Everything we know about “The Lads” in House of the Dragon

House of the Dragon Season 2 expands beyond King’s Landing. As Game of Thrones fans explore new territories, George R.R. Martin’s legendary young Riverlords, known as The Lads, take center stage.

Who are the Lads?

Credits: HBO

The Lads consisted of young Riverlords who supported Rhaenyra’s cause during the Dance of Dragons. These noble youths, including Oscar Tully and Benjicot Blackwood, led their houses to major victories for the Blacks.

Quick facts

House of the Dragon

• The show has merged the characters of Kermit and Oscar with Oscar Tully
• Benjicot Blackwood’s uncle Willem serves as his regent
• The show changes their early allegiance story
• Oscar orders Willem Blackwood’s execution
• Their relationship creates new tensions in the story

Fire and Blood

• Originally included three members: Kermit Tully, Oscar Tully, and Benjicot Blackwood
• They earned their nickname after the Battle of the Kingsroad
• Benjicot became lord at age eleven
• They led major victories for the Blacks
• Kermit Tully used a morningstar in battle

In House of the Dragon

Credit: HBO

Changes from the source material

House of the Dragon streamlines The Lads’ story through significant changes. The show combines the Tully brothers into one character named Oscar. This change helps viewers follow the narrative more easily. Oscar holds the position of Lord Paramount, originally Kermit’s role. The show removes most of the Muppet-inspired names from the source material. Oscar’s character inherits traits from both brothers and their father. His relationship with House Blackwood creates new dramatic tensions. The show establishes him as Lord Grover’s grandson rather than great-grandson. These alterations allow for clearer character development. The adaptation focuses on the political dynamics between Houses. Oscar’s actions against Willem Blackwood create immediate conflict. This change affects Benjicot’s allegiance to the Blacks. The show explores the complex relationships between rival houses. These modifications add layers to the original story. The simplified family tree makes the narrative more accessible. Season 2 develops these relationships further.

Role in the Dance of Dragons

The show positions The Lads within Prince Daemon’s strategy. Their support proves essential to the Black cause. Oscar Tully leads the Riverlands forces with authority. His decision to execute Willem Blackwood changes alliances. Benjicot’s storyline gains more complexity through his uncle’s death.

In Fire and Blood

Credits: Martina Pilcerova

Origins and early actions

The Tully brothers originally served distinct roles in the Dance. Kermit led as Lord of Riverrun with his Morningstar. Oscar fought as a proud knight, seeking glory. Benjicot Blackwood inherited Raventree Hall at eleven. The three young lords formed an unlikely alliance. They supported Rhaenyra’s claim from the beginning. Their youth contrasted with their military success. The nickname “The Lads” reflected their age and friendship. They participated in major battles together. Their combined forces strengthened the Black cause. Each brought unique skills to their partnership. Kermit provided leadership and strategy. Oscar contributed to martial prowess. Benjicot offered surprising wisdom despite his youth. Their alliance inspired other houses to join them. They earned respect through battlefield victories. Their friendship became legendary in the Riverlands.

Military achievements

The Lads proved themselves in multiple key battles. They fought at the Battle by the Lakeshore. Benjicot earned his nickname “Bloody Ben” despite his youth. The Battle of the Kingsroad marked their greatest triumph. They faced Lord Borros Baratheon’s forces together. Their coordination showed tactical brilliance. Each battle increased their reputation. They maintained their alliance throughout the war. Their victories helped secure the Riverlands. The Blacks relied heavily on their support. They defended their territories effectively. Their success inspired songs and stories. They represented the next generation of leadership. Their actions influenced the war’s outcome.

Quotes

“Bound by battle, the three had become so inseparable that their men began referring to them collectively as “the Lads.”” – Fire and Blood

Quick answers

Why were they called The Lads?

Their youth and close friendship earned them this nickname after the Battle of the Kingsroad.

How did the show change The Lads from the books?

The show combined the Tully brothers into one character, Oscar, and added Willem Blackwood as Benjicot’s regent.

What major battles did The Lads fight in?

They fought in the Battle by the Lakeshore and the Battle of the Kingsroad, among others.

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