Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon!

[Shlup]

Renly named his kingsguard the Rainbow Guard and made each of them a different color of the rainbow, lead by the Knight of Flowers.

LOL forever :squee:

[Araciel]

Next up in book two: more Catlyn stupidity!

O yeah... :S

[NorthernChaosGod]

Renly named his kingsguard the Rainbow Guard and made each of them a different color of the rainbow, lead by the Knight of Flowers.

LOL forever :squee:
I don't think that it was written as some sort of allusion to being gay. Last I had heard it was because there's already white for the Kingsguard and black for the Night's Watch.

[Bunny]

Very good season finale.

From the beginning, I was very worried that the dragons would look too CGI or fake and stupid. I'm glad that they made them look both adorable and ferocious though.

I want one or ten.

[Shlup]

Renly named his kingsguard the Rainbow Guard and made each of them a different color of the rainbow, lead by the Knight of Flowers.

LOL forever :squee:
I don't think that it was written as some sort of allusion to being gay. Last I had heard it was because there's already white for the Kingsguard and black for the Night's Watch.

I am aware of that. Doesn't make it less funny.

Waiting for BJ so I can watch episode 10. :mymelbert:

[Carl the Llama]

Waiting for BJ so I can watch episode 10. :mymelbert:

You shouldn't wait, its so awesome you could like, watch it twice lol.

[McLovin']

Sexy Bearded Man: "Blood of my blood..."

Dragon: *ROAAAAAARRRRRR!*

Pretty damn epic.

Can anyone who read the next book tell me some cool things to look forward to in the next season? But please don't spoil the whole damn thing.

[Ouch!]

As you might expect from the dragons and the wights, magic begins to take a more prominent role in the series.

Also, regarding the Rainbow Guard. While Martin has confirmed that Renly is gay (which is so much more subtle in the books, of course), he insists that the Rainbow Guard is reflective of the Seven. The rainbow is important religious symbolism for the Seven.

[Shlup]

The rainbow thing will not be made any less funny no matter how many rational reasons there are for it.

[Raistlin]

Yeah, if it was unintentional, that just makes it more funny. And Martin oblivious.

[NorthernChaosGod]

Rainbows aren't gay in Westeros. :colbert:

[Carl the Llama]

Rainbows aren't gay in Westeros. :colbert:

Unless they are Renly's Rainbows xD


Can anyone who read the next book tell me some cool things to look forward to in the next season? But please don't spoil the whole damn thing.

Book 2 is soooo much better then book 1 to me atleast, book 1 was just the coarse groundwork for the epicness that is books 2 and 3, and of corse Bran takes a more prominent roll in book 2... I think.

[Ouch!]

Bran doesn't stop dithering until book three.

[Freya]

Natalie Dormer has been cast play Margaery Tyrell. She's Loras's sister.

http://winter-is-coming.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/natalie-dormer.jpg

If any of you watched the Tudors, she was Anne Boleyn. I think she's also suppose to be in the new captain america movie.

[Shlup]

I loved her in the Tudors.

[NorthernChaosGod]

She has a weird face.

[Araciel]

She has a weird face and is making a duckface.

[Shlup]

I like her face.

[Freya]

I like her face.

I like your face :mad2: oh wait... yeah I like her face too.

[Araciel]

I like her face when she's not smiling like that.

[Shlup]

http://i.imgur.com/m0M6S.gif

[AngelWings8]

I want a pure white direwolf AND a dragon! :D

I haven't read the books yet, but I have seen all the episodes so far. I LOVE Emilia Clarke!!! I'm so glad she was recast as Daenerys. She's gorgeous!

34495

[Rostum]

I just started watching this. Love it! It's really awesome.

I've never read the books and probably never will. I am way too restless to read books, I always feel like I need to be doing something productive (which is why I can't sit down and play a game for more than an hour these days). But I did find audio books for all books so maybe I'll try that while I work.

[Rantz]

Finally watched this. Did the season in two days. Loved the tit out of it and I can't wait for the next one. Some blatant shockers, especially seeing as I got way too excited about the show to pace myself until I'd finished the book. The storytelling is brilliant and even though there are a lot of proper horrible moments I'm glad they braved through them instead of throwing in some deus ex machina.

Favourite characters HERE WE GO:
Daenerys: Some of the best acting and a really compelling character. I was unsure of her at first, but she grew on me like fungi. Last scene of the season was perfect.
Arya, Tyrion: Same as what everybody's already said. Love them to death.
Robb: A bit meh at first but towards the end he starts showing some real oomph. It's not even so much his dialogue, there's just something very compelling about his character.
Syrio: Just excellent and lovable overall. They seemed to make a point of not showing him actually die. I hope there was a reason for that beyond saving time.
Robert: lols
Honorable mention to Bran and Jon who I didn't find supremely interesting in this season but strongly feel they'll be great soon enough, Bran when he starts overcoming his disability and being the badass young lad he's clearly meant to be and Jon when he stops agonizing over his new life and goes and does adventures with it.

And a big hurrah for the impressive acting overall.

Also you guys are terrible about spoilers sometimes. "Wah wah I wanna talk freely because I watched the last episode as soon as it came out!" Well guess what whorecake, it takes five seconds to add spoiler tags under which you can talk as freely as you want. Free speech my ass, some of us are actually interested in reading spoiler-free discussion about upcoming episodes. IMAGINE THAT! :nonono: *beats you all into submission*

[Raistlin]

SNAPE KILLS DUMBLEDORE

Wait wrong book.

[NorthernChaosGod]

Also you guys are terrible about spoilers sometimes. "Wah wah I wanna talk freely because I watched the last episode as soon as it came out!" Well guess what whorecake, it takes five seconds to add spoiler tags under which you can talk as freely as you want. Free speech my ass, some of us are actually interested in reading spoiler-free discussion about upcoming episodes. IMAGINE THAT! :nonono: *beats you all into submission*
http://i56.:bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou:/141tpqo.jpg

[Shlup]

I'm on the fourth book, btw. I can't even decide which book is my favorite so far, or which character is my favorite, or even which house I want to root for. AHHH!!

[Raistlin]

Well you will definitely know which book is not your favorite after the fourth one.

Also I miss Drogo. :(

[Madame Adequate]

Ned was playing Chess, but the game was Russian Roulette.

I will watch this show for as long as Arya and Tyrion remain part of it. I will suffer anything else in their name.

[Cuchulainn]

So what does everyone make of the casting for Season 2? I auditioned 2 bew an extra...I wasn't hairy enough :(

I recently found out Liam Cunningham is playing Davos Seaworth and thought....there could not be a better actor for that role if they tried. Davos is one of my favorites from the second book.

Other castings are Nonso Anozie as Xaro Xhoan Daxos, Gwendoline Christie as the Female to male Transexual from Tarth, Natalie Dormer at Margaery Tyrell, Tom Wlaschiha as Jaqen H'ghar, Michael McElhatton as Roose Bolton & Carice van Houten as Melisandre.

Still no Blackfish or Edmure though I've heard whispers from here that Tony Curran will be Edmure.

YOUR THOUGHTS?

[The Man]

The casting for the first season was as close to perfect as I could have hoped for given the budget HBO had to work with. I don't think I know anyone they've picked for the second season roles, but I have plenty of faith that they know what they're doing. The fan reactions to several of the announcements (Gwendoline Christie as Brienne in particular) give me a lot of faith as well.

[Freya]

TO be honest I've been hella slow on reading the novels heh and just finished Clash. After I finished, I said to myself "well there is another emmy for Dinklage." I am Excited. I really want to see who they cast for the Reed Children.

Also I found a picture of Natalie with blonde hair! Maybe that'll give you a better idea of her as Margaery.

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s71/emmajstone/G251141_b.jpg

[Rantz]

Have to agree with Cuch that Liam Cunningham sounds pretty much perfect for Davos. He looks exactly like I imagined him. The rest of the casting looks good too, I'm excited!

[Cuchulainn]

He's a great actor & local too!. He was in a famous scene from a movie called 'Hunger' about IRA Hunger Strikers here in 80s, conversation between Bobby Sands & his Priest (he was the priest). It was 17 minutes long, one take. 2 men talking. Amazing.

http://youtu.be/7VbigvWhnVc

[Breine]

Haven't read any of the books, but the series is great. Can't wait to see the second season!

I hate that I have to wait so long to see it :(

[Shlup]

I am very satisfied with the casting for season two. Everyone looks perfect to me, and I'm very excited for Brienne.

I'm all caught up on the books, by the way. BJ is miffed at my reading several years worth of TV into the future.

[Cuchulainn]

Holy tit...I've only just realised that Ser Ilyn Payne is Wilco Johnson, the smurfing insane guitarist of Dr Feelgood! How did i miss that?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEzKXW8q3Dw

[Freya]

New trailer!

rOzXsqoJhtE

[Bolivar]

^ Wooooooooooooo looks good!

I'm not really worried at all about the show. This group definitely knows what they're doing. I am worried when they get to the part of the series where there's more characters than Martin knows what to do with, and most of their stories are a lot more boring than the first three novels. Or how they're even going to account for the geographically split installments.

I'm also curious if they'll start messing with the source material, like killing off characters earlier or characters who haven't been killed yet at all, just to surprise the fans who think they know it all. A small side of me wishes they would...

[escobert]

I've just started reading A Game Of Thrones. Hopefully I'll be done with it by the time the second season is out.

[Jiro]

I watched the first season this month and I have to say I enjoyed it thoroughly. I'm looking forward to the second season.

Being someone who hasn't read the books (yet) I must say they're crafting an excellent story and nearly all of the characters make me feel something!

[Bunny]

I'm also curious if they'll start messing with the source material, like killing off characters earlier or characters who haven't been killed yet at all, just to surprise the fans who think they know it all. A small side of me wishes they would.

I believe the creators of the show went on record a few months ago saying that they're going to stray a bit from the source material but won't be doing anything too damaging to the series as a whole. I could see killing of minor characters or never introducing someone that only had a small role in the books, but I'm not too worried about them killing of someone who is central to the entire story. They're also going to be splitting up books into multiple seasons in order to make up for the massive amounts of story going on at any given time, so nothing should be too wonky about it.

