Uncovering Laenor's Survival: A Crucial Revelation for Corlys & Rhaenys in HOTD Season 2
Unlocking the Mystery: Laenor's Fate in HOTD Season 2 remains unresolved, leaving fans eager for answers Rhaenyra's credibility is questioned as the plot thickens
Article Overview
Laenor Velaryon faked his death in House of the Dragon season 1, which had a significant impact on the plot and characters, but his survival will be revealed in season 2.
The knowledge of Laenor's survival could bring resolution to his journey and greatly influence the loyalties of the characters in season 2, during the commencement of the Dance of the Dragons.
Discovering the truth about Laenor's survival may lead to the acceptance of his sexuality and his parents' yearning for liberty, ultimately resolving the tension between them and concluding his narrative.
Corlys Velaryon and Rhaenys Targaryen are devastated by the presumed death of their son, Laenor Velaryon, in season 1, episode 7 of House of the Dragon titled "Driftmark." However, they must discover in season 2 that he is actually alive. In a surprising twist deviating from the original source material, the novel Fire & Blood, it is revealed at the end of the episode that Laenor faked his death. This was made possible by a plan crafted by Daemon Targaryen and Rhaenyra Targaryen, allowing Laenor to marry and escape to Essos with his lover, Qarl Correy.
The supposed death of Laenor had a significant impact on the story and the characters involved, and it will continue to shape the narrative in season 2 of House of the Dragon. Therefore, it is crucial for Corlys and Rhaenys to uncover the truth about his survival. This revelation is necessary for various reasons, including providing closure to Laenor's journey. Moreover, it could greatly influence their loyalties as the Dance of the Dragons commences in season 2.
Laenor's Story is Unfinished in House of the Dragon
Throughout his entire journey, Laenor has grappled with the truth of his sexuality and the challenges of being part of a society that rejects it. As a member of a noble family, he is expected to conform to societal norms, which means marrying a woman, starting a family, and living a life that denies his true happiness as a gay man. This conflict has caused tension between Laenor and his parents, with Corlys believing that Laenor's identity is a passing phase that would change if he found the right woman, while Rhaenys disagrees, hinting that she recognizes the burden of societal expectations on Laenor's happiness.
The unresolved resentment between Laenor and his parents lingers, but his escape to Essos signifies his pursuit of a life where he can freely express his true self and find happiness. If Corlys and Rhaenys were to discover that Laenor is alive and left willingly, they might learn to embrace his sexuality and his longing for freedom beyond the Narrow Sea. This would bring resolution to their strained relationship and provide closure to Laenor's narrative.
It Makes No Sense for Rhaenyra to Lie in HOTD Season 2
Corlys and Rhaenys suspect Rhaenyra of being responsible for their son's demise, which undermines their trust in her. It would be advantageous for Rhaenyra if they discovered the truth about Laenor's survival, as it would reinforce their loyalty towards her. In the first season of House of the Dragon, Rhaenyra tries to gain Rhaenys' backing in the upcoming war by suggesting that their two eldest sons marry Rhaenys' granddaughters. Initially, Rhaenys declines due to her lack of trust in Rhaenyra. However, she eventually agrees, driven by her desire to secure her grandchildren's prosperity.
Rhaenys simply wishes for her family to endure and flourish. If she discovers that Rhaenyra did not harm her son but instead orchestrated a situation for him to lead a fulfilling life in House of the Dragon season 2, she might believe that Rhaenyra values Laenor's happiness as much as she does. This could potentially bolster her support for Rhaenyra.
Corlys voices his suspicions in House of the Dragon season 1, episode 10, "The Black Queen," suggesting that Rhaenyra was responsible for Laenor's death, which makes him hesitant about backing her. However, Rhaenys manages to persuade Corlys to support Rhaenyra by highlighting her self-control exhibited during the war council. If Corlys were to learn that Laenor is actually alive, his reservations about supporting Rhaenyra would likely diminish, as he would know that she did not harm his son.
Look out for the premiere of House of the Dragon season 2 in summer 2024 on Max.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled about the revelation that Laenor Velaryon survived his supposed death in House of the Dragon. This twist not only adds more depth to the character but also has significant implications for the upcoming Dance of the Dragons storyline.
Firstly, Laenor's survival brings a sense of hope and redemption to his character. Throughout season 1, we saw him struggling with his sexuality and the expectations placed on him as the heir to Driftmark. His decision to fake his death and escape to Essos with his lover, Qarl Correy, represents a powerful act of self-acceptance and liberation. As a Gen Z viewer who values authenticity and self-expression, I find Laenor's journey deeply relatable and inspiring.
