Set hundreds of years before the events of Game of Thrones, new HBO show House of the Dragon will cover the bloody civil war known as the Dance of Dragons.
The death of King Viserys sparks a power struggle, with the major houses splitting into two factions either supporting his daughter Rhaenyra (the blacks) or his younger son Aegon’s claim (the greens).
Here’s a guide on who the key players are and which side they’re on.
1. Viserys Targaryen
King Viserys I Targaryen (Paddy Considine) was the fifth Targaryen king on the Iron Throne. His children included Rhaenyra with his first wife Aemma Arryn and Aegon II with his second wife Alicent Hightower - who fight for the throne after his death.
Photo: HBO
2. Rhaenyra Targaryen
Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, played by Emma D'Arcy and Milly Alcock, is the firstborn child of King Viserys Targaryen. She was named heir to the throne aged eight, but on her father's death is challenged by her younger half brother Aegon II and his supporters.
Photo: HBO
3. Daemon Targaryen
Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) is beloved by George R. R. Martin as a morally grey character. The younger brother of King Viserys, he is an experienced warrior and craves power. He sides with his niece Rhaenyra during the Dance of Dragons.
Photo: HBO
4. Alicent Hightower
Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) is the second wife of King Viserys, and member of a powerful dynasty in Westeros. She has four children with Viserys, including Aegon II, the challenger to the throne. Her father Otto Hightower is Hand of the King to Viserys.
Photo: HBO