The explosive season two finale of HBO’s hit prequel series House of the Dragon left viewers on the edge of their seats, strategically positioning the key factions for the looming Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of Dragons.

As the White Worm Rhaenyra Targaryen faces attempts on her life and rule, she emerges even more resolved to seize the Iron Throne that is rightfully hers. “Rhaenyra is showing why she’s one of the most formidable rulers in Westerosi history,” says critic Jacob Oller. “Her dragon bond and political instincts will serve her well in the coming conflict.”

Meanwhile, Queen Alicent has thrown her support behind eldest son Aegon II’s questionable claim, upending previous understandings with Rhaenyra. Can their Green faction hope to rival Rhaenyra’s growing alliance and dragonriders? Fans are already picking sides for the civil war: “Team Black all the way – the throne belongs to Rhaenyra,” says Reddit user MotherofDargons.

In perhaps the most shocking twist, the mysterious Lord Larys Strong is revealed to have abducted former Hand Otto Hightower. And at Harrenhal, Daemon Targaryen has a haunting vision foretelling Daenerys Stormborn’s future dragon conquest seen in Game of Thrones.

Showrunner Ryan Condal teases, “Season 3 will feature the epic dragon-filled battles fans are waiting for. It’s going to be brutal, it’s going to be bloody – the Dance is coming.”

The Heart of Westeros podcast declares, “House of the Dragon continues crafting the definitive adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s sprawling saga.” With cliffhangers aplenty, viewers can’t wait to see this war of dragons and men finally ignite.