The season 2 finale of House of the Dragon on Sunday night would have been perfect as the 8th episode of a 10 episodes long Season. The climate, the anticipation for an entire week, and the chit-chat on the internet, everything was set up so perfectly—the characters, the conflicts, all ready to explode. Yet, it all felt so underwhelming in the end.

Aegon, urged by Larys and his mother to flee. Then, Alicent goes to meet Rhaenyra. Though, not for any negotiation. Instead, she’s opening the gates of King’s Landing to Rhaenyra’s side. Even reluctantly agreeing that her injured son Aegon might have to be executed. All of this is set to happen in just three days, right after Aemond leaves for Harrenhal to join Ser Criston Cole and prepare for war against Daemon. Otto Hightower is shown imprisoned, and armies of Starks, Lannisters, and Hightowers are on the march. The excitement builds, making it hard to wait for the next episode. Corlys is also on board. Armies are marching, fleets are sailing, and dragons are taking to the sky. The next episode promises to be spectacular!

HBO / House of The Dragon

Unfortunately, we might have to wait two or three years to see the resolution to these cliffhangers, and the next season might only have 6 episodes. Fans are already used to long waiting for a new season of Game of Thrones before. Additionally, building anticipation for the next season is both expected and likely to be a hot topic among fans for years to come. But the way it ended last night is so underwhelming. As many fans and I have noted, it felt more like one of the final episodes in a season rather than the actual finale.

On a positive note, Daemon’s vision and the reveal of Helaena’s secret were thrilling to watch, and seeing my queen Daenerys again was….ehm..great… Including at least one more episode after this would have made this season feel much better.

HBO / House of the Dragon