Game of Thrones 4.10

The Children - Season Finale

**Spoiler Alert**

If you haven't watched the final episode and don't want to ruin your viewing experience by succumbing to major spoilers - read no further.

The fourth season of Game of Thrones started us out on such a high with wonderful episodes that left us salivating for the next. It didn't last too long though, before we knew it we were getting frustrated (well, at least I was) at the lull in the episodes and feeling as thought there were a lot of 'fluffing' going on. With the last weeks episode all about the battle at Castle Black (for those of us that have read the books - or the majority of them - we've known what's coming) there was a lot to tie up with this season finale episode. There were plenty of frustrating parts that left me screaming at the television screen and also many death to discuss.

We return right where we left off last week as Jon Snow is making his way out to Mance Rayder to discuss terms. He's taken in and they are talking things over when the Wildlings camp is attacked. Mance Rayder asks if Jon is behind this and he's just as confused. They watch as armies flank the camp and kill a majority of the Wildlings. Once they are surrounded we see that it is Stanis Baratheon as they are informed of who they are and get better acquainted with one another. They take Rayder into their custody.  Meanwhile, back at Castle Black, Jon visits another Wildling captive and they discuss Ygritte. Jon then takes her beyond the wall to give her a proper burial (burning) and silently through his tears, says his good byes.

Bran and his crew barely make it to where they were going. When they are on the last stretch Jojen is taken down by a skeletal hand busting through the surface. As more skeletal being bust through the wintry surface, they're attempting to fight the skeletal attacks. Bran takes over Hordor so that he can fend off the attackers. Jojen is stabbed as another being (a dirty child) appears saving them and telling them that if they want to live to follow her. Jojen's sister has to leave her dying brother and run for the entrance of the cave below the tree that they have traveled to. In here they are informed that they are in fact known as The Children and they take them to an old man sitting upon an earthy rooted throne. Here he is cryptic with Bran and tells him that he is going to grant him ________. Yeah - we don't know either. I know what I'll be doing this summer now. I have to finish reading The Feast of Crows so I can read A Dance of Dragons and get a clue as to what's going on with Bran and his situation. 

Meanwhile back in Meereen, Daenerys is doing what Queen's do - ruling. As she is sitting upon her throne and hearing what her people are asking her for. A former slave comes to her asking that he return to his position as a slave. She informs him that she freed him so that he can make his own decisions and she allows him to return to his services, under contract. Daenerys is informed that there could be issues down the line about her new ruling. You could tell she was like we'll deal with that bridge when we get there. Her next subject that came to her informs her of another attack from her dark dragon. This time killing his three year old daughter. She has to make a very difficult and gut wrenching decision. While she has fought to free so many, she now has to keep (two of her dragons) chained up in the catacombs. The dark dragon is still on the loose. When she is leaving their new imprisonment, the dragons are screaming for her like children to their mother, and you can tell this was just awesome for her as well.

Tyrion's sentence has be decided and he is rotting, waiting in the cell. When he thinks they have come for him he is surprised to see his brother Jaime instead. He's there to free him and tells Tyrion that The Spider is his ally. But, before Tyrion escapes to freedom, he finds his father's chamber. Here, he discovers Shea upon his fathers bed. A passionate fight ensues as she grabs a knife and he fends her off, eventually straggling her with a chain that was around her neck. He's crushed and Peter does an excellent job of conveying those raw emotions. Tyrion glimpses a cross-bow upon his fathers wall and the neck scene is Tyrion walking through the halls. When he pushes a door open we see Tywin upon the privy. Tywin tries his best to persuade Tyrion to go back to his chambers so that they can discuss things more civil. Tyrion will have none of it and runs two arrows through him. I think the scene was great and very similar to the book - however, what I missed was Tyrion's line (in the book) after he shot his father. He commented how the rumors are false, that the Lannister's don't shit gold (or something along those lines). When Varys (The Spider) puts Tyrion on the boat, he hears Kings Landing bells start to toll. He makes the decision to join Tyrion and not go back into the city - especially since he has helped in Tyrion's escape.

Brienne catches up to Arya and interrupts her practicing with Needle. They share a nice moment where they are comparing being women within their worlds with the desire to fight. Then The Hound interrupts their interlude when Brienne figures out that she's Arya. She tells her to come with her, but Arya is hesitant. The Hound confronts her and they begin to battle. This was an excellent scene and they both fought hard. In the end Brienne wins knocking The Hound over a cliff. When Brienne asks Podrick where Arya went, she's not within their view as she slips away. She catches up with The Hound below who is slowly dying from his injuries. He tries everything he can to try to get Arya to end his suffering, she walks over to him, removes his coin purse from his side and walks away. Arya arrives at a dock and receives her passage to Braavos (this is where the episode fades to black and we're left wanting for season 5 already).

