House of the Dragon has successfully navigated the challenges posed by its predecessor, Game of Thrones, particularly in its handling of character arcs and political conflicts. The season 2 finale features a pivotal moment where Alicent seeks peace with Rhaenyra, showcasing a significant shift from their previously adversarial relationship. This change allows for a nuanced portrayal of Alicent, who is depicted as a more sympathetic character than in George R.R. Martin's original texts. The finale also hints at deeper connections to the overarching Targaryen prophecy and the legacy of Daenerys, suggesting she may be tied to the concept of the 'Prince That Was Promised'. Overall, House of the Dragon is seen to correct previous narrative missteps by emphasizing character development and political intricacies in Westeros. The show effectively builds on its lore while crafting a distinct narrative that diverges from the source material, allowing for greater emotional resonance.