The highly anticipated third season of House of the Dragon opened with the Battle of the Gullet, a devastating clash that significantly alters the balance of power in the Targaryen civil war. The episode, which aired on HBO, picks up shortly after the events of Season 2, with Rhaenyra Targaryen weighing Alicent Hightower's proposal to seize King's Landing and depose Aegon II.
Aegon II Captured, Plans Thwarted
Rhaenyra's plans quickly unravel when it is revealed that Aegon II, though badly injured, has been smuggled out of the Red Keep by Larys Strong. However, their escape is cut short as they are intercepted by forces loyal to Rhaenyra, placing the deposed king in enemy hands. This development adds a new layer of complexity to the conflict.
The Battle of the Gullet Unfolds
At sea, the Triarchy fleet advances into the Gullet, prompting Lord Corlys Velaryon to lead Rhaenyra's naval forces, supported by Jacaerys Velaryon and Baela Targaryen on dragonback. As battle erupts, dragons unleash destruction across the fleet, making it one of the largest military engagements in the series. The tide turns when Rhaena Targaryen's newly bonded dragon, Sheepstealer, enters the fray. Unable to fully control the wild beast, Rhaena witnesses dragonfire striking both enemy and allied vessels, causing chaos across the battlefield.
Jacaerys Velaryon's Tragic Death
The episode concludes with tragedy as Jacaerys and his dragon Vermax are brought down during the battle, dealing a severe blow to Rhaenyra's cause. This loss is a significant turning point in the war, as Jacaerys was a key heir and dragonrider for Team Black.
Political Tensions in King's Landing
Meanwhile, political tensions continue to grow in King's Landing, where Alicent attempts to influence Aemond Targaryen as the war enters a new and increasingly dangerous phase. The eight-episode season airs weekly on Sundays on HBO, with the season finale scheduled for August 9, 2026.