Inside Episode 10 - The Children

Would you have granted The Hounds request?

Links

Official HBO Game of Thrones Site

Official George R. R. Martin Site

Game of Thrones on IMDb.com

Game of Thrones 4.9

The Watchers on the Wall

**Possible Spoilers Below**

If you don't care for the plots concerning the Night's Watch, then you'll be highly disappointed in this episode - it was all about the attack on The Wall. I'm not saying it's a bad episode, it's not. If you've read the books then you'll know the inevitable. In the beginning it mostly focused on Sam and him coming to terms with his feelings for Ginny. When she shows up at the Night's Watch gate, he demands the guard to let her in and proclaims that he'll never leave her side again... just to leave her side again... because a warning horn bellows in the black nights air - the attack has started.

That moment when what you've been saying all along is about to happen - Shit just got real...

Meanwhile, on the other side of the wall Ygritte explains how she is a killing machine and when she's called out, she holds her own - telling them that if Jon Snow had survived she would kill him, that he was hers and she would reach him before anyone else. But, much like life, things don't happen as we plan or expect them to. They begin their assault on the wall and actually break through and the battle begins.

A great night for a climb - Tormound leads the charge here

What really infuriated me, was this is suppose to be a great defensive strategic implementation force for their realm and it seemed like they took forever to get the ball rolling. Alliser Thorne (who is suppose to be in charge) leaves the wall to lead the men below since the wildlings have broken through. However, he gets hit and is immediately taken inside (no doubt-ably to treat his wounds). He leave another Brother Black in charge who turns out to be a complete imbecile and coward... when he leaves Jon is in charge of the wall and he does o.k. 

Jon stands behind the coward - which in Night's Watch strategy implicates that he is next in line to lead the battle...

The main gate is in trouble, after a Mammoth and two giants starts trying to get it to open, Jon sends his next in command down to hold the gate. Meanwhile, Jon's strategies help to get rid of the Mammoth and one of the giants. In a rage, the other giant manages to open the iron gate and proceeds toward the inner gate of the wall where there are men stations (the one's that Jon sent to hold the gate) they begin to recite the Night's Watch pledge as the giant runs toward the inner gate where they draw their swords to meet their fates.

The Giant makes his way into The Wall's inner gate

There is a lot of blood shed, but Sam manages to make it up the wall to tell Jon that reinforcements are needed below. Jon puts another in charge and leaves with men to go hold the helm. I loved the sequence of Jon fighting with his sword, a real force. He also tells Sam to release Ghost - loved that scene too. Then, he meets the bald crazy guy and they go at it, Jon's sword gets knocked from his hand as the big dude busts up on him. Snow's able to get his hands on a hammer that he busts the bald guys head open with. 

Jon's training comes in handy while he slashes through the enemy

Ygritte - fierce with her bow and arrow

But! Ygritte is there ready with her bow in queue toward Jon. He gives her a knowing smile as an arrow pierces through her. A young boy (originally from a village the wildlings had attacked) shot and killed her. Jon held her in his arms as her life slipped away from her. She spoke of their time in the cave and she said they should have stayed there. Jon has to leave her, the fight isn't over yet. 

The Brother's Black have managed to surround Tormound with three or four arrows in him, Jon adds one to his knee dropping him to the ground. Snow orders them to chain him up as he proceeds out of the Castle Black toward Mance Ryder. Sam pleads with him not to do this, but Jon doesn't see any other way. They find the scene of their brother's who held the giant off and Jon states that they held the gate and orders the bodies to be burned. He proceeds out the gate as a white light takes us to the cut scene. My words were - bullshit! While I understand the battle could take an entire episode, I don't think this one was managed well. IF they're going to follow the books - I don't know how they're going to stuff everything into the season finale next week. Unless they prolong the happenings of King's Landing until next season - which is stupid... I would expect something to happen next week between Tyrion and Tywin. But, now we have to wait all week for the finale... and then how much longer until the next season... wait, watch and wonder.

Finale - The Children

Links

The Official HBO Game of Thrones Site

Game of Thrones on IMDb.com

So, if you've read the books - isn't this about the time Stannis arrives? Do you think this is the direction HBO is going to take? What are your thoughts?

Game of Thrones 4.8

THE MOUNTAIN AND THE VIPER

Not to be misunderstood, I always refer to Cersei Lannister as a viper. In this episode the viper refers to The Red Viper who is Prince Oberyn Martell. Oberyn entered the trial by combat for Tyrion Lannister; he saw this as his chance to get into the ring to go head-to-head with the man that brutally murdered his sister, the Mountain. The Mountain was chosen by Cersei Lannister for the trail by combat against her brother Tyrion, who is on trial because she believes he killed her son.  So, the day has come and after a lengthy discussion between brothers Tyrion and Jaime Lannister about a cousin that loved to smash beetles, the trial by combat is ready to commence.  Tyrion gets to see Oberyn before the battle; he isn't wearing any armor and is drinking - to which Tyrion disproved of. He had hoped he would at least be wearing a helmet - but I don't believe that could have saved his fate. 

