This is how House of the Dragon should end

BEWARE MASSIVE HOUSE OF THE DRAGON SPOILERS BELOW

As a storyteller with over three decades of experience in crafting narratives that resonate deeply with audiences, I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiments expressed here. The ending of a series is not just about tying up loose ends, but also about leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

HBO’s hit show, House of the Dragon, delivered an impressive second season filled with drama, dragons, death, and chaos. Positioning itself as one of the standout series for 2024, this flagship production is poised to compete fiercely in next year’s Emmy Awards. Eager spectators will have to endure a wait of at least a year or two before they can unravel the plotlines developed this season and enjoy another installment of this captivating tale. Fingers crossed that the upcoming Knight of the Seven Kingdoms season will tide us over until then!

As we patiently anticipate season 3, let’s contemplate the possible conclusions of this series. Given the debatable ending of its precursor series, Game of Thrones, which left a significant mark in television history, it is crucial for House of the Dragon to avoid a similar negative reaction from viewers to keep the prestige fantasy genre thriving.

As a dedicated fan who has delved into George R.R. Martin’s epic saga, “Fire & Blood,” or an unlucky viewer whose glimpse of “House of the Dragon” was marred by the premature revelation of Joffrey Baratheon’s fate while revisiting “Game of Thrones,” let me warn you: The story’s climax is brimming with intense, heart-stopping moments. Brace yourself as we delve into some of them, but remember, there are major spoilers ahead.

This is how House of the Dragon should end

In the upcoming episodes, it’s likely that Rhaenyra Targaryen’s demise will stand out as one of the most impactful scenes, given she is currently the central character. For those viewers who were deeply affected by Daenerys’ sudden end in the final season of ‘Game of Thrones’, Rhaenyra’s death could stir up old wounds and remind them of past distress. Despite my confidence in Emma D’Arcy’s powerful portrayal of Rhaenyra’s death, the fact that another Targaryen heroine perishes at the end of the series might be a tough pill to swallow for some fans, potentially leaving them with a less favorable impression of the series as a whole.

To prevent a similar disappointment among viewers when the final four episodes of “House of the Dragon” conclude, let’s shape their structure in such a way that it offers a more satisfying resolution, as opposed to the disenchantment felt towards Daenerys’ death in the “Game of Thrones” finale.

Fourth to last episode

In Game of Thrones, Joffrey boasts to Margaery Tyrell that Rhaenyra Targaryen’s body, the Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and protagonist of House of the Dragon, was not laid to rest in the Great Sept of Baelor. This is because she wasn’t buried at all. Tragically, after being ambushed on her stronghold, Dragonstone, Rhaenyra was consumed by a dragon upon her half-brother Aegon’s orders. No remains were left behind for burial.

For anyone who’s grown fond of Rhaenyra, her premature passing will undoubtedly be heart-wrenching. Given her pivotal role in the Targaryen civil war, often referred to as the Dance of the Dragons, her death could serve as an impactful ending for the series. Not many productions dare to surpass the demise of their primary character; HBO’s Succession, however, is one that does so bravely.

After Rhaenyra’s demise, there remains much more to unveil in the narrative, as her conflict persists without her. It’s questionable if HBO could manage the aftermath of another Targaryen queen’s death in the final episode of a show. Comparisons to the “Game of Thrones” finale might complicate the series’ reception. Although it may not be the series finale for various reasons, Rhaenyra’s death scene could provide an emotionally charged mid-season twist that prepares viewers for the rest of the series.

Sadly, Rhaenyra’s fourth son, Aegon III, witnesses his mother’s execution, an event that leaves him emotionally scarred but offers chances for impactful character development. Crucial scenes in the penultimate episode will involve Rhaenyra’s efforts to impart knowledge about the Song of Ice and Fire prophecy before her demise. Aware that her time is running out, Rhaenyra will strive to ensure this prophecy isn’t lost upon her departure. She may choose to share it with her son Aegon III if possible, or perhaps even her younger brother Aegon, despite their strained relationship. The episode will likely conclude with Rhaenyra’s final curse, a fearsome dragon, and a dramatic cut to black.

This is how House of the Dragon should end

Third to last episode

In the penultimate episode of “House of the Dragon,” it’s important for both viewers and characters to process Rhaenyra’s passing (especially Alicent). This episode serves as a tribute to her character and lays the groundwork for the series finale. Various characters, such as her brother Aegon, Corlys Velaryon, and once-close friend Alicent Hightower, might share their thoughts on Rhaenyra, offering different perspectives on her life.

Rest assured, there’s no lack of excitement and narrative progression to go with the emotional moments ahead. The newly crowned King Aegon II, it seems, will be accompanied by his nephew Aegon III and cousin Baela Targaryen, who are being held as hostages. His arrival in King’s Landing will signal a need for him to brutally quell the numerous uprisings that sprung during his and Rhaenyra’s absence. You might even witness a dramatic montage reminiscent of ‘Daemon and the Gold Cloaks’, showcasing Aegon’s forces subduing the common folk who seized control over the city during the Dragonpit’s fall.

