Just six months after the premiere, "The Rogue Prince," the second episode of "House of the Dragon," unfolds with a harrowing vision on the Stepstones where the dead are prey to crabs, setting a dark tone. The narrative swiftly shifts to King's Landing, where Prince Daemon, having been sidelined from succession, fortifies Dragonstone with his loyal "gold cloaks." Meanwhile, King Viserys grapples with appointing a new knight to the Kingsguard, a task that falls to Princess Rhaenyra, who chooses the gallant and combat-tested Ser Criston Cole, catching the eye of both herself and Lady Alicent.

Tensions rise as Lord Corlys Velaryon implores the king to act against the sinister Crabfeeder, threatening Westerosi shipping lanes, only to be met with the king's reluctance, suggesting a kingdom teetering on weakness. In a bold move, Daemon's theft of a dragon egg, intended for Viserys' deceased son, nearly ignites conflict, only to be defused by Rhaenyra's daring intervention atop her dragon, showcasing her strength and determination to her family and realm.

As political and familial tensions simmer, alliances are tested, and the episode closes with Daemon considering Corlys' proposition to combat the Crabfeeder, hinting at further strife and intrigue.