"The King is weak, and the council is divided. My family will take the throne by any means necessary." – Otto Hightower

Otto Hightower, the calculating and relentless Hand of the King in House of the Dragon, emerges as one of the most intriguing and nefarious characters in the world of Westeros. While other characters might brandish swords and dragons to achieve their goals, Otto wields his intellect, influence, and manipulation, making him arguably the true villain of the story.

His journey from a noble second son to the architect of the Dance of the Dragons is a tale of ambition, cunning, and a cold-blooded quest for power.

A Second Son with Grand Ambitions

Otto Hightower was born into one of the oldest and most powerful families in Westeros, yet as the second son, he was not in line to inherit the family seat of Oldtown. This early realization that his birthright would not secure his future likely fueled his ambition to seek power by other means. Otto’s path to prominence began when he was appointed Hand of the King by Jaehaerys I Targaryen, a position that allowed him to exercise considerable influence over the Iron Throne.

Otto’s shrewdness and political acumen soon became evident as he navigated the complexities of the Targaryen court, where he would later serve under King Viserys I Targaryen.

The Puppet Master Behind the Green Council

Otto’s role as Hand of the King during the reign of Viserys I was marked by his relentless pursuit of power, not just for himself, but for his family.

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