Bend the knee and join us each week as we re-read the epic fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin. Each episode will contain a small council meeting for updates on the HBO show, House of the Dragon, Winds of Winter, and GRR’s ‘Not a Blog’. We also include a short history lesson from A World of Ice and Fire. Finally, we take an in-depth look at each chapter of the series. This is a book club without banners, all are welcome to join! Night gathers, and now our read begins …

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/6/0/4f3fcb88-fee0-4138-9c99-f298c4cd77d8_boiled_leather_part_1.mp3

<h3>AFFC Prologue — Pate</h3>In Oldtown, struggling Citadel novice Pate steals a master key in exchange for a gold dragon from a mysterious alchemist, hoping to use the money to win Rosey. After completing the exchange, Pate suddenly collapses and dies, while the chapter also introduces rumors of Daenerys&#39;s dragons, Marwyn the Mage, and a burning glass candle.<h3>ADWD Prologue — Varamyr Sixskins</h3>A dying Varamyr Sixskins reflects on his life as a powerful skinchanger and the forbidden acts his mentor Haggon taught him never to commit. After unsuccessfully attempting to take over Thistle&#39;s body, Varamyr dies and enters his wolf for his &#34;second life,&#34; later encountering Thistle resurrected as a blue-eyed wight.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 227: - Boiled Leather Part 1 | AFFC & ADWD Prologues

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/15/14/c5949767-0fe3-40c2-aa63-822e8e5bda73_podcast_hotd_s3.mp3

If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to subscribe to the Bend the Knee Podcast for weekly House of the Dragon coverage, A Song of Ice and Fire theories, lore deep dives, and everything happening in Westeros.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

House of the Dragon Season 3 Review

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/10/17/30270bc6-1e91-4450-a813-aba21b17983b_btkpodfinale.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 8 Review - The Treasons at Tumbleton⁩

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/3/21/b9fba318-3a92-4707-baa8-5e04ee2441b8__season_3_episode_7_review_-_the_winter_dragon.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 7 Review - The Winter Dragon

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/27/22/1c98ca4d-a3d5-4601-9c9c-8da76284f835_hotds3e6pod.mp3

If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to subscribe to the Bend the Knee Podcast for weekly House of the Dragon coverage, A Song of Ice and Fire theories, lore deep dives, and everything happening in Westeros.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>﻿Books Immersed: Soundscapes is a brand new way to experience your favourite audiobooks in full immersive Dolby Atmos audio. With sound effects, ambient nature environments, and an original score for every moment of the story. Try the first chapter of A Game of Thrones or A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms for free on the app today. If you like what you hear, use the code BTK25 to save on full collections for Westeros, Middle-earth, and more:  Android: <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jordanrannells.booksimmersed&pcampaignid=web_share" rel="nofollow">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jordanrannells.booksimmersed&amp;pcampaignid=web_share</a> iPhone: <a href="https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/6774358357" rel="nofollow">https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/6774358357</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 6 Review - Faceless Men

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/20/21/5823b429-e885-4b9b-84ee-6614782c1626_hotds3e5podcastaudio.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 5 Review - Unbowed, Unbent

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/14/2/ae33c499-be33-42bf-a58b-ddae32f235cf_hotdpods3e4.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 4 Review - Tumbleton

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/6/22/a909dbe5-2022-4ad4-b15c-c51702f4a9e3_episode_3_review.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 3 Review - The Rat Banquet

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/29/11/29b08296-47a7-4cc5-b3d7-e5a34c349f48_hotd_season_3_episode2_pod.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 2 Review - Queen's Landing

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/22/22/e01cb977-801e-4f7a-8fa9-1efde066a5cd_hotd_review_w_jimmy.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 1 Review - Salt and Sea, Fire and Blood

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/22/12/c8aca51d-4587-4e4c-8939-de8747e5c5ce__season_3_episode_1_-_reaction_live_stream_pod.mp3

