'House of the Dragon' Season 2 Finale: 5 thrilling predictions ahead of much-awaited Episode 8
Contains spoilers for 'House of the Dragon' Episode 8
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Fans of 'House of the Dragon' are eagerly anticipating the final episode of Season 2 after HBO recently released the trailer for Episode 8. The penultimate episode left viewers buzzing with excitement and speculation, flooding social media with their reactions and theories.
As the release date of the season finale approaches, the anticipation has reached a fever pitch, with fans eager to see how the intricate web of power struggles, betrayals, and alliances will unfold. With the stakes higher than ever and the realm teetering on the brink of chaos, Episode 8 promises to deliver a spectacular conclusion to a riveting season.
From shocking twists to unexpected alliances, there are numerous possibilities for how the story might unfold. In this article, we'll explore five thrilling predictions for the 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 finale, diving into potential outcomes and the implications they may have for the future of Westeros.
1. Rhaenyra to make a crucial move in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2
The 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 finale promises significant turns, as hinted by the trailer. We see Daeron's dragon with Hightower forces, suggesting Otto’s potential presence. The Riverlords are preparing for war, while Rhaenyra seemingly flies to Harrenhal to reconcile with Daemon.
Additionally, Rhaena is set to claim a dragon, and the winter wolves march south. Aemond's push for Helaena to ride Dreamfyre is another crucial plot point, likely leading to disastrous consequences and Alicent’s anger.
This situation might drive Alicent to reconsider Rhaenyra’s peace offer, prompting a visit to Dragonstone. However, Rhaenyra may coldly reject the proposal to split the kingdom. A simmering conflict between Gwayne and Cole adds to the tension.
These predictions underscore a finale rich with dramatic turns, setting the stage for an explosive Season 3.
A fan on reddit shared their theory and wrote: "I feel there will be a lot of set up based on the trailer. We see Daeron's dragon with Hightower forces (maybe we see Otto there too), Tyland negotiatioting with the Triarchy, riverlords preparing for war with the Lannisters, Rhaenyra flies to Harrenhal to link up with Daemon and they reconcile, Rhaena claiming a dragon, winter wolves marching South, etc."
Meanwhile, another stated: "Not a prediction per se, but I really hope we can see Haelena on Dreamfyre. Would love to see how these duo flying and fighting together."
On the other hand, another user stated Helaena is clearly untrained in combat and has minimal experience with even peaceful flying, let alone battle: "Helaena definitely doesn't have fighting training, or even a lot of experience flying peacefully, nevermind to battle. I don't think that poor girl has a malicious bone in her whole body, it's absolutely not her fault any of this happened," the comment read.
2. Otto Hightower's comeback to set stage for epic confrontation
In a significant departure from the books, 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 seems poised to conclude with Rhaenyra and her allies making a bold move to seize King’s Landing. Otto Hightower’s character has been notably expanded upon in the show, diverging from his minimal presence in George R.R. Martin’s novels after his dismissal by Aegon II.
Rhys Ifans’ portrayal has been compelling, prompting the showrunners to bring Otto back to the forefront. Recently recalled to King’s Landing by Aemond to serve as his Hand, Otto’s return sets the stage for a dramatic finale.
While Otto might not play a central role in the concluding episode, there's a strong possibility that the final shot will depict his return, only to witness Rhaenyra and her Dragonriders converging on the city. This setup would create a thrilling cliffhanger, perfectly priming fans for the explosive events of Season 3.
A user on Reddit expressed their happiness for Otto's comeback and wrote: "As long as no dragons die in the finale, I'd be happy :) ...and also the return of OTTO will be great.."
While another penned: "I feel like I've been waiting my whole life for Otto to show up to this shit show and lay into Aemond for roasting his brother lol."
Following this another exclaimed: "Otto vs aemond will be Glorious."
3. Unexpected battle location for 'House of the Dragon' Finale
The ending of Episode 7 and the season finale’s trailer have led many to believe the Battle of the Gullet is imminent. Known as one of the deadliest sea battles in the Dance of Dragons, it features the Triarchy clashing with the Velaryon Fleet and multiple dragons, making it highly anticipated. However, this event has not been adequately set up this season.
Instead, the Season 2 finale will likely showcase the Battle at the Red Fork. This clash has been hinted at throughout the season, particularly with Daemon’s extended time at Harrenhal. The trailer shows the Lannister army at the Golden Tooth, indicating the battle's proximity.
While the Red Fork battle canonically occurs after the Gullet, it has been slowly building up all season. Daemon is expected to play a significant role, although no dragons are involved canonically. His presence at Harrenhal suggests he is ready for action, making this a fitting climax.
4. Jason Lannister's demise to have ripple effects on Westeros
While the term 'major character' is subjective, it's likely there will be at least one significant death in the 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 finale. This death is expected to be of Lord Jason Lannister. Though his presence in the show has been limited, his role is crucial.
The Battle at the Red Fork, depicted as a technical victory for the Greens in the book, is undermined by Jason’s death, which leads to chaos in the Westerlands. His demise is consequential, destabilizing the region and impacting the broader conflict.
Aside from Jason, no other major character deaths are anticipated in this episode, setting the stage for dramatic events in Season 3. The Battle of the Gullet, a significant confrontation in the book, is expected to bring major character losses when it unfolds. This strategic pacing ensures that the series maintains its tension and stakes, keeping viewers eagerly anticipating the next season.
5. Will Daemon and Rhaenyra reunite?
The Black side could gain a crucial advantage if Daemon and Rhaenyra finally have a conversation. Throughout Season 2, the Queen and King of the Black faction have been estranged, with Daemon ghosting Rhaenyra while building his own army at Harrenhal.
Now, with the riverlords united under Oscar Tully and Daemon's army ready, tensions remain high due to Daemon's controversial actions. Rhaenyra, on the other hand, has secured three additional dragons, potentially earning Daemon’s respect. Their reunion and a strategic conversation could be pivotal in the impending clash against the Greens and Criston Cole in the Riverlands.
Daemon's military might, combined with Rhaenyra's dragons, could turn the tide in their favor. If these two powerful leaders can reconcile and align their strategies, they might overcome their internal discord and present a united front, significantly strengthening their position in the war.
Sharing their reaction, a fan wrote: "If Rhaenyra and Daemon reunite and f--k on the psychic wierwood bed, we gonna see some real messed up shit. Also will someone please tell Daemon to stop sleeping on a bed with a grudge against him already."
While talking about the reunited prediction another user penned: "I feel like this finale is going to be a set up for the Sacking. Rhaenyra and Daemon reunite. Rheana gets a dragon and heads back down."
'House of the Dragon' Season 2 trailer