House Of The Dragon Episode Six Review - 8 Ups & 2 Downs

Arguably the most momentous event depicted by the time jump was the introduction of Rhaenyra and Alicent's sons, who now occupy the role of vital political pawns within the landscape of King's Landing.

Rhaenyra's sons are compelling story material in themselves. They bear the appearance of their real father Harwin Strong, much to the wrath of Alicent and the delight of the rumor mongers of the Red Keep. Jacaerys' realization that Harwin is his father towards the end of the episode is sure to make for a tumultuous storyline going forward; it will be fascinating to see how his relationship with his mother proceeds after he discovers that he is actually a bastard - bastards don't tend to fare well in Westeros.

As well as her sinister daughter Helaena, what is perhaps even more intriguing are Alicent's sons, who are clearly villains in the making. The bratty petulance of the eldest, Aegon, invokes memories of a slightly more serene Joffrey, highlighted by a particularly unpleasant sequence in which he masturbates out of his open window. His brother Aemond, is a quiet and solemn child, deeply insecure as a result of his inability to tame a dragon, but clearly possesses an iron side; plainly evident as he makes his way into the depths of the Dragon Pit alone.

Readers of Martin's canon will know that all of the children take on integral roles in the wars to come; getting a glimpse of these characters during their formative years was a thrilling experience and left die-hard fans desperate to see what forms the children's adult selves will take.