How cocky Oberyn was, I knew it wasn't going to end well. I don't care if you did earn the name The Red Viper, in a battle to the death you can't get too comfortable. But, Oberyn was there on a different mission. He was there to revenge his sisters brutal death by The Mountain. He wanted him to confess to raping her, to murdering her, and murdering her children. The Mountain looked like a mountain of armor with muscles and a sword. Oberyn had a long stick with a spear head at the end (I believe the weapon was something like a pike). During the battle Oberyn was able to dance, duck, and weave through the Mountains advances and getting some great hits in of his own. Toward the end of the battle Oberyn, as he escalated in the demand of a confession, he was able to use the head of his weapon to slash at the Mountain taking him down. However, he was to cocky and didn't want the Mountain to die until he got his confession. 

I couldn't watch the whole scene as the Mountain hit Oberyn, knocking out most of his teeth. The Mountain then was on top of Oberyn confessing to what he had done as he pushing his thumbs into his eye sockets. He used his hands and was telling him that he crushed her head in "just like this" as he did just that. His whore was on the side lines and she screams, as Cersei and Tywin Lannister looked thrilled of the outcome. Tywin himself didn't waste any time in announcing the outcome of the trial by combat and announcing that Tyrion (his son) is guilty and would die. Jaime, who had been impressed (I think) by Oberyn's skills during the fight and was happy too when it seemed that Oberyn would win. Now, the brothers who had been remonising about their cousin who loved to smash beetles, now the realization of Tyrion's appending death is before them.

IN OTHER NEWS

Sansa Stark seems to be going through some form of transformation, probably resulting form an influential Little Finger. Peter seems to be on some sort of trial for his wife's death. Last week he had pushed her to her death. Sansa being the only witness is called upon to give her testimony. She is very convincing to the judges and is able to manipulate them into believing that her Aunt committed suicide. Now, Peter convinces the jury that her son Robin of the Vale, should go and see all his land and experience life more. I don't know what his motive is for this... But, there is a very interesting scene when he is seeing Robin off and explaining how everyone has to die, for him not to fear death but to live... when Sansa entering catches his eyes. She's dressed very differently, with more of an edge, and she is apparently joining their journey.

Meanwhile The Hound and Arya finally reach The Bloody Gate, near The Vale or the Eerie where Sansa is (or presumed to be at this point) and the guard at the gate inform the Hound that Arya's Aunt it dead. The Hound was bringing Arya there for a ransom. He had been banking on this money. When this thought was literally fleeing from his eyes as the new information was processing, Arya brakes out in fits of laughter that echoes through the bloody gates eerily.  

The Queen Daeneryn has to deal with a betrayal. A scroll arrives in town, it is the royal pardon for Mormont, who was originally sent by King Baratheon to spy on her. He tries to plead with her explaining himself, but she feels betrayed and wants no part of it. She banishes him  and tells him to go run back with his royal pardon, if they'll still honor it. She gives him until sun down to collect his things and leave. She also informs him that if he is still around he will be killed and beheaded.

The segment that I had no joy in watching was Theon Greyjoy being instructed by psychotic boy. Theon returns to his home where this is a horrible sickness or plague. He is there on behalf of the house of Bolton, the house that captured him. Of course they torture and kill everyone, I'm just thankful that we didn't have to witness any of that psychotic behavior. Instead, we get to see the remains of the man that helped Theon gained the castle's trust; he now has been skinned and is dead on a spike. Psychotic boy is rewarded by his father who proclaims him no longer a Snow, he is now officially a Bolton and ward or ruler of the North.

The Wildlings attacked Mole Town, news traveled fast and now Sam is scared that the woman he sent there is now dead. However, his brothers explain that she has survived so much, that they are sure she was able to hide and survived the raid. I'm so anxious for the wildling red-head to catch back up with Jon Snow - yikes! So now Castle Black know they're next, the Wildlings are coming for them.

Can you believe there are only two more episodes left in this season!

Next Episode: The Watchers on the Wall

Links

Official HBO Game of Thrones Site

Game of Thrones on IMDb.com

Game of Thrones 4.7

MOCKINGBIRD

Here we are again... because of the fillers the show ends before you know it and just when it's getting good! Another disappointment, the next episode is in two weeks! The lulls in this episode drive me crazy, a dying man took way too long to die. And the Red Witch - is she really even relevant anymore? Well, besides showing her breasts and body naked... It wouldn't be an episode of Game of Thrones without showing some skin! 

