House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5: Ser Criston Cole’s true intent

There is no denying that Criston Cole has long been one of the most polarizing characters within the world of House of the Dragon — and beyond that, why would we think it was about to change? This is someone who has long been polarizing for a number of reasons, and for most of the season, he has been wandering around forests and rivers, trying to deliver some seismic blows to Rhaenyra’s side under the black of night.

Is Criston going to be successful in his efforts? Probably not, and what makes this particular installment all the more notable is just how much he realizes it himself.

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Close to the end of this week’s installment, Criston himself made it clear that he expects to die at the end of all of this and when the dust settles, he is more than fine with saying farewell. Why is that? Well, a good bit may simply come down to the fact that he really wants his life to end on his own terms — as a warrior, and not just someone doing what some higher lord or king wants. This is him selfishly choosing his own path, but also enforcing it on everyone who has been fighting with him. That is the part of this that instantly becomes more polarizing.

After all, not all of the people in his army have the chance to walk away like Gwayne did close to the end of the episode. It does feel abundantly apparent now that Criston is going to die; it really just comes down to whether or not he is able to take a lot of other noteworthy people down with him at the same time. From where we stand, that does certainly feel quite possible.

What did you think about the reveal at the end of House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5?

Go ahead and let us know right now in the attached comments! Once you do just that, remember to come back — there are other updates ahead.

This article was written by Jessica BunBun.