While Rhaenyra struggles to come to terms with her son's murder, in King's Landing, Alicent grows concerned that Aegon's Small Council may lead them to an all-out war. Larys suggests Aegon needs a new Hand, and Rhaenyra arrives at a fateful decision.

As Otto schemes to turn the public against her, Rhaenyra questions Daemon's loyalty. Meanwhile, Ser Criston Cole concocts a misguided plan for revenge.

As ancient grudges resurface, Rhaenys suggests that Alicent may see reason while the men around her seek bloodshed. Ser Criston proposes a bold scheme. Daemon arrives at Harrenhal to raise an army for the Blacks.

In Rhaenyra's absence and with no word from Daemon at Harrenhal, Rhaenys tries to keep the peace on the Black Council as Cole mounts a campaign into the Crownlands. In King's Landing, Aemond continues to undermine Aegon's fragile hold on authority.

Amid whispers of bad omens, the Greens consider how to fill a void on Aegon's Council, Jacaerys sets out on a rogue mission to strike a deal, and Daemon enlists Lord Willem Blackwood to help persuade the Brackens to bend the knee.

With few options left, Rhaenyra summons a trusted knight for a risky venture and plots with Mysaria to catalyze the smallfolk. Meanwhile, Daemon's unease grows, and Aemond takes steps to reshape the Green Council.

As Rhaenyra looks to gain an advantage by unusual means, Daemon pressures a young liege lord to raise up his bannermen.