Ep. 7: The Red Sowing (with showrunner Ryan Condal)
Jul 29, 2024
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Ryan Condal, a showrunner known for his work on a popular fantasy series, joins the hosts to unpack the seventh episode of season two. They explore the dramatic fallout from Rhaenyra’s dragonseed plan and her newfound strength in King's Landing. The conversation also draws parallels between Daemon's journey and Jack Torrance from The Shining, discussing themes of identity, ambition, and the complexities of loyalty in a power-driven world. Get ready for insights into the intricate politics of the Targaryen lineage!
Rhaenyra's 'Operation Dragonseed' signifies her strategic push to redefine Targaryen power by training lowborn dragon riders like Adam of Hull.
Jace's conflict regarding his mother's acknowledgment of Targaryen bastards reveals underlying anxieties about lineage and societal status within the family.
The brutal dragon auditions illustrate the high stakes in Rhaenyra's quest for power, emphasizing her willingness to gamble lives for ambition.
Deep dives
Introduction of Vermethor
Vermethor, known as the Bronze Fury, is introduced as the world's second-largest dragon, showcasing his ferocity. The podcast illustrates his significance in the unfolding narrative, particularly in connection with the fight for power among the Targaryens. Rhaenyra's enthusiasm for expanding her dragon-riding capabilities is highlighted as she reignites her 'Operation Dragonseed,' indicating her readiness to reclaim her mother's legacy. The episode's opening sets the stage for both intense character interactions and the overarching themes of loyalty and ambition.
Rhaenyra's Pursuit of Dragon Riders
Rhaenyra actively seeks dragon riders, fostering an alliance with shipwright Adam of Hull, who pledges allegiance to her cause. The dynamics of nobility and class are explored as characters like Ser Rickard and Laris express skepticism about Adam's lowborn status. Despite these hesitations, Rhaenyra is determined to train him and others in dragon riding and High Valyrian, marking a shift in how power is perceived in her court. This move signifies Rhaenyra’s ambitious strategy to redefine what it means to be a Targaryen, pushing boundaries in a society steeped in tradition.
Jace's Internal Struggle
Jace grapples with the implications of his mother's decisions, particularly regarding the acknowledgment of Targaryen bastards and their potential claim to power. Expressing his anger and feeling undermined, he confronts Rhaenyra about the legitimacy of her bastards and his parentage. His frustrations reflect a deep-seated anxiety about status and perception within Targaryen society, questioning the integrity of family lineage. This emotional turmoil hints at deeper conflicts that may arise as the struggle for the throne intensifies.
The Dragon Auditions
The climactic dragon auditions feature several potential riders facing the ferocious Vermethor, highlighting the brutal nature of dragon bonding. Rhaenyra’s speech prior to the auditions promises transformation and liberation amid the chaos of war, showcasing her strong and resolute leadership. However, the dramatic aftermath reveals the perilous stakes involved, as many prospective riders meet a fiery demise while only a few are chosen. This event underscores Rhaenyra’s willingness to gamble with lives in her quest for power, drawing a stark contrast to the ideals she espouses.
Shift in Power Dynamics
The finale of the episode sees Aemond confronted by the emergence of Rhaenyra's dragon riders, marking a crucial shift in power dynamics. His retreat on Vhagar is symbolic of his fear and the unforeseen strength Rhaenyra has amassed with newfound dragon riders. Rhaenyra's expression of defiance reveals a turning point in her journey, suggesting a blossoming resolve to reclaim her rightful place. The escalating tension promises future conflicts, raising the stakes for both factions as they prepare for impending battles.
Jason and Greta unpack the game changing seventh episode of season two. They talk with showrunner Ryan Condal about the dramatic consequences of Rhaenyra’s dragonseed plan and the similarities between Daemon’s journey at Harrenhal and Jack Torrance in The Shining.