The Rewatch Project: Season 3, Episode 1

Synopsis 

Sam runs. And runs. And runs. It's foggy. He's frosty. He finds a brother with relief... until he sees the man is holding his own head. And then a wight approaches and swings an axe. Ghost pulls the wight away and someone lights it on fire. Mormont asks if Sam got the ravens off and he didn't. They head back toward the wall to warn the others.

Wildlings (and Jon) reach the camp. Jon gawks at a giant, so they exist, eh? People shout “Crow!” and a few throw things at Jon. Ygritte takes him to Mance. Jon meets a man he thinks is he King beyond the wall and kneels, much to Tormund's amusement. Mance steps forward and says they don't kneel for anyone beyond the wall. Mance asks why Jon wants to join them and doesn't believe it is “to be free”. Jon explains what he saw at Crasters—the sacrifice, what took it, and the fact Mormont already seemed to know. “I want to fight for the side that fights for the living. Did I come to the right place?”

Bronn and a whore are having some foreplay when Pod interrupts. Tyrion is examining his scars when Cersei arrives. He lets her in, but not her guards. She's concerned about Tyrion meeting with their father and what he will say. The two spar verbally and then Cersei leaves just in time to stop a confrontation that was beginning between Bronn and the two King's Guard. Bronn, Tyrion and Pod go for a walk and Bronn asks for a raise.

Davos wakes up on a jut of rock, sun in his eyes. He sees a boat and shouts for it. They send a smaller boat but before they will rescue him they ask who he fought for. “The one true king of Westeros, Stannis Baratheon.” They take him to Sallador Sann's ship. Davos asks to be taken to Stannis. Sallador paints a grim picture. Stannis is broken and the red woman is burning infidels. Davos insists he has to stop her.

Robb's army arrives at Harrenhall but it's been abandoned, leaving many dead. Robb orders Catelyn put into a chamber that will serve as a cell. They find Qyburn alive.

Tywin writes as Tyrion waits. Tyrion says he liked being hand and proceeds to whine a bit. Tywin asks what he wants and Tyrion wants Casterly Rock—his birthright. Tywin promises a suitable reward and a station where Tyrion can honor the house, then after a time, a suitable wife. But then he gives a horrifying speech (see below) that makes it clear how he feels about Tyrion.

Sansa makes up stories about the ships in the harbor but Shae refuses to play. Lord Baelish comes for a word with Sansa and tells her he has seen her mother. He claims he can arrange to take her home, but she needs to be ready at a moment's notice. She is eager to go. Roz warns Shae to protect Sansa from Lord Baelish.

Dany and company are sailing, the dragons flying overhead. She is impatient about their size. She needs an army. Jorah suggests The Unsullied but Dany resists because they are slaves. He says she will have a true Khalisar only when she proves herself strong and not before.

Davos arrives in Stannis's solar. He takes issue with burning people. Melisandre argues that she isn't the enemy and could have saved all those people but Davos had convinced Stannis to leave her at Dragonstone. When she whispers to Davos that she still believes what she said to Matthos, “Death by fire is the purest death”. This makes Davos snap. He comes at her with a knife and is thrown in the dungeons for his trouble.

Joffrey is carried in a little and huffs a little when the one in front of him stops and Margaery gets out. She visits an orphanage in Flea Bottom, telling the children how brave their fathers were and giving them toys. She tells them under Joffrey's leadership their fathers saved the city. On her way out she tells the matron to come directly to her for anything she needs for the orphanage.

At supper that night Cersei and Margaery trade barbs disguised as compliments about each other's dresses, then Cersei tells of the attack they had recently. Joffrey plays it down as his mother's exaggeration. Margaery tells how happy she is for all the food High Garden can provide.

Dany's ship arrives at Astapor. The Master tells her about the Unsullied through a translator. His words are insulting and impatient and Missendei diplomatically changes them to courteous. The Master cuts off a man's nipple. They go on telling Dany of the Unsullied training which ends in killing a newborn, for which the baby's master is paid a silver. Dany walks with Jorah discussing what owning an army of slaves would make her. They wander the warf, seeing sights. A little girl rolls a wooden ball to Dany and gestures for her to open it. A stranger knocks it from her hands and out comes a manticore. The stranger skewers it. The little girl gives a blue-mouthed hiss and jumps off the pier, only to appear on the wall behind them. Dany thanks the stranger who unhoods himself to reveal he is Barristan Selmy. He asks forgiveness for failing to protect her father and asks to join her queen's guard. He says he will not fail her again.


Notable Quotes

Jeor Mormont: We have to warn them. Or before winter every one we've ever known will be dead. 

Tyrion: It's not slander if it's true. 

Cersei: You're a clever man. But not half as clever as you think you are.
Tyrion: Still makes me more clever than you.

Tywin: And I would let myself be consumed by maggots before mocking the family name by making you heir to Casterly Rock.
Tyrion: Why?
Tywin: Why? You ask that? You who killed your mother to come into the world. You are an ill-made spiteful little creature made of envy, lust and low cunning. Men's laws give you the right to my name and to wear my colors because I cannot prove you are not mine. To teach me humility the gods have condemned me to watch you waddle about wearing that proud lion that was my father's and his father's before him. But neither gods nor men will ever compel me to let you turn Casterly Rock into your whore house. Go. Now. And speak no more of your right to Casterly Rock. Go. And the next whore I find in your bed will hang.

Critique 

Why is Ghost with Sam instead of Jon? This makes no sense. I mean I'm glad he saved Sam, but Ghost is part of Jon's appeal to the wildlings. Also... failure of Sam to get the ravens off... not book stuff. Not sure why on this, either.

Book nod: Cersei says, “They said you'd lost your nose, but it's not as gruesome as all that.” (In the books he DOES lose half his nose.

The taking of Harrenhall: In the books this is actually ARYA who takes Harrenhall. She does it with the help of Jaqen Hagar, who enlists Biter and Rorge—they make “Weasel Soup” and burn the guards and release all the northern prisoners, who are enough to take the small group of Lannister/Vargo Hoat guards who've been left there. This is one of the scenes it makes me sad to have missed in the show. Also, Catelyn's “imprisonment” is at River Run where she is allowed only to care for her father or pray in the sept.

