Robert Smith (has read every book, watched every episode, owns several T-shirts, and possibly has a George RR Martin shrine in his bedroom):
There wasn't a lot of real sword-play in this episode, but there was plenty of action in Tyrion's cell. His three visitors run everybody's favourite imp through an
emotional gauntlet, with all three actors sparking off the always-awesome Dinklage. Jaime might be the only person who truly loves Tyrion, but won't lay down his life for that love, (even if it would piss off their father). Bronn offers some faint hope, but his brutal honesty won't let him risk everything for the sake of friendship, and Tyrion can't even hold that against him. But then there is Oberyn Martell, a new addition to the cast this season who has already made his mark with his charm and thirst for vengeance. At first his visit to Tyrion's cell seems like another excuse for cruel taunting of the dwarf, until he stands tall and declares himself a champion - not for Tyrion, but for his own need for revenge. That sets the stage for the ultimate duel between the Red Viper and the Mountain, and while we have to wait a little longer than usual for that enticing fight - there is no episode next week due to a US holiday - it is certain to be worth the wait.
Cameron McMillan (a Thrones trainspotter who can always be relied upon for up-to-date statistics and random factoids):
Littlefinger is winning the game* and by some margin at the moment. He successfully killed a king, which right there is worth a few converted tries, while last night's episode put him further in front by throwing Lysa Arryn out the moon door. In a few swift moves he's scored the new woman of his dreams and increased his Westeros property portfolio two-fold by adding the Eyrie along with Harrenhal. But what's his next move? Does he get rid of a Robin as well or would that alienate him from the rest of the Vale? A lot of people there won't be so sure that Lysa tripped and fell. What has worked in Petyr Baelish's favour to date is that he hasn't had much to lose, especially a loved one which is Cersei's weakness. But by falling in love with Sansa he may have just created a real weakness. Sure he's got a coward's way of gaining his success. He didn't actually kill the king himself while he threw a defenceless woman out a window (sorry to bring back the bad memories Bran) but he knows how to win. You need to be cold hearted, ruthless and cunning to win this game. Strength and honour is worth nothing. Look where it got the Starks. You also need a good gravy. People forget that.
* To be exact Tommen is winning since he sits on the Iron Throne but the only game he plays includes a ball of Pentosian yarn and Ser Pounce.
Bridget Jones (a latecomer, but only because she is incredibly impatient and prefers binge-watching. She'll look at spoilers, but will always deny it):
I'm not angry Bronn, I'm just disappointed. Really, really bloody disappointed. The scene between Tyrion and the newly-engaged, cape-wearing, fancy-pants Bronn was beyond heartbreaking. We know these two have a funny wee relationship; lots of banter, but a real friendship is there as well. And that's what made it all the sadder that Tyrion couldn't count on his right-hand man just when he needed him. Obviously, agreeing to fight someone like The Mountain is basically the battle version of wailing "goodbye cruel world" at the top of your lungs, but by refusing to step up for Tyrion, Bronn has shown us what's been behind all his action up to this point. Not necessarily gold and glory, or even that yes, he actually likes the little prince, but he's offered himself up before because he knew he could win. This time, the outcome is not so certain. Good luck with that Oberyn Martell.
