All 10 House of the Dragon episodes ranked from worst to best

8.  House of the Dragon episode 6: “The Princess and the Queen”

House of the Dragon really takes risks in its first season by making several time jumps and recasting multiple roles. The sixth episode takes place 10 years after the events of the fifth, seeing Rhaenyra married to Laenor and Daemon married to Laena. Though we know they’d rather be together, they’re content enough in their respective relationships and understand it’s their duty to be married.

“The Princess and the Queen” is almost like a second premiere, as viewers have to get reacquainted with older versions of the characters and learn what’s been going on in the past decade. Rhaenyra and Daemon both have children, while Viserys is still alive but struggling. Alicent has become much bolder than in her younger years, and Criston is now her close confidant. There’s a clear divide between Rhaenyra and Alicent, though they maintain a cordial relationship.

This episode really takes focus on the children as we see how much Rhaenyra and Alicent’s sons are at odds. There are also major deaths in Laena and Harwin that kind of feel rushed, but at the same time, they really can’t take up more time in the season. So much happens, so the season has to move fast.

The sixth episode of the season serves its purpose and certainly drives the plot forward. Is it my favorite episode? No, but it’s solid.