The ongoing season of ‘House of the Dragon‘ is laden with some jaw-dropping twists. Just when we think it could not get worse, the plot drops a bomb least expected. The show’s season 2, episode 4 has so far been the most shocking one for fans, with a twist that hit us like a truck: Aemond Targaryen’s attempt to murder his own brother, King Aegon.
While we know Aemond to be an evil, troubled character, we certainly did not expect this from him. The episode has left Aegon’s fate uncertain, but it’s safe to assume he’s not dead. However, it is likely that he’d be out of commission for a while. That being said, the shock brings us to our most obvious question: Why Aemond, why would you do that to your very own brother?
Related: ‘House Of The Dragon’: How Does Aegon The Conqueror’s Dragon Vhagar Die In The Book?
Was Aemond Targaryen’s Attack On His Brother Aegon Intentional?
The motivations behind Aemond’s actions are as complex as he himself is. They are also quite deeply rooted, like any typical George R.R. Martin’s story would have it. Fans are well aware that Aemond is no stranger to kin slaying. He has conveniently killed his nephew, Lucerys Velaryon, in the season 1 finale. In this episode, he murders another family member, Rhaenys Targaryen and her dragon Meleys in a bloody war. While all of that would make sense given his brutal character, the murder attempt of Aegon is still a matter of intrigue.
Now if you pay attention, the show had perhaps already set up for Aemond’s attempt on Aegon’s life when Aegon found his brother at a brothel and mocked him mercilessly. The humiliation, especially in a place where Aemond felt vulnerable, might have triggered him and fueled his desire for revenge. This is one possibility.
Another one runs much deeper, tracing back to their childhood. Aegon has always been cruel to Aemond, mocking him relentlessly for his lack of a dragon. He has also belittled him at every turn of life. Years of insults, slights, and general resentment might have led to this moment, where Aemond finally found the perfect opportunity to take revenge on his older brother. Besides, Aemond’s motivations are not solely about revenge. He genuinely believes he would be a better king, and the act falls in line with the attack.
In case you missed it: “It Was Very Much Intentional”: ‘House Of The Dragon’ Star Ewan Mitchell Unravels His Character Aemond’s Mindset In Episode 4’s Bloody Battle
What Happens During Battle At Rook’s Rest In The Book?
While the show is based on George R.R. Martin’s books, this shocking event, rather interestingly, wasn’t originally part of the script. The dramatic plot twist was a new addition by the show’s creators. George R.R. Martin’s ‘Fire & Blood’ does not mention any such attack between the siblings.
In the book, the Battle at Rook’s Rest is more straightforward, with Aegon and Aemond lying in wait and attacking Rhaenys together. All three crash to the ground, resulting in Rhaenys’s death and severe injuries for Aegon.
But the show’s version brought us a more personal conflict, hinting at a possible hidden truth that perhaps history has glossed over. What that truth is, would only be revealed in the further episodes.
For now, all we know is Aemond not only thinks he should be king, but he’s also starting to act like it. While his thirst for revenge on his brother is evident, it now remains to be seen what he does to further his act.
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