It is interesting seeing Tywin writing and ignoring his "appointment" as a show that he is superior to the person waiting to talk to him. It is something Cersei picks up as a power posturing move.

Tyrion failing to make his case with Tywin... I'm not sure if this is just that his father flusters him so badly, but Tyrion could have made SO MUCH stronger a case. That said, this scene really illustrates Tywin's animosity beautifully.

Man, Margaery is a PR PRO. She is SO good. At least with the people. She can't seem to help trading barbs with Cersei a bit... No way that can go wrong... It is so clear, too, when Cersei talks of being attacked, how Margaery's approach to the people is the way to stay safe—make them love you. Cersei wants to rule through fear, but that is a far less stable thing.

And who didn't cheer to see Ser Barristan? I really like this episode, but it is one of them that reminds me most strongly of how much MORE awesome it COULD be if they stuck to the books a little closer in some places.

I am thrilled though, to be to season 3. Storm of Swords is my favorite of the books and seasons 3 and 4 cover that material, so I really adore them. Season 2 is low on my list if I order them, even though there is stuff I love. It just isn't quite as strong, but now we are to the stellar material...

The Rewatch Project: Season 2, Episode 10

Synopsis

Tyrion's eye takes the whole screen as it flutters open. Pycelle is treating him (eek). He yells for Pod and asks Pod to get Varys or Bronn. Tyrion flinches when Pycelle tries to touch him but listens as Pycelle explains that Tywin defeated Stannis. Tyrion's cramped space is his new quarters, as Tywin is taking up his role as hand.

Tywin's horse poos as it walks toward the iron throne. Joffrey names him savior of the city. Joffrey then awards Harrenhall to Littlefinger as reward for bringing the Tyrelles to their cause and Loras requests Joffrey agree to join their houses by marrying Margaery. Margaery lays it on thick but Joffrey says he is promised to another. Cersei notes the council doesn't think it wise for him to marry a traitor's daughter and Pycelle says Robert made the arrangement before the Starks showed themselves false. Joffrey agrees to marry Margaery.

Sansa moves away from people before letting herself smile in relief but Baelish points out Joffrey won't just let her go so easily. He offers to take her home but she insists she will be safe. King's Landing is her home.

Roz covers her black eye as Varys arrives. There is some awkwardness while she tries to seduce him before she figures out who he is. He offers her a partnership. He says he would protect her. She is afraid of Littlefinger.

Brienne pulls a boat ashore with Jaime who taunts her. They come across three women strung up from a tree with a sign “they lay with lions”. He badgers her about the Starks. She ties him to a tree with the intention of burying the women but three men come by. They are cruel about Brienne being a woman and question her on the prisoner. One of them recognizes Jaime and Brienne kills all three. She then cuts down the women.

Cat lectures Robb about marrying Talisa. She claims love that's built slowly out of an arranged marriage and duty is stronger.

Stannis questions Melissandre. He chokes her and says to show him how she fights. “Where is your god now?” She claims he is in Stannis and Stannis stops. He has remorse about killing Renly. She gives a good quote (below) She shows him the flames and he eventually “sees it”.

A regular blowing of a horn outside taunts Theon. Lewin tries to explain but Theon is impatient. Theon wonders about word from his father but none has come and he can't send word himself because he killed all the ravens. Theon remembers the first time he saw Winterfell and then whines about always being reminded how grateful he should be to his captors. Lewin urges Theon to run—take the black. He tells hims he is not the man he is pretending to be, but Theon says he's gone too far to turn back. The next morning he makes a speech to his men about dying that day but going out in glory. As he finishes Dagmar clubs him in the head. Lewin comes out wondering what is going on and Lewin stabs him with a spear, then says to the other men “Let's go home”.

Varys says it was Ser Mandon Moore who tried to kill Tyrion under Cersei's orders. Pod save him. Bronn is no longer head of the city watch and the Hill Tribes were sent away (paid well). Varys warns that he will be distancing himself, too. 

Robb weds Talisa. In the light of the seven for some reason.

Dany, Jorah and Kovarro reach the House of the Undying. There is no door. She walks around and Jorah follows as Kovarro stays in one spot. Jorah loses sight of Dany and as he reaches Kovarro again Dany has disappeared. Turns out she is inside. She yells and then hears her dragons.

Arya, Gendry and Hot Pie walk on a path. They see Jaqen and Arya goes to talk to him. She asks him to show her how he killed those guards. He says to learn she must travel with him to Bravos. He mentions the names on her lips and says she could offer them up to the red god one by one. She wants to, but needs to find his family. He gives her a coin and says if she ever needs to find him she should give it to a man from Bravos and say “Valar Morghulis”. He turns away when when he turns back he has a different face.

Osha leads Hodor, Bran and Rickon out of the crypts. Winterfell has been burned. They find Maester Lewin in the godswood. He can't be saved but is so hapy to see Bran and Rickon alive. He tells them they must go north, to Jon. He sends Hodor with the boys and asks Osha to protect them. He then asks her to kill him quickly. The boys, Osha, Hodor and the Direwolves are seen heading north as smoke pours from Winterfell.

Dany wanders, opening a door into a room with many doors. She comes into a version of the throne room that appears to have burned and snow is falling through the roof. She approaches the throne and reaches to touch it but then hears her dragons, so goes on. She walks through a big gate and ends up north of the wall. There she finds a sort of tent and inside is Drogo and baby Rhaego. There is a lovely moment between them but again the dragons cry. She repeats Mirri's words, “When the sun rises in the west and sets in the east. When the rivers run dry and the mountains blow in the wind...” She leaves. Back in the door room she finds her dragons. And Pyat Pree who chains her and explains how he is going to keep Dany and her dragons there because they make the warlock magic strong. She looks behind her at her dragons and says “Dracarys”. The dragons burn Pyat and the chains on her and her dragons dissolve.

