In the first scene from episode eight, Vaemond Velaryon tells Princess Rhaenys that his brother primarily cares about history books. Steve Toussaint (Corlys Velaryon), now stranded at sea, declares his desire for Rhaenyra's son, Lucerys Velaryon, to inherit the Driftmark throne.
Vaemond is concerned because it has been widely reported and proven by this show that Rhaenyra's kids are not her offspring. The Velaryon name might survive if Driftmark is given to the future prince, but what about the Velaryon blood? What about the family's living, breathing members? Should the past govern the present?
After the turmoil of last week, things have calmed down. Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) and Daemon (Matt Smith), now newlyweds, have two young children and expect a third. As Viserys' health continues to deteriorate, Alicent (Olivia Cooke) with her dad Otto (Rhys Ifans) tighten their grip on King's Landing.
Additionally, Daemon and Rhaenyra head to King's Landing to stake Lucerys' claim to the throne. Word spreads throughout Westeros, claiming Vaemond will be vying for the Driftmark crown. Rhaenyra's reputation is in jeopardy since the validity of her children poses a genuine threat to her.
Lines are made between Vaemond and Rhaenyra's family as the various groups congregate to discuss Driftmark. Seeing the families together quite elucidates how unsuited they all are to reign.
It's a thin narrative, made thinner by a desperate Viserys intervention at the last minute. When he asks Rhaenys for her opinion, she supports Lucerys while also revealing that Targaryen prince and Rhaena, her granddaughter, should get married.
