Why did Rhaenyra Targaryen disguise herself to enter King’s Landing? House of the Dragon season 2 scene explained 

House of Dragon
Rhaenyra Targaryen disguised herself as a Septa to meet Alicent Hightower (Image: HBO)

Even though fans and viewers witnessed a deadly rivalry between Team Black and Team Green in House of the Dragon season 2, there was a time when Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower were childhood best friends. When the Game of Thrones prequel series began, we saw young Rhaenyra (then played by Milly Alcock) and Alicent (then played by Emily Carey) share a deep bond.

Their friendship was as strong as if it would never fade until Alicent Hightower grew up and her father forced her to become Rhaenyra Targaryen's stepmother. After the death of Rhaenyra's mother, Alicent's father Otto Hightower arranged his daughter's marriage with King Viserys Targaryen, which changed the relationship dynamic of Rhaenyra and Alicent forever.

They went from friends to foes in the House of the Dragon series, but deep down they care for each other. In the third episode of season 2, Rhaenyra disguised herself as a Septa and entered King's Landing. She wanted to have a private meeting with Alicent Hightower, and as a gesture of peace, she chose to disguise herself as a nun. However, it was also a protective move, considering the conflicts and tensions between the Targaryens.

Despite the Civil War, Rhaenyra successfully initiates a conversation with her former best friend, reminding her of the losses they have endured and the importance of understanding each other's pain. However, Alicent accused Rhaenyra of her grandson, Jaehaerys' death, claiming that she's still having to bear with the loss. Following Alicent's accusations, Rhaenyra claims that she has nothing to do with Jaehaerys' death and later explains to Alicent that she misunderstood the her husband's last words.

Despite realizing her misunderstanding, Alicent Hightower does not wish to resolve her conflict with Rhaenyra Targaryen and believes that it's past the point of no return. The war between the Targaryens has intensified to a great extent, and there's barely a chance to resolve the differences.

Their conversation is a crucial part of House of the Dragon, as it reflects emotional discontent. Rhaenyra Targaryen risked her life by disguising herself as a Septa only to offer peace, but Alicent Hightower rejected the idea.


House of the Dragon season 2 director talks about Rhaenyra and Alicent's meeting

Alicent and Rhaenyra in House of the Dragon (Image: HBO)
Alicent and Rhaenyra in House of the Dragon (Image: HBO)

Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower's private meeting in House of the Dragon season 2, episode 3 is a significant moment in the HBO series. Their conversation reflects on their past relationship and Rhaenyra's desire to rebuild her bond with Alicent.

In an interview with Mashable, director Geeta Vasant Patel talked about filming the crucial scene between Rhaenyra and Alicent and said:

"We wanted it to feel monumental... We got every angle to really give it the treatment of a thriller."

The director even explained that filming the conversation was "almost like an Ocean's scene" as it took an entire day. Both, Emma D'Arcy's Rhaenyra and Olivia Cooke's Alicent have played a major role in the House of the Dragon universe, each advancing numerous storylines in the HBO series.

House of the Dragon season 2 season finale is almost here, with Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen's Dragonseeds and the support of Oscar Tully against Team Green under Alicent Hightower's rule.


Will there be a House of the Dragon season 3?

House of the Dragon season 2 (Image: HBO)
House of the Dragon season 2 (Image: HBO)

Yes, following the success and an insane global fanbase for House of the Dragon, HBO has renewed the series for the next chapter. The upcoming season will continue the story of the House of Targaryen, featuring the epic battles between the family members.

Per Deadline, while talking about the success of season 2, and anticipation for season 3, executive vice president of HBO programming, Francesca Orsi said:

"We are in awe of the dragon-sized effort the entire team has put into the creation of a spectacular season two... We could not be more thrilled to continue the story of House Targaryen and watch this team burn bright again for season three."

Since the two seasons of the HBO series are based on and inspired by George R. R. Martin's Fire & Blood, featuring the Dance of Dragons, season three will possibly continue the story.

However, we're yet to witness the last fight in House of the Dragon season 2, so it's difficult to predict who will reprise their roles in season 3.


Do not miss the finale of season 2 airing on August 4, 2024.

Stay tuned at SoapCentral for regular updates!

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Edited by Sezal Srivastava