Ormund Hightower’s ‘House of the Dragon’ Debut Hints at a Forgotten Targaryen Mystery

House of the Dragon season 3 has finally brought one of the biggest missing Targaryen characters into the story. While the episode focused on the growing conflict between the Greens and the Blacks, the show quietly introduced Prince Daeron Targaryen, the youngest child of Alicent Hightower and King Viserys I.

The reveal happened in the season 3 premiere, titled “Salt and Sea, Fire and Blood.” Daeron was not introduced with a major announcement or dramatic scene. Instead, the show placed him in the background alongside a powerful new Hightower figure, allowing fans to discover his identity.

The character appeared while Ormund Hightower, played by James Norton, arrived with his forces. Ormund, who leads House Hightower and is a cousin of Alicent and Gwayne, immediately made an impression with his armor, green cloak, and commanding presence.

However, viewers quickly noticed that someone else important was standing beside him. A young red-haired man seen near Ormund turned out to be Daeron Targaryen, played by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth. Fans quickly connected the clues and realized the show had already introduced the missing prince.

Daeron’s arrival also came with another major detail. His dragon Tessarion was shown briefly during the episode. The blue dragon’s appearance confirmed that the young man traveling with the Hightower army was not just another servant or soldier, but one of Alicent’s sons.

In George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, Daeron plays an important role during the Dance of the Dragons. Unlike his older brothers Aegon II and Aemond, Daeron is described as more humble and gentle. He was sent to Oldtown at a young age, where he became a squire under Ormund Hightower.

House of the Dragon appears to be following a similar path. The young prince is still connected to Ormund, which explains why he is traveling with the Hightower forces instead of being with his family in King’s Landing.

The introduction of Daeron could become extremely important for the future of the series. With Aegon’s situation uncertain and Aemond creating his own path, Daeron may become a key figure for the Greens. His existence gives Alicent’s side another possible leader in the fight against Rhaenyra Targaryen.

The show may also be making some changes to Daeron’s appearance and role. In the books, Daeron has the traditional silver hair associated with the Targaryens, but the series has given him a more Hightower-like look with red hair. This could be a way to make him blend in more while he remains away from the spotlight.

The episode also suggests that Ormund may be trying to protect Daeron. Keeping him away from danger and hiding his importance could become a major part of the character’s story. If the Greens lose their other options, Daeron could become one of their strongest hopes.

While House of the Dragon did not make a big announcement about his arrival, Daeron’s quiet introduction could end up being one of the most important moments of season 3. The missing Targaryen prince has finally entered the story, and his role in the war is only beginning.

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