Explosive House of the Dragon Season 2 Finale Promises Shocking Twists and Devastating Demise!

Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Fire & Blood and potential spoilers for House of the Dragon season 2.

Summary

Season 2 of House of the Dragon unveils striking set photos featuring the powerful dragon-slaying scorpion, offering an intriguing glimpse into a crucial naval clash called the Battle of the Gullet.

Should the Battle of the Gullet transpire during the second season, particularly in the climactic finale, it implies the imminent demise of Jacaerys Velaryon.

The condensed episode count in season 2 enhances the possibility of fast-paced storytelling and potential impact on the depiction of pivotal events such as the Battle of the Gullet and Jacaerys Velaryon's demise.

One revelation from the set photos of House of the Dragon season 2 pertains to a significant character's death, which may occur in the season finale. House of the Dragon season 1 concluded with Westeros preparing for war as the opposing Targaryen factions, the greens and the blacks, geared up for a fierce conflict on land, sea, and in the skies. The Dance of the Dragons is poised to commence in full force, and the fatal confrontation between Aemond Targaryen and Lucerys Velaryon marks the point of no return, signaling more battles and subsequent casualties.

Scorpions In House Of The Dragon Season 2 Could Mean Jacaerys Velaryon’s Death

House of the Dragon season 2 has unveiled photos showcasing the presence of scorpions, the notorious dragon-killing weapons from Game of Thrones, which will undoubtedly play a significant role in the forthcoming episodes. Knowing the devastating impact they possess - one managed to slay Daenerys Targaryen's precious dragon Rhaegal - their inclusion comes as no surprise. However, what truly captures attention is the intriguing implication these photos hold. They feature the scorpions alongside a bloodstained ship bearing the Velaryon sigil, strongly suggesting that this corresponds to the Battle of the Gullet; the pivotal maritime conflict that proved to be the defining moment within the civil war. This epic battle was triggered by a series of crucial decisions, paving the way for an intense and dramatic confrontation.

House Velaryon blockades the Gullet, which controls access to Blackwater Bay

Otto Hightower allies with the Triarchy, who send 90 warships to the Gullet

Jacaerys Velaryon sends his half-brothers, Aegon and Viserys, to Pentos to ensure their safety. However, their ship is captured by the Triarchy's fleet, with Viserys being held captive. Aegon manages to escape on his dragon, Stormcloud, despite being fatally wounded by a scorpion bolt. Stormcloud miraculously survives long enough to bring Aegon back to Dragonstone, where he informs Jacaerys and others about the incident. The Triarchy initially gains the upper hand by attacking the Velaryon fleet by surprise. However, their advantage is short-lived as dragons, including Jace on Vermax, Addam of Hull on Seasmoke, Nettles on Sheepstealer, Hugh Hammer on Vermithor, and Ulf the White on Silverwing, come to their defense.

Five dragons turned the tide of the battle, decimating the fleet of the Triarchy. However, House Velaryon suffered significant losses, with the greatest tragedy being the death of Jacaerys Velaryon. Vermax, the dragon he was riding, plummeted into the sea, presumably injured by crossbow or scorpion bolts. Jacaerys valiantly leapt from his dragon but was ultimately killed by crossbow fire.

While there is a possibility that the images depict a different scenario, such as a smaller skirmish against the Triarchy or an entirely new storyline, the Battle of the Gullet appears to be the most plausible explanation. This aligns with the confirmed presence of the Dragonseeds in House of Dragon season 2, especially Alyn and Addam of Hull who have been cast. Furthermore, this battle would serve as a climactic finale for season 2, similar to the ending of House of the Dragon season 1 where another one of Rhaenyra Targaryen's sons met his demise.

Jacaerys Velaryon’s Death In House Of The Dragon Season 2 Is A Big Risk

While the evidence suggests the Battle of the Gullet and Jacaerys Velaryon's death, this could pose a potential problem. Unlike season 1, House of the Dragon season 2 consists of only eight episodes instead of 10, supposedly due to the storyline rather than scheduling or budget constraints. The impact of this shorter season remains uncertain, but it does raise concerns of accelerated pacing and rushed events (though the circumstances are quite different from Game of Thrones season 8, the comparison is hard to ignore).

In addition to these challenges, House of the Dragon season 2 must introduce new characters, continue existing storylines, and deliver significant moments. Notably, the anticipated Blood & Cheese incident is likely to occur early in the season, followed by the Battle at Rook's Rest, where Meleys meets her demise. With a ten-episode season, placing the Battle of the Gullet as the finale would make perfect sense, but with only eight episodes, it becomes more cramped.

Season 1 managed to avoid significant pacing issues, despite a few problems caused by frequent time jumps. However, there is still a chance that the Battle of the Gullet could be postponed to season 3, allowing for more breathing room. If not, the future appears grim for Jacaerys Velaryon in House of the Dragon season 2.