King Viserys I Targaryen travels to Driftmark to propose a marriage between his heir, Rhaenyra, and Laenor Velaryon, the son of Lord Corlys Velaryon. This union is intended to heal the rift between the two most powerful Valyrian houses. Rhaenyra and Laenor, both aware of their own private preferences—Rhaenyra's desire for freedom and Laenor's homosexuality—strike a secret bargain: they will perform their royal duties to produce heirs but remain "free to dine" as they please.
Tensions peak during the welcoming feast in King's Landing. Queen Alicent Hightower, having discovered the truth about Rhaenyra’s tryst with Ser Criston Cole from Larys Strong, makes a late and dramatic entrance. She wears a vibrant green gown —the color the Hightowers use to call their banners to war. This silent gesture signals her break from Rhaenyra and her commitment to her own children’s claim to the throne. King Viserys I Targaryen travels to Driftmark to
The celebration turns into a bloodbath when Ser Criston Cole, overwhelmed by guilt and heartbreak, snaps. After being approached by Laenor’s lover, Ser Joffrey Lonmouth (who reveals he knows about Criston and Rhaenyra), Criston brutally beats Joffrey to death in the middle of the dance floor. Tensions peak during the welcoming feast in King's Landing
Before the wedding, Prince Daemon Targaryen returns to the Vale. He confronts his estranged wife, Lady Rhea Royce, in a remote field. After a cold exchange, Daemon causes her horse to panic, resulting in her fall and subsequent paralysis. He then finishes her off with a stone, clearing his path to inherit her lands and marry again. This silent gesture signals her break from Rhaenyra