House of the Dragon episode 8 saw the kids of both Rhaenyra and Alicent all grown up. However, there was a significant difference between the sons of Rhaenyra and the sons of Alicent, Aegon and Aemond. Rhaenyra’s sons share a special bond with each other and are looking to strive through the adversities they have faced as of yet in House of the Dragon. On the other hand, it seems as if all of Alicent’s children are failing her and Otto Hightower except for maybe Helaena Targaryen. Alicent and Otto do everything possible to make Aegon II wear the crown and sit on the throne. However, Aegon is far from a king. Alicent, while a kind and dutiful wife, has surely failed as a parent. And here’s why.

Prince Aegon II is an irresponsible monster

We already knew that Aegon wanted nothing with the throne or the responsibilities it came with. He did not ask for it, want it or even challenge it. However, with Alicent and Otto hovering over him, he has turned into a despicable monster. In House of the Dragon episode 8, we hear that Aegon has sexually assaulted a maid in the Red Keep. He acts vile and aloof and proves the comparison between him and Joffrey Baratheon to be true. Additionally, Alicent sweeps the incident under the rug and even threatens the maid who was just a child. In fact, ever since Aegon was a child, Alicent refused to raise him as one and instead simply treated him as a vessel for the crown.

Prince Aemond has no control over his tongue

While Aemond clearly is more political minded and understands the responsibilities that come with their position as the King’s sons, he has absolutely no diplomacy. Aemond’s skill as a warrior surely makes him an asset during the Dance of the Dragons. But in House of the Dragon episode 8, during the supper, Aemond lost control and let his rage get the better if him. The game of stealth and strategy that Queen Alicent and Otto Hightower play seem to be lost on him. He may be a brilliant combatant, but is no more fit to be a king than his brother Aegon.

Helaena is the only child who is not a disappointment

Queen Alicent seems to have a soft spot for her only daughter Helaena Targaryen. While her powers as a dragon dreamer have gone unnoticed still, she is far from a disappointment. Helaena is a sweet girl with her innocence still intact. The one huge advantage that Helaena Targaryen brings to the greens is her friendly relationship with the other side. She seems to share a bond with her nephews, the children of Rhaenyra. Helaena also seems to be on good terms with Princess Rhaenyra herself, her half-sister. Her diplomacy, cordial relations and prophecies make her an asset to the greens, who often goes unnoticed. In House of the Dragon episode 8 too she gives a riddle, “Beware the beast beneath the boards.”