I'm pretty excited for the second season. The casting has been pretty spot on so far and everything I've seen or read about it just makes me more excited. And damn, can these people do teasers.

[chionos]

Can't wait. can't wait can't wait can't wait.
Great trailer.
Liam Cunningham as Davos is spot on.
As is Stannis and Brienne
Margaery's acrtress seems a little old to me, but they may doing that on purpose.
A lot of the other actors haven't ever done anything like this before so it'll be interesting to seem them in these roles (I'm thinking of the wildlings mainly).

I wonder what it would be like to watch this show without ever having read the books, like Jiro and his uncultured noob friends. I've read the books, so I know what's coming, but they're doing such a wonderful job with the acting and the pacing of the show I still feel involved as the story's progressing. Must be even more intense for someone who hasn't read the books.

I think we should start taking bets now about how many penises there will be in season 2.

[McLovin']

Did I see a killer looking Aria in there? That is awesome. I haven't read the books so seeing the tit that goes down is terribly exciting. Like when they killed Ned. My god that was insane.

[chionos]

Oh I can't wait to see Aria develop in the show. She's one of my favorite characters in the books, and the show's doing an awesome job with the character so far. Great casting for that role, just fantastic.

[Del Murder]

Loving it. I'm reading the book now, and the show is better. Martin prefers the long way to get to the point, it seems.

[NorthernChaosGod]

the show is better
:nonono:

[Freya]

Heh I like the inside info with the different perspectives when it comes to the book. You miss that in the show. Instead they have sexposition.

[Jiro]

Jiro and his uncultured noob friends

I'll slay you for this

[Freya]

Renly uninterested in a seemingly topless lady.

http://s3.amazonaws.com/data.tumblr.com/tumblr_lylfn9IaQ21r1si4po1_1280.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=AKIAJ6IHWSU3BX3X7X3Q&Expires=1328080622&Signature=zSjjUwpisTwUxknLocyx919zOKE%3D

[Shlup]

Did I see a killer looking Aria in there? That is awesome. I haven't read the books so seeing the shit that goes down is terribly exciting. Like when they killed Ned. My god that was insane.
If you think Arya's great in the show you should definitely read the books. I am so into her (not sexually).

[NorthernChaosGod]

I like how that needed to be specified.

[Freya]

IMAGES HEH

http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lylbyt1XpJ1qclvero1_500.gif

[Bolivar]

I don't know if I would say which is better, but it's definitely like The Godfather where the quality of the performances can at times outshine the source material. Although I thought the ending to Danaerys' story in GoT was absolutely heartbreaking to read, and I was horribly dreading having to experience it all over again with the show, but it really wasn't that bad.

[chionos]

Jiro and his uncultured noob friends

I'll slay you for this

Bring it on weakling. You're powerless now. You're no different than, say, Hypoallergenic Cactuar. Equal in power and uh, significance.

Show better than the books? That can't be evaluated yet. Anyone who's read the books is automatically going to be bringing something with them to the show that's not actually there yet. I have no doubt that this show, barring some monumental screw up on the producers' parts, will go down as the greatest fantasy series of all time, but whether that will make it better than the books remains to be seen.

[Freya]

It's already the second most watched show of the past year, behind true blood but before boardwalk empire. It's 3rd most watched of all time. With the sopranos in first then true blood. And GoT hasnt even reached its second season. :monster:

[Psychotic]

I want them to deviate from the books and basically have the plot be that Tyrion rules the world and all others must dance for him. Plus that horrible thing that happened at the end of GoT/Season 1 DID NOT HAPPEN :colbert:

[Cuchulainn]

There are a few things in the book that are genuinely hard to read because things are happening that you hate to characters you like. He better give us a happy ending by book 7 though. i know his form, It'd be just like the fat bearded fuck to end it all Blake 7 style. He hates happy endings (and I'm not talking about a massage wank).

Davos, Jaime, Arya & Stannis are arguably my favorite characters in the books (quite fond of great big fat Wyman Manderly & Delorus Edd Tollett but they're quite minor). Some characters I liked in the first few books I've gone off slightly as I'm easily annoyed by stubborness & arrogance (I believe that covers Jon & Tyrion nicely).

In summary, Cant wait.

valar morghulis

[chionos]

Valar Dohaeris.

[NorthernChaosGod]

Valar Dohaeris.
Was the meaning of this ever confirmed?

[Bunny]

All Men Must Serve.

Confirmed in AFFC.

[Carl the Llama]

Damn you people, why could you bring this thread up closer to the time of its release... now I know its released in April I have to wait ; ;

On the whole "The show is better" I initially had the same reaction as Julian but I after seeing the first series I am inclined to keep an open mind, how they treat Arya's and Daeny's story arcs will come to be the deciding factor.

[Bunny]

Whether or not the show is better or vice versa is inconsequential and arguments one way or another are pointless. Television and books are two entirely different mediums with differing strengths and weaknesses. I don't understand why people insist on comparing the two when they are completely incomparable.

[Del Murder]

Well I read the script and I think it's better than the books. Those stage cues are just brilliant.

[The Man]

Martin has stated that the books are going to have a "bittersweet ending". Which given what he does to his characters has me worried, since his definition of a bittersweet ending is likely to be pretty fucking depressing.

The series is not better than the books, but it might manage to be as good if it keeps up its current level of quality.

[Freya]

http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Mellisandre-and-Stannis-Baratheon-Carice-van-Houten-and-Stephen-Dillane-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
Look Mellisandre and Stannis!



http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Brienne-Gwendoline-Christie-Helen-Sloan-681x1024.jpg
Brienne!
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Jon-Snow-Kit-Harington-Oliver-Upton-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Robb-Stark-Richard-Madden-Helen-Sloan-681x1024.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Bran-Stark-and-Hodor-Issac-Hempstead-Wright-and-Kristian-Nairn-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Theon-Greyjoy-Alfie-Allen-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Renly-Baratheon-Gethin-Anthony-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Balon-Greyjoy-Patrick-Malahide-Helen-Sloan-653x1024.jpg
Balon Greyjoy!
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Cersei-Lannister-Lena-Headey-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Tyrion-Lannister-Peter-Dinklage-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Sansa-Stark-Sophie-Turner-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Joffrey-Baratheon-Jack-Gleeson-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Danereys-Targaryen-Emilia-Clarke-Helen-Sloan-1024x682.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Davos-Seaworth-Liam-Cunningham-Helen-Sloan-1024x884.jpg
Davos!
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Arya-Stark-Maisie-Williams-Helen-Sloan-1024x681.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Daenerys-Targaryen-Emilia-Clarke-Paul-Schiraldi-1024x682.jpg
http://winteriscoming.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Catelyn-Stark-Michelle-Fairley-Helen-Sloan-681x1024.jpg


Wow. Brienne looks great! I thought it was a guy at first and was all "who the ef is that supposed to be?"

[Bolivar]

NOOOOOOOOO DAVOS IS TOO OLD!!! One of my favorite characters!!! I'm sure he'll still be good, though. I wanted a Daniel Day Lewsi kinda like in the Crucible kind of guy, but the producers here have my faith.

[Cuchulainn]

Davos is strangely how i imagined him. A salt stained, greyed sailor. However, I cant help but think Cunningham should have been Stannis and Delane Davos but hey ho. Cznt wait either way.

[Shlup]

Davos isn't too old. He has grown sons.

Everyone is perfect. Though I imagined Davos with longer hair for some reason.

[The Man]

http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/8/2012/02/db63eaeeb3ba261eb1c03830fa418968.jpg

[Bolivar]

I suppose you two are right, although I assumed Davos' sons were in their early to mid-teens just like Rob and John are supposed to be. Plus I kind of have the card game backing me up:

35619


However, I cant help but think Cunningham should have been Stannis and Delane Davos but hey ho.

That would've been interesting. But same as you, I can't wait either way.

[Freya]

Yeah I agree. I mean he still looks good but I saw him a little less....gray.

[The Summoner of Leviathan]

Martin has stated that the books are going to have a "bittersweet ending". Which given what he does to his characters has me worried, since his definition of a bittersweet ending is likely to be pretty fucking depressing.



I have a feeling that if it ends with Dany becoming Queen of Westeros that she will have paid dearly for it. She still has one betrayal left, one for love.

Speaking of betrayals, anyone got an idea who the "mummer's dragon" is? I assume it is a person and not referring to the stage prop. I wonder if it is a reference to Young Griff/Aegon?

[The Man]

Speaking of betrayals, anyone got an idea who the "mummer's dragon" is? I assume it is a person and not referring to the stage prop. I wonder if it is a reference to Young Griff/Aegon?

It probably is, but it probably doesn't mean what people expect it to mean. Varys began as a mummer and Young Griff could easily be considered "Varys' dragon" so the "mummer's dragon" doesn't have to mean that Young Griff isn't actually Aegon.

But this probably shouldn't go in this thread. Wasn't there another thread for discussing the books? We're way ahead of the series here.

[Freya]

As long as you keep it in the spoiler tags I'm sure it's fine. Unless nosey nellies want to know desperately.

[Bolivar]

Definitely don't read unless you've read the books:

A big thing going around is that Young Griff is not Aegon at all, and that the phrase mummer's dragon does indeed refer to a dragon dressed up to convince an audience during an elaborate show. Allegedly purple eyes and silver gold hair are Valyrian traits not solely attributable to Targaryens, as proprietors of whorehouses love to fill them with Valyrian women at a premium. However, Tyrion is always portrayed as one of the smartest guys around, so if he was convinced he was a Targaryen, I think he is, but not in a way we expect.

I think Aegon and a few other characters are going to get caught up in the likelihood that Lyanna and Ned both had children by Targaryens or Daynes, in Ned's case. The Daynes, at least Ashara, who committed suicide and Ned allegedly had a thing with, at least at Harrenhall, have blue/purple eyes and light hair. I know the big theory is that John Snow is Lyanna and Rhaegar's child, that Aegon Targaryen, but I think Martin's made it seem like that for so long without confirmation, we're all going to be blindisded by what the truth is and who all these kids really belong to.