House of the Dragon Season 3 is finally here, and what a premiere it was.Ser Matt jumped on immediately after watching the Season 3 premiere to share the raw, spoiler-filled reactions to one of the most epic episodes HBO has ever produced.From the breathtaking Battle of the Gullet to shocking character moments, incredible dragon action, and what may be some of the best large-scale battles we’ve ever seen in the Game of Thrones universe, this episode absolutely delivered. For me, it’s an easy 10/10 and an unforgettable start to the season.This is an immediate reaction episode, so expect first impressions, favorite moments, standout performances, and early predictions for what’s coming next.Jimmy and I will be back later with our full in-depth review and breakdown, where we’ll analyze every major scene, compare the episode to Fire &amp; Blood, discuss the biggest changes from the source material, and answer your questions. ⚠️ Full spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 1 throughout this episode. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to subscribe to the Bend the Knee Podcast for weekly House of the Dragon coverage, A Song of Ice and Fire theories, lore deep dives, and everything happening in Westeros.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 1 - Reaction Live Stream

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/20/15/ef3d272d-115e-4207-82c0-fb1ce096fa82_asos_epilouge_pod.mp3

<a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Merrett_Frey" rel="nofollow">Merrett Frey</a> is approaching the ruins of <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Oldstones" rel="nofollow">Oldstones</a> with the ransom for his half-brother&#39;s (<a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stevron_Frey" rel="nofollow">Stevron Frey</a>&#39;s) grandson <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Petyr_Frey" rel="nofollow">Petyr Pimple</a>. He is considering all the ill luck throughout his life, starting as a squire, where in a battle against the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Kingswood_Brotherhood" rel="nofollow">Kingswood Brotherhood</a> he got hit on the head so hard he was unable to ever truly fight again, which left him unable to reach knighthood. <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Walder_Frey" rel="nofollow">His father</a>has always mocked him as &#34;Merrett Muttonhead&#34;, and all he was good for during the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Red_Wedding" rel="nofollow">Red Wedding</a> was to drink the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jon_Umber_(Greatjon)" rel="nofollow">Greatjon</a> under the table. Merrett recollects how his father ordered the massacre of the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Stark" rel="nofollow">Starks</a> at <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Edmure_Tully" rel="nofollow">Edmure Tully</a>’s wedding, but it was <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lothar_Frey" rel="nofollow">Lame Lothar</a> and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Roose_Bolton" rel="nofollow">Roose Bolton</a> who had masterminded the whole affair. He considers how things at the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Twins" rel="nofollow">Twins</a> will turn worse for him when his father dies, as <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Ryman_Frey" rel="nofollow">Ryman</a> stands to inherit, and his sons <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Edwyn_Frey" rel="nofollow">Edwyn</a> and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Walder_Frey_(son_of_Ryman)" rel="nofollow">Black Walder</a> after him. Merrett feels that if he could accomplish this task, maybe his luck would change for the better, considering that Petyr is Ser Ryman’s son. However, he has failed at everything in his life, including his role in keeping the Greatjon too drunk to fight. The man killed or maimed four men, and it took eight to finally get him in chains. When he reaches the site of King <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tristifer_IV_Mudd" rel="nofollow">Tristifer</a>’s sepulcher, he finds the outlaws who captured Petyr. They surround him and take the gold he carried for the ransom. Merrett demands to see <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Beric_Dondarrion" rel="nofollow">Beric Dondarrion</a>, but <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lem" rel="nofollow">Lem</a> and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tom_of_Sevenstreams" rel="nofollow">Tom</a> inform him that the Lightning Lord was needed elsewhere. They lead him to the tree from which Petyr Pimple is hanging, and then Lem ties a noose around Merrett’s neck. Sick with fear after they have lied about the ransom and now mean to hang him, Merrett pleads that he had nothing to do with the Red Wedding, and that they have no witness. However, Tom Sevenstrings steps aside to reveal a woman with grey skin and a hideous scar across her neck, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Catelyn_Tully" rel="nofollow">a woman</a> Merrett knows to be dead, having seen his brothers slit her throat and dump her naked body in the river. Her eyes are terrible to behold: they see him, and they hate him. Lem tells him that she can’t speak, but she nods when Lem asks if Merrett was involved. Merrett opens his mouth to plead, but the noose chokes off his words.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 226: - Epilogue | A Storm of Swords

