly expanded the lore of the world, and brought back the 'political drama' elements we got in the early episodes of the original series.
Here are four major talking points which fans on social media were discussing.
Milly Alcock Stealing The Show
Last week we championed the performance of Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen, this week it was Australian actress Milly Alcock who shone the brightest.
Her character, Rhaenyra Targaryen, is aching to have more influence in the King's, her father, decisions, and it leaves us wondering whether an urge for power, and the betrayal from her best friend, may see her gain a more ruthless edge.
Alcock is due to be replaced midway through the season by Emma D'Arcy, as Rhaenyra Targaryen grows older, which has left some fans unhappy.
While it is a blow, we have faith that D'Arcy will carry the baton gracefully and do justice to the character.
Everyone applaud Milly Alcock for her wonderful performance as Rhaenyra Targaryen. She killed it tonight!#HouseoftheDragon pic.twitter.com/0GTuPCHEup
— Art of Ice and Fire (@ArtofASOIAF) August 29, 2022
I've been loving Milly Alcock as Rhaenyra so far and I can't wait until we get Emma D'arcy. Perfect casting!#HouseoftheDragon pic.twitter.com/pA6bg4viWr
— Art of Ice and Fire (@ArtofASOIAF) August 27, 2022
That Walk With Laena Velaryon
We know marrying a much younger bride was common in medieval times, but that did not stop viewers from squirming at a certain scene in House of the Dragon episode 2.
With King Viserys in need of a new wife, Laena Valeryon is suggested, as it would make for a strong merger of houses and keep the powerful Lord Valeryon happy.
However, even the King is visibly disgusted at just how young she is, and his rejection of her is now a major plot line in the series.
📷I Lady Laena Velaryon 🥰 #HouseOfTheDragonHBO pic.twitter.com/2FxFOhi8V9
— House of the Dragon FR (@HOTDfr) August 29, 2022
THAT Scene At Dragonstone
Like the tournament scene in the first episode of House of the Dragon, this particular scene in episode 2 stood out among the others.
It had tension, breathtaking cinematography, dragons, and a sort of mini-showdown between the two brightest stars so far, Matt Smith and Milly Alcock. It was a treat.
Goosebumps #HouseoftheDragon #HOTD pic.twitter.com/AIJNdCvmQz
— NoOnN (@Chalispoo) August 29, 2022
Shades Of Game Of Thrones Season 1
There was less 'in your face' action in the latest episode, but it was to its benefit. It was more like watching a chess match, as the various characters plotted their next moves.
We also got some more world-building and lore with the introduction of Dragonstone and the brief scenes with the ominous looking Pirate, the Crab Feeder.
It was a brilliantly crafted episode, and has beautifully teed up the rest of the season.
I love that House of the Dragon is all about conversations in dark rooms and politics. The last few seasons of thrones abandoned that for spectacle and they were worse for it. Enjoying #HouseoftheDragon so far after episode 2.
— Andrew Ols (@Andrewols) August 29, 2022
The cinematography in Episode 2 alone is insane. #HouseoftheDragon #HOTD pic.twitter.com/mR6n9vFGh9
— out of context house of the dragon (@oochotd) August 29, 2022
SEE ALSO: Four Talking Points After The First Episode Of House Of The Dragon