Also, because Jon Arryn was not in fact killed by the Lannisters for discovering Joffrey's true lineage (Lysa planted that lie on Littlefinger's orders), I believe he was talking about a Stark/Targaryen/Dayne offspring that would overturn the succession in Westeros. "The seed is strong" probably refers to that, despite the dominant features of Targaryens, the Starks were able to override those genes in a child. The obvious choice would be Jon Snow, who has the classic Stark look, but is probably Rhaegar's son. But "seed" suggests the male's genes, so I think Jon may in fact be Ned's true son, something which Ned himself may not have known.

I don't know what the last betrayal would be. I'm also confused as to why Varys would support Danaerys while at the same time build up Aegon to be the ultimate king. Perhaps to marry the two in Targaryen fashion? Then maybe Daenarys' wedding will be the betrayal for love. Perhaps her sellsword betrayed her for love, as he refused to stay with her on the day of her wedding or such. But also remember that she's constantly asking herself if she has any of the betrayals right at all so far, and who's to know which ones she's already had, if any?

[The Summoner of Leviathan]

There's only one thing I would disagree with Bolivar and that's Targaryen traits are most likely not dominant genetically. They are dominant in the sense that they stick out but not dominant genetically. Targaryans practised centuries of mostly incestual relationships which lead to normally submissive traits becoming most apparently in the family tree. Therefore, one has to concluded that more dominant traits (such as black hair and darker eyes) would more likely be apparent. So if there is a Targaryen bastard, chances are unless they are from within the family or with a House that share some genetic traits, they will probably resemble the other partner more. The easiest way to tell this would be if we had more information of what the children of the Baratheon and Targaryen unions looked like. Baratheon share the dark hair and eyes in common with House Stark. There's also the issue that most of Ned's and Cat's kids resemble Cat more than Ned, though Arya notably takes after her dead aunt. In light of that, it makes Jon's overtly Stark looks out of place, meaning that whoever the non-Stark parent is their traits are either close to the Starks (unlikely) or very different and most likely submissive traits.

[NorthernChaosGod]

Isn't is supposed to be dominant and recessive, not dominant and submissive? Your way sounds dirty. :p

[Bolivar]

Isn't is supposed to be dominant and recessive, not dominant and submissive? Your way sounds dirty. :p

But it's more fun that way!

I would agree with Sum. Lev. but the Targaryens, despite centuries of imbreeding, have been stated to not keep that line pure for some of their history in Westeros. Also, as I mentioned, the Daynes I believe had joined with Targaryens at different times and they had some of those traits. There is the question of Quentyn and House Martell, who believe they have Blood of the Dragon. I think they all have the copper skin and dark hair of the Dornishmen, which would give weight to your theory. Although many believe the reason Quentyn was burned alive by the dragon was because his line does not in fact have Targaryen blood. Although I somehow remember Quentyn having purple eyes... I'm not sure, and it's a lot of what ifs but I still believe the "The Seed is Strong" issue coming back to bite us in a way we never imagined.

[The Summoner of Leviathan]

Isn't is supposed to be dominant and recessive, not dominant and submissive? Your way sounds dirty. :p

Because my memory failed me. At a later time I did recall the proper term but I was already at work. :/



Isn't is supposed to be dominant and recessive, not dominant and submissive? Your way sounds dirty. :p

But it's more fun that way!

I would agree with Sum. Lev. but the Targaryens, despite centuries of imbreeding, have been stated to not keep that line pure for some of their history in Westeros. Also, as I mentioned, the Daynes I believe had joined with Targaryens at different times and they had some of those traits. There is the question of Quentyn and House Martell, who believe they have Blood of the Dragon. I think they all have the copper skin and dark hair of the Dornishmen, which would give weight to your theory. Although many believe the reason Quentyn was burned alive by the dragon was because his line does not in fact have Targaryen blood. Although I somehow remember Quentyn having purple eyes... I'm not sure, and it's a lot of what ifs but I still believe the "The Seed is Strong" issue coming back to bite us in a way we never imagined.

That's why I said mostly inbreeding. It is true that during their rule in Westeros that they married into Westerosi Houses, however the only Houses mentioned are Baratheon, Arryn, Hightower and Martell. The consort of some of the kings are not mentioned (oddly enough). Even if Young Griff is truly Aegon VI then my theory is still valid. House Martell does have Targaryen blood in it, no ifs or buts. Maron Martell married Daenerys Targaryen (the first one) and built the Water Gardens to celebrate the union. So Quentyn does have Targaryen blood in him, from generations past. It also means that House Martell could still have vestiges of recessive Targaryen traits in the family, thus when Elia and Rhaegar had Aegon VI he showed Targaryen traits instead of Martell. Then again, maybe we're all really over thinking this thing. :p

Quentyn thinking he could tame a dragon because he has Targaryen blood in his is as foolish as the Targaryen kings who tried to hatch dragon eggs. We know what happened to them and they definitely were Targaryens. I think the people who think Quentyn doesn't have the Blood of the Dragon are rather on thin ice.

As for the Dayne and Targaryens, there's nothing I know of that indicated of any marriages but the Daynes did remain loyal to House Targaryen during Robert's Rebellion. *shrugs*

Though now that you mention it, maybe Jon Arryn's words will come to bite us in the ass. I mean Lysa misunderstood them. Ned thought they referred to Cersei's and Robert's offsprings, which it probably did given that Jon Arryn had discussed (or was going to) with Stannis Baratheon as well. But that doesn't mean he didn't stumble across some other useful information while looking at the family trees of the noble houses.

[Bolivar]

Yeah I agree maybe the Quentyn thing is farfetched. But talking about it, I wonder if there will be some explanation as to why some Targaryens are slightly more than human while others are not. And why others are insane (other than the obvious imbreeding example).

Anyway, I'm really lookin forward to the second season!

[Freya]

cNLc5Nf9YxA

[NorthernChaosGod]

Man, that really got me excited. With as good as the first season was, I can't wait to see things when they pick up.

[Bolivar]

Man that trailer Freya posted was epic. I can't imagine this will disappoint. This and the Storm of Swords episodes are going to be amazing, I wouldn't be surprised if these guys even redeem A Feast for Crows and A Dance With Dragons. I know someone said they won't tie seasons exactly to a 1:1 ratio with each novel, so does anyone have any insight into if this season will be the full Clash of Kings?

I also noticed it looks like they're taking the whore from Winterfell who went to King's Landing and keeping her at least in another scene.

[Freya]

This is the best trailer yet in my opinion. Plus freaking Florence and the Machine. Perfect song for it. You can tell they are really working on marketing if they paid for that song to be on there.

VVkr9oYsIbo

[Bunny]

I know someone said they won't tie seasons exactly to a 1:1 ratio with each novel, so does anyone have any insight into if this season will be the full Clash of Kings?

I am fairly certain that this coming season is going to be Clash of Kings material. I remember reading somewhere awhile back (either on WiC or Tower of the Hand) that season 3 and 4 will be Storm of Swords, and possibly some leftover material from CoK. Feast for Crows and Dance with Dragons weren't determined yet, but would likely be split into two seasons as well. But who knows what they'll decide going down the road. I'll just be happy if they keep making the damn things.

[NorthernChaosGod]

Why must I wait a month to watch new episodes? :nonono:

[Bolivar]

Last trailer was epic, I'm so stoked this is coming in DAYS! I also recently got the season 1 Blu Rays and it's a pretty awesome box set.

[Freya]

D8lG_Kn_FTQ

:roll:

[Rantz]

SO EXCITE

[The Summoner of Leviathan]

I want to see more hot RenlyxLoras...

[Freya]

There's been rumors of a threesome with them and Margery! :o

[NorthernChaosGod]

There's been rumors of a threesome with them and Margery! :o
Eiffel Tower. :monster:

[Hollycat]

sMqz_vc22_g

[Freya]

Oh god that was good! The pacing was soo much better this episode. Little irked that arya was only shown at the end but with there so many characters in so many places I can understand it.


The Tyrion vs Cersei is going to be awesome this season. I'm glad that they implied that Joffery was the one who went after the bastards, it made him seem even more dickish. Jon was still emo and broody. Blarg. But Robb! Ooooo they showed Grey Wind! I'm sure the fanboys are squeeing so hard at that. They threw fits about the lack of the wolves in season 1. I think they are taking out the reeds and just leaving Osha as the one about the wolf dreams and stuff. That murdering of the bastards part though oh man, dark stuff. This seasons gonna be good!

[Ouch!]

Overall liked the first episode of the new season, but I'm concerned about the lack of Jojen and Meera given their significance in the series. Osha can't replace them completely, so they're going to have to bring the pair of them in eventually, unless they plan on getting especially creative.

Never mind that Jojen and Meera are the only link we have in the books right now to Howland Reed, and given that Martin has admitted that Howland Reed is one of three characters who will never receive a point of view chapter because he knows too much, I'd wager he's going to be involved at some point.

[NeoTifa]

They can't take out the Reeds, they're really important! Also, I thought it kinda sucked. Too much going on and not enough explanation. I was explaining what was going on to my friend more than I was watching, because she was totally clueless.

[Jiro]

The Tyrion vs Cersei is going to be awesome this season. I'm glad that they implied that Joffery was the one who went after the bastards, it made him seem even more dickish. Jon was still emo and broody. Blarg. But Robb! Ooooo they showed Grey Wind! I'm sure the fanboys are squeeing so hard at that. They threw fits about the lack of the wolves in season 1. I think they are taking out the reeds and just leaving Osha as the one about the wolf dreams and stuff. That murdering of the bastards part though oh man, dark stuff. This seasons gonna be good!

Agree entirely.

[Rantz]

Cool episode. I also missed the Reeds, but it's fully possible they'll bring them in later on. They had enough going on in this first episode without introducing another two new characters.

I wish the direwolves looked a bit uglier and more ferocious. Kind of a minor point I guess, but I always understood them to look really wild and not tame at all. Grey Wind and Summer look like cuddly dogs (which, incidentally, their actors are). I wouldn't mind if they went a little wild with CGI to make them more fearsome and awe-inspiring.

[NeoTifa]

I thought the CGI was a little borderline too much. They should keep it as is.

[Del Murder]

I was expecting a set-up episode for the premiere and that seems to be what we got. For set-up episodes it was decent. The slaying of bastards at the end was pretty nuts. I didn't read this book so I don't have a clue about these missing characters that you are all talking about, but introducing Stannis, Davos, and that witch lady were enough for me for one episode. Not really sure what that flaming sword nonsense was all about.