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/13/13/c9f6d511-dda6-4799-9281-f45138e0d25c_sansa_pod_audio.mp3

At the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Eyrie" rel="nofollow">Eyrie</a>, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Sansa_Stark" rel="nofollow">Sansa</a> awakens to find it snowing outside. She wanders outside and begins to sculpt a snow castle, slowly forming it into a replica of <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Winterfell" rel="nofollow">Winterfell</a>. <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Petyr_Baelish" rel="nofollow">Littlefinger</a> finds her in the garden and helps her finish the castle. He tells her she is even more beautiful than <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Catelyn_Tully" rel="nofollow">her mother</a> was at her age, and then proceeds to kiss her. Sansa is shocked by Lord Baelish’s action, but for half a heartbeat she yields. She tries to make him stop and then young <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Robert_Arryn" rel="nofollow">Robert</a>approaches interrupting them. Robert begins to destroy the snow castle with his ragged doll. Sansa reacts by grabbing the doll which causes it to tear in half. This in turn causes her cousin to begin shaking violently. Maester <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Colemon" rel="nofollow">Colemon</a> is called to bring the boy for a leeching, in an attempt to cure the fit. Sansa is brought before her aunt, but <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lysa_Arryn" rel="nofollow">Lysa</a> is not concerned about her son’s seizure, but rather Sansa kissing Petyr. Lysa accuses her of trying to seduce her husband, just like her mother had tried to &#34;steal&#34; Petyr from her. Lady Arryn then relates the story of how one night when they had all gotten drunk, Catelyn spurned Littlefinger, and Lysa had gone to his bed afterward to comfort him, even though he had called her Cat. Lysa continues to rant about how <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Hoster_Tully" rel="nofollow">her father</a> took their baby away from them, and then grabs Sansa and drags her before the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Eyrie#Moon_Door" rel="nofollow">Moon Door</a> while calling for <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Marillion" rel="nofollow">Marillion</a>. Lysa pushes her closer and closer to the edge, until Littlefinger arrives and tells his new wife to release her. Lysa, bordering on insanity, reveals how she had persuaded <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jon_Arryn" rel="nofollow">Jon Arryn</a> to get Littlefinger his first post, and how she had done as he said when Petyr told her to put the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tears_of_Lys" rel="nofollow">Tears of Lys</a> in her husband’s wine. He also had her write the letter to her sister falsely naming the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Lannisters</a> as Jon Arryn’s murderers. Petyr promises never to leave her side again, and as she falls into his arms, he tells her he has only ever loved one woman... Cat. He then shoves her out the Moon Door. He calls for the guards, accusing Marillion of killing his wife…Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 225: - Sansa VII | A Storm of Swords | "I've only loved one woman"

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/6/15/fe4c9db9-42c6-4cc6-a97a-cb7744febb8d_btk_chapter_jon_pod.mp3