The Trail at King's Landing

Prince Oberyn tells his tail of his first encounter
with the Lannister Devil

Poor Tyrion! He's brilliant and one of my favorite characters so his pain is our pain and I just feel horrible for him. Jaime, of course comes to Tyrion and they're talking things over and explains that he can't be Tyrion's champion. If you missed last weeks episode - Tyrion proclaimed a trial by combat - because of the farce that was being performed for his trial. He decided to let the gods decide his fate. So, Jaime said he was in no shape to fight for him and also informs Tyrion who Cersei has called upon - The Mountain. Which, if memory serves me correctly, The Mountain is The Hounds older sadistic brother. But never fear - Oberyn is here! The prince visits Tyrion in his cell. The scene between them is brilliant - sad - but, brilliant. Oberyn tells Tyrion of their first encounter, from when he was a baby and of Cersei's mistreatment of him, even then. They both know that she has wanted Tyrion dead for a very long time. The Prince also explains to Tyrion that everyone he wants to kill for his sister's revenge is there. He stands up and proclaims that he will be Tyrion's champion (!!!) hair raising moment - yay!

News From the Black Wall

Jon Snow and the others arrive back at The Wall after the completion of the mission. Last week they left in an attempt to clear an area that was a problem. When they returned, at a meeting Jon gives a suggestion to help secure their positions for the inevitable attack that is approaching. However, the head guy who is opposed to everything when it comes to Jon, of course, retaliates against Jon's claim. The substitute leader there is really getting under my armor. He's such a twat. This is about where I stopped reading the books, so I really don't know what's to come for the Brothers. My opinion is that they would be better suited if Jon was in charge though. Don't you? 

Catching the Eye of the Queen

Daenerys is shocked to find one of her soldiers in her private chambers. He has brought her flowers an has explained how he swam a long distance to pick them for her. But, she shows no interest. Her only interest is why he is in her private chambers as she explains to him that if she wanted him she would have had him summoned. He implores to her, explaining how he is only good at two things (women and fighting) and that he must be sent to kill her enemies. She explains her position to him, and further explains that there are many women that he can enjoy. But, he further explains that he only wants one woman. With a cool sip from her cup, she orders him to strip (HOT!). We can only presume what they did after that. There is another great scene with Daenerys and her left-hand man Lord Mormont, where he is counseling her on her decisions and she changes the strategy of the mission. 

A Day in the Life of Arya Stark

Arya introduces Needle to someone from her past...

I mentioned the man that took forever to die - this was when The Hound and Arya happen upon a burnt house. The place is totally destroyed and they come upon a man that has a fatal gut wound. The Hound already knows what he has to do, but the dialogue was about nothing. Finally The Hound stabs the man in the heart to ease his suffering informing Arya "That's where the heart is". Out of nowhere a crazy man jumps on the back of The Hound biting his neck! He makes quick work of him before another man appears and explains that there is a price on the Hound's head. Arya recognizes the man and in a good scene, she utilizes what The Hound had just taught her. When he's trying to care for his wounds, he explains to Arya about his brother, how his brother burnt his face and his family covered for his brother. Arya takes some pity on him and helps him dress his bite wound.

Sansa the Snow Queen

Shit's about to get real...

I somewhat remember reading the scene when Sansa sees the falling snow at The Erie. She's been at King's Landing for so long, she was raised in snow, it must bring back so many memories. She builds Winterfell to the best of her memory when her cousin joins the party. They have a lovely chat about making those that don't care for fly and he exclaims that she has to have a place at Winterfell that works as their hole in the ground at the Erie does (where they push people to their deaths - otherwise known as making them fly). So, crazy boy attempts to make the addition when he knocks over a bit of the snow castle (Winterfell) and Sansa seems pissed that she has to start all over. They have a tiff and Sansa ends up smacking the kid. He runs off crying as she realizes what she just did. Little Finger is close and explains that he has been needing that discipline for a long, long time. In a very awkward moment after talking about how much he loved her mother, he kisses her... of course her crazy aunt sees this. The whole time Sansa is walking into the throne room at The Erie (where the hole in the floor is) I kept saying don't go near your Aunt! But, once she got her claws into her niece she let her crazy flag fly and was screaming how everyone that has come between her and Peter are dead. He interrupts their little party, promising his wife (Sansa's Aunt, so her Uncle kissed her) that he would send Sansa away. When he gets close to his wife, he tells her how he's only loved one woman his entire life - her sister (Sansa's Mother) and pushes her out the hole to her inevitable death! The End! 

In Two Weeks: The Mountain and the Viper

Ep. 38: Preview

Links

HBO Official Game of Thrones Website

Game of Thrones on IMDb.com

Game of Thrones 4.6

The Laws of Gods and Men

This way by far my least favorite episode of the season. The only thing that I did like was Tyrion and Daenerys, the rest could go take a flying leap for all I cared. It seemed like such a slow episode - I actually thought while watching it - "really?". The season started out so strong and the first couple of episodes were stellar. Too bad they couldn't keep that momentum going. Basically, Stannis Baratheon went to Bravos to get some money to fund his quest for the iron throne. While Theron Greyjoys sister raided to try to rescue him, but he was so brainwashed the mission was a failure. She leaves proclaiming that her brother is dead. Meanwhile, his captor - crazy man - tells him he has a special mission.  These are my two least story boards, both I consider useless fillers and the strategic use of naked women and sex proved to me the lack of writing ability for this episode.