Ygritte keeps hitting Jon with a sword. Qhorin attacks Jon and the two fight. Jon kills him. The wildlings cut Jon's bindings. Ygritte leads him to a ridge where they are overlooking an enormous wildling camp.

Dany and company find Xaro and Doreah in bed, take his key and lead them to Xaro's vault. It's ampty. Dany's warriors shut Xaro and Doreah in the vault, collect the treasure around his manse. They will take the treasure to buy a ship.

Sam, Grenn, and Edd pick up shit to burn. Sam prattles about Gilly. They hear the horn. Once. Twice. Three times. Edd yells RUN but Sam is slow. He falls and then sees the hoards coming so he hides. The dead parade by though a White Walker looks right at him before leading the charge onward. 


Notable Quotes 

Petyr Baelish: Look around you. We are all liars here. And every one of us is better than you. 

Catelyn: Treat your oaths recklessly and your people will do the same. 

Melissandre: This war has just begun. It will last years. Thousands will die at your command. You will betray the men serving you. And you will betray your family. You will betray everything you once held dear. And it will all be worth it. Because you are the son of fire. You are the warrior of light. You will sweep aside this pretender and that one. You will be king. 

Varys: There are some who know without you this city faced certain defeat. The king won't give you any honors. The histories won't mention you. But we will not forget. 

Review/Discussion

Let's talk about that Melissandre quote up there... From what we know later we know it's true for Stannis... up until the defeating pretenders and being king... so is it true for the person who Melissandre will eventually realize is more likely Azor Ahai? Jon? He betrays the men serving him (by some interpretation). Will he betray his family? Which family? What about what he once held dear?

Robb and Talisa's wedding... In the book Robb and Jeyne Westerling got married off page but it would have made sense for them to wed in the Light of the Seven because Jeyne is Westerosi. But Talisa, from Volantis, would NOT worship the seven. And Robb, while he was raised with both the Seven and the Weirwoods, would have known a Stark should marry before a Weirwood, or at least a Heart Tree. I guess Catelyn's influence could be blamed. Or their location. But I'm not sure I endorse the decision.

The Book Versus Show House of the Undying... So what Dany sees in the House of the Undying in the SHOW is outlined above. Missing from the book that I think will come TRUE is that I think King's Landing will indeed burn before the snows come. (I think Cersei will burn it). But there is SO MUCH missing from the show version.

Look what Dany finds in the Books:

• A beautiful, naked woman being ravished by four little men who resemble the dwarf servitor. [believed to represent Westeros being ravaged by the armies of the four kings—FOUR because Renly dies before Balon declares himself] 
• A feast of slaughtered corpses holding cups, spoons, and food, with a dead man with a wolf's head sitting on a throne wearing an iron crown, [foreshadowing the Red Wedding]. 
• Daenerys' childhood home with the red door in Braavos. 
• A throne room with dragon skulls on the walls where a king resembling Aerys II Targaryensits on a barbed throne and appears to give the order to burn the Red Keep during the Sack of King's Landing. 
• A room where a silver-haired man (presumably Rhaegar Targaryen) names his son Aegon, says the child is "the prince that was promised", then plays a harp. He then says, there must be another for the dragon has three heads (his wife Elia can HAVE no more) 
• A "splendor of wizards" who falsely claim to be the Undying of Qarth and offer to teach Daenerys the secret speech of dragonkind. They call her "mother of dragons" and "child of three" and tell her some prophesies, saying "three fires must you light... one for life and one for death and one to love... three mounts must you ride... one to bed and one to dread and one to love... three treasons will you know... once for blood and once for gold and once for love..." [This bit has been interpreted to be prophecy for what will happen to Dany... if you can figure it out...] 
• The Undying show Daenerys many more visions before attacking her and being slain by Drogon: 
• 1.Viserys Targaryen's gruesome death. 
• 2.A tall lord with copper-skin and silver-gold hair beneath a banner of a fiery stallion, with a burning city in the background (this may be a glimpse at what Rhaego's future would have been). 
• 3.A dying prince (likely Rhaegar Targaryen) mutters a woman's name with his last breath, rubies flying from his chest. 
• 4.A blue-eyed king who casts no shadow (possibly Stannis Baratheon) raises a red sword in his hand. 
• 5.A cloth dragon sways on poles amidst a cheering crowd. 
• 6.A great stone beast takes wing from a smoking tower, breathing shadows. 
• 7.Daenerys's silver trots through grass to a darkling stream under a sea of stars. 
• 8.A corpse standing at the prow of a ship with bright eyes and grey smiling lips. (we will see this one next season) 
• 9.A blue flower growing from a chink in a wall of ice, filling the air with sweetness. (This could indicate Jon Snow's true parentage and potential kinship to Daenerys) 

There is just SO MUCH more there, isn't there... tons to work with for explanation and prediction. I liked the episode, but this is one of those things that really emphasizes how much more rich the books are.

The Rewatch Project, Season 2, Episode 9

Synopsis

Davos is aboard his ship; behind are many more. A bunch of atmospheric stuff blah blah. Puking. Davos and Matthos discuss “The Royal Navy” and how people in King's Landing see this (rightful king versus invasion). Matthos is delusional.

Tyrion wakes with Shae thinking about war. She asks if he is afraid and swears she will protect him.

Cersei shows boredom with Pycelle though he has brought her Essence of Nightshade. She won't let him ask her why and dismisses him rudely.

Soldiers sing and drink in preparation for battle. Bronn flirts with a whore. The Hound comes in and is surly. Bronn buys them a round, but the Hound just leers. He and Bronn banter and all talk turns to killing. The Hound postures and Bronn has his hand on his knife when the battle bells ring and they agree to have one last drink before the war.

Tyrion talks to Varys as Pod dresses him for battle. Varys asks if Tyrion trusts Pod (Strangely, I do) then pulls out a map of the tunnels that run under the city. Tyrion appreciates it but says he'll stay. Varys is concerned about Stannis's red priestess and says she can think of nothing worse than somebody under those powers sitting on the iron throne and right now Tyrion is the best chance they have of stopping him.

