Aemond and Alys’ Fiery Relationship Is Coming in ‘House of the Dragon’ – Ewan Mitchell Teases What Fans Can Expect
‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3 Episode 2 finally brings Aemond Targaryen and Alys Rivers together, marking the start of one of the series’ most discussed relationships. In an interview with Decider, actors Ewan Mitchell and Gayle Rankin shared insights about their characters’ first significant scene together and hinted at what fans can look forward to.
In Episode 2, Aemond arrives at Harrenhal after departing from King’s Landing. With his usual confidence, he quickly asserts control over the castle and kills Ser Simon Strong after he refuses to surrender. However, during the confrontation, one of Simon’s sons manages to stab Aemond in the back, leaving the feared prince badly injured and vulnerable for the first time in a long while.
This moment leads to Aemond’s first genuine interaction with Alys Rivers, the enigmatic woman residing at Harrenhal. Instead of wielding power over others, Aemond finds himself in a position where he must rely on someone else for assistance. Ewan Mitchell expressed his enjoyment of portraying this shift in Aemond’s character.
“It was really nice seeing Aemond that vulnerable, like physically. Throughout Season 1 and 2, he’s always this relentless force. He’s always really stoic and strategic and calculated. And there in that moment it just, you know, it spins it on its head.”
Fans of George R.R. Martin’s ‘Fire & Blood’ are already aware that Aemond and Alys eventually develop a close bond, and Episode 2 begins to set that narrative in motion. Mitchell shared that it was thrilling to hint at what lies ahead.
“That kind of connection that we have and that energy and what might be there in the future,” he noted. Gayle Rankin also discussed the scene, emphasizing that viewers should brace for surprises this season.
“Yeah, it felt like a really wonderful cliffhanger, an opportunity. It was like a huge breath. Because I think everybody thinks they know how this is going to go. And I think that’s what’s so wonderful about the season is that every turn the show tells you, ‘No, you don’t, no, you don’t.’ Which is really cool.”
Mitchell echoed this sentiment while discussing the rest of Season 3. “God, just like expect the unexpected. You really don’t know what’s going to happen around every corner this season. Yeah, just a lot of heartbreak. A lot of heartbreak.”
Rankin added that viewers can also expect emotional moments that may catch them off guard. “And like heart surprises. Heart expansion hopefully. I’m excited about that.”
The actors acknowledged the growing excitement surrounding Aemond and Alys online. Many fans have eagerly anticipated their meeting, especially those familiar with the books. Their relationship has emerged as one of the season’s most awaited storylines.
Rankin expressed her understanding of the fans’ excitement but also acknowledged the pressure to meet expectations.
“‘Match my freak.’ I do love that. No. I’m excited. It’s a little nerve-wracking because I think it has been pretty anticipated and been pretty clear on the internet, that’s what people want. So we’re like, ‘I hope you like it.’”
She also praised Mitchell’s performance, calling him an extraordinary actor and expressing her enjoyment of working with him. Mitchell returned the compliment, humorously describing their dynamic with a line that has already garnered attention among fans. “We’re a power couple.”
While their romance is just beginning, Episode 2 indicates that Aemond’s journey at Harrenhal will differ significantly from what viewers have previously witnessed. His encounter with Alys occurs at a time when he is wounded, isolated, and compelled to trust someone outside his family. This creates a new dimension to his character, contrasting with the cold and controlled prince audiences have known since Season 1.
Based on what Mitchell and Rankin shared with Decider, their relationship is set to become a central theme of Season 3. The actors promise unexpected twists, emotional moments, and plenty of heartbreak as the story unfolds. If Episode 2 is any indication, Aemond and Alys are poised to become one of ‘House of the Dragon’s’ most significant and unpredictable pairings.
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