Queens Rule

Image captured via Google search

Daenerys is upon her throne in Meereen; there was a great scene with her Drago Dragon taking a sheep from a herder. When the herder came to Meereen to present his problem to his Queen, she justly said that since the goats were his livelihood, that she would pay him three times what the goats her dragons consumed, were worth. She's doing a great job as queen - and is further proven so when a son of one of the men she crucified came to her requesting for his burial rights. She was so drained after that encounter, however she had a couple hundred more to see. Who ever said being queen is easy?

Tyrion on Trial

It's been highly anticipated and now it's begun. It was dreadful watching all the manipulators giving testimony against Tyrion. It's further proof that you can take anything and when taken out of context can be manipulated to what they want it to be. They were all obviously against Tyrion and all pointed their finger at him as Joffrey's killer. Through this torture of his father leading the trial, his sister actually accusing him, and all the people that have testified - Tywin calls for a break.  During the break Jaime tries to talk their father into letting Tyrion live. I vaguely remember this from the books. Tywin then tells Jaime that he plans on sending Tyrion to The Wall... Jaime has just enough time to inform Tyrion of the plans before court is back in session. I couldn't help feel that this is all a huge set-up. Tywin and Cersei knew that they could tell Jaime this and he would tell his brother - convincing Tyrion to confess to being guilty to receive the sentence to The Wall... however, if I remember right - it doesn't happen this way. The knife that is twisted into Tyrion is when Shae takes the stand and completely shits all over him. BUT - as we all know Dinklage who portrays Tyrion is absolutely an amazing actor and he never fails. When he's had enough of Shae's lies - he interjects and delivers a great speech - which of course was shocking - and that's where the episode ended. He basically said while he didn't kill his nephew, he's glad that it happened and that if he could he would happily kill everyone partaking in the farce of a trial. 

Next Episode: Mockingbird

Ep. 37: Preview

Links

HBO Game of Thrones

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Game of Thrones 4.5

First of His Name

I apologize that this posting is so late. Usually I try to post shortly after Game of Thrones originally airs. However, life can get in the way at times. Nevertheless, here we are, the fifth episode into the fourth season of the highly acclaimed and talked about series... where we have been told "All Men Must Die" and we're learning the fate within the motto "Valar Morghulis". As well, I felt that this episode was more filler, low-key, compared to other episodes this season. By far, it has been awesome and I'm looking forward to the remaining episodes and what winter is bringing along with them...

Coronation of the New King

Tommen, little brother to the well despised and late King Joffrey, is filling those big shoes. I get a better feeling with Tommen being on the iron throne, my only concern is his grandfather and mother's influences. Something that surprised me in this episode was Cersei's seemingly submissions. I say seemingly because you never know what that viper has in store or what she's plotting for. That being said, there were two instances within the episode that struck me as alarming. One, Tommen's coronation; while Margeary, from the House Tyrell and High Garden, has her sights set on being queen - she locks eyes with Tommen during his coronation and who interupts the seductive stares between Tommen and Margeary but Cersei. I thought for sure she was going to spit out more venom, instead she proclaims that her son will need someone to help him. I think she is readying for her departure; she is to marry Margeary's brother (who prefers men). Margeary exclaims with excitement to Cersei about the upcoming weddings:

"I wouldn't know what to call you... sister... or mother..." Margeary Tyrell

The other instance was when Cersei asks Prince Oberyn to walk around the garden. Again, I was expecting venom - it was rather civil and full of emotion - or what would pass for emotion for Cersei. Toward the end of their conversation she is speaking to Oberyn about her daughter, who has been in his families care. She was originally sent away because of the war under Joffrey's reign. Now with Cersei inevitable nuptials she fears she'll never see her daughter again. She asks Oberyn for a favor, she had a ship built for her daughter and he vows to have it delivered safely to his ward. I was actually touched that she demonstrated such emotion. Of course, it all could just be pawns in her ever changing plots... we'll just have to wait and see. I haven't read this far into the books. I think I have mentioned before that I lost interest in the books. For me, they're hard to read because I lose interest - I like to invest in characters - and the style of writing isn't particularly my favorite either. I have a hard time caring about the constant introduction of new houses and characters. I know it's a huge realm and there is a lot going on, but I only cared about reading about the characters I was invest in - my bad.

