More subtle was the lingering scene with Sheeran’s soldier cohorts, decent men who just miss their families. The most chilling reminder that they matter, too, and that actions of the powerful have consequences, was the family the Hound victimized in Season 4, found dead in its home.

There were several suggestions that though they don’t show up on the maps, the plebes of Westeros could be a factor this season.

That’s where the seeds of Stark conflict glimpsed last season blossomed awkwardly in front of everyone, as Sansa took issue with the decency Jon showed toward formerly treasonous Northern houses.Ī Few Thoughts While We Remember the Little People We also saw Cersei’s instincts on display in an unexpected place: Winterfell.

I don’t think her tactics will pay off in the end but in the short-term, at least, I’m done underestimating her. That said, I thought she was a goner last year and look what happened then. On Sunday she looked fairly power-obsessed and spiteful, grousing to Jaime about traitors and eying “a dynasty for us,” which is an interesting interpretation of the dynasty concept. We will probably reject comments about this so people who haven’t read the books can remain in the dark about it, if they choose.)Ī big question going into the season was what a childless Cersei might look like, maternal devotion long being her one tether to whatever remained of her humanity. (Update: Turns out there’s a pretty solid theory derived from the books. Something that thwarts dragons, perhaps? (Giant strips of dragonpaper?) Feel free to share your theories in the comments. I suppose a dragon would be the most priceless gift of all, but that seems impractical. Plus Tyrion has a knack for getting captured (Catelyn, Jorah). Any guesses what it might be? My first thought was Tyrion, Euron’s gift pledge coming, as it did, right after talk of traitorous relatives and the joy of murdering your own brother. After Cersei declined Euron’s offer, he promised a “priceless gift,” saying he won’t return to King’s Landing until he has it.

Game of thrones painted table