Siege bells ring so Davos orders the drums. (love those drums)

Bronn and Tyrion head out. Tyrion sees Sansa and Shae. He reminds them Maegar's Holdfast should be safe but Joffrey has requested Sansa see him off. Joffrey calls Sansa over and demands she kiss his blade. She puts in some subtle digs that if he were brave he would obviously be in the vanguard. Shae leads Sansa off. The battle area is chaotic.

Up on the wall Joffrey joins Tyrion. Lancel and Joffrey offer their worthless panic “DO STUFF!” There is a silly conversation where Tyrion won't answer Joffrey directly.

Davos wonders where the Lannister ships are and doesn't buy Matthos suggested than they've mutinied.

Cersei collects her ladies, complaining all the while and drinking a lot. She calls Sansa over for the first of about fourteen times. Sansa asks why Ser Illyn is there and Cersei says for their protection, then she sends him to behead the first looters and gives a lecture that to rule the small folk need to fear you.

 Tyrion commands the archers as Joffrey snivels about the Lannister's single ship.

Davos commands his me to hold. The Lannister ship is not only alone, it is empty. Then Davos spots the wildfyre and orders the ships to steer clear. Bronn fires his arrow and lights the river on fire. The green spreads every which way taking ship after ship. Joffrey and the Pyromancer look on delightedly as Tyrion and the Hound both look more devastated.

Dontos juggles as Cersei drinks. She calls Sansa over again; Sansa has been leading a prayer for mercy. Cersei pours and demands Sansa drink. She then prattles on trying to shock Sansa with first a suggestion that she'd seduce anyone but Stannis, then the suggestion that if the city falls, they are all in for a bit of a rape.

Stannis's men row ashore. Joffrey panics. Tyrion sends the Hound to form a group to fight the men coming ashore. He sends Pod to get men from another gate.

Boats reach the shore. Fire arrows fly. A lot fall but many still make it ashore.

Battle battle battle. Lancel gets hurt.

Cersei drones about how she and Jaime were treated differently. She spots Shae and starts to question her when Lancel comes in panicking. He announces that Stannis's troops are outside the city walls. She demands Joffrey be brought to his chambers. Lancel argues it will dishearten the troops but Cersei insists. She then tells Sansa Illyn is there so Stannis won't take them alive.

Battle battle, fire battle.
The Hound freaks.
Ladders go up the wall.
Battle battle.

The Hound asks for a drink then spits the water out. Tyrion orders him to go back out and fight. Joffrey echos him. The Hound refuses. Eloquently (see quote)

The ram begins pounding the Mud Gate. Lancel comes for Joffrey and you can tell that kid can't get out of there fast enough. He orders two of the King's Guard to represent him. Tyrion makes a fantastic speech (see quotes).

Lancel tells Cersei it is lost because because Joffrey left the front lines and the men lost heart. Cersei knocks him over and leaves with Tommen.

Sansa gives a pep talk to the women still there and then starts a hymn. Shae tells Sansa to go to her room; Stannis won't hurt her, but Illyn would. She goes. In her chamber she finds the Hound. He says he's going—maybe north. He offers to take her to Winterfell—keep her safe. She says she'll be safe where she will. He tells her all men are killers but she declares he won't hurt her. He leaves.

Tyrion leads the men out the secret gate. Battle battle battle. They all yell “Halfman!” Then a new army arrives. Chaotic battle battle. Mandon Moore (a King's Guard) strikes Tyrion in the face with a sword so Pod kills Ser Mandon.

Cersei and Tommen sit on the Iron Throne and she tells him a story about a Lion cub. The story is overlaid with battle battle guy on a white horse, Pod helping Tyrion, the White Horse army attacking. Cersei is opening the vial of Essense of Nightshade as she tells it. She offers the vial to Tommen and he raises it to his mouth as Loras bursts in. She stops his hand when Loras announces they've beaten Stannis. Tywin comes in and Cersei lets out a sob of relief.


Notable Quotes 

Cersei: The gods have no mercy. That's why they're gods.  

The Hound: Fuck the King's Guard. Fuck the City. Fuck the King. (and a movement is born)  

Tyrion: Don't fight for your king. And don't fight for his kingdoms. Don't fight for honor. Don't fight for glory. Don't fight for riches because you won't get any. This is your city Stannis means to sack. It is your gate he's ramming. If he gets in it will be your houses he burns. Your gold he steals and your women he will rape. Those are brave men knocking at our door. Let's go kill them. 

Review 

I know TONS of people just love this episode. And I LIKE it. But I am not the giant battle fan nearly as much as I care about the quieter moments and relationships. A lot of people die, but no one I care about. The moments of bravery from Tyrion, the fierceness of Shae, the courage of Sansa, the fear of the Hound... these are the things I really like about this episode. I mean sure, the big fire was cool, and I felt Davos' fear in particular there, as he realized what it was and lost his son. But this part of the book is more compelling as Davos is sucked down into the river and desperately tries to swim under all the wreckage and get through Tyrion's bloody chain. It would have been super hard to film. I get why they didn't. Who knows if Liam Cunningham can hold his breath for five minutes (Jason Momoa can for more than three, but I digress...)

ALSO missing that is in the book is some of the detail between Sansa and The Hound... Sansa will later misremember this scene and believe the Hound kissed her. In reality he asked for (and got) a song from her and left her with his King's Guard cloak (which she dyes and keeps with her—a sort of safety blanket). I strongly recommend Radio Westeros's YouTube video on Sandor Clegane to hear how rich all this story development is for both the Hound and Sansa (and both of their definition of a true knight)

Overall I like the episode. I just don't love it above most of the others like some people do, perhaps because of the missing bits.

The Rewatch Project: Season 2, Episode 8

Synopsis

The ravens at Winterfell are all killed so Robb will not get word about his brothers. Riders approach. It's Asha with only fifty men. She asks whether the cripple or the six-year-old gave Theon the greater fight. She calls their running away bravery. She calls Theon stupid, as the boys had value alive. He yells that she hasn't brought enough men and she says she is just there to take him home. He intends to stay so she sends her men away and pleads for him to come home.

