House Of The Dragon Releases Rogue Royals And Gruesome Proposals In 'The Rogue Prince'

The world of Westeros may continue under another title, but we're still playing a game of thrones. Let's take a moment to think about the most prominent players in the episode:

WINNER: Otto Hightower - Under powerful monarchs, the King's Hand is only a coordinator for the ruler. But when monarchs are weak, the Hand is the real power behind the throne. Otto doesn't just win because he convinced the king to marry his daughter without saying a word (although it's a very victory). He wins because of how every problem in the small council's debates is ultimately solved: with Otto's proposed solution. Viserys continues to lean without a second thought. Otto has his right hand position locked.

LOSER: Daemon Targaryen - Daemon is not close to getting the throne. Of course, his brother didn't fight when he continued to ignore his wife and crouched in Dragonstone, but his great act of rebellion was then stopped by his 15-year-old niece. But though it's a loss for this weakling, Daemon's story ends on a promising note: he may well find glory elsewhere.

WINNER...? : Alicent Hightower - Honestly, I'm not sure if Alicent wants to play Game of Thrones. But whether she likes it or not, she's a better player than most. After a few weeks of complimenting her Legos and befriending history, Alicent is betrothed to the King! I hesitate to call this a complete victory because it's hard to say if Alicent is happy with everything that's going on in her life. All she does is eagerly follow her father's orders and now her friendship with Rhaenyra is on the line. So, uh, things could be better, but at least she gets a tiara from it all .

LOSER: Corlys and Rhaenys Velaryon - Personally, I consider it a win not to marry your pre-teen daughter to a grown man, but maybe I'm just not cut out for the game of thrones. Corlys is clearly very proud of her name, her home and her life's work – by turning down his marriage proposal, Viserys insulted him. It's a loss this week, but Corlys is looking for success elsewhere.

WINNER: Ser Criston Cole - Our newest member of the Kingsguard is Dornish, so we are the real winners of this game. Criston Cole not only has the honor of impressing the princess and winning the right to defend her, but he also has the right to insult Daemon in the face. I'm sure it'll never bite him in the ass! Daemon seems super forgiving of insults, don't you think?

STILL IN THE GAME: Rhaenyra Targaryen - Tough week for Rhaenyra. She gets kicked out of the small council meeting but later proves herself and finally gets recognition from her father. And then he decides to marry his best friend without even telling her. But worst of all, Rhaenys' words still echo through the air: Will Viserys save her for a son? And even if he doesn't, will the kingdom accept a queen?