[Freya]

Just part of her crazy!

[NorthernChaosGod]

sYjuj3ggaKA

[Ouch!]

Cool episode. I also missed the Reeds, but it's fully possible they'll bring them in later on. They had enough going on in this first episode without introducing another two new characters.

I didn't mean just for this first episode. I meant the whole season. Nobody was ever cast to play either of the Reeds. They're not in this season at all.

[Cuchulainn]

They could join in later seasons like the Tully's and more Greyjoys. If a characters roles is minor in an earlier book but large in later books the casting is usually left until their major roles. You neve know.

Decent episode. I really shouldnt have read the books. I know too much.

[Shlup]

I liked everything about this episode. Tyrion strutting into the small council meeting to put Cersei in her face was hilarious. I was also very excited to see Grey Wind at full-size; I wasn't sure they'd be able to pull that off.

Eh... I don't think I'll miss the Reeds. I like Osha anyway, so I'll be happy for her to take their place.


Not really sure what that flaming sword nonsense was all about.
There's not really anything more to it than what they said in the episode. The Lord of Light's chosen one carries a sword that glows or is on fire or something. Melisandre believes Stannis is the chosen one, so they pulled the seven gods from Dragonstone's sept, burned them, and did a little ceremony where Stannis pulls a flaming sword from what I'm guessing was The Warrior.

[Madame Adequate]

Norn Iron serving as Westeros erry day :cool:

Tyrion remains as brilliant as ever. Joffrey as loathsome as ever. I'm liking Robb a bit more now as well, and young Bran seems to be taking to leadership relatively well.

[NeoTifa]

BUT THEY CAN'T OMIT THE REEDS, THEY'RE REALLY IMPORTANT!!!! D: I was really excited to see who would play them, too.

But Osha takes Rikkon off to wherever (I forgot), and Meera and Jojen take Bran to the Wall. So, is Bran going to travel by himself or what? I don't even... wat?

[Rantz]

They could always get introduced in the next season or something. They're not really vital to Bran's story until book three, so they might well be relegated to season 3.

[NorthernChaosGod]

I thought I heard they were going to start splitting the books up a bit to be more than one season though.

[The Man]

That's the plan, I believe. They definitely want to split book three into roughly two seasons, and I think they said they might leave some of the stuff from book two off until the third season as well. So I wouldn't be surprised if the Reeds were among that.

[Freya]

I have two amusing gifs for you lot


http://i42.:bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou::bou:/97nwwl.gif

You're welcome.

[NorthernChaosGod]

I love me some Joffrey getting slapped. :D

[Raistlin]

Joffrey is one kid where child abuse is not only warranted, but desperately needed.

[Psychotic]

Someone please explain to me the point of A Whore's Tale. I'm open to change, to new characters who are not in the books but it's just so... boring. I guess there are titties, which is nice?

[Freya]

I think they are making her take Alayaya's role so we sympathize with her more when they grab her instead?

[Cuchulainn]

Did they just kill off Rakharo? Did they just imply Stannis has no children & therefore no Shireen? Are they changing too much? Did they just write out Jacelyn Bywater? I'm not a fan of this.

[Rantz]

I was a little bored with this episode.


Did they just kill off Rakharo? Did they just imply Stannis has no children & therefore no Shireen? Are they changing too much? Did they just write out Jacelyn Bywater? I'm not a fan of this.

I don't think they implied a lack of Shireen, just that Stannis doesn't have any sons. I was surprised by the other changes you mentioned, but I imagine they have to greatly reduce the vast amount of minor characters to make it work on the more fast-paced medium that is television. I can't really blame them - it has to be accessible for those who haven't read the books, and even having read them I sometimes have trouble keeping up with who's who in the show.

Also, I <3 Lena Headey.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/729269/Images/cersei-derp.gif

[Psychotic]

I think we can all agree that if there is no Patchface then we can consider the show to be a failure.

[Cuchulainn]

I'm now worried incase they cut the Kettleblacks & Arys Oakheart...they're kind of needed

[Bunny]

Did they just kill off Rakharo? Did they just imply Stannis has no children & therefore no Shireen? Are they changing too much? Did they just write out Jacelyn Bywater? I'm not a fan of this.

I believe the intent behind killing him off was to replace him with another character. The actor was cast in the film adaptation of World War Z and so his schedule was going to conflict with filming more seasons. I am okay with it for those reasons alone. I don't think they implied that he had no children, just any that matter. Women, in general, do not matter much in Westeros so Shireen's status as Stannis's child does not matter very much. Also, if I recall, she is such a minor character in CoK that they probably didn't bother casting her. I would imagine they wrote out Jacelyn in order to make Bronn a more prominent character, mainly do the reception that the actor has received in his portrayal. I'm not sure how I feel about this, but seeing as Jacelyn's dies later on it doesn't really matter.

I doubt they'll cut anyone as necessary as the Kettlebacks and Oakheart from the overall show. Fan reaction would be too heavily negative and it would only serve to harm the overall narrative. I would understand if they pushed their appearances back to other seasons depending on necessity though.

Also, third season renewal. Fourth season will probably come soon or during development/filming of 3rd season, as their intent is to split Storm of Swords up.

[McLovin']

The Queen pwned Tirion hard in this episode.

[Shlup]

I don't have a problem with any of the changes so far. They gotta do what they gotta do. And keep in mind that GRRM has creative control, so he approves of the changes.

P.S. GRRM said in his LJ that season three will cover the first half of the third book, and that he'll be writing the seventh episode.

[Cuchulainn]

Shouldnt he be writing the next book?

[Bunny]

He should. And he is. But I believe it is in his contract that he writes at least one episode per season so it isn't a big deal. He'll get the book done eventually.

[Freya]

I believe he wrote Blackwater, episode... 9? this season? Which I'm super excited for. Of all the people to write it, woo! He wrote Baelor last season I believe. I think they give him the big :eek: episodes.

[Shlup]

He should. And he is. But I believe it is in his contract that he writes at least one episode per season so it isn't a big deal. He'll get the book done eventually.
Unless he dies first. :stare:


I believe he wrote Blackwater, episode... 9? this season? Which I'm super excited for. Of all the people to write it, woo! He wrote Baelor last season I believe. I think they give him the big :eek: episodes.
Of all the episodes he could've written this season, I'm glad it was that one.

[Bunny]

He should. And he is. But I believe it is in his contract that he writes at least one episode per season so it isn't a big deal. He'll get the book done eventually.
Unless he dies first. :stare:

That would definitely suck since he's said that nobody but him will finish the series. It's a good thing he's in really good health by all accounts though. He's only 63 and there are only two, maybe three, books left in the series.

Not everyone can be Brandon Sanderson or Steven Erikson though.

I'm almost positive that Martin is writting the Red Wedding. Which is.. yes. Also he wrote "The Pointy End", not Baelor. The ep where Drogo gets hurt initially.

[*Devore*]

I miss Lord Stark and his husky catch phrase "Winters coming". Sean Bean is awesome(no homo).
I hope more people slap joffrey about in the future.

[NeoTifa]

I think we can all agree that if there is no Patchface then we can consider the show to be a failure.

This.

[Del Murder]

This most recent episode was slow going. The problem is that the stories are so splintered that we only get a little progression in each one at a time. How many different storylines are there right now? Like 10? In a book this works a lot better but it doesn't make for exciting TV in the initial stages.

[Shlup]

He should. And he is. But I believe it is in his contract that he writes at least one episode per season so it isn't a big deal. He'll get the book done eventually.
Unless he dies first. :stare:

That would definitely suck since he's said that nobody but him will finish the series. It's a good thing he's in really good health by all accounts though. He's only 63 and there are only two, maybe three, books left in the series.

I believe he told his son how to end it.

P.S. I find Patchface unbearably creepy.

[The Man]

He has a son?

But Benioff and Weiss know the ending, at least.

[Rantz]

I had a lot of fun reading this (http://winteriscoming.net/2012/04/your-tweetin-heart/) (lots of f-words and such) which Freya linked me. These made me laugh in particular:

@joedempsie (Gendry's actor): Thanks for all the nice GoT messages this weekend, they’re also teaching me new lingo. ‘Shipping’ myself and all of you right now. So hard.
@jamesellaby: Bet Lily Allen won’t be sharing a horse with her brother any time soon
@selia_lahugeea: If you dislike babies, you’ll love season 2 of #GameOfThrones.

[Slothy]

I believe he told his son how to end it.

Because that always ends well.

Dune (franchise) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dune_%28franchise%29)

[Bunny]

He should. And he is. But I believe it is in his contract that he writes at least one episode per season so it isn't a big deal. He'll get the book done eventually.
Unless he dies first. :stare:

That would definitely suck since he's said that nobody but him will finish the series. It's a good thing he's in really good health by all accounts though. He's only 63 and there are only two, maybe three, books left in the series.

I believe he told his son how to end it.

P.S. I find Patchface unbearably creepy.

I didn't know he had any children. Huh. Every interview I've ever heard him do, someone asks him about the possibility of someone else ending it and he always responds that nobody will if it isn't him.

[Shlup]

Maybe he doesn't. I don't remember where I even heard that.

[Del Murder]

I can end it if he doesn't: they all die and the dogs rule the 7 kingdoms.

[Freya]

I love these parodies and so shall you!
k9JiXbbj3fQ
-x4ZjOwBoxM

[Del Murder]

This has been mostly yawn so far, mainly because with ~8 storylines to keep track of you will only get a piece of each one every episode.

So far Tyrion's story has been the most interesting. Where has Joffrey been while his Hand has been making all these power plays? You would think he would at least be at dinner with his mother, siblings, and fiance.

[Freya]

GoT isn't GoT without slappage.

http://i742.photobucket.com/albums/xx68/Prettyypenguin/slaptheon.gif

I actually felt bad for theon. The show is doing a good job of that even though I know he's a super douche.

[Shlup]

I don't understand what is wrong with you, Del. I thought this episode was lovely. I've never been even slightly bored during any episode.

They're doing a really good job of making Theon more sympathetic than in the books.

[Del Murder]

I'm not bored, I just want more. It's that you can basically summarize what has happened in each storyline after three episodes in about two sentences.

