Joffrey punishes Sansa for Robb’s victories, and Tyrion scrambles to temper the king’s cruelty. Catelyn entreats Stannis and Renly to unite against the Lannisters. Dany and her khalasar arrive at the prosperous city of Qarth. Tyrion coerces a relative into being his eyes and ears. Arya and Gendry are taken to Harrenhal, where their lives are in the hands of Ser Gregor Clegane. Stannis orders Davos to smuggle Melisandre into a secret cove.

Theon seizes control of Winterfell. Jon captures a wildling, named Ygritte and is given a chance to prove himself. At King's Landing, after the Lannisters send Myrcella off to be married, the people begin to turn against King Joffrey. Arya comes face to face with a surprise visitor. Daenerys looks to buy ships to sail for the Seven Kingdoms.

Sansa says too much. Shae asks Tyrion for a favor. Jaime finds a way to pass the time, while Arya encounters the Brotherhood Without Banners.