Catching Up With the Stark Clan

Sansa is now in the clutches of probably the most powerful man, Little Finger. I say this because we learn in this episode that it was him Petyr Baelish that calculated the war, manipulating the crazy Lysa Arryn (Aunt to the remaining Stark children and Lady to The Eyrie). Petyr and Sansa finally arrive at The Red Gate where he explained to Sansa the difficulties of infiltrating The Eyrie through The Red Gate. The progression continues to Lysa as she welcomes them and urges Petyr for their marriage - proclaiming that she has done everything Petyr has asked of her; poisoning her husband to frame the Lannisters... I do remember reading this in the books. Petyr is only using Crazy Lysa, he's been playing her all along, his real sights is on Sansa - which drives Lysa further into crazy town. As well, we are reintroduced to the product of Crazy Lysa's womb, Robin. During a crazy interrogation between Lysa and Sansa, Lysa is accusing Sansa of sleeping with Petyr. Sansa repeatedly tells her crazy aunt that she's still a virgin, but Lysa persists that Sansa's lying. She eventually lets go of Sansa and explains to her that she will marry her son - not good news for Sansa. 

Brandon is still a prisoner along with Hodor and the Reed Duo. Jojen Reed, who has visions, explains to Bran that he is meant for more and they discuss his quest; he must go to a sacred tree, even if this means missing his chance to reunite with his half-brother Jon Snow (that tore me up!) However, their fate seems less likely when the vile men of the camp come in to reinstate their interrogations. They start by terrorizing Mera Reed, however Jojen explains he has a gift and states their fate. Just in time - you hear a far off warning of someone proclaiming that the Black Brotherhood has arrived to strike down their camp. This gives the perfect diversion for the troupe to escape and set forth toward the tree that Bran has to get to.

Meanwhile, Jon Snow and the mean that have volunteered (including the spy Locke) are engaging in their plan to strike out at the encampment. Locke had previously scoped out the camp warning Jon to steer clear of a certain tent, he states because of chained up dogs, however this is the tent that Bran and his people are tied up in. However, Locke doesn't survive the battle. Jon never did see Bran, he was too busy with staying alive. However, Bran instructed for Summer and Ghost, Bran and Jon's Dire Wolves to be released from their imprisonment as well. There is a great scene at the end of the battle when Jon is reunited with Ghost. With Ghost by his side again, he'll make for a fierce leader.

Arya and the Hound are still on the road. I loved the scene between them two because at times it's comical. While the Hound is suppose to be this big 'bad ass', I love his warm heart... way deep down. He seems to have a soft spot for the Stark daughters. He saved Sansa more than once during Joffrey's terror, and now he's protecting Arya and caring for her as well - however polar opposites they are. I think the Hound likes the fire that is within Arya too - he knows she's a fighter and he can relate to that. When he wakes during this episode and Arya isn't near him he has a short panic before he finds her 'dancing' with her needle (her sword). They have words - she is loyal and devoted to the man that taught her, while the Hound proclaims the idiocy of her claims. He can teach her how to truly fight and prepare for battle.  

Where is the youngest Stark? Does anyone know?

In Other News

Brienne of Tarth has set out with Tyrion's Squire, Podrick Payne. These scene are hilarious - she is a woman, and within the realm a woman is suppose to have certain attributes that Brienne would probably find useless. This Lady of Tarth would rather done armor, protect, and fight for the right cause then to submit, wear dresses, and pretend through out her life. She is not stranger to life on the rough roads, as she survived bringing Jaime Lannister back through treacherous circumstances. So, when she sees the naivety of her newly, forced upon her, squire - she's nearly non-tolerant. This proves when Podrick is trying to cook the rabbit for them to eat... without stripping the animal of it's fur... inevitably, the fur caught fire. Brienne questions his experience and learns that he has been glorified through his position with Tyiron in the past, only having to do minimal work. She gives into this new alliance and before when she was defiant against his help, she relaxes more once they start talking and she lets him help her.  

The Ruling Queen

Daenerys and her committee are discussing the possible attack upon Kings Landing. How many she has fighting for her cause, how many ships; the strategies that they currently possess. However, through her counsel she learns that she needs to now focus on ruling her people, not necessarily the acquisitions of her ultimate goal of taking back her family claim of Kings Landing. Meanwhile, Kings Landing has also gotten word of her up rise... what do you think? Did they make the right call? Now Kings Landing will have time to rebuild and restock. Should they have attacked while they're defenses are still healing from Joffrey's war?  "I will do what Queens do... I will rule" Daenerys Targaryen