I'm used to this in TV, so it's no big deal. Nothing happened in Lost for about 3 whole years.

[Shlup]

I'm torn between wishing they'd cover fewer storylines per episode (and thus spend more time on each one) and being happy to see a little bit of each storyline. I like all of the storylines--even Theon's, which I didn't much care for in the books.

[Madame Adequate]

Arya is as great as ever and Tyrion is perfectly masterful.

I know I pretty much only ever post stuff along those lines in this thread but come on, what's a guy to do?

[Bunny]

I have absolutely no problem with how they are doing the show. They are doing a marvelous job with presenting the characters individual stores with how they are in the book. Would I like for them to spend more time with each character? Yes, but that's not how it was in the book either. Every time you read a new character's chapter, you just want to continue that one. Until you get to the next chapter and it is a different character, then you just want more of that character's story. This show does that with absolutely perfection.

And there are only three story lines in the books. The North (Jon Snow, Sam, etc), Across the Narrow Sea (Dany), and General Westero (Every Other Character). They have done a really good job presenting this structure through the last three episodes and I can only assume that they will continue doing so with the rest of the season. I have zero complaints about how this show is being run and filmed so far and I can't wait for them to get to the major parts of the book.

I think the biggest problem people are having with this season is how different it is from the first one. A lot happened in the first book primarily because they were introducing all of the characters and those characters then split up. With Clash of Kings everything is entirely political - either everything happens on the surface (the wars and battles) or everything happens in private (a perfect example of Tyrion's tricking Littlefinger, Varys and Pycelle. This book is so drastically different from how things were occurring in the first book that people are going to have their complaints. The third book will showcase this even more, I think, and people will be slightly disappointed (or massively disappointed after certain developments) but oh well, that doesn't really matter that much.

[Del Murder]

The difference is with the books is that you can skip to that character's next chapter if you want to read more about them, or skim the parts that you can tell are just more 'war preparations' or 'wandering the desert aimlessly' or 'hanging out at the incest man's house'. But that will always be an advantage of books.

I think you nailed it by saying that Game of Thrones starts off with the characters more or less together, and then everyone splinters off. In this season, everyone is already splintered and so far the main characters haven't really interacted much. Last season Tyrion's story interacted with Jon's, then with Catelyn's, Ned's interacted with Arya's, etc. That caused stuff to happen. So far there is a lot of buildup but not much happens until the final scene of each episode.

I just hope the Night's Watch has finally left that guy's house and that Daenerys finally stops wandering through the desert in the next episode.

Also the loss of Sean Bean has left a gaping hole in this cast about the size of his big head. I know all the main characters are important but he really commanded every scene he was in and something always happened when he was around.

[Psychotic]

Dany is, arguably, the main character of GoT now and she wasn't even in that episode. Not that I am complaining. Her story bores me to tears. I liked that episode. Swords, titties, political plotting. By the numbers GoT :love:

[Del Murder]

Don't forget gay making out.

[Rantz]

I'm very happy with Margaery's casting from what I've seen so far. They did a good job with Brienne looks-wise, but her acting seems a little awkward. Then again, her character is supposed to be all awkwardness so maybe it's just that. Loras seems okay. I imagined him smaller and fairer, but that's just details. If there's one actor I'm disappointed with, it's Jon. I'm always excited to read about him in the books but every time I see him looking sullen (does he have another look?) in the show I sigh discontentedly on the inside.

At first I was disappointed at how much they compressed Arya's storyline, but after considering it more I think the show is probably better off this way, as long as they take the time to develop some more hatred in Arya for Polliver & Co.

[Miriel]

I'm torn between wishing they'd cover fewer storylines per episode (and thus spend more time on each one) and being happy to see a little bit of each storyline. I like all of the storylines--even Theon's, which I didn't much care for in the books.

This is it exactly.

It's like, YAY! We get to see bits of nearly everyone! ARGH! Incremental story progression!

The strength in Game of Thrones is the characters and the acting. I don't think the pacing is all that good. It started off super slow the first season too. But that's just how it goes with a lot of cable shows. Look at Breaking Bad, look at Mad Men. All slow burning shows focused on character. And then you get to the 2nd half of the season and all hell breaks loose and it's like WHOA BLOWING YOUR MIND.

The thing that's hard is that the first season did such a good job of getting you invested in the main characters that you want to get screen time with them and see their stories progress. So at this point, I really could not give a shit about Gay Wannabe King or Older Uglier Wannabe King with crazy witch lady. I really love Daenerys but her storyline is boring the hell outta me. I want more dragons! Rawr! Rather than, huuuungry. Duuuusty.

I was really happy to see Anne Boleyn in the last episode. Always trying to get pregnant.

[NeoTifa]

I haven't seen the last 2 episodes, however, somebody mentioned feeling sorry for Theon. Reading the books I felt sorry for him, even though he is a superdouche. He just fucked up. He's just trying so hard to prove himself, but winds up failing at life. Like the underdog who never stops being the underdog no matter how hard he tries.

[Shlup]

I'm torn between wishing they'd cover fewer storylines per episode (and thus spend more time on each one) and being happy to see a little bit of each storyline. I like all of the storylines--even Theon's, which I didn't much care for in the books.

This is it exactly.

It's like, YAY! We get to see bits of nearly everyone! ARGH! Incremental story progression!

The strength in Game of Thrones is the characters and the acting. I don't think the pacing is all that good. It started off super slow the first season too. But that's just how it goes with a lot of cable shows. Look at Breaking Bad, look at Mad Men. All slow burning shows focused on character. And then you get to the 2nd half of the season and all hell breaks loose and it's like WHOA BLOWING YOUR MIND.

The thing that's hard is that the first season did such a good job of getting you invested in the main characters that you want to get screen time with them and see their stories progress. So at this point, I really could not give a shit about Gay Wannabe King or Older Uglier Wannabe King with crazy witch lady. I really love Daenerys but her storyline is boring the hell outta me. I want more dragons! Rawr! Rather than, huuuungry. Duuuusty.
I love Renly and Brienne--not so much Stannis. But I guess that's kind of the point. xD I just love character-driven stories, so I can deal with the impossible pacing.



I was really happy to see Anne Boleyn in the last episode. Always trying to get pregnant.
Seriously. xD Loved her in Tudors, and she's great in this. Despite wishing we had more time with, say, Arya, I like seeing more of Margery's character.


I haven't seen the last 2 episodes, however, somebody mentioned feeling sorry for Theon. Reading the books I felt sorry for him, even though he is a superdouche. He just fucked up. He's just trying so hard to prove himself, but winds up failing at life. Like the underdog who never stops being the underdog no matter how hard he tries.

I feel the same way, just how the show is doing it it's much easier to feel that way. Of course, we haven't got to the part where he kills Bran and Rickon yet.

[Madame Adequate]

I can't stop my :stare: at what a boneheaded idiot Balon is. I can certainly understand his thirst for revenge against the Starks but the way he's acting you'd think he's completely incapable of human interaction that doesn't involve killing.


FISHERMAN
Ah, Lord Greyjoy, good to see you. Can I interest you in some of my fish? It's a fine catch today!
BALON
Hmph. Looks alright I suppose, for a wetnurse like you to catch.
FISHERMAN
As you say, M'lord.
BALON
I'll take this one.
FISHERMAN
Of course M'lord. That will be ten coppers.
BALON grabs the FISHERMAN by the shirt, hauls him over the counter, and throws him to the floor. BALON draws a knife and holds it to the FISHERMAN'S throat.
BALON
What are my words?
FISHERMAN
My lord?
BALON
We do not sow. I will not pay the gold price for this, but the iron one.
BALON stabs the FISHERMAN through the throat, killing him in seconds.

[Shlup]

You are clearly not iron born, built of salt and sea. What is dead may never die, but rises again, harder and stronger. WE DO NOT SOW, MILF.

[Psychotic]

Yeah well remind me how that "We do not sow" business turned out for you Ironborn failhags in the Greyjoy Rebellion.

Oh that's right.

Motherfucking flaming sword wielding Thoros of god damn Myr busting down your walls is how, bitches.

[Del Murder]

Isn't most of the North inland anyway? What use are boats going to be?

Also how large of an army could a guy on a couple of dinky islands have?

[Shlup]

I'm going to refrain from answering those questions.

[Bunny]

Isn't most of the North inland anyway? What use are boats going to be?

Also how large of an army could a guy on a couple of dinky islands have?

It's not the size of your army, it's your motion in the ocean.

[Del Murder]

If this ship's a rockin', don't come a knockin'. Because chances are there is brother-sister incest going on inside.

[Freya]

Oh man that final scene. Now we know where the smoke baby from lost came from!

I laughed at this episode a lot. Renly was hilarious in his interactions.

[Del Murder]

Yeah it was good to see Smokey getting some work.

[Araciel]

Just wait til he does his job..

[Marshall Banana]

I didn't like the smokey shadow birth. D=

I thought it looked stupid, honestly. It was weird enough in the book that I thought it would be handled more...discreetly in the show, I guess.

But other than that: :up:

[Psychotic]

Yeah that last scene was kind of :erm:

I felt like there was some real drama finally kicking into play in this episode. Joffrey is so loathsome, Tyrion so amazing, and Renly is one funny motherfucker.

[Rantz]

Yeah feels like some wheels are starting to turn again!

I can't wait for something to happen in Dany's storyline. Qarth should be fun. But why do they all look so... white?

[Del Murder]

Did you not see the big black dude?

[Jinx]

Pontus and I Skyped while we watched this episode.

He made the funniest face at the part where Joffrey makes Roz beat the other prostitute. But the last scene of the episode I was freaking out and he was laughing really hard at me. WTF?

Also, Margaery wears the most stupid dresses.

[Psychotic]

Did you not see the big black dude?He wasn't even from Qarth!

[Freya]

They are in a desert place area, shouldn't they be more..... Tan?

[Jinx]

They are in a desert place area, shouldn't they be more..... Tan?

Rantz and I noted that made no sense.

[NorthernChaosGod]

Joffrey really is an awful bastard. I can't wait until he gets what's coming to him. :colbert:

[Araciel]

What if he doesn't? /troll

[Bunny]

They are in a desert place area, shouldn't they be more..... Tan?

