At the Red Keep, Tyrion plots three alliances through the promise of marriage. Catelyn arrives in the Stormlands to forge an alliance of her own, but King Renly, his new wife Margaery, and her brother Loras Tyrell have other plans. At Winterfell, Luwin tries to decipher Bran’s dreams.

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.

Betrayal befalls Robb. Jon and Qhorin are taken prisoner by the wildlings. Theon receives a visitor at Winterfell and must make an important decision. Meanwhile, Stannis is just days away from reaching King's Landing and Tyrion prepares for his arrival. At Harrenhal, Arya, Gendry and Hot Pie plan their escape.