The Dragonpit Episode 9: The Usurpers

The episode opens with a servant discovering that Viserys has died in his sleep. Alicent and Otto quickly and quietly assemble the small council where Alicent discovers that Otto, Tyland Lannister, Jasper Wylde and the Grand Maester have been discussing how to put Aegon on the throne, usurping Rhanerya. Lord Beesbury objects to this and Criston Cole bashes in his head. Otto then instructs Lord Commander Westerling to go to Dragonstone and kill Rhanerya and Daemon, to which he also objects. After the meeting, Alicent and Otto discover that Aegon is missing and both send their most devoted fighters out to find him – Erryk and Arryk for Otto and Criston and Aemond for Alicent. Team Otto gets there first and makes a deal with the White Worm to release him. But it’s Aemond and Criston who finally seize Aegon and bring him to his mother. Alicent, knowing that she has the upper hand says that they will do the coronation her way – placing Ser Criston as the commander of the Kingsguard, sending terms to Rhanerya, treating with Rhenys, and gaining a powerful spy network by exploiting Larys’ foot-fetish. Ser Erryk, disgusted with Prince Aegon, helps Rhenys escape and they all make their way to the Dragonpit to see Aegon become king. The ceremony takes place, but is interrupted by Rhenys busting through the Dragonpit on her dragon, Meleys. In a powerful moment, she spares Alicent’s life and flies off.