Rantz and I noted that made no sense.

The Qarth merchants (Milk Men) are white to show their status. Despite being under the hot sun the entire time, they have enough wealth to ignore even the natural elements that should effect them. There was also the black dude (who caused a shitload of controversy when he was cast) and the Muslim looking dude.

So far this episode is pretty good and exactly as I imaigned it.

[Shlup]

Also, Margaery wears the most stupid dresses.

I like them. :D

[Madame Adequate]

Well that episode was amazing and I suddenly love Joffrey because he's really settling into being an evil tit and that crossbow made my panties kind of soaked. And I have absolutely no idea what happened at the end but holy tit what the actual smurf :whaaa:

Also Robb has gained some decent leadership chops, but my :save:STRATEGY SPERGING:save: tingled because you can't win a war without defining what victory is, and that means thinking about what comes after.

e: also when a place is so hideously grim and depressing that the arrival of Tywin Lannister comes as a breath of refreshing mercy and liberation, you know it's horrendous. Jesus Christ Harrenhal.

[Rantz]

e: also when a place is so hideously grim and depressing that the arrival of Tywin Lannister comes as a breath of refreshing mercy and liberation, you know it's horrendous. Jesus Christ Harrenhal.

Hahahaha, I know right? I was like, "Yay, Tywin!" but then I was like, "Did I really just cheer for Tywin? That's messed up."

[Psychotic]

What's wrong with Tywin?

Other than being a terrible father, I guess.

[Rantz]

The whole smashing babies heads in is a good start, I think!

[Psychotic]

That was the Mountain!

[Rantz]

The Mountain was just Tywin's hammer, though. :P

[Cuchulainn]

Can I just take this opportunity to say how smurfing tit the new Gregor Clegane looks when comparedto the man mountain in S1.

I mean how hard is it to get a replacement 7 foot smurfer who's built like a....oh yea suppose....Even So....The new one looks like Stephen Merchant in a bobsleigh. Sort it out by the time he fights The Viper or I'm gonna slap the next raven I see.

[Madame Adequate]

Well smurf.

Renly :cry: You were a beast. Goodnight, sweet prince, we hardly knew ye. :cry:

I'm sure the House of the Undying in Qarth are more powerful than mere parlor tricksters and I suspect Xaro Xhoan Daxos knows the Warlocks are more powerful than parlor tricksters, but he's going to want to make sure Dany doesn't go anywhere near them if so.

And holy shit Gendry topless :drool:

[Del Murder]

Renly's death was random. That's probably something that reads better than to actually watch. Also, if Stannis has access to smoke assassins, why not just smoke kill Joffrey, the Queen and all the rest of his enemies? Maybe he will.

I'm happy that the show has begun to pick up. Tyrion and Arya's stories are the best. The rest have been pretty boring, though it will be interesting to see what happens to Winterfell in the next episode.

[Madame Adequate]

Stannis pretty clearly detests using shadowbabby at all, and won't do so unless he feels it's absolutely necessary. I imagine that's why he's not just having everyone offed. Alternatively maybe there's some limits on it so that you can't just spam the enemy with loads of teleporting + backstab + incorporeal ghost motherfuckers I mean I've never seen anything so imba in my life and I've fought shammies in vanilla WoW.

[Jinx]

Brienne is so awesome.

[Freya]

I loved Arya's staring down Tywin. That was awesome. He seemed unnerved.

[Rantz]

This episode was great.

Re: Shadow assassin: the way I understand it, the birthing of one Stannis shadow babby takes a considerable toll on Stannis. He starts having nightmares and seems to have aged years after the fact. Presumably the magic involved uses part of his lifeforce or what have you. He's also one of the biggest sticklers for honour and justice in all of Westeros, it would make sense if he regretted using it even that much and didn't want to do it again.

[Roogle]

Renly's death was random. That's probably something that reads better than to actually watch. Also, if Stannis has access to smoke assassins, why not just smoke kill Joffrey, the Queen and all the rest of his enemies? Maybe he will.

I thought that Renly's death looked awkward, too. I think that the aftermath was very well done, including Catelyn and Brienne's reactions, and I think that was handled better than in the book. It is difficult to portray what happened to a television screen without it seeming random.

Magic in the A Song of Ice and Fire series is very esoteric. It is difficult to say for sure whether or not even the practitioner truly understands what is going on.

A recurring theme throughout the book is that only death can pay for life and only life can pay for death. Rantzien mentioned that Stannis seemed to be much older than he initially appeared and he does still have nightmares of the magic that he wrought on his brother. It could be that Melisandre was only able to perform that magic because of the blood connection that Stannis had with Renly. If you look closely, you can see that the shade has the appearance of Stannis and it was literally birthed from Melisandre. That type of magic likely used Stannis's lifeforce and Melisandre was merely a catalyst in the equation. I find the magic in the series very dark and powerful. It is implied that magic is getting stronger since the birth of the dragons and the coming of winter, so I wonder if Melisandre and other practitioners even truly understand their powers and what the source could be.

[chionos]

Melisandre seemed in the book and show both to know what was going to happen with the shadow spawn, so she has some level of knowledge of her magic's properties. However, later in the books, she foresees a young girl on a dying horse fleeing north to the wall. This part comes true, but she also says that the girl is Arya Stark, which is not true. So her foresight, her fire visions, are limited.


Melisandre seems to want Jon Snow to sleep with her to create another shadow creature in book 5 when she's at the wall with him. I thought I remembered some character mentioning "sex magic" being practiced somewhere in the eastern isles, but I don't remember who said it or what book it was in.

I've been somewhat surprised to see how quickly they've brought the "fantasy" elements (magic, dragons, white walkers, etc) into the show. I mean, it makes sense, but I still thought it would be more subtly handled at first simply because it comes into the books so slowly (which I kinda enjoyed). I'm quite interested now to see the house of the undying in Qarth and Bran's storyline with the greenseers

I'm with you Freya. That look between Arya and Tywin was intense. The show's done a great job of highlighting my favorite characters (Arya, Tyrion, etc.)

[Shlup]

In the books, Brienne's girly hopeless romantic nature seems more like something that she doesn't show--though I'm not sure if that's just my interpretation--so to see her actually act all girly had me laughing my ass off.

[Rantz]

It could be that Melisandre was only able to perform that magic because of the blood connection that Stannis had with Renly.

Well, a little later in the book she uses the same magic to end the siege of Storm's End by having the shade kill the castellan, Ser Courtnay Penrose.

[Freya]

Of course I loved Tyrion in it the riot just seemed forced. It was much more dramatic for me in the books. It kind of fell flat for me in the show. Just wasn't quite.... hrm. The Sansa-Sandor part was good and Tyrion bitch slapping again was great but the actual riot was meh. Alfie Allen is playing such a good job of showing how incompetent Theon is. And I was laughing at the Jon and Ygritte part near the end when they were resting.

[Psychotic]

The Hound is a badman. That is all, you may proceed.

[Araciel]

That scene wasn't as awesome as I originally thought it would be :( Still good though.

[McLovin']

What did the note Arya was reading say?

[Del Murder]

Winterfell knights are always getting killed. I do not see good things in Theon's future. What an idiot.

Dany is also an idiot for not having armed guards around her dragons at all times.

Arya's story has been the most interesting this season. I don't know if Tywin knows who Arya is. I suspect he does, but if so he's doing a good job hiding it. Obviously Littlefinger knows.

[Jinx]

Okay, so I'm just past in the book where we are in the show.

They've changed a lot more this season in regards to the book than they did in the last.

The part with Ygritte and Jon was LULZY. When I saw Baelish coming in I'm like, OH FUCK. Also, Osha is so bad ass and I just love her. Rantz and I at the same time are like, "OMG TONKS TITS."

I agree with whoever said that Dany should have her dragons guarded at all times, although it really looks like in this case it wouldn't have mattered in anyways. So what, her Khalassar is down to like...3 people now? Some queen. I just think she is so whiny and annoying. I wouldn't give you ships, either! Like, shut up. In the book that slaughter didn't happen, and I wonder if it's just a plot device to get her to the House of the Undying. But seriously, I'm glad her dragons got taken away. She's insufferable.

Also, I'm kind of annoyed by that chick that they threw into the mix with Robb. It's just a way to make fan service. >.>

[Rantz]

Yeah, what's up with that lady Robb is talking to? I don't see the point of her. She's not really doing anything... if her purpose is to show more of Robb's personality, they should have put her with someone who has one instead. HEYO!

[Jinx]

Yeah, what's up with that lady Robb is talking to? I don't see the point of her. She's not really doing anything... if her purpose is to show more of Robb's personality, they should have put her with someone who has one instead. HEYO!

Robb is hot. He doesn't need a personality.

[Madame Adequate]

Hahahahaha Dany you silly woman what have you done

Also Theon you sad little sack of watery turds, you're about as competent and confident a leader as Steven Iceglow-Smif would be.

[Bunny]

I, too, do not care for the character they introduced into Robb's drama filled war. It's too forced, silly, and the character is too dry and far removed from the books. I don't understand this move.

Another move I don't understand was the ending to this episode. It's too dramatic in comparison with the books and, while this is a television drama and that's the entire point, it seems too dull and stupid of a change to even bother with. It changes the dynamic of how the entire Qarth events unfold.

Theon is doing a marvelous job of showing just how utterly incompetent and stupid he is, so good on the actor for doing that. Joffrey continues to be an insufferable :bou::bou::bou::bou: and Tyrion continues to be incredible. I wasn't bothered by the riot scene and it didn't feel that forced to me, the only real difference that I can tell was the removal of the horses from the books, which is understandable since that would be a hard scene to shoot. The Sansa scene was difficult to watch but good overall.

Overall, this was probably my least favorite episode of the season, possibly overall. Which is sad.

[Jinx]

I agree. The scene with Sansa was really upsetting.

[Madame Adequate]

Well they need to do something with Dany because she has to stay onscreen but obviously her dragon's are still babbies and not much use in a war. I don't know how fast they grow but I doubt they'll be ready to fight before like season 5 or something.

[Cuchulainn]

This show has changed so much form the books that i've literally no idea what's gonna happen next. I expected some changes but smurf me. Literaly whole plots have disappeared & been re-written. I guess this means no Reeds then. No Jeyne Westerling.