The wildlings bring Jon to the “Lord of Bones” who has captured Qhorin Halfhand. Rattleshirt wants to kill Jon, but Ygritte convinces him to leave the decision to Mance. Qhorin tells Jon the others died looking for Jon and says to make sure it was not for nothing.

Talisa asks about the Frey girl. She and Robb discuss the bridge and Ned Stark. He talks about responsibility and fear of being a Lord and protector of all his people. (see quote) One of Ned's men finds them and tells Robb that the Kingslayer has escaped. Robb confronts his mother to ask why. Rickard Karstark gives a diatribe. He wants his vengeance and Cat stole it. Robb puts men to guard her and sends (another) forty men to look for Jaime.

Brienne takes Jaime from his horse, He gets her name and asks a lot of questions (rudely). She tells him he's beyond forgiveness. He taunts her and suggests she unchain him. She puts him in a boat and heads downriver.

Arya serves Kevan and Tywin. Kevan claims King's Landing will fall. Tywin talks about their position. Starks are too close to Casterly Rock. Tywin says they will ride at nightfall. He sends Clegane after the Brotherhood. He's leaving Arya with the Mountain. She runs to find Jaqen. Qhorin says a man inside Mance's army is worth 100 outside. Jon must do what he needs to to get in.

Bronn cleans his nails, much to Tyrion's annoyance. Together they strategize about the defense of King's Landing. Varys comes in and compliments Bronn on the fall in thefts. He has rounded up all the known thieves and … not just given them a talking to... Bronn tells what a city under siege is like—that the fighting isn't what kills most. It is the starving. And thieves take advantage and make it all much worse. They then look at a map and determine the Mud Gate is where Stannis will strike.

Edd, Grenn and Sam dig in the snow. (see quote) Sam asks about Jon and Edd says he is probably dead. They discuss Qhorin—a great ranger but great rangers don't live to be old. Shit ones either. A few in the middle live a long time. Grenn finds something and Sam helps unearth it—a Night's Watch cloak holding a horn and a bunch of dragon glass.

Jaqen finds Arya. She wants Tywin dead but he can't guarantee it right away so she name Jaqen Hagar. He's not amused. She says she will un-name him if he helps her and her friends escape. He says a girl and her friends will walk through the gate at midnight.

Cersei and Tyrion dine together. Cersei wants Joffrey kept safe—says he's not ready. Tyrion points out he needs to be there to inspire the men. She claims to have Tyrion's whore and says anything that happens to Joffrey will happen to her. Tyrion asks how he knows she really has her, so Ser Mandon brings her in... it is Roz. Tyrion promises he will free her.

Tyrion runs to Shae and tells her they need to be more careful. He says he will kill for her—that he will probably need to before the end. She promises “I am yours. You are mine.”

Robb and Roose discuss Winterfell—they've had no word. Roose suggests his bastard can take it back. Robb says to send word that any Iron Born who leaves is free to go except Theon who betrayed him. Talisa arrives and Roose leaves. Robb spills his worries. She sympathizes and the two get to know each other better. She tells him the story of her brother nearly drowning and the decision she made: to not waste her life on parties and masquerades, and once she came of age to never live in a slave city again, as it was a slave who saved her brother. Robb says he doesn't want to marry the Frey girl and the two of them strip and get horizontal.

Hot Pie mourns the cherry pies he's left behind. He, Arya and Gendry stare at the gates and worry about the guards. Finally Arya just walks to them and realizes the guards are dead at their posts. The three walk out.

Davos tells Stannis one more day to King's Landing if the winds hold. They discuss his onion sigil and Davos says he understands why the men look down on him. Stannis said it was Davos who came through for him at the siege at Storm's End. They discuss duty and Stannis says if he wins, Davos will be his hand.

Joffrey tells Tyrion and Varys the Starks are distracted and it is time to strike. Tyrion points out that they are readying defenses because they are about to be attacked. Joffrey claims he will ride out to greet Stannis and give him a “red smile”. When he leaves Varys says “Imagine Stannis's terror.” *snort* They discuss “the game” and Varys compliments Tyrion. Tyrion asks where the god of tits and wine is. Varys then tells Tyrion of Daenerys and her dragons. Tyrion says, “One game at a time.”

Jorah tells Dany he found a ship heading to Astapor. She won't leave her children.

Lewin sees Osha and follows her into the crypts. She tells him how they doubled back. They discuss who the burned boys were as Bran listens.


Notable Quotes 

Robb Stark (about Ned): I asked him how can a man be brave if he is afraid. That is the only time a man can be brave, he told me.

Edd: I always pictured myself doing something worse. 
Grenn: Digging latrine pits at the edge of the world? I can't imagine much worse. 
Edd: You lack imagination. 

Tyrion (to Cersei): I will hurt you for this. A day will come when you think you are safe and happy and your joy will turn to ashes in your mouth and you will know the debt is paid. 

Book Detail 

In the SHOW Tyrion never ends up needing to kill for Shae, to my memory, but in the BOOKS he has a singer killed who has written a song about him and Shae (for hands of gold are always cold but a woman's touch is warm). The singer tries to blackmail Tyrion into having him be one of the singers at the Purple Wedding and Tyrion agrees, but Tyrion instead orders Bronn to kill him to end the risk of that song getting out eventually. The lyrics haunt him through the rest of the series.


Review 

 I always love the show by this late in the season. The action is building to a climax we can almost feel and nearly everything matters. I particularly love the exchange where Arya traps Jaqen into helping with the escape and the confrontation between Tyrion and Cersei where Tyrion has to pretend Roz is the right girl in order to keep Shae safe. Talisa's story is a nice “not in the books” addition to give her a compelling persona and reason Robb would fall for her. I like the book story better, but it is complex enough that I totally understand the shorthand they did here and am glad they gave her such a compelling tale to make us understand why Robb fell for her.