Next Episode: The Laws of Gods and Men

Ep. 36 Preview

Links

Official Game of Thrones HBO Site

IMDb.com Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones 4.4

Oathkeeper

I'd love to hear what you'all are thinking about this season so far! I think it has been an amazing season and it's definitely helping me get through my Sunday's without The Walking Dead. Plus, HBO is (as far as I can tell) staying true to the books as well. I'd also love to know if you've read the books, if you prefer the books, the show, or maybe you just love it all. Personally, I started reading the books but couldn't finish them. I would skim through the pages to the characters I love and eventually I was lost and uninterested in the new characters. If you are new to my blog, there are inevitably spoilers. If you whine or cry, the rules here are that you will be fed to the Direwolves. If you don't know what they are than you have no business reading about the show anyway. That being said - on to the fourth episode of season four - Oathkeeper. (P.S. if that sounded a little too sassy - I apologize. No one will be fed to wolves of any form. Today's my birthday and I'm feeling a little saucy)

Kill the Masters

Missandei is tutoring "Grey Worm" with his vocabulary and he asked her where she came from, and other things when Daenerys interrupts to inform them that "It's time." Her soldiers have all dressed as Maareen slaves and make their way into the city and crash a slave meeting. Grey Worm talks to the slaves about the Mother of Dragons and how if they want freedom that they must take it. The slaves of Maareen are scared because they have no training in battle and no weapons. The soldiers then reveal what they had carried into the city - swords. Grey Worm continues to tell the slaves that they number the masters three to one. The next scene a master is walking in the streets of Maareen when he comes across the writing on the wall "Kill the Masters" he is then surrounded by the slaves and presumed slaughtered. The next scene is of Daenerys walking through the broken-chains-of-the-slaves littered streets surrounded by the slave children. She orders the 'masters' that were not killed to be crucified as they had done to the slaves they encountered on their way to the city. When Daenerys asks Mormont how many, he answers her "163" - but her other counselor suggests a more merciful means. Daenerys replies to him "I will answer injustice with justice." 

Meanwhile @ Kings Landing

Jaime is having his lesson with Bronn and just when Jaime thinks he's gaining on Bronn - as his clever smirk gives him away - Bronn immediately reminds him of why he's getting these lessons by grabbing his golden hand and hitting him with it. When they are taking a break from the excursion of their choreographed routines, Jaime asks Bronn if he thinks Tyrion killed Joffrey. Bronn explains to him that poisoning isn't Tyrion's thing and that he doesn't think he did it. He also explains to him how Bronn and Tyrion first met. When Tyrion had to call on a Champion - how he originally called for Jaime to be his champion - but since this couldn't be negotiated at the time, Bronn stepped in to be his champion. He also explained that Tyrion knew Jaime would ride all day and all night to fight for his brother... then he asks Jaime "are you going to fight for him now?" 

Cersei is a venomous viper without alcohol, multiply that venom when she's been drinking... Jaime visits Cersei who is more than ready with her rants and hidden rage. She interrogates Jaime about how Catelyn Stark freed him. He explained to her that she wanted her daughter back - that he promised her if he returned and her daughters were at King's Landing and alive, he swore that he would return them to her. Cersei redirects her aim to Sansa and attempts to manipulate her brother into going after Sansa Stark to bring her back. When Jaime first entered her chamber, she asked him how many guards were at Tomlin's door. Tomlin is her only remaining son and soon-to-be King. He explains that there is a guard at his door. She's dissatisfied and states how their security measures didn't protect Joffrey - before he leaves she demands four guards to be posted at his door at all times.

Jaime finally visits Tyrion in his prison cell, brother-to-brother they discuss their different confinement positions. Jaime explained to Tyrion how when he had been a prisoner his conditions were worse... trying to find the upside to his brother's imprisonment. He asks what he can do for his brother and Tyrion half-joking but seriously suggests setting him free. Jaime explains how he can't do this because then he would be on the chopping block as well. Tyrion explains how his own father has wanted him dead and Cersei won't rest until he's dead too - basically that his trial will only be their pawn for his execution. 

Brienne is reading from the book about Jaime's accomplishments. Jaime then presents her with the sword his father had made from Ned Starks sword. But his gifts come with a favor, he wants her to find Sansa Stark, and she agrees to do so to also honor Lady Catelyn. Jaime also gives her a new set of armor. It's such a touching scene. We know she cares for him, and you feel he cares for her too... but I feel that he can't act on anything because one; he has this twisted relationship with his sister and he believes he loves her, and second; I think he knows if Cersei found out she would have Brienne killed. Jaime tells Brienne that he has another surprise for her. This was a funny scene because it cuts to Tyrions squire who has a hilarious expression on his face. Jaime knows he'll be safe with Brienne and he can keep her company during her quest. Bronn is there as well and gifts the Squire with a gift from Tyrion himself; his battle axe. Another great scene as the squire is admiring the ax Bronn says something like "go on, kiss it" - it was funny. Jaime tells Brienne that all good swords have names, he asks her what she'll name hers, and she replies Oathkeeper.