Also the sudden & unexplained disappearance of the Greatjon has been noted.

[Roogle]

You can read about Talisa Maegyr here: Talisa Maegyr - Game of Thrones Wiki (http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Talisa)

It looks like the initial cast announcement mentioned that she had been cast as Jeyne. I'm not sure whether they decided to rework her character to make her more of a foreigner like Shae or if she is Jeyne Westerling in disguise for some reason. Who knows? It's interesting. I assume that George R. R. Martin works with the show closely enough to approve all of these little changes, as I'm sure he had small regrets with the direction his story goes as more of the books are released.

[Freya]

He has to approve of it since he writes an episode a season. That's not just an author going "yeah they've taken liberties, that's what happens with this stuff." No he's participating in the changes. So I have faith it'll all come together because of that.

[Roogle]

Yeah, exactly. I'm almost certain that there are little things that he would have wanted to go back and approach differently if given the chance, and maybe these changes with some of the female characters like Shae are examples of that.

[Shlup]

The Hound is a badman. That is all, you may proceed.
No way, he's a darling!


What did the note Arya was reading say?

http://i.imgur.com/9D6Ys.jpg


Arya's story has been the most interesting this season. I don't know if Tywin knows who Arya is. I suspect he does, but if so he's doing a good job hiding it. Obviously Littlefinger knows.
I'm almost positive he doesn't. I do love their relationship though--that he clearly already likes Arya better than his own children.


Yeah, what's up with that lady Robb is talking to? I don't see the point of her. She's not really doing anything... if her purpose is to show more of Robb's personality, they should have put her with someone who has one instead. HEYO!
Robb isn't a POV character in the books, so, despite a lot of fans liking him, his storylines don't get much detail. They're simply adding more detail to a storyline that gets mostly skipped over in the books. Sidenote: The actress in question is Carlie Chaplin's granddaughter.


I, too, do not care for the character they introduced into Robb's drama filled war. It's too forced, silly, and the character is too dry and far removed from the books. I don't understand this move.
It's not far-removed from the books; the books just skip this part. I'm pretty sure Jeyne is just using a fake name. Her character in the books is really undeveloped, so I don't mind them giving the romance a bit of screen time..


Theon is doing a marvelous job of showing just how utterly incompetent and stupid he is, so good on the actor for doing that.
Agreed. Theon's storyline is probably my least favorite in the books, but the show and Alfie have made it very compelling.


You can read about Talisa Maegyr here: Talisa Maegyr - Game of Thrones Wiki (http://gameofthrones.wikia.com/wiki/Talisa)

It looks like the initial cast announcement mentioned that she had been cast as Jeyne. I'm not sure whether they decided to rework her character to make her more of a foreigner like Shae or if she is Jeyne Westerling in disguise for some reason. Who knows? It's interesting. I assume that George R. R. Martin works with the show closely enough to approve all of these little changes, as I'm sure he had small regrets with the direction his story goes as more of the books are released.
GRRM does work very closely with the show. He originally worked in TV, so he has a good understanding on what works in books versus on-screen. Who knows? Maybe this is Jeyne's actual backstory that we didn't get to see in the books. Afterall, her backstory in the books got, like, one sentence of explanation. Doesn't make for a very compelling romance.

P.S. Chills:
http://29.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m3nf9lUfkE1qaf0ggo1_250.gif

[Bunny]

I, too, do not care for the character they introduced into Robb's drama filled war. It's too forced, silly, and the character is too dry and far removed from the books. I don't understand this move.
It's not far-removed from the books; the books just skip this part. I'm pretty sure Jeyne is just using a fake name. Her character in the books is really undeveloped, so I don't mind them giving the romance a bit of screen time..

What do you mean "the books just skip this part"? What would be the point of Jeyne even using a fake name? She's gone, I don't understand this particular speculation.

[Shlup]

The books skipped the building of Robb and Jeyne's relationship. It was basically just "Hey, Mom, meet my wife. She helped me get better when I was hurt, so I had sex with her." She's a catalyst for future events, but her character and their romance gets very little attention, which a lot of people were bummed about because Robb is a popular character. In the show, Robb is getting more attention so it makes sense that they'd give his love story more attention. The casting states that the actress was cast as Jeyne Westerling, and she's made it clear that she's trying to cover up the fact that she's a lady, so it seems likely that she's using a fake name. What's the point of her using a fake identity? I suppose we'll see.

[Bunny]

But the only reason the books skipped the development was because Robb Stark isn't a PoV character (which GRRM did on purpose) so it makes sense that they wouldn't discuss the beginning of their romance. Unless Robb was talking to Catelyn (the only person in his family that he has contact to after the first book) since they were in the middle of a war. If I recall correctly, there is a part in the book which makes the readers speculate that the reason they are together is because Jeyne got pregnant (I'm not so sure if it points to Robb as the father or if he's just being honorable about it).

I understand giving Robb's love story more attention, but it makes more sense to ditch Jeyne completely and create an entirely new character, with an entirely new back story, rather than build on a weakly established character with very little background whose only real connection to the overall story is the fact that she's from one of the older houses in Westeros. Not to mention Talisa gave her last name of Maegyr, which shares a commonality with a character in a later book from Voltanis. What's the point of using a fake name tied to such a far away place simply to hide the fact that you are a lady? But I guess we will see. Doesn't matter either way, just seems like one of the dumber pieces of speculation that I've heard about a character in the show, especially when there are easier ways to explain Talisa's appearance.

[Shlup]

I don't get why you think it's a better idea to make a whole new love interest for Robb rather than just build on Jeyne, but whatever. Time will tell if this storyline gets better or not.

Robb and Jeyne got married the day after they had sex, so they wouldn't know if she was pregnant. At some point Jeyne laments to Cat that she isn't pregnant, despite their vigorous efforts. Though we haven't heard from Jeyne for awhile, so it's still possible that she's got a little Stark in her.

[Bunny]

I don't get why you think Jeyne is using a fake name to avoid Robb or any other character from figuring out her real identity.

[Shlup]

Because the casting list lists her as "Jeyne Westerling" and the character so far has been avoiding talking about who she is.

I don't really care if it turns out to be a whole new character, just leaning towards it being Jeyne because of the above.

[Bunny]

She was initially listed as Jeyne because nobody knew they were going to change her character's story. It's since been changed, as far as I know and according to most of the 'official' sites to Talisa with no real mention of Jeyne except to note that she was "previously listed as Jeyne."

[Shlup]

The GoT subreddit seems to still think it's Jeyne, but if you say so. I'm just plain too lazy to verify that. As long as Robb gets some action I'm happy.

[Freya]

So apparently GoT is the Most Torrented show of the year (http://www.forbes.com/sites/andygreenberg/2012/05/09/hbos-game-of-thrones-on-track-to-be-crowned-most-pirated-show-of-2012/) so far. Of course this is just torrents and not streaming sites.

[McLovin']

So the kids are dead? That's stupid. Clearly, the show made it look like they were NOT dead so I assume they'll be back. So two episodes left and everyone is still basically where they were 8 episodes ago lol. This book seems shorter than the first. Is there ever going to be a purpose to the storylines going on in the North or with Danerys? Cas while it's nice to get away from Westeros now and then...nothing happens to Jon or Danerys. Yeah her dragons were taken, womp womp. Jon got a boner, hooray. This shows recipe seems to be that only shit happend in the last 2 episodes.

[Bunny]

So the kids are dead? That's stupid. Clearly, the show made it look like they were NOT dead so I assume they'll be back. So two episodes left and everyone is still basically where they were 8 episodes ago lol. This book seems shorter than the first. Is there ever going to be a purpose to the storylines going on in the North or with Danerys? Cas while it's nice to get away from Westeros now and then...nothing happens to Jon or Danerys. Yeah her dragons were taken, womp womp. Jon got a boner, hooray. This shows recipe seems to be that only tit happend in the last 2 episodes.

Yes, there is a point to Jon and Dany's stories. They're just going slower because they are the only characters in which you view their actions from. And of course the story is going to ramp up towards the end. It's a television show based on a book. Books in a series typically follow the same recipe.

Also: Worst Mother's Day Ever.

[Freya]

Hahah it was huh? Poor Catelyn had such a bad mothers day :(

I am just anxious for Blackwater. It needs to get here already.

[Necronopticous]

Yes, there is a point to Jon and Dany's stories. They're just going slower because they are the only characters in which you view their actions from.
They are already struggling to cram these books into ten hour long episodes, so it blows my mind that they are wasting significant chunks of time putting Jon & Daenerys' characters through plotless tribulations which are not even in the source material. Listening to Ygritte beckon and tease Jon for nearly ten minutes was an obnoxious waste of time, and basically everything about Qarth and the events therein are lame, unnecessary, and do not belong in the universe of this show. Now that we have a magician that can effortlessly make innumerable copies of himself at absolutely no cost to his being if one is, say, skewered through the heart, we might as well have Superman. There is absolutely no reason that this magician isn't the supreme ruler of Westeros and the universe beyond with that kind of power. Very strange.

[Psychotic]

That scene with Jaime and that poor Lannister cousin was so intense. He literally is indeed a man without honour. Also I think I really like Ygritte. She's really funny and is a-okay in my book. Theon is truly a Prince of :bou::bou::bou::bou:s. Cersei actually showed a human side! Also, Tywin and Arya should team up and go on a wacky adventure together. :)

I'm finding it hard to care about Qarth or any of the characters there though. Yeah, wohoo, some sort of political plotting. Creepy Wizard Dude and Bootstraps Rich Guy team up to overthrow Snooty Twatface and assorted people I don't care about. Allow me to pick my jaw up from the floor! The reason why the politics works so well in Westeros is because we genuinely give a smurf about every character involved there.

[Cuchulainn]

So Robb's going to the Crag and insisted the girl went too. I guess she is going to end up being Jeyne after all. & the reason it wasn't advertised was to keep this storyline going.

I was wrong. I have brought dishonour upon my family.

Btw. I'm wioth Paul. I lose interest everytime the screen goes yellow hinting at a hot place as i know its gonna be a tiny blonde barking on about dragons and a honey hairey fella trying to bark the tiny blonde.