<a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jon_Snow" rel="nofollow">Jon</a> practices swords in the yard with <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Iron_Emmett" rel="nofollow">Iron Emmett</a>, another brother of the Night&#39;s Watch. Emmett hits Jon hard and Jon is knocked into thoughts of <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Winterfell" rel="nofollow">Winterfell</a> and his boyhood rivalry with Robb. Part of him always wanted to become Lord of Winterfell and resented that it was impossible for him. These feelings come up so strong that he beats Emmett mercilessly and has to be pulled off him. Jon goes to the bathhouse, and overhears Ser <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Alliser_Thorne" rel="nofollow">Alliser</a>and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Bowen_Marsh" rel="nofollow">Bowen Marsh</a> mentioning that Lord <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tywin_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Tywin</a> sent a letter backing <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Janos_Slynt" rel="nofollow">Janos Slynt</a>’s rise to Lord Commander. They show it to <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Othell_Yarwyck" rel="nofollow">Othell Yarwyck</a>, seeking to have the First Builder withdraw and back Slynt. Jon is disturbed by the prospect of Slynt becoming Lord Commander, and goes off through the gate beyond <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/The_Wall" rel="nofollow">the Wall</a>. He is torn between his duties to the Watch, and the chance <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stannis_Baratheon" rel="nofollow">Stannis</a> has given him to become Jon Stark, Lord of Winterfell. As he is considering that he has always wanted this, his thoughts change to a hunger for food. No, not food but prey - <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Deer" rel="nofollow">deer</a> or elk. When he looks up, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Ghost" rel="nofollow">Ghost</a>comes padding over. He is overjoyed to see his old friend. Jon looks at the direwolf’s red eyes. Recalling what <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Melisandre" rel="nofollow">Melisandre</a> said about there being no <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Old_gods" rel="nofollow">old gods</a>, only the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lord_of_Light" rel="nofollow">Lord of Light</a> and the Other, Jon realizes that while Ghost&#39;s eyes are red, they are not like Melisandre’s. He has a <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Weirwood" rel="nofollow">weirwood’s</a> eyes and belongs to the old gods. His mind made up, he attends the voting council for the first time. He is greeted with shouts of disapproval from Slynt and Thorne, learning that his name has been put forth as Lord Commander. Seeking to end the voting, Ser Alliser mentions that Othell Yarwyck has something to say, but the First Builder abandons their plotting, and withdraws in favor of Jon. When <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Samwell_Tarly" rel="nofollow">Sam</a> and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Clydas" rel="nofollow">Clydas</a> go to fetch the voting kettle, a large raven flies out and lands on Jon’s shoulder, cawing, &#34;Snow. Snow.&#34; The <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Night%27s_Watch" rel="nofollow">Black Brothers</a> are amazed when they realize the bird is <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Mormont%27s_raven" rel="nofollow">Mormont&#39;s raven</a>. Jon Snow wins the vote in a landslide victory and is named the 998th Lord Commander, but he must soon confront Stannis with the news.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 224: - Jon XII | A Storm of Swords | "Lord Commander"

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/30/16/54d6ca8e-4e72-49e0-815c-3d717d7dd6de_skagos_pod.mp3

Ser Jimmy is out sick this week but it let Ser Matt finish a script he has been working on about Skagos in the Winds of Winter!For this episode of Bend the Knee, we’re diving into one of the most mysterious and potentially important locations in all of A Song of Ice and Fire: Skagos. Known as the land of cannibals, unicorns, giant-blooded warriors, and ancient First Men traditions, Skagos has lingered on the edges of the story for years. But with Rickon Stark hidden there, Davos Seaworth sailing to retrieve him, and George R.R. Martin continuing to keep its secrets hidden, we explore why Skagos may be far more than just a remote island. Could it hold the future of House Stark? Why is Rickon’s storyline so different from the HBO adaptation? Could Benjen Stark still be alive and hiding among the stoneborn? And what role might dragonglass, ancient magic, and the old powers of the North play in the coming war against the Others? Join us as we break down the lore, the theories, and why Skagos may become one of the most important locations in The Winds of Winter.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

The importance of Skagos in Winds of Winter

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/15/3/02f08dfb-5a26-4318-8bd6-a1ac8b46f41f_samwell_v_asos_pod.mp3

