Why did Seasmoke choose Addam in House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 6? Explained

Episode 6 of House of the Dragon focused on Corlys Velaryon's illegitimate children, Alyn and Addam of Hull. In the books, Addam's role wasn't significant, but it appears the series has other ideas for this character's story.

Why did Seasmoke choose Addam as his rider? Here's everything you need to know.

The following content includes spoilers for House of the Dragon.

Why Seasmoke chose Addam

Seasmoke chose Addam as his rider because Addam is Laenor Valeryon's half brother. Laenor Velaryon, played by John Macmillan, is the son of the “Sea Snake,” Corlys Velaryon, and Seasmoke's original rider.

It's unclear whether or not Laenor's time on the show is over, but it's clear Seasmoke has moved on and chosen Addam as his new rider.

Addam, being a member of House Velaryon and closely related to Laenor, is a fitting dragon rider. Seasmoke appeared to be lonely as Laenor is missing and Rhaenyra (Emma D'Arcy) is actively seeking new dragonriders to bolster her forces in the ongoing war. When Rhaenyra attempts to bond Seasmoke with Ser Steffon Darklyn, Seasmoke rejects him, demonstrating the bond between dragons and their chosen riders.

What does this mean for House of the Dragon?

Addam of Hull (Clinton Liberty), as stated earlier, was originally not meant to have such a big impact in House of the Dragon if we're following George R. R. Martin's books. However, Seasmoke had other plans when he chased Addam on the shores of Spicetown in Driftmark.

Addam appeared startled and ran for his life, however, Seasmoke had no ill will and the two faced each other. Addam's father has not acknowledged his illegitimate son, but Seasmoke's interest in him will make it hard to acknowledge his existence.

With Seasmoke choosing Addam, it will cause great controversy since he doesn't carry Targaryen blood. As the son of Corlys, Addam is a Velaryon. Both families can trace their noble lineage back to Old Valyria (essentially the Roman Empire of Westeros).

Seasmoke on House of The Dragons | Image credit: HBO

Corlys Velaryon may carry traces of Targaryen blood somewhere in the family tree, but it seems that other families can also ride dragons. It's clear the Targaryens are hiding secrets since they aren't the only dragon tamers in Westeros.

The war between the Blacks and Greens is heating up and with Addam taming Seasmoke, it is unclear how that will turn the tide. In the books, we see Addam fight for Rhaenyra as the rightful Queen of the Iron Throne. However, we know the show often tweaks the story for more drama and intrigue, which excites viewers for what is to come.

What can this mean for Laenor Velaryon?

As Addam gets chosen by Seasmoke, it remains to be seen what is in store for Laenor Valeryon in House of The Dragon. It is unclear whether dragons can bond with a new rider while their existing rider is still alive. In the book, it is certain that Laenor is dead by this point in the story after his fight with Qarl Correy at a fair. However, the show seems to have adapted a different angle. Laenor fakes his death with the help of Daemon, loses his silver braids and leaves with Qarl on a ship, headed to Essos.

With only two episodes left, it's unclear what the future has in store, but it's very clear the war between the Blacks and Greens is far from over and Addam could be the new key.