[Roogle]

The books skipped the building of Robb and Jeyne's relationship. It was basically just "Hey, Mom, meet my wife. She helped me get better when I was hurt, so I had sex with her." She's a catalyst for future events, but her character and their romance gets very little attention, which a lot of people were bummed about because Robb is a popular character. In the show, Robb is getting more attention so it makes sense that they'd give his love story more attention. The casting states that the actress was cast as Jeyne Westerling, and she's made it clear that she's trying to cover up the fact that she's a lady, so it seems likely that she's using a fake name. What's the point of her using a fake identity? I suppose we'll see.

I agree with Amanda about the character Talisa and Jeyne. I think it is just a buildup to a romance plot that was left out of the books due to the multiple points of view writing. I think that the show is giving George R. R. Martin a chance to elaborate on some of the points that readers may have missed or not really addressed in the book, like the nature of Renly and Loras' relationship. In that case, there were numerous hints, but I've talked to a lot of people that completely missed that subtext. If you have read the latest book, were you able to tell that Jon Connington had a crush on Raegar?

[Jinx]

Thoughts on this episode:

-Dany is just like, a terrible character and has a terrible story. And it seems liker her actress is getting worse to me. Also, her hair looks like shit, and I'm sad they didn't giver her proper Qarthian garb wear her tit hangs out.

-Jeyne Westerling is as depressing as Jon. They need to get together.

-While kind of pointless, the Ygritte/Jon exchange was really funny.

-I do not understand why when Sansa had her period, there was so much blood it looked like someone stabbed her in the vagina.

-And lastly, I think the part where Circe cries can be best summed up by my conversation with Pontus:
[3:19:07 PM] Sam: omg
[3:19:10 PM] Sam: so uncomfortable
[3:19:13 PM] Pontus: lol
[3:19:13 PM] Sam: he's like
[3:19:14 PM] Sam: uuuuh
[3:19:17 PM] Sam: should i like
[3:19:18 PM] Sam: hug you
[3:19:21 PM] Sam: give you a tissue
[3:19:23 PM] Pontus: haha
[3:19:23 PM] Sam: or just like, go?

[Shlup]

I feel like they're dragging out the rest of the storylines because they need Theon's to catch up and to build Joffrey as a monster worth overthrowing. It's a little bit of a bummer, but I still find the scenes entertaining.

Let's be honest, nothing really happens with Jon until the end of the book, so bringing in Ygrette early is at least funny.

And this story with Rob was outright skipped in the book.

And nothing happens with Dany in this book or the next (though I don't really care for magic bird man).

I loved Cersei in this episode; she's a nutter but I've always thought she was a great character, and her admitting Joff is terrible was very humanizing, something I think was missing from the books.

And we all know we love the Tywin/Arya scenes. Love love.

I feel like most of the complaints about the storylines right now are simultaneously that nothing is happening with certain characters, even though not much happens with them in the books, so the writers add some things to try and make it more interesting for TV, and then the same people complain about the things added for TV. I think our expectations are all just a bit high.

Most of all, though, I'm freaking out that BJ has to think for a whole week that Bran and Rickon are dead when I know quite well that they're not. It's hard to not yell out spoilers sometimes. xD

[Rantz]

And we all know we love the Tywin/Arya scenes. Love love.
Srsly, I squee every time one comes on. It's probably my favourite change from the books. There's a fantastic dynamic between those two.


Most of all, though, I'm freaking out that BJ has to think for a whole week that Bran and Rickon are dead when I know quite well that they're not. It's hard to not yell out spoilers sometimes. xD
He'll learn to scoff at not-explicitly-shown deaths soon enough. If not after this then after the Arya scare during the RW, if they put it in the show.

[Madame Adequate]

Tyrion Lannister just corrected Cersei's misuse of "strategy" where she should have used "tactics".

You have absolutely not the faintest notion how happy this makes me.

[Shlup]

You're right, I really don't. I thought he was just being a tit. Explain!

[Jinx]

You're right, I really don't. I thought he was just being a tit. Explain!


What she said.

Although I guess he means that a strategy is something well thought out and planned, and a tactic is just a ploy?

Mayhaps.

[Freya]

Strategy is overall plan, a tactic is just one move. I BELIEVE.

[Madame Adequate]

If someone can provide a roundly accepted definition of these things you'll be a very popular strategist indeed. In essence, a tactic is something that takes place within the confines of a battle - a charge at this point in the battle, sneaking a company behind enemy lines to disrupt communications, or the use of Bronn firewater to smurf up Stannis "They will bend the knee or I will destroy them" Baratheon's fleet. A strategy is a much broader thing that has a much more direct link with the war effort as a whole - to bring the enemy to battle at a particular place, to decide to use the fleet or stay in King's Landing in the first place, or to have Shadowbabby assassinate Renly "The Beast" Baratheon. So scale can be a useful indicator, but I suppose the most obvious quick, if a bit rough, way to tell is does this move affect a battle or the whole war. Of course, a battle can deeply influence the outcome of a war, so you begin to see the problem!

(We also have much literature that suggests that there is a third stage in between these two, the Operational level, and a fourth stage at the top, Grand Strategy. The former is widely accepted, the latter not so much but still fairly solidly.)

Back on the topic, I smurfing love how Pree used his parlor trick to smurf up the Thirteen like a totally creepy boss.

[Cuchulainn]

Strategy is the overall planning of an operation, tactics is what you decided to do to get the strategy working.

[Madame Adequate]

Nope.

[Cuchulainn]

Yep.

[Shlup]

cQOwj0ycGxs

[Freya]

BLACK WATER EEEEEEE

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This recent episode was boring. Dany needs to just go do something already. I did enjoy the Jamie/Brienne scene though

[Psychotic]

This recent episode was boring. No! Tyrion was being a stand up beast. Bronn was a beast in the scene he was in. Arya tellin' Jaqen was beastin'. Davos Seaworth? You better believe he was a beast. Robb facing up to Kingdom and boning some bint? How beastoriffic. Theon being learned by Asha was beastin' and you better believe Joffrey's threat to Uncle Stannis was the most beastastic thing you'll ever see on TV this year.

also tyrion. Counting him twice.

[Jinx]

Lol, Paul, you're kind of a dork.

Agreed with Freya that Dany needs to shut up and do something already. She has like, two who lines in this show. "Get my dragons back!" and "THEY ARE MY CHILDREN!" and variants etc etc.

Dude, Jaqen is hot.

Also lol at Robb/Jeyne sex scene where she kept her boots on.

[Rantz]

This recent episode was boring. No! Tyrion was being a stand up beast. Bronn was a beast in the scene he was in. Arya tellin' Jaqen was beastin'. Davos Seaworth? You better believe he was a beast. Robb facing up to Kingdom and boning some bint? How beastoriffic. Theon being learned by Asha was beastin' and you better believe Joffrey's threat to Uncle Stannis was the most beastastic thing you'll ever see on TV this year.

also tyrion. Counting him twice.

I agree, this was a cool episode. The Bronn/Tyrion exchange was funny. It was like watching an old married couple bickering. I liked the Davos-Stannis exchange too.

[Raistlin]

I agree that the Dany parts have grown stale (though she was only shown for a minute or so in the latest episode to whine a bit), but it's not like there's a whole lot to work with in the books.

I gotta give the show credit for making Robb more interesting. It's hard to believe such good children came from such a monumentally stupid bitch.

[Jinx]

I disagree. I think the House of the Undying is one of the most interesting parts of Storm of Swords. Since there are only two episodes left, and next episode seems to mostly focus on Blackwater, I don't see that coming into play.

[Del Murder]

Too much setup!

Also I was super bored when Robb's doctor lady told her story about how you should always learn CPR. They do that a lot in this show; having two characters sitting together while one tells some boring story. Less talk, more action please. I was about to cringe when the preview for next week came on...WAR...IS...and if it said 'COMING' then I was going to throw my remote at the TV, but fortunately it said 'HERE' so hopefully we get the action it's been building up to for 8 episodes.

[Jinx]

Too much setup!

Also I was super bored when Robb's doctor lady told her story about how you should always learn CPR. They do that a lot in this show; having two characters sitting together while one tells some boring story. Less talk, more action please. I was about to cringe when the preview for next week came on...WAR...IS...and if it said 'COMING' then I was going to throw my remote at the TV, but fortunately it said 'HERE' so hopefully we get the action it's been building up to for 8 episodes.

She kept going on with her story, and Pontus asked me, "Why is she telling this again?"

[Bunny]

This episode was probably the most boring yet. It's understandable though, since it consists almost entirely of setup for the last two episodes of the season. Still, there were some good moments between almost all of the characters. Jon and Dany's story continue to be boring, but that's mostly because they have no meat to them since the characters are largely irrelevant for most of the book. I'm sure Dany will get more interested in the season finale, same with Jon.

I love Bronn and I want more of him. Seeing Varys again was good too.

[Freya]

Apparently they got the director of that movie centurion or something, and they had to keep trying to tell him, "tone it down! We don't have THAT much money" cause he was adding more action scenes. Eventually they just let him do whatever and that's when they had to ask for more money from HBO. Luckily HBO gave them more ha. So this next episode should be amazing, action wise that is.

[Shlup]

The entire season has been a buildup for the next episode. Eeeee!

I feel like anyone who would think Cat is stupid hasn't bothered to take a moment to really put themselves in her shoes. Her husband was murdered, the murderers hold her daughters (well, they don't know Arya's MIA), another murderer has her little boys... though I was sure that at this point in the books she had heard Theon killed the boys. She is a mother, and all of her childrens' lives are in very direct danger. If I were her, I would be fucking shit up all over the place to save my kids. Getting her girls back costs her, what, Jaime? In the books she makes him swear an oath not to take up arms again, at least. Regardless, what kind of parent wouldn't trade one guy for their captive children? He's a good fighter, sure, but it's not even like he's a great tactician; he can be captured or killed, but there may not be another chance for Cat to save her girls, especially since Karstark was looking to kill Jaime the first chance he'd get.

P.S. Charlie Chaplin's granddaughter has a wonderful tush.

[Freya]

http://i.imgur.com/OpMB9.jpg

I'm too excited about blackwater.

[Jinx]

I am actually not looking forward to next week's episode. I thought Blackwater was one of the most boring parts of Storm of Swords.