Rhaenyra gains new Dragonriders: What’s next for House of the Dragon?

In the latest episode of House of the Dragon, Rhaenyra Targaryen has managed to secure additional dragonriders, significantly bolstering her side. 

Ulf the White and Hugh Hammer are the newest additions, joining the ranks alongside Addam of Hull. This development follows Rhaenyra's urgent need for more dragonriders, particularly after the devastating Battle of Rook's Rest.

Earlier in the season, Rhaenyra faced a severe shortage of dragonriders. With her own dragon Syrax, Daemon’s Caraxes, and other dragons like Jacaerys' Vermax and Baela’s Moondancer, she awaited her sons' dragons to mature. 

Despite these assets, the threat posed by Team Green, particularly with Aemond’s enormous Vhagar, was daunting.

In Episode 6, Rhaenyra discovers Addam, a lowborn rider, on Seasmoke, Laenor Velaryon’s former dragon. Addam’s unexpected proficiency is attributed to his Targaryen lineage, which intrigues Rhaenyra. 

This leads her to enlist other Targaryen bastards to ride her remaining dragons, Silverwing and Vermithor, despite some internal dissent from Jacaerys, who fears these new riders might challenge his own claim to the throne.

Hugh Hammer, introduced as a blacksmith wronged by King Aegon II, finds himself in the mix after his mother’s Targaryen connections come to light. 

His attempt to claim Vermithor, the second-largest dragon in Westeros, is met with initial resistance. However, his noble act of bravery persuades the dragon, securing his position as a rider.

Looking ahead, there are hints of additional wild dragons joining Rhaenyra’s forces. Characters like Rhaena and the elusive Grey Ghost or the Cannibal might play roles in this evolving dragon saga.