'The Burning Mill'
Opening Scene
The episode opens in the Riverlands, where a minor territorial dispute between the Brackens and the Blackwoods escalates into a brutal and bloody battle. The violence and chaos set the tone for the episode, emphasizing the pervasive instability in Westeros.
Rhaenys and Rhaenyra
Back in Dragonstone, Rhaenys Targaryen advises Rhaenyra, suggesting that Queen Alicent Hightower might be persuaded to see reason and avoid further bloodshed. This conversation highlights the ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution, despite the deepening conflicts.
Criston's Scheme and Daemon's Vision
In King's Landing, Ser Criston Cole proposes a daring plan to conquer Harrenhal, aiming to gain a strategic advantage. However, Daemon Targaryen arrives at Harrenhal first and secures the allegiance of its lords. Daemon experiences a disturbing vision where he sees a young Rhaenyra sewing Jaehaerys' head back onto his body. This vision is followed by a mysterious woman predicting his death at Harrenhal, adding a supernatural and ominous element to the story.
Rhaenyra's Preparations
Rhaenyra takes proactive measures to safeguard her lineage and secure her allies. She sends her daughter, Rhaena, along with her younger sons, Joffrey, Aegon, and Viserys, to the Arryns for protection. She also sends dragon eggs, ensuring the continuity of House Targaryen should the Blacks fall. Mysaria, now Rhaenyra's adviser, helps coordinate these efforts.
Aegon's Actions and Larys' New Role
In King's Landing, Aegon II appoints Lord Larys Strong as his Master of Whisperers, seeking to strengthen his intelligence network. Aegon also visits a brothel with his retinue, intending to help a new squire lose his virginity. During the visit, Aegon encounters his brother Aemond, who is naked and taunted by Aegon. Aemond's gruff departure highlights the strained relationships and personal tensions within the Targaryen family.
Baela's Discovery
Baela Targaryen, patrolling the skies on dragonback, spots Ser Criston Cole leading a scouting party accompanied by Alicent's brother, Gwayne Hightower. She reports this sighting to Rhaenyra's council, sparking a debate about whether to escalate the conflict by using dragons in warfare. Despite the council's recommendation for war, Rhaenyra opts for a more covert approach.
Rhaenyra's Mission
Rhaenyra secretly travels to King's Landing, disguised as a septa, to speak with Alicent. Their conversation is tense and ultimately unproductive, as Alicent remains resolute that nothing can resolve the conflict. During this exchange, Rhaenyra realizes that Alicent misunderstood King Viserys' dying words about the "Song of Ice and Fire" prophecy, mistaking her son, Aegon, for the prophesied Aegon the Conqueror. This revelation underscores the tragic miscommunication and its dire consequences.
Themes and Character Development
- Rhaenyra Targaryen: Her efforts to protect her family and secure alliances demonstrate her strategic acumen and deep sense of duty. Her encounter with Alicent reveals her ongoing commitment to understanding and resolving the conflict.
- Daemon Targaryen: Daemon's vision and the mysterious prophecy about his death add depth to his character, portraying him as both a warrior and a figure haunted by fate.
- Aegon II: His actions at the brothel and appointment of Larys as Master of Whisperers highlight his desperation and ruthless pursuit of power.
- Aemond Targaryen: Aemond's discomfort and the taunting he endures show the personal toll of the conflict and his complex relationship with his brother.
- Baela Targaryen: Her role as a vigilant dragon rider and informant underscores the importance of intelligence and reconnaissance in the ongoing war.
"The Burning Mill" continues to build on the intricate web of political intrigue, personal vendettas, and supernatural elements that define the Targaryen civil war, setting the stage for further drama and conflict as the season progresses.