Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Addam tells Rhaenyra that Seasmoke chose him and pledges to serve her. His success pushes her to look beyond established noble families for riders, despite objections from her council and the dragonkeepers. Jacaerys is especially troubled: if other people of uncertain birth can claim dragons, his own dragon no longer sets him apart from rivals who might challenge his inheritance. Rhaenyra proceeds with the search and invites possible descendants to Dragonstone.
Hugh and Ulf join the recruits brought from King's Landing, and Rhaenyra addresses them before leading them to Vermithor. The dragon kills many of those who approach or try to escape. Hugh draws Vermithor's attention away from another person and faces him directly until the dragon accepts him. Ulf flees deeper into the caves and encounters Silverwing, who allows him to become her rider. The desperate search gives Rhaenyra two more dragons she can use in battle.
At Harrenhal, Oscar Tully wins the Riverlords' attention by challenging Daemon and demanding punishment for Willem Blackwood's actions. Daemon executes Willem to secure the army he needs. Elsewhere, Aegon struggles through the first stages of recovery, and Alicent withdraws into the Kingswood. Ulf's flight over King's Landing brings Aemond rushing to Vhagar. He follows Silverwing towards Dragonstone, sees the strength now gathered around Rhaenyra and turns back rather than attacking the dragons waiting for him.