House of the Dragon Season 1 Already Foreshadowed These Two Fan Favorite Characters’ Deaths
The art of subtle buildup.
After being severely traumatized by all the deaths on Game of Thrones, viewers were reluctant to start another show in the same universe for fear of getting attached. Even in the first season, which told a backstory and showed how the characters became who they are, there were some pretty devastating death scenes.
As we move forward with an all-out war between Team Black and Team Green, the body count is expected to rise rapidly. Whether that will happen in season 2 or be pushed into the future depends on how the writers adapt the events of the novel. What has already been hinted at is where some of the characters will go.
How Does Daemon Targaryen Die?
It is no surprise that Daemon Targaryen and his nephew Aemond Targaryen have become fan favorites of their respective teams, as their characters are essentially two sides of the same coin. Both talented and determined warriors, they're pragmatic and know exactly what to do to ensure victory, with no emotional attachments.
In episode 8 of season one, as each member of the family gathers around the table for a final dinner with their king, another conflict begins as soon as Viserys leaves the room. With Aemond being the instigator, he’s ready to go too, but not before he and Daemon share a long look.
Though the nod to George R.R. Martin's original novel in season 1 was minor, fans tend to believe that both of their deaths will happen the same way in the show. Aemond may be much younger, but that doesn't make him any less worthy on the battlefield. And Daemon gets a chance to see his nephew's strength for himself when the two meet in battle.
In the novel, Daemon and Aemond fight one-on-one. Since both are great warriors, the battle is long and tiring. However, knowing that he must get rid of one of the strongest and most intelligent members of Team Green, Daemon jumps off his dragon's back and pierces Aemond's eye with his sword.
Both men die almost at the same time, losing their lives not only to the cause of war, but also to their own pride and competitiveness. And while George R.R. Martin's novel has its share of heartbreaking death scenes, this one remains one of the most beloved by readers who want to see it on their screens.
If you want to see the epic battle between Aemond and Daemon, be sure to tune into House of the Dragon season 2 on June 16th on HBO.