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Everyone loves reunions

Last week’s Game of Thrones episode left us feeling fulfilled, and HBO responded to our applause with “The Spoils of War,” a compact 50-minute masterpiece that defied its runtime. Threads from Season 7 persist: characters traverse Westeros with uncanny speed, and Daenerys inquires about Missandei and Greyworm’s intimacy. Yet, amidst these beats, Episode 4 delivers reunions and defining moments that encapsulate the essence of GoT.

[Editor’s Note: This recap contains major spoilers for the latest Game of Thrones episode. Consider yourself warned. ~ Nick, echoed by Rick]

Post-Highgarden, Jaime Lannister and his entourage, including the ever-unfiltered Bronn, carry their spoils towards King’s Landing. Amidst jests and demands for more gold, Bronn remains a constant amidst evolving narratives.

Cersei’s brief encounter with the Iron Bank envoy hints at future alliances and debts to be settled, but wisely, these scenes are concise.

Welcome to Winterfell’s high school reunion atmosphere, where Arya’s return, Theon’s awkward landing at Dragonstone, and Tyrion’s chance meeting with Jaime on the road evoke nostalgia and anticipation. Arya’s transformation since Season 1 is striking, as is the reminder of the vastness and complexity of Martin’s world.

The climactic clash between Daenerys, her Dothraki horde, and Jaime’s army steals the show. Dragon versus army spectacle satisfies those craving action, yet intimate encounters like Jon’s confrontation with Theon and Arya’s reunion with Brienne resonate deeply.

The Arya-Brienne sparring session, filled with callbacks, potentially showcases Arya’s water dancing skills learned from Syrio Forel. Littlefinger’s intense interest in Arya raises eyebrows, suggesting he’s recalibrating his allegiance.

Littlefinger gifting Bran the Valyrian steel dagger prompts intrigue. Bran’s re-gifting to Arya signals foreknowledge and a potential role in the revenge plot against House Stark’s enemies.

Final Thoughts:

• The Sansa-Arya exchange about Ned’s statue highlights their resilience.
• Speculation abounds on Ser Jorah’s return and his reunion with Daenerys.
• Bran’s cryptic behavior adds layers to his enigmatic persona.
• Questions linger about Daenerys’ strategic use of one dragon, and her targeting choices during battle.
• Tyrion’s concern for Jaime amid their conflicting allegiances is both amusing and poignant.
• Daenerys’ trust in Tyrion seems misplaced given his recent failures.
• The Golden Company’s potential appearance stirs excitement.
• Jaime’s fate, after Bronn’s intervention, remains uncertain but pivotal.

Notable Appearances: Jon, Daenerys, Missandei, Varys, Tyrion, Davos, Jaime, Cersei, Sansa, Littlefinger, Bran, Meera Reed, Theon, Arya, Brienne, Pod, Dothraki horde, Randyll Tarly, and company.

Absentees: Sam, the other dragons, The Hound, and Gendry—his reappearance eagerly awaited.

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