King <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stannis_Baratheon" rel="nofollow">Stannis</a> has brought several of the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Night%27s_Watch" rel="nofollow">black brothers</a> before him to make known his anger about them taking too long to select a new Lord Commander. Stannis sees through <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Janos_Slynt" rel="nofollow">Janos Slynt</a>’s fawning, having known the man as a bribe-taker in <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/King%27s_Landing" rel="nofollow">King&#39;s Landing</a>. The king makes it clear that after they finally vote in a new Lord Commander, he plans to take all the castles along <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/The_Wall" rel="nofollow">the Wall</a>, except for the three currently occupied by the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Night%27s_Watch" rel="nofollow">Watch</a>, to garrison his forces. He also plans to either take or be granted the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Gift" rel="nofollow">Gift</a>, stating that he intends to help the Watch guard the Wall. He commands the builders to deliver reports on the conditions of the abandoned castles, and informs the men gathered that nightfires will be lit before the gates of all the castles. When <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Melisandre" rel="nofollow">Melisandre</a> mentions the impending war, Maester <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Aemon_Targaryen_(son_of_Maekar_I)" rel="nofollow">Aemon</a> is aware that she speaks of the prophesied War for the Dawn. After the others have left, Aemon asks to see the fabled sword <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lightbringer" rel="nofollow">Lightbringer</a> through Sam’s eyes. <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Samwell_Tarly" rel="nofollow">Sam</a> describes the sword as glowing, yet there are no flames.Stannis questions Sam about <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dragonglass" rel="nofollow">dragonglass</a>, making it known that there are great deposits of obsidian beneath <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dragonstone" rel="nofollow">Dragonstone</a>, and that he intends to have it mined and brought to the Wall. The king asks Sam to show him the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Nightfort#Black_Gate" rel="nofollow">Black Gate</a>, as he intends to make the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Nightfort" rel="nofollow">Nightfort</a> his seat, and Sam agrees although he is not sure if the gate will open for a man not of the black. When they leave, Maester Aemon asks Sam if he felt any heat emanating from the sword, and he realizes that he did not. Aemon speaks of the choosing, subtly implying that Sam could do something to help speed the process. Determined to put aside the bickering between the two leading candidates, Sam speaks with both <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Cotter_Pyke" rel="nofollow">Cotter Pyke</a> and Ser <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Denys_Mallister" rel="nofollow">Denys Mallister</a> individually. Both are aware they will not be elected and agree that Slynt would be a bad choice. So Sam asks them if they would step aside if the right candidate were to be named. Playing one off the other, using their dislike for each other, Sam sets it up so that each man will lend his support to <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jon_Snow" rel="nofollow">Jon</a> that night.Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 223: - Samwell V | A Storm of Swords | "Frozen Fire"

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/7/2/ca57ccee-9e24-457d-b9e5-30a1a256f88f_ion_xi_redcircle_pod_-_do_the_prgressive_thing.mp3

T<a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tyrion_Lannister" rel="nofollow">yrion</a>, locked in the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Black_cells" rel="nofollow">black cells</a> beneath the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Red_Keep" rel="nofollow">Red Keep</a>, is rescued by <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jaime_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Jaime</a>. His brother tells him that he is to be beheaded on the morrow, and informs him that he coerced <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Varys" rel="nofollow">Varys</a> into helping him charter a ship to take Tyrion from <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/King%27s_Landing" rel="nofollow">King&#39;s Landing</a>. When Jaime tells him that the rescue was a debt he owed him, Tyrion presses his brother, and learns that <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tysha" rel="nofollow">Tysha</a> was not a whore, but a crofter’s daughter, just as she appeared. Lord <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tywin_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Tywin</a> had forced Jaime all those years ago to lie about Tysha so as to teach Tyrion a lesson. Tyrion is infuriated that his brother never told him the truth, and punches Jaime in the face. Tyrion warns him that he will exact revenge against him, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tywin_Lannister" rel="nofollow">their father</a>, and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Cersei_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Cersei</a>, as a <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Lannister</a> always pays his debts. Jaime then asks if Tyrion poisoned <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Joffrey_Baratheon" rel="nofollow">Joffrey</a> and, lying in his anger, Tyrion admits to doing so. He also tells Jaime that Cersei is sleeping with <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lancel_Lannister" rel="nofollow">Lancel</a> and Ser <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Osmund_Kettleblack" rel="nofollow">Osmund</a>and perhaps others, and that Joffrey would have been a monster worse than <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Aerys_II_Targaryen" rel="nofollow">Aerys</a> if he remained king.Tyrion stalks off without a further word, and confronts Varys for his betrayal. The eunuch concedes that he cannot find a trace of <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Sansa_Stark" rel="nofollow">Sansa</a>, then leads him deeper down, to the fourth level where <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Maegor_I_Targaryen" rel="nofollow">Maegor</a> had built torture chambers. When they come to a circular tower chamber with a ladder leading up, Tyrion realizes it leads up to the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tower_of_the_Hand" rel="nofollow">Tower of the Hand</a>. Commanding Varys to wait for him, Tyrion ascends the wickedly high ladder. It leads to a <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Secret_passage" rel="nofollow">secret passage</a> behind the rooms in the Tower, perfect for Varys’ &#34;<a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Little_birds" rel="nofollow">little birds</a>&#34; to overhear everything going on in the Hand’s quarters. He opens the secret door to his old chamber, and finds <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Shae" rel="nofollow">Shae</a> naked in his father’s bed, with the Hand’s chain of office around her neck. The whore pleads that the Queen made her say all those things against him in court, but Tyrion strangles her with the chain he once wore. Grabbing a crossbow off the wall, he finds his father in the privy. Tywin commands him to put down the crossbow, promising that he had no intention of carrying out the sentence, and would allow Tyrion to take <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Night%27s_Watch" rel="nofollow">the black</a>. Disbelieving his father, Tyrion questions him as to what became of Tysha. Lord Tywin reveals he did not have her killed, and doesn&#39;t know exactly what became of her. Tywin says he supposed the steward sent the &#34;whore&#34; on her way. Tyrion then asks where the steward might have sent her and Lord Tywin replies &#34;Wherever whores go&#34;. Tyrion fires the crossbow sending the bolt into his father’s pelvis, killing Lord Tywin.﻿Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 222: - Tyrion XI | A Storm of Swords | "No son of mine"

