There is little doubt that House of the Dragon Episode 10 was a declaration of war and although it was made clear, we never got to hear it from the one character who wants it the most. The Black Queen painted Daemon Targaryen as a war-hungry figure but cuts out the epic line that would have kickstarted the Dance of the Dragons.
In House of the Dragon Episode 10, Rhaenys Velaryon finally arrives on Dragonstone and drops the bad news on Rhaenyra Targaryen. Not only is Viserys I dead but Aegon II has usurped the Iron Throne. All these cause Rhaenyra to miscarry while Daemon tries to get the war started.
It's clear that Daemon is itching to go to war but Rhaenyra isn't ready to go there yet. When Otto Hightower arrives on Dragonstone, she displays restraint by simply ripping the pin of the Hand off him instead of ordering Syrax to burn him to the ground. She also considers the peaceful option, claiming that she doesn't want to plunge the Realm into war. Needless to say, her reluctance causes tension between her and Daemon.
Interestingly, House of the Dragon Episode 10 ends with what could have been a tender moment between Rhaenyra and Daemon. After Lucerys and Arrax are killed by Aemond and Vhagar above Shipbreaker Bay, Daemon approaches Rhaenyra to tell her of her son's death. The furious Rhaenyra looks away but when she looks back, her face is set in determination as she appears to be ready for war.
The scene does not feature any dialogue although it would have been the perfect opportunity for Daemon to declare, "an eye for an eye, a son for a son. Lucerys shall be avenged." This line could have been the best way to confirm that House of the Dragon Season 2 will mean the war has begun.
Of course, it's still possible Daemon's epic line will be the first thing we'll hear in the second season. With that in mind, we can't wait for House of the Dragon Season 2.
Related: House of the Dragon Episode 10: The Black Queen Gets Ready for the Dance of the Dragons
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