House of the Dragons Season 2 Episode 5: Regent

Aemond looks at the ruins of his brother and curses himself for not finishing the job.

Source: HBO

Overall 7.1/10

Story 7.2/10

Aemond prepares to step into his new role, as Alicent is ousted. Rhaenyra looks to stoke the flames of peasant dissent in King's Landing with the help of the White Worm. And Daemon continues making himself a problem for his queen.

The writers do a great job of making Alicent and Rhaenyra look like reflection characters. This war starts with them. Ironically, they are pushed aside as other characters take up their banners and causes.

Alicent confronts Criston Cole on what happened to Aegon.

Source: HBO

Characters 6.9/10

Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D'arcy) is disappointing. The Greens outmaneuver her at every turn. If not for her son’s bright idea, all would be lost. It’s time for her to get her head in the game before the Greens take it from her shoulders. 

Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith ) has always only seen Rhaenyra as his path to the Iron Throne. He was only looking for an excuse and an opportunity to take his shot. Now he has one. But his actions may put his head on a chopping block.

Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin) is a strange one. It’s hard to know what she’s playing at. She doesn’t seem to fear Daemon at all. But far too many people have made that mistake. 

Lord Corlys Velaryen (Steve Toussaint) must feel like a ship adrift in a troubled sea. He’s lost his anchor but hopefully not his way. Rhaenyra will need his wisdom in the days to come. 

Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cook) is powerless. It’s clear to Alicent that she won’t be able to exert the same control over Aemond as she does over Aegon. Her influence and power only rests on her connection to others. And with Aegon out of commission, she can’t even depend on Larys.

Larys Strong (Matthwer Needham) was once a valuable ally to Alicent. But that was only because she was once a direct path to power and his ambitions. The winds have changed. And so has Larys' support. The strong never want for allies. And men like Larys are always drawn to power.

Aemond Targaryen (Ewan Mitchell) can taste the power he’s always wanted. It’s within his grasp. Now that he has it, this viewer doesn’t see him releasing it so long as he walks the mortal plane.

Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankle) is a madman and a hypocrite. He's gone back on every oath he’s ever sworn. And he always fails to protect anyone but himself. 

Daemon attempts to intimidate the River Lords into joining his cause.

Source: HBO

Final Thoughts

The momentum and sound strategy, for the most part, seems to be with Team Green. Will Team Black's Hail Mary be enough for them to recover?