In the latest episode of "House of the Dragon" season two, Ser Criston Cole, newly appointed Hand of the King and a controversial figure among fans, narrowly escapes a harrowing encounter with a dragon.

Criston Cole Survives Dragon Chase

Cole proposes a bold strategy to secure victory in the war by focusing on capturing the Riverlands. His plan involves rallying support from House Bracken, asserting control over the region, and seizing Harrenhal. Alicent Hightower doubts the plan's feasibility, but King Aegon II Targaryen approves, paving the way for a critical phase in the ongoing conflict.

Sent to Harrenhal, Cole is pursued by Baela Targaryen and her dragon, Moondancer, during a journey with Ser Gwayne Hightower. Their flight through the Westerosi countryside becomes a tense chase, culminating in a fortunate escape into the cover of nearby woodlands, where the dragon cannot follow.

Criston Cole's Death in the Book

In "Fire and Blood," by George R. R. Martin, Cole's survival is temporary. He dies in the books during "Butcher's Ball," an important battle in the Targaryen civil war known as the "Dance of Dragons." Here, Cole attempts to negotiate with Ser Garibald Grey, Ser Pate of Longleaf, and Lord Roderick Dustin, leaders of the opposing faction.

Cole fights back after his surrender offer is rejected, but the archers overpower him and murder him. His opponents display his severed head as a menacing prize on a spear, serving as a sobering reminder of the violence that permeates the wars in Westeros.

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The series ' outcome reflects Cole's turbulent role in politics and life. Cole, well-known for being involved in a complicated love triangle involving Rhaenyra and Alicent, handles these relationships similarly to how he handles the main issue, albeit with less-than-ideal outcomes.

Cole's death is expected to be a visceral, horrifying event for fans of the "Game of Thrones" realm, reminiscent of the iconic "Red Wedding." As later episodes explore the escalating tensions of the "Dance of Dragons," viewers may encounter Cole's fatal confrontation and the portrayal of the harsh realities of power struggles. 

Episode 3 Highlights

In Dragonstone, Rhaenyra and Rhaenys discuss escalating tensions as men prepare for war. Rhaenys suggests Alicent could be a peacemaker, but Rhaenyra rejects the idea, asserting Alicent's allegiance to Aegon. Rhaenyra then handles domestic matters, securing Mysaria's court position for intelligence and sending away children and dragons for safety, despite objections from Rhaena.

At a black council meeting, she confronts advisors over war strategy, dismissing suggestions to hide and insisting on leading. Determined to confront Alicent, Rhaenyra disguises herself as a septa and heads to King's Landing via fishing boat.

Rhaenyra confronts Alicent in a tense and secretive meeting at the sept. Despite initial tension, Rhaenyra tries to persuade Alicent to avoid further bloodshed, recalling their shared past. Alicent remains resolute, accusing Rhaenyra of seeking surrender. They clash over past grievances, including the deaths of Jaehaerys and Lucerys. Alicent reveals Viserys's last words about Aegon as the promised prince, shocking Rhaenyra with implications of prophecy. The meeting ends with Alicent refusing reconciliation, leaving Rhaenyra distraught over their irreparable divide.

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