The Rewatch Project: Season 2, Episode 7

Synopsis 

Theon wakes to Osha gone from his bed... she has disappeared, along with Bran, Rickon and Hodor. Theon scolds his men and when one of them points out Theon was sleeping with Osha, Theon beats the crap out of him. He calls for the horses and hounds and drags Maester Lewin along for “the hunt”. They discuss the boys, reminding Theon they are more valuable alive. The hounds pick up the scent.

Bran, Hodor, Rickon and Osha are shown walking. They find the farm where Bran sent the Orphan boys.

Jon and Ygritte wake up, Ygritte embarrassing Jon with suggestive comments about bones and stones. He can't even look at her. She ascertains that he is a virgin and goes on to talk to him about the ridiculous rules of the Night's Watch and her own freedom (in spite of the ropes). She has a lot of good points.

Tywin examines the poisoned dark stating it's wolfs bane. His men are hanging people as they search for the culprit. He gives the order to burn the villages and fields to encourage the peasants to give up the assassin. He offers to let Arya eat his mutton. She refuses but he tells her it is poor manners. They discuss war. Tywin has never lost but knows this is the one he will be remembered for—his legacy. Harren thought Harrenhall would be his legacy, but he didn't count on dragons. Tywin is impressed with Arya's knowledge of history as she reminds him Aegon had help from his sisters. Visenya, who had a Valyrian blade, Dark Sister, is a heroine of Arya's. Tywin says most girls admire the songs, to which Arya says most girls are stupid... That's when he says she reminds him of his daughter BOOM (and then our brains exploded at the irony). He asks where she learned all of this and she claims from her father. She gets impudent and he gives her a warning. He sends her away, but before she goes he tells her a common girl would say “milord” not “my lord” (he knows she is high born).

Sansa stops The Hound to thank him for saving her. He shows his typical charm, which is to say he is gruff and terrifying. He says killing is the sweetest thing there is. Dany discusses going to the 13 with Xaro. He proclaims his innocence, but Dany is too mad to care.

Jon leads Ygritte, Ygritte talking about freedom. She offers to let him be free. And teach him how to “do it”. He says he knows how.

Robb hears Cersei's response to his peace terms. Ser Alton is put in a pen with Jaime because there are too many prisoners. Talisa comes to Robb asking if she can bring a list of supplies, but instead he invites her to go with him to the Cragg.

Theon and his men reach the farm where Bran and company were recently lurking, but there is no sign of them. Theon is beginning to panic until Dagmar calls him over to “evidence”. They send the others away.

Jorah returns and Dany fills him in. She wonders who her people are. They discuss who to trust and Jorah is suggesting only him. She tells him he is too familiar and tells him to find her dragons.

Jon and Ygritte walk some more, Ygritte telling the story she is going to claim about the two of them. She taunts him, offering again. He's clearly uncomfortable. She calls him dull, pulls the ropes and escapes. He chases and finds himself surrounded by wildlings.

Sansa has a PTSD nightmare of her near rape. She wakes up bleeding, her first “moon blood”. She tries to cut it out of her mattress, then Shae tries to help her flip it but they are spotted by the nasty spy tattler woman who always runs to Cersei. Shae goes after her, threatening, but when she returns the Hound has arrived, so they are busted. Cersei gives a lovely speech about womanhood (it sucks) and they discuss childbirth and Joffrey.

Jaime and Ser Alton talk family. Ser Alton squired for Jaime at Willem Frey's wedding. Jaime compliments him. Alton remembers it as his best day ever. Jaime then kills him as a means to escape. Quaithe paints someone to protect him from passing by Valyria. She notes Jorah came for the dragons then asks him if he is going to betray her (Dany) again. He says never so Quaithe tells him the one he seeks is with her now.

Dany is with the 13. They are pompous, telling her it is good the dragons are gone. Pyat Pree tells them they are cruel and her offers to help her. “I will take you to the House of the Undying, where I have put them.” He claims to have made the arrangements with the King (Xaro). Pyat Pree clones kill the rest of the 13 and Dany runs off.

A man comes to Catelyn's tent to tell her the Kingslayer has been captured. Rickard Karstark is livid, wants the Kingslayer dead. Catelyn is sort of awesome reminding them all who she is and that they will wait for Robb.

Cersei lights candles and Tyrion reads a raven about Stannis and the looming ships. Tyrion says Joffrey needs to start acting like a king. They discuss the difficulty controlling Joffrey. Cersei wonders if this is the price for their sins. She says Targaryens wed brother to sister for years, but half went mad. Tyrion tells her she beat the odds: that Tommen and Myrcella are both good, decent children (2 out of 3, eh?) Cersei cries and Tyrion almost comforts her.

The Stark camp is unruly. Brienne notes they will kill Jaime before morning. She and Catelyn go to talk to him. Catelyn demands to be alone with him. They discuss vows, Jaime noting how complicated it becomes when they all contradict each other. Jaime claims to be more faithful than Ned which really pisses Cat off.

Theon gives a speech about loyalty and consequences, then reveals the burned bodies of the two “Stark boys”. The episode ends with Maester Lewin's cries of grief.


Notable Quotes 

Jon: My father was Ned Stark. I have the blood of the first men, same as yours. 
Ygritte: So why are you fighting us? 

Tywin: You're too smart for your own good. Has anyone ever told you that? 
Arya: Yes. 

Ygritte: You know nothing, Jon Snow. 

Cersei: Permit me to share some womanly wisdom with you on this very special day. The more people you love the weaker you are. You'll do things for them that you know you shouldn't do. You'll act the fool to keep them happy. To keep them safe. Love no one but your children. On that front a mother has no choice. 

Missing from the Book 

Jaime/Catelyn: This discussion in the books is where Jaime reveals the little known scene of how Brandon Stark died (strangled himself in his efforts to reach a sword to save his father who was battling Aerys's champion (wildfyre).

Further Discussion 

Man, Theon has finally lost it, eh? His descent is such steady progress but now he has truly crossed the line. And Alfie's acting is truly amazing. And Catelyn makes her fatal error just at this ends... But man, Arya and Tywin have stolen it again. I love these two. I really do. There are very few “not in the books” changes that I truly love, but this is one of them.

