'House of the Dragon' Season 3 predictions: From the death of a Prince, to the greatest betrayal of them all
Contains spoilers and speculations for 'House of the Dragon'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Fans of HBO's 'House of the Dragon' are left wondering what lies ahead for their favorite characters after the show's dramatic season 2 finale sets the stage for the turmoil that will soon break out in the third season.
This television series, which is the prequel to the popular show 'Game of Thrones,' is based on the novel 'Fire & Blood' by George R. R. Martin and is set more than a century before the birth of Jon Snow (Kit Harington) and Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke).
The show's Season 2 finale laid the groundwork for Season 3, as both the Black and Green Factions braced for conflict, and Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D'Arcy) remained uncertain about her trustworthiness in Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke).
Season 3 of the show is set to premiere in 2026, so if you don't want to wait that long, let's discuss five Season 3 predictions based on the books.
Which prominent character will die in the 'Battle of the Gullet'?
Prince Jacaerys 'Jace' Velaryon (Harry Collett) is a popular character who is sometimes compared to the famous Jon Snow. In Season 3, Rhaenyra's eldest son will cruelly die during the 'Battle of Gullet,' and his death will leave an indelible mark on her.
As established in Season 2, Aemond Targaryen (Ewan Mitchell) proposes joining forces with the Triarchy of Essos to overcome the Velaryon siege, paving the way for the upcoming Battle of Gullet, which promises huge events in Season 3.
Rhaenyra's oldest son, Jaecerys, and freshly hired Dragonriders fly into combat, but the Triarchy's expertise in battling dragons leads to the deaths of Jace and his dragon Vermax, while other dragons inflict substantial death and devastation.
Will Rhaenyra Targaryen take on King’s Landing?
Enraged by the deaths of her sons Jace and (supposedly) Viserys, she begins a vicious assault.
Rhaenyra will eventually take over King's Landing from the Greens and reign from the Iron Throne, most likely in Season 3.
With Aemond and his dragon Vhagar absent, Rhaenyra on Syrax, Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) on Caraxes, and four other Dragonriders assist her.
Alicent's brother Gwayne Hightower (Freddie Fox) is slain, and Rhaenyra orders Otto Hightower's (Rhys Ifans) death after retaking the city.
What lies ahead for Otto Hightower?
As per the book, Rhaenyra kills Otto immediately after taking over King's Landing but this narrative offers a dilemma since Otto, is seen in confinement at the end of Season 2, but the identity of his captor remains unclear.
As established in Season 2, after being fired as Hand by Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney), he intended to go to Oldtown or Highgarden, but his brief appearance in the finale episode has left fans wondering what might have happened with the crafty man.
All in all, If Otto is to meet Rhaenyra's executioner, the writers must create a means to get him back to King's Landing.
Who will betray Rhaenyra Targaryen?
Hugh Hammer (Kieran Bew) and Ulf White (Tom Bennett) are introduced in Season 2 as two smallfolk suffering from the battle in King's Landing.
In 'Fire & Blood,' they are the bastard sons of unknown Targaryens who may claim the dragons Vermithor and Silverwing.
The show makes their paternity more evident. Hugh, Ulf, Nettles, and Addam of Hull (Clinton Liberty), also known as the 'dragonseeds,' are Valyrian-born bastards who serve as Rhaenyra's Dragonriders and fight for her in the Battle of the Gullet.
However, Hugh and Ulf deserted during the First Battle of Tumbleton, resulting in a big win for the Greens and severe division among the Blacks.
What is 'Butcher’s Ball'?
The forthcoming season of 'House of the Dragon' aims to intensify the struggle between the Greens and the Blacks and 'The Butcher's Ball', a key event, is supposed to be a watershed moment.
This violent combat will have a huge influence on the war's outcome, with severe casualties on both sides.
Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel), a major member of the Green Group, is believed to be among those killed. His death will undoubtedly have far-reaching ramifications for Alicent and the battle's overall dynamics.
As the battle progresses, viewers can expect further violence and political maneuvering as the two factions compete for control of Westeros.
How to stream 'House of the Dragon' Season 2?
The streaming giant will often provide three options, depending on your budget.
The most cost-effective membership level, which includes advertising fees, is $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually.
The second plan, which includes no advertisements, costs $15.99 per month or $149.99 a year.
Concurrently, the top membership level, Ultimate Ad-Free, costs $19.99 per month or $199.99 annually.
'House of the Dragon' Season 2 trailer