In High Garden society there in Kings Landing, Olenna Tyrell and her granddaughter Margaery Tyrell take a turn in the garden again. Which Olenna explains that if she has to walk through Kings Landing gardens again she's likely to throw herself from a cliff. This is a great scene because she reveals to Margaery that she did have something to do with the Kings death. She also explains how she secured her position with marriage to her grandfather. She explains how she was good at manipulation and seduction to get what she wants, and how Margaery is even better. Later that night Margaery sneaks into Tomlin's chambers while he's attempting to go to sleep. Imagine being a young teenage male and this beautiful woman shows up and is slightly seducing you... it's kind of creepy to think of her putting any moves on him, while it's cute and a little comical to see him reacting to her. She makes him promise that these visits will be their little secret before she leaves.

Catching Up with the Stark Family

Jon Snow is trying to train new recruits, especially with the oncoming threats. However, the Chief in Charge until they choose a new leader is harsh with Jon - telling him to go find a pot to clean or something - just belittling him in front of his friends. Meanwhile there is a danger within their midst. The guy, who he introduced himself as Lock... he's trying to gain trust with Jon... he eavesdrops on Jon and Sam as they are trying to figure out where Bran could possible be. Later, Jon is selected to go on a mission outside of the walls and he is instructed he can only take men if they volunteer. When he addresses them, about five men volunteered (I think). Lock also volunteered (yikes). I think this also showed them how many men would side with Jon. I stopped reading the books - so I don't know! I really hope Jon becomes the new Chief for Castle Black... if Castle Black survives the battle that's coming. 

Meanwhile Sansa is trapped on a boat with Little Finger... who gives me the creeps!! He is a master manipulator... He explains to Sansa how she was (indirectly) involved with Joffrey's death - although he makes it sound like she killed him... obviously because he wants to scare her into submission. Meaning, if she thinks she is involved with killing the King she'll need protection, and he believes he's just the man for that job. He wants Sansa for himself and he sends her that message. When Sansa asks him where he's taking her, he explains that he's to marry her aunt (the crazy one) and how she'll be safe there. Which I believe in the book her aunt gets super crazy and Little Finger kills her somehow (pushing her out a window) ??? Which, we know she's crazy - but, it'll still be fun to see how these scenes play out. Of course Little Finger wants to do away with her Aunt - it's all strategy!!

We didn't see Arya Stark this episode, but we did get to see Bran and his troupe of misfits. Which tie into another scene involving a very foul and sadistic character. I believe they have taken over Manse Rayder's camp (please correct me if I'm wrong). They are also taking advantage of all of the women there. What's Game of Thrones on HBO without some sex scenes - right? I get it - sex sells. Whatever. I can't concentrate on what characters are saying when there is some guy in the background going to town on someone... it's really distracting. Anyway. The self-proclaimed leader of this group tells someone to 'go feed the beast' - after his putrid diarrhea of the mouth and elderly woman enters the camp and proclaims that the baby she's holding was Mance's. The women begin to change something about sacrifice... which I'm sure they all have had their babies sacrificed. The new leader states he's not one to break tradition and instructs the baby to be taken to the White Walkers for sacrifice. The guy obeys and upon returning to the camp taunts Ghost = Jon's direwolf that they have in a cage. 

Bran and his group hear the baby crying - Bran uses his abilities through Summer (his direwolf). I just want to say I am so happy to see the direwolves!! Love them. Anyway, Bran uses Summer as he's tracking the baby he hears Ghost and changes directions. He sees Ghost trapped - then gets trapped himself. When Bran comes out of the trance he tells his group what happened. They want to leave but Bran states that he's not leaving without Summer. They are close to Mance's camp when they are discovered and taken prisoner. As the vulgar leader is interrogating them, he knows Bran is highborn, he can tell by his clothes, but he doesn't know who he is. He tries to get it out of the brother and sister, but then the brother starts to have some sort of seizure. Desperately, trying to help the situation, Bran yells out his name, revealing who he is... uh oh! What I really hated about this scene was that Hodor was being taunted by the men in the camp viciously, and they ended up stabbing him in the leg = boo!!

The Creation of White Walkers

At the end of the episode you see a White Walker upon his dead horse and bundled in his arms is the baby that Mance's camp left out to sacrifice. The baby isn't crying anymore and seems content. The rider comes to an alter. Around the ice cylinder alter are slabs of roughly cut ice as well. It gives you the eerie feeling that it could be the sacrificial place that all the babies arrived at. Then, off in the distance (through the ice) we see a wall of White Walkers standing. The middle Walker begins his journey forth toward the baby, lying uncomfortably upon the ice alter. When he reaches the alter, he takes the baby in his hands... placing his dead nail upon the baby's cheek... the baby is transformed, his eyes turn the ice crystallized blue as the Walkers... and that's where they leave us until next week.

What's to come... Next Episode First of His Name

Ep. 35: Preview

Links

HBO Official Game of Thrones Site

IMDb.com Game of Thrones