The Rewatch Project: Season 2, Episode 6

Synopsis

Winterfell is under siege. Maester Lewin gets a few Ravens off, then Theon appears in Bran's room to convince him to yield. He does, under the assertion it is the only way for Bran to protect his people. Bran asks if Theon always hated them. In the yard Bran tells the gathered people that he has yielded the castle to Prince Theon Osha asks to be freed. One of Theon's men brings in Roderick Cassel who scolds Theon and finally spits on him. Theon is going to imprison him but Dagmar convinces him his men will not respect him will Roderick lives. It takes Theon four strokes and a kick to remove Roderick's head from his shoulders.

Jon's party and Ghost head for the mountain peak. Qhoran lectures Jon about how to be safe in the north... the trick is knowing you are never safe in the north.

Tywin is pissed at a messenger who apparently can't read and sent a message to one of Robb Stark's bannermen instead of his own. He asks Arya for a book and notes she can read better. He then sends his men away and Petyr Baelish arrives. Arya freaks a bit and Petyr almost notices, causing heart attacks all around but she clears the table and pours the wine.

Jon, with Qhorin and his men, come across a small group of wildlings. They attack. Jon is surprised to find one of them female. He cannot bring himself to kill Ygritte. When he is stalling, she escapes. He chases her and catches her but they are far from both their groups.

Myrcella is put aboard her ship for Dorne with all the court there to see her off. Cersei seethes at Tyrion hoping he truly loves somebody some day so she can “rip her from you”. Tommen cries and Joffrey is an ass to him. They head back to the red keep. At first people should nice things, hail the king and such, but then someone shouts bastard. They say they are hungry then someone throws shit at Joffrey, so he shouts for them and begins with his mantra of “kill them all”. Tyrion commands them all to GO and get back while Joffrey shouts for deaths. The high septon is torn apart. Sansa and some ladies are separated from the rest as King Joffrey is rushed to safety, Cersei, too. Sansa is chased off in another direction. Tyrion hit Joffrey and asks where the Stark girl is. Sansa has been trapped by three men who are intent on raping her. Meryn Trant refuses to go look for her because Joffrey won't order it. The Hound saves Sansa, killing all three men.

Dany paces, waiting for the “spice king”. She asks him for ships but he uses them for trade and won't give them away for promises. He is a pedantic ass, but also has a point. She has no army and no allies.

Arya sees an letter about attacking Robb. Tywn asks who taught her to read. We learn Jaime is dyslexic. Tywin asked her story and she claims her father was a stone mason. He asks what killed her father and she says Loyalty. She steals the letter then runs into Amory Lorch with it. Though Amory can't read, she panics and finds Jaqen to kill him NOW. When Lorch reaches Tywin he falls down dead with a poisoned dart in his neck.

Robb moves through his camp, much admired by his men. He approaches Lady Talisa and a discussion follows on nobility in Westeros vs. Essos. Catelyn reminds him he is not free. Bolton brings news from Winterfell. [note below]

Jon tells Ygritte they are stopping for the night. She wants shelter and fire but he refuses both, so she suggests staying close. She then proceeds to taunt/tempt him with some wiggling and pressing up against him.

Robb and Bolton discuss Greyjoy taking Winterfell. Catelyn reminds Robb she told him so. He wants to go north but Bolton suggests his bastard can retake Winterfell. If he goes himself he loses what he gained. Robb says his brothers' safety is paramount and he wants to kill Theon himself.

Osha comes to Theon “to serve” then gets naked. She wants her freedom and he agrees.

Shae cares for Sansa's cuts. Sansa tries to understand and says she hates the king more than anyone. Shae advises her to trust no one.

Theon sleeps and Osha gets up and leaves, slitting the throat of a guard with a trick about being sent to keep him warm. She whistles and Bran, Rickon, Hodor and the wolves come out. 

Dany discusses those who've rejected her with Xaro. They reach his house. Her men are dead and her dragons are gone. Someone is seen carrying them up a set of stairs.


Places and Faces 

 Ygritte is the big new one this episode. She has an important role and she makes a brilliant first impression.


Notable Quotes 

Roderick: Gods help you, Theon Greyjoy. Now you are truly lost.

Ygritte: Strike hard and true, Jon Snow, or I'll come back and haunt you.

Tyrion: We've had vicious kings and we've had idiot kings, but I don't know if we've ever been cursed with a vicious idiot for a king. 

Discussion 

So is this where Roose realizes the opportunity for House Bolton, should Robb Stark break his promise about marrying the Frey girl? The books suggest perhaps Tywin Lannister laid the trap (calling to his bannermen about getting someone inside the Stark camp and the Westerlings hatched the love potion/marry Jeyne Westerling bit) but the show could have Bolton planting the bug in Tywin's ear...

This episode to me shows Dany at her most irritating... entitled and asking for presents because she deserves them instead of being strong or thoughtful. It is interesting, though of course we don't LIKE it, but a nice twist as Theon takes Winterfell. Alfie Allen is an amazing actor, able to get across Theon's odd mix of insecurity and belief he has a right to take it. Osha's trick is good, too, helping the boys escape. I also like the King's Landing events of the peasants rebelling against Joffrey. And though the Sansa stuff is terrifying and hard to watch, she is at least saved and the sliver of heroism of the Hound is shown. It is nice to see the contrast—that Meryn Trant will not do the right thing unless ordered, where the Hound will, even though he is not a Knight.

The Rewatch Project: Season 2, Episode 5

Synopsis

Renly and Cat reach an agreement for an alliance, then Brienne helps Renly remove cloak. Cat urges him to make peace with Stannis, but he won't. A shadow blows in and stabs Renly through his armor. Brienne screams and catches him. Renly's other guards come in, thinking she killed him, so she has to cut them down. Catelyn convinces Brienne she can't avenge Renly from the grave.

Littlefinger sees Stannis's navy arriving and convinces the Tyrells their interests are better served with the Lannisters. It is Loras's route to revenge. When Loras goes for the horses, Littlefinger talks to Margaery about being queen.

