House of the Dragon Season 2 finale: A cliffhanger that leaves fans waiting

While the season 2 finale of "House of the Dragon" wasn't inherently bad, it fell short as a season finale, leaving fans with a frustrating cliffhanger and a long wait until season 3. The episode primarily focused on setting the stage for a major conflict between the Greens and the Blacks, but failed to deliver a truly shocking or climactic moment.

Unlike previous seasons of Game of Thrones, which often featured intense action and pivotal events in their penultimate episodes, this finale felt more like a prolonged setup for the next season. The revelation of Otto Hightower's imprisonment was the sole unexpected twist, while the rest of the episode primarily revolved around assembling armies, finding dragon riders, and maneuvering for power.

The lack of a satisfying conclusion, coupled with the anticipated two-year wait until season 3, has left many viewers feeling underwhelmed. Some have even resorted to reading ahead in the source material, George R.R. Martin's "Fire & Blood," to satisfy their craving for the fiery conflict that the show has been building towards.

While the season did have its high points, such as the thrilling showdown between Rhaenys and Aemond, the finale ultimately lacked the punch and finality expected from a season-ending episode. Fans are now left with a sense of frustration and anticipation, hoping that season 3 will deliver the epic battles and dramatic twists that the show has promised.

Meanwhile, fans have taken to social media to discuss the season finale's cliffhanger ending, with many expressing more excitement about online discussions than the episode itself. Here are some of the most entertaining reactions to the finale.