'House of the Dragon' Season 3's Perfect Episode Makes You Forget the End of 'Game of Thrones'

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Season 3, Episode 3 of 'House of the Dragon' presents viewers with a perfect episode that shows how the end of 'Game of Thrones' should not have been. The tragic transformation of Daenerys Targaryen's character in the final seasons deeply saddened fans. Even seven years later, it's hard to understand how a well-meaning ruler turned into a genocidal tyrant without any development behind this change. This poor ending jeopardized the entire series, but with 'House of the Dragon,' a new hope has emerged.

While reactions to the second season of 'House of the Dragon,' the prequel to 'Game of Thrones,' are mixed, the first season brought back the series' strengths in political intrigue and well-written characters. One of these characters is Rhaenyra Targaryen, considered one of the main characters of the entire series. Young Rhaenyra is portrayed by Supergirl star Milly Alcock, while Truth Seekers actress Emma D'Arcy takes over later. D'Arcy impressively moved audiences as a mother in the previous episode of season 3, and the focus in the new episode reveals one of the best episodes in the Game of Thrones universe.

This week's episode stands out as the "experimental episode" mentioned by creator Ryan Condal before the season's premiere. Daemon Targaryen confronts Lord Ormund Hightower and his army, announcing that the war is over and Rhaenyra has ascended the throne as the true Queen of the West. Ormund, albeit reluctantly, kneels and hands over the youngest son of the former queen, Alicent, Daeron, as a gesture of goodwill.

The episode shifts to Rhaenyra's perspective, addressing her first day as queen and the challenges she faces. This presents a character-focused hour, much like Jon Snow's story. Ramin Djawadi's music plays a significant role in this episode; as Rhaenyra's resolve wavers, the orchestra rises ominously. This episode creates an unforgettable moment in the 'Game of Thrones' universe, offering viewers both character depth and a musical experience.