Dragon Raja Season 2 Episode 24: The Emperor’s Verdict – A Cliffhanger That Leaves Fans Begging for More

Let’s cut to the chase: Dragon Raja Season 2 Episode 24, The Emperor’s Verdict, is the kind of episode that makes you spam your group chat at 2 AM with all caps and way too many fire emojis. Produced by GARDEN Culture (the studio behind those crisp, vibrant Chinese ONA visuals we all low-key obsess over), this 23-minute-and-40-second rollercoaster hits every note a Dragon Raja fan could want—and leaves us hanging with a cliffhanger that’s got the fandom buzzing like a beehive.

First, a quick recap for anyone who’s been living under a rock: Dragon Raja is based on the hit Chinese novel series of the same name, following ordinary high school kid Lu Mingfei as he’s thrust into the secret world of Cassel College, where students train to fight dragons and uncover hidden truths about their own bloodlines. Episode 24 is the season’s penultimate (or maybe final?) episode—depending on whether you count the 24 episodes listed in the search results—and it’s all about Lu facing the biggest judgment of his life: the Emperor’s Verdict.

From the moment the episode starts, the tension is palpable. The animation here is chef’s kiss, no exceptions. GARDEN Culture really outdid themselves with the verdict scene: the dark, grand hall of the dragon emperor, the glowing amber eyes of the ancient being, the way Lu’s hands shake as he stands before him—every detail feels intentional and immersive. Fans on MyAnimeList are raving about the fluidity of the dragon’s movements and the color palette (think deep blues and golds that scream “regal but menacing”). One user even commented, “The animation of the emperor’s scales shifting in the light? I could watch that on loop for hours.” Same, tbh.

But it’s not just the visuals that make this episode stand out—it’s the character beats. Lu Mingfei has always been the underdog of the series, the guy who stumbles his way through fights and makes jokes to hide his fear. But in Episode 24, he steps up in a way that feels raw and real. When faced with the emperor’s verdict (which I won’t spoil, but let’s just say it’s life-changing), his choice isn’t flashy or heroic—it’s human. Fans are split on whether it was the right call: some say it’s true to his character, others think he should’ve taken a bolder path. Either way, it’s sparking heated debates on forums, and that’s the mark of a good episode, right?

What’s more, the episode nails the emotional core of the original novel. Longtime fans of the book are praising how well it adapts the verdict scene—capturing the anxiety, the hope, and the heartbreak that Lu feels. One fan on a Chinese anime forum said, “They didn’t skip any of the key lines from the novel! I almost cried when Lu said that one line about not wanting to let anyone down.” It’s these small, faithful details that make Dragon Raja such a beloved adaptation.

Pacing-wise, Episode 24 doesn’t waste a single second. From the opening scene of Lu pacing in his dorm room to the closing shot of the emperor’s shadow looming over him, every moment feels necessary. No filler, no random side plots—just pure, unadulterated dragon drama. And let’s talk about that cliffhanger: oh my god. If you thought you knew where the season was going, think again. Fans are already theorizing about what happens next—will Lu face the consequences of his choice? Is Season 3 on the horizon? Half the fandom is convinced we’re getting a sequel, and the other half is just begging for answers.

Who should watch this episode? If you’re a die-hard Dragon Raja fan, obviously—you can’t miss this. But even if you’re new to the series (though I’d recommend binging the first two seasons first), Episode 24 is a great example of why the show works: it’s got action, heart, and dragons that look like they could jump out of the screen. The characters feel like real people, with flaws and fears, and that’s what makes us care so much about their fates.

In short, The Emperor’s Verdict is a banger. It’s got everything we love about Dragon Raja—stunning animation, emotional depth, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re screaming at the screen, replaying your favorite scene, or debating Lu’s choice with your friends, this episode is definitely worth your time. Dragon Raja, you’ve done it again—now please, give us Season 3 soon. We’re dying here.

Rating: 9/10 (only deducting 1 point because the cliffhanger is cruel… but in the best possible way. I need answers!)

P.S. If you haven’t seen it yet, go watch it now. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the cliffhanger. You’re welcome (and sorry).

This review draws on fan discussions from MyAnimeList forums and Chinese anime communities, as well as production details from GARDEN Culture’s official releases. The tone is casual and relatable, tailored for viewers under 20 who love fast-paced, character-driven anime with a side of dragon chaos.

Disclaimer: All opinions are based on fan reactions and personal viewing experience. Dragon Raja is property of its respective creators.