In other parts of Westeros, Cregan Stark and Rhaenyra’s allies will need to decide whether to persist in their fight, despite their queen being deceased and her heir being held captive. This situation might spark memories of Robb Stark’s followers who remained loyal to him as a ruler following Ned Stark’s execution for Game of Thrones fans. Indeed, the storyline and the war continue unabated.

As a longtime TV viewer who has seen many shows come and go, I believe that one way to ensure a show’s ending doesn’t feel rushed is by giving the audience time to process their emotions, particularly when it comes to grief. Having experienced the loss of beloved characters in various series, I can attest that a well-crafted period of mourning can make the ending feel more meaningful and satisfying.

This is how House of the Dragon should end

Second to last episode

As a dedicated gamer and avid fan of epic battles, I can’t help but feel a thrill at the prospect of the penultimate episode of House of the Dragon season 4 unfolding like a grand tapestry woven from the threads of Game of Thrones’ most memorable conflicts. Just as “The Watchers on the Wall,” “Hardhome,” and “Battle of the Bastards” captivated us with their breathtaking action and spectacle, coming later in their respective seasons, I eagerly anticipate the climactic confrontation that lies ahead – the final battle of the Dance of Dragons, known to its participants as the Muddy Mess.

In a creative twist, it seems the creators of House of the Dragon are putting in extra effort to incorporate House Stark into the series. It would certainly add intrigue if Cregan Stark, who is not featured in Fire & Blood, were involved in this conflict, possibly taking a leadership role among those supporting Rhaenyra. This could lead to an exciting clash between the Starks and Baratheons, aligning with the Targaryens. I find that notion quite engaging. Characters like Black Aly Blackwood and “the Lads” would also have their chance to shine in this scenario. Wouldn’t it be captivating to witness the Starks battling alongside the Baratheons on behalf of the Targaryens? I certainly believe so.

In King’s Landing, Aegon continues to struggle with maintaining control over the realm and city, even without his sister to challenge him. He may encounter experienced figures like Corlys Velaryon, Tyland Lannister, his mother, and a new ally, Larys Strong. As his armies lose battles, Aegon becomes more desperate and threatens his hostages: his nephew Aegon and cousin Baela, who were captured on Dragonstone. By doing so, he places the House of the Dragon in peril, potentially bringing their lineage to the brink of extinction. Despite the advice of his advisors, Aegon’s actions set him up as the chief antagonist for the series, leading to a tragic conclusion for House Targaryen.

This is how House of the Dragon should end

Series Finale

As a devoted fan, I’d rephrase my thoughts like this:

In the course of the trials, Larys is put to death whereas Corlys escapes execution due to the intervention of his granddaughters Baela and Rhaena, as well as Aly Blackwood. Cregan encounters Alicent Hightower. Before parting ways, Corlys and Alicent reminisce about the rule of Viserys, Otto Hightower, Princess Rhaenys, and Rhaenyra. The series concludes with Aegon III ascending to the throne as a young king, surrounded by Corlys, Baela, and Rhaena. Tyland Lannister, who had been forgiven, also stands beside him. Aegon III is betrothed to his cousin Jahaera (daughter of Aegon II). Cregan Stark departs King’s Landing with Black Aly Blackwood, heading northward. In her tower cell, an aging Alicent gazes out upon the horizon, contemplating her old friend Rhaenyra and their shared past. Interestingly, one of Rhaenyra’s sons now sits on the Iron Throne and is betrothed to Alicent’s granddaughter – a union that was proposed by Rhaenyra in season 1 but initially rejected by Alicent.

In this show, the creators have deliberately linked it to its prequel while emphasizing the complex relationship between Rhaenyra and Alicent. The final scene could depict a Stark victory, preserving the Targaryen dynasty without dragons, yet symbolically united through Rhaenyra’s alliance with Alicent’s house. This conclusion would provide emotional depth and set a hopeful tone for future generations. A sudden twist ending like Rhaenyra’s demise followed by only one more episode might be popular but risky, as many viewers dislike such abrupt endings. The makers of ‘House of the Dragon’ should take a bold step and conclude the story instead of rushing it to avoid criticism similar to what ‘Game of Thrones’ faced for its hurried ending.

This is how House of the Dragon should end

It’s clear that the creators might get weary from fans constantly suggesting how a story should wrap up or who should be included, but I genuinely feel that this tale needs some time to properly resolve in a fulfilling way. It’s crucial for HBO, George R.R. Martin, and the showrunners to ensure viewer satisfaction with the series finale, as the world of Westeros could be one of HBO and Max’s most valuable intellectual properties, and they have numerous other shows planned within this universe.

In simpler terms, Peter Jackson’s movie “The Return of the King” is often teased for having multiple endings, which can make viewers like me not always watch until the very end when revisiting the “Lord of the Rings” films. On the contrary, I do rewatch the “Lord of the Rings” movies. The ending of “Game of Thrones” decreased its rewatch value, and even five years later, I’ve only rewatched a few favorite episodes again. I typically watch everything over and over. To encourage viewers to return and rewatch your show or spinoff series, you must conclude it in a way that offers emotional fulfillment. Providing “House of the Dragon” with a lasting impact by giving some side characters main roles and happy endings is one method of achieving this goal.

2024-08-11 16:42