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/2/15/9781da70-aa9e-466d-b171-39a2bee42b71_hotd_trailer_reaction_-_redcircrle_pod.mp3

﻿Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

House of the Dragon Season 3 - "Teaser" Trailer Reaction

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/24/3/f3b6ebd3-2d4f-411f-adfb-130fb39283de_jon_11_-_pod_audio.mp3

<a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jon_Snow" rel="nofollow">Jon</a> is training with <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Satin" rel="nofollow">Satin</a> in the yard, when <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Melisandre" rel="nofollow">Melisandre</a> arrives to take him before <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stannis_Baratheon" rel="nofollow">Stannis</a>. The King does not believe Jon is a traitor, for he knew <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Janos_Slynt" rel="nofollow">Janos Slynt</a> as well as <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Eddard_Stark" rel="nofollow">Ned Stark</a>. Stannis knew Ned to be a man of honor, and trusts Jon, saying it was Jon who found the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dragonglass" rel="nofollow">dragonglass</a> dagger that <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Samwell_Tarly" rel="nofollow">Samwell Tarly</a> used to kill the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Others" rel="nofollow">Other</a>, and Jon who brought them the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Horn_of_Winter" rel="nofollow">Horn of Winter</a> and captured Mance’s son. At every step of Stannis&#39; speech, Jon clarifies whom he credits with doing the actual deeds. Stannis asks Jon if there is honor in <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Mance_Rayder" rel="nofollow">Mance Rayder</a>, and the young man claims there is. The King speaks of the war that Melisandre has seen in her flames, and he confides that Jon may have a part in the upcoming battle. Stannis offers to legitimize Jon and name him Lord of <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Winterfell" rel="nofollow">Winterfell</a>, a goal he considers especially important due to all the strife occurring in <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/The_North" rel="nofollow">the North</a>. Stannis intends to let the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Wildlings" rel="nofollow">wildlings</a> through <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/The_Wall" rel="nofollow">the Wall</a>, and settle them in the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Gift" rel="nofollow">Gift</a>, should they pledge fealty and accept the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Lord_of_Light" rel="nofollow">Lord of Light</a> as their god. He also presumes to marry his loyal Lord of Winterfell to <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Val" rel="nofollow">Val</a> to solidify his peace with the wildlings, however Jon would have to adopt Stannis&#39; faith and burn the godswood of Winterfell. Jon asks for time to consider the offer, and Stannis agrees.﻿Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 221: - Jon XI | A Storm of Swords | "Lord of Winterfell"

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/18/12/a825047a-7eb7-4720-9ca0-a9661c9f0093_samwell_4_pod.mp3

