Just like Game of Thrones, the prequel House of the Dragon also contains the same bizarre relationships that torment other characters. Shortly after naming Rhaenyra Targaryen (Milly Alcock) as the heir to the Iron Throne, King Viserys (Paddy Considine) made a shocking decision to marry Alicent Hightower (Emily Carey), who is also Rhaenyra's best friend.
King Viserys' unmindful decision places Rhaenyra and Alicent's relationship in turmoil, especially for Rhaenyra, who feels betrayed by both his father and childhood best friend. Episode 3 begins with a significant time jump that sees Alicent already given birth to a son with a second child on the way, while Rhaenyra keeps her distance.
In the latest episode of The Official Game of Thrones Podcast: House of the Dragon, Rhaenyra actress Milly Alcock breaks down how Alicent and Rhaenyra's relationship has "deteriorated' after the time jump. She also revealed Rhaenyra's headspace towards the whole new family situation. See her full quote below:
"I think fundamentally their relationship had completely deteriorated. It's like you picked a side and it wasn't me. You also didn't have the balls to stand up for yourself. So she's just angry. She's angry at the world. She's angry at everyone. She's angry at her dad. She's got a lot of rage and I think that [episode 3] especially explores that rage which was so much fun."
Episode 3 shows Rhaenyra at arm's length with his own father and Alicent. Of course, the transition was more difficult for her, and it's not just because Alicent married King Viserys but also because Alicent has given birth to a potential heir, which might jeopardize her assurance to the throne, considering how King Viserys wanted a Targaryen son as heir at the beginning of the series.
Nonetheless, this is just the beginning of the impending feud between Alicent and Rhaenyra, as they now have their own reasons for bidding on the Iron Throne. There are more episodes coming, with a House of the Dragon Season 2 officially greenlit by HBO.
House of the Dragon is available to stream on HBO Max.
Also read: House of the Dragon Actress Reveals Rhaenyra Targaryen's Honest Intentions on The Iron Throne
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