The Triarchy, also known as 'The Three Daughters,' is an alliance between the Free Cities of Lys, Myr, and Tyrosh in Essos. In House of the Dragon Season 3, episode 1, viewers finally saw the group in full force during the epic Battle of the Gullet, commanded by pirate and fleet commander Sharako Lohar (Abigail Thorn). The battle resulted in numerous casualties, including the deaths of Jacaerys 'Jace' Velaryon (Harry Collett) and Sharako, as Jason Lannister (Jefferson Hall) died leading the North's forces on land.
Origins and Governance of the Triarchy
Before uniting, the three cities were perpetually at war with one another. They eventually formed the Triarchy to challenge the forces of Volantis, the oldest of the Free Cities of Valyria. The alliance was governed by a High Council of 11 magisters from each city.
In Season 1, the Triarchy seized control of the Stepstones in the Narrow Sea, initially met with little concern from King Viserys I (Paddy Considine) and Westerosi lords. They targeted outlaws and pirates that had troubled Westerosi vessels, but soon imposed a toll for passage through the Narrow Sea. Over time, the Triarchy grew more avaricious, demanding greater sums and seizing women and children as payment, effectively blocking Westerosi ships and disrupting supply chains.
Conflict with the Sea Snake
The Crabfeeder led the Triarchy during this period as the principal antagonist. Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) and Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint) launched an assault during the War of the Stepstones, defeating the Triarchy. Daemon killed the Crabfeeder, and Corlys crowned him monarch of the Stepstones and the Narrow Sea.
Throughout Seasons 2 and 3, Sharako Lohar emphasizes her hatred for the Sea Snake, Corlys Velaryon. Her decision to cast Tyland Lannister (also Jefferson Hall) overboard and pursue Corlys demonstrates her determination to destroy him. Tyland had to win the Triarchy's loyalty in Season 2 through trials, including mud wrestling with Sharako.
Impact on Season 3
The Battle of the Gullet is the most epic battle in House of the Dragon so far, according to the Mirror. The Triarchy's involvement brings a significant threat to Westeros, with Sharako's vendetta against the Sea Snake driving the conflict. The deaths of key characters like Jace and Sharako reshape the political landscape.
House of the Dragon Season 3 is streaming on Sky Atlantic, NOW, and HBO Max in the UK and Ireland.