Tyrion tells Cersei of Renly's death and she is pleased, failing to understand it means Stannis, which his hugely larger army will be invading even sooner. Cersei won't share Joffrey's seige plans with him and seems pleased with herself to have Tyrion not know. Tyrion however, has is Lancel source and learns it is wildfyre. The Alchemist guild plans to toss it from the city walls.

Davos tries to talk to Stannis about what he saw (Mel's shadowbaby) but Stannis doesn't care. He has all his brother's men except the Tyrells now. Davos then convinces Stannis that if he takes Mel to King's landing it will be her victory, not his. Stannis agrees but puts Davos in charge to the fleet for taking King's Landing.

Tyrion and Bronn wander the market. A philosopher is talking about the rotten king, which is fair, but says his strings are being pulled by a twisted demon monkey. The people think Tyrion is controlling Joffrey.

Theon arrives to launch his ship. His men ignore and disrespect him. Yara arrives and eggs them on. She brags that her men would wait a year for her. Dagmar arrives to take Theon to his ship. (he's first mate. As they go out to the ship the plot hatches to take Torhen Square as a decoy.

Tywin is discussion the war with his men. They keep saying there is trouble within the Stark Camp but Tywin isn't buying it. He sends his cousin home for complaining. He then asks where Arya is from. At first she claims Maidenpool, but can't name the sigel. He knows she is from the north so she claims Barrowtown, ruled by House Dustin. He then asks what they say about Robb Stark in the north and she gives a great speech (see below). Tywin then sends her for water. She sees Jaqen with Biter and Rorge and hides, but Jaqen finds her anyway. She is mad that he is working for the Lannisters. He makes her an offer, however, to pay back the Red God (see below). Arya names The Tickler.

The ranging group arrives at the Fist of the First Men to wait for Qoran Halfhand. Sam babbles about Gilly on their way up to the annoyance of his brothers. The men set up camp as Sam changes his tune to tell of the History of the Fist, much to the annoyance of his brothers. A horn blows once. One for friends. Two for foes. “And three for White Walkers.” (Sam read it in a book). It is Qoran.

Tyrian visits the Alchemists and we get a wildfyre lesson. Bronn is skeptical, but Wisdom Halene insists they don't deal in pig shit. Bronn talks of the risk and chaos of battle. Halene opens the door to thousands of pots of wildfyre. Tyrion tells him they won't be making it for his sister anymore. They'll be making it for him.

Drogon gets a cooking lesson. Irri has mended a few of Dany's things. Doreah holds up the dress Xoro sent her and Irri and Doreah bicker a bit. Dany wears the dress to a garden party where she has to scold the Dothraki for trying to steal things. The wizards give a demonstration of their magic and invite Dany to the House of the Undying. Quaith talks to Jorah and warns Dany needs to be protected.
Brienne said the shadow looked like Stannis. Cat says after telling Robb what had happened she was heading back to Winterfell. Brienne wants to kill Stannis but Cat encourages her not to rush into death. She encourages Brienne to side with Robb whose enemies are the same as Renly's. Brienne says she doesn't know Robb, but she knows her, she could fight for her. Brienne pledges fealty to Catelyn.

Bran sits as lord, hearing his people and offering a pretty good solution to the sheep herder with wolf trouble—two orphans to help tend the flock if he will feed and house them. Rickon smashes walnuts and Roderick comes it and tells them Tohren Square has been taken. Bran tells him to take the men he needs. Osha and Bran discuss the three-eyed raven and Brans dream that the sea was coming to wash over the walls of Winterfell.

Qoran points out a fire on the top of a distant mountain. He says they have to take out those people or Mance will know they are coming. Jon asks to go and Sam says he will cover Jon's steward tasks so Mormont agrees.

Xoro asks about Jorah being in love with Dany. He takes her for a walk and shows her the vault that holds his riches and offers her half if he marries him. (see “book extra” below) She is tempted but Jorah then talks her down, convincing her the slow road and allies in Westeros are the way to the throne. She heeds his advice.

Gendry Eyecandy is practicing with a sword and no shirt. Arya corrects his stance and then the Tickler falls from a wall... Jaqen holds a finger up to Arya to show her that kill is hers.


Places and Faces 

The Alchemists Guild and “Wisdom Halene”--yes, the alchemists call themselves “wisdom” rather than brother or maester or anything a little bit humble.

Fist of the First Men (and Qoran Halfhand)

Inside Qarth: Quaith is the main character seen for the first time here, though we get to know a couple of the thirteen better.


Notable Quotes 
(there are some sort of epic speeches this episode)

Arya: They call him the young wolf. They say he rides into battle on the back of a direwolf. They say he can turn into a wolf himself when he wants. They say he can't be killed. 

Tywin: And do you believe them?” Arya: No my lord. Anyone can be killed. Jaqen: A man pays his debts. A man owes three. The red god takes what is his. And only death can pay for life. You saved me and the two I was with. You stole three from the red god. We have to give them back. Speak three names and a man will do the rest. 

Quaithe: She is the mother of dragons. She needs protectors now more than ever. They shall come day and night to see the wonder born into the world again. And when they see, they shall lust. For Dragons are fire made flesh and fire is power. 

Jorah: You have a good claim. A title. A birthright. But you have something more than that. You may cover it up and deny it, but you have a gentle heart. You would not only be respected and feared; you would be loved. Someone who can rule and should rule. Centuries come and go without a person like that coming into the world. There are times when I look at you and I still can't believe you're real. 

Book Extra 

So in the books there is a reveal about Xoro's proposal that never is mentioned in the show. Since Dany never marries him, it's not a spoiler really, but points our Xoro is craftier than he at first appears. In Qarth when people marry there is something called a Bride-gift. The bride and groom EACH can as ONE thing from the other's possessions. So Dany could ask for a ship, but you KNOW what Xoro would ask for... a dragon.

Analysis 

 Can I just give a big Squee for Arya at Harrenhal? Season 2 is low on my favorite list, but Arya is by far my favorite part, both interacting with Tywin and being the Ghost of Harrenhal with Jaqen's help. I felt the episode was strong and it really WAS impressive the number of HOLY CRAP speech/lines.