House of the Dragon season 3 episode 5 has set up a new storyline for Baela Targaryen that diverges significantly from the Fire & Blood book. The episode teases a potential romantic connection between Baela and Addam of Hull, a character who has no such relationship with her in the original source material.
Baela's Struggles After Jace's Death
Baela (Bethany Antonia) is grieving the death of her husband Jacaerys (Harry Collett), who died in the Battle of the Gullet. Her position in the Seven Kingdoms is uncertain as her bond with Queen Rhaenyra has frayed following Jace's death. In episode 5, Baela blames herself for Jace's death and worries she will be forced into a marriage with a lord she does not know.
Romantic Sparks with Addam of Hull
Addam of Hull consoles Baela and questions whether she is overexerting herself to appease Rhaenyra. He ensures she gets rest to avoid burnout. In a poignant scene, Addam flirts with Baela, saying he would find her and fly into exile if she is forced into an unwanted marriage. Fans have reacted enthusiastically, with one tweeting: "addam is the only guy I don't mind around baela after jace, bc he too is jace-coded, honourable, who deeply cares for & respects her."
Book Spoilers: Baela's Canonical Marriage
In George R.R. Martin's Fire & Blood, Baela marries Addam's brother, Alyn of Hull, to avoid an arranged marriage. Their relationship is described as bleak, with Alyn being unfaithful like their father, and little romance between them. Addam of Hull dies in the Second Battle of Tumbleton, meaning any romance with Baela would be short-lived. It remains unclear if House of the Dragon will pursue a Baela-Addam romance or later shift to the book's storyline with Alyn.
What's Next for Baela?
The Second Battle of Tumbleton may or may not occur in season 3. Fans are eagerly awaiting how the show will adapt Baela's arc. As one viewer posted: "THIS BAELA ADDAM FOOD IS GOOD ?? Baela told Addam about her insecure about her future and Addam said he will find her and they can run away together ? LEGENDARY LOVERS." The show's deviation from the book has sparked widespread discussion among fans.