At <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Castle_Black" rel="nofollow">Castle Black</a>, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Gilly" rel="nofollow">Gilly</a> is nursing both her own son as well as <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Mance_Rayder" rel="nofollow">Mance Rayder</a>&#39;s, as <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dalla" rel="nofollow">Dalla</a> died giving birth. <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Samwell_Tarly" rel="nofollow">Sam</a> and Gilly have recently returned to Castle Black, meeting up with Ser <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Denys_Mallister" rel="nofollow">Denys Mallister</a> and the men from the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Shadow_Tower" rel="nofollow">Shadow Tower</a>. They also joined with <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Dywen" rel="nofollow">Dywen</a>, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Edd_Tollett" rel="nofollow">Edd</a> and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Bedwyck" rel="nofollow">Giant</a>, survivors from the Bridge of Skulls where <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Bowen_Marsh" rel="nofollow">Bowen Marsh</a> held back the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Weeper" rel="nofollow">Weeper</a>&#39;s advance. Sam is happy to be reunited with <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jon_Snow" rel="nofollow">Jon</a>, although he is wary of King <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Stannis_Baratheon" rel="nofollow">Stannis</a>&#39;s army being present at Castle Black. It was the king who defeated the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Wildlings" rel="nofollow">wildlings</a>, scattering their remnants back into the <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Haunted_forest" rel="nofollow">haunted forest</a>. <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Val" rel="nofollow">Val</a> wants to bring her sister&#39;s baby to Mance, but Jon tells her that only Maester <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Aemon_Targaryen_(son_of_Maekar_I)" rel="nofollow">Aemon</a> is permitted to see the imprisoned wildling king. Alone, Sam asks Jon, &#34;Could there be honor in a lie, if it were told for a good purpose?&#34; Sam is considering sending Gilly and her son to <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Horn_Hill" rel="nofollow">Horn Hill</a>, with a letter claiming that he fathered the boy.Jon reveals that <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Janos_Slynt" rel="nofollow">Slynt</a> still considers him a traitor, because he did not kill Mance as he was sent to do. Sam remembers swearing to <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Bran_Stark" rel="nofollow">Bran</a> and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Jojen_Reed" rel="nofollow">Jojen Reed</a> not to reveal to anyone, even Jon, that Bran is still alive. <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Coldhands" rel="nofollow">Coldhands</a>&#39; last words to Sam were, &#34;Let the world believe the boy is dead. We want no seekers coming after us. Swear it, Samwell of the Night&#39;s Watch. Swear it for the life you owe me.&#34; And Sam has kept his vows to all three. Later, Sam considers the last vote for a new Lord Commander, with Ser Denys Mallister still leading, but no one near the majority. At dinner, Bowen Marsh withdraws his name from the voting, and backs Janos Slynt. When the votes are tallied that night, both Ser Denys and <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Cotter_Pyke" rel="nofollow">Cotter Pyke</a> have lost votes, and Slynt has gained on both of them. Sitting with <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Grenn" rel="nofollow">Grenn</a>, <a href="https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Pypar" rel="nofollow">Pyp</a> and Dolorous Edd, Pyp suggests that if Sam were to persuade either Ser Denys or Cotter Pyke to set aside their quarrels and back the other, a new Lord Commander could be decided. Preferably one who would be beneficial to the Watch, so long as it was not Janos Slynt. Jimmy: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/@ChattingWithNutts</a>Matt&#39;s Linktree: <a href="https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/supergainsbros</a>The reread will continue! Join the discussion: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/BendtheKneePodcast/</a>***BTK UPDATES*** Subscribe to our YouTube Page: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/c/BendtheKnee</a>If you&#39;d like to support the show, gain access to additional WESTEROS content, or LISTEN LIVE then hit us up at Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a>EMAIL: BTKcast@gmail.com <a href="https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee" rel="nofollow">Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/bendtheknee</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out ElevenReader and use my code PODCAST for a great deal: https://elevenreader.io Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ep. 220: - Samwell IV | A Storm of Swords | "Open your eyes"

Bend the knee and join us each week as we re-read the epic fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin. Each episode will contain a small council meeting for updates on the HBO show, Winds of Winter, and GRR’s ‘Not a Blog’. We also include a short history lesson from A World of Ice and Fire. Finally, we take an in-depth look at each chapter of the series. This is a book club without banners, all are welcome to join! Night gathers, and now our read begins …