We might see a new Hand of the King in House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 2

New House of the Dragon stills have been released, sparking speculation about a new change in Aegon’s regime. One image shows Otto Hightower, the current Hand of the King, without his badge of office, hinting that he may soon be replaced.

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Otto Hightower’s Missing Pin

Credits: Max

In a recently released still from the upcoming episode, Otto Hightower is notably missing his Hand of the King pin. This image suggests that Aegon has fired Otto as Hand. Otto has been a key figure in the series, serving as the Hand to King Viserys and King Jaehaerys. However, his inaction, especially in the weeks after Blood and Cheese, will prompt Aegon to fire him, and it appears that may happen in episode 2.

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Aegon confronts Otto in new picture

Credits: Max

In the next image, Otto appears confronted and asked to step down. The scene is tense, with Otto facing both Aegon and Criston Cole. In the Weeks Ahead trailer, Otto tells Aegon he is perceived as weak, and Cole defends him. This scene may show the confrontation where Otto is forced to relinquish his role.

Read More: “Strange things happen in grief and in death”: Olivia Cooke and Ryan Condal discuss how Alicent and Criston’s relationship came to be

Criston Cole as the New Hand of the King

Credits: Max

Evidence suggests that Ser Criston Cole will be Otto’s successor as Hand of the King. Photos from the Battle at Rook’s Rest filming show Cole wearing the chain of the Hand of the King. We also see Cole wearing the chain at the end of the Weeks Ahead trailer.

Read More: Alicent and Criston Cole’s relationship began days after the death of Viserys, says Olivia Cooke

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