Game of Thrones, Season 5 episode 3, High Sparrow

The episode opens in the “House of Black and White” where Arya is gloomily sweeping the floor.  A man is kneeling before a pool seeking counsel from Jaqen H’Ghar. He takes a drink, only to lose his life moments later.

Cersei rides a carriage to the temple in Kings Landing to the people’s shouts, “Queen Margery, Queen Margery!”  Tommen and Margery marry in a subdued wedding ceremony.  This shifts things in a different direction from the books.  At least the virgin, (yeah right!) twice-widowed tart from High Garden gets her king.  It’s a little disturbing to watch these “teens” romping around naked, but at least it’s not rape and murder for five minutes.  Margery plies the young lad with compliments that make it clear it’s not her first ride at the rodeo. She wastes no time burrowing in to Tommen’s innocent mind by saying disparaging things about his mother. “A lioness will never let her cub out of her sight!”  Is she trying to get sweet King Tommen to banish her somewhere?

The next scene is of Tommen asking his mother if she misses Casterly Rock and wouldn’t she be happier there? Cersei assures him she has no intention of going anywhere. Tommen is a teenage boy and while he says he wants his mother to be happy, he also wants her to keep the heck out of his newfound mojo.  It is not clear what the proper age is to assume the throne, again, in the books he was not yet married to Margery and Cersei wielded more power over the “Heir Apparent” and his fiancé.

Cersei interrupts Margery, as she is spilling her wedding night secrets to her ladies in waiting.  Cersei takes her in arm and feigns friendship.  Margery wastes no time letting the Queen Mother know her diminished significance. " Margery coos.

Theon lurks in the shadows of the Bolton’s Winterfell.  Flayed bodies swing in the breeze including a woman. It’s unclear the state of Theon’s mind, he doesn’t say a word. Roose Bolton counsels his newly “de-bastarderized” son Ramsay, “You can’t rule the North on fear alone.” Ramsay brags he skinned the family seen swinging alive because they failed to recognize him as the ruler of the North.  Roose tells his son he’ll need to forge alliances and the best way is through marriage.

Littlefinger and Sansa look down on the ruin of Moat Caitlin.  Sansa knows they are heading back to Winterfell.  Littlefinger says he’s arranged a marriage for her, to Ramsay Bolton. (This is another huge departure from the books, in which Sansa’s friend was passed off as the missing Arya Stark.)  Poor Sansa, first she fell for pyscho Joffery, then was married to the Imp, forced to flee as a fugitive and now she’s betrothed to the biggest psycho in the Seven Kingdoms!  Littlefinger urges her to take a page from his playbook and try to manipulate the situation to her advantage. “Avenge them!” He says.

Brienne and Podrick are close on Sansa’s trail near Moat Caitlin.  Brienne asks Podrick how he came to be a squire for the Imp.  Podrick was saved by his father’s name when he was about to be executed as a thief.  (His father was the executioner who beheaded Ned Stark.) Brienne shares her story; she was the only child of a wealthy Lord. In order to find her a suitable husband, her father held a ball.  Brienne was a tall and awkward girl, but that night she felt beautiful until she realized all the princes were laughing at her.  Only Renly Baratheon stood up for her and saved her from cruel princes.  Breinne swore her loyalty to Renly because he protected her, and she grieves she was not able to protect him.  Breinne has sworn to avenge Renly’s death; Podrick asks how can she avenge a “shadow.” Breinne says it was a shadow but it had the face of Stannis Baratheon.

At Castle Black, newly elected Commander Jon Snow meets with Stannis. Jon declines the king’s offer to make him a Stark and exert influence Stannis will need to gain the Iron Throne.  Stannis observes Jon is stubborn, like his father Ned. Jon takes that as a compliment.  Jon asks how long the King intends to stay at Castle Black. (Provisions are running low to serve the King’s men and the refugee Wildlings.) “Winter is coming!”  Jon notes for the first time this season.  Stannis is planning on leaving soon, and will leave the fate of the refugee Wildlings up to Jon.

Ser Davos tries to counsel the young Lord Commander.  He advises Jon to exile Ser Allister to the seaside Night’s Watch outpost of Eastward-by-the Sea. (Sounds so delightful British.) Davos sees something in Jon and observes the North will not be at peace as long as the Bolton’s rule at Winterfell.

A young woman interrogates Arya by asking her repeatedly, “Who are you?”  Arya tries to give the “right answer”, “No one.”  The girl, Nan, is not impressed.  The man appearing as Jaqen H’Ghar observes, “No one has quite a lot of things belonging to Sansa Stark.”

Arya appears dressed in the black and white robes as she tosses her old clothes. But, Arya pauses as she holds Needle and is unable to toss away her last link to Jon and her family.  Alternatively, she stashes Needle in the rocks by the water.  Back inside she returns to sweeping the temple.  Nan signals her to assist with washing a corpse. This is a taboo in many cultures and represents a step towards her shedding her anger and pain.

Sansa returns to Winterfell and is formally introduced to Ramsay.  Sansa seethes at having to be polite to her brother and mother’s executioner, Roose Bolton. Littlefinger introduces himself to Ramsay admitting he doesn’t know that much about him.  Given Littlefinger’s mastery of all things political this seems to be a grievous oversight.  It may even prove fatal for Sansa. (The rumor is out one of the living characters in the book will die in the series.)

Lord Commander Snow is trying to delegate the myriad of tasks to the unruly Crows.  Sam notes Maester Aemon is unwell and cannot attend the meeting. The urgent matter of bathroom trenches is discussed and Jon shares in the laughter with his brothers.  The atmosphere changes abruptly when Jon assigns Janos Slynt to re-occupy the Crow’s fort at Greyguard. Janos, being a former City Guard Commander and Lord doesn’t take kindly to being ordered by a bastard.  Janos insults Jon directly and Jon realizes this insubordination will not set a precedent in his new leadership. Jon orders Janos outside and calls for his sword, Backbiter.  Stannis looks on proudly as he witnesses Jon behead Janos even after the coward pleads for mercy.

Back in Kings Landing, the High Septon is conducting a “special ceremony” with seven naked women representing the Seven.  His Highness is about to make his selection when a group of Sparrows comes in and drags him out of the brothel.  They proceed to beat him and parade him nude through the streets.

The High Septon, now thankfully clothed, has an audience with Cersie and the small council, to discuss his outrage with the “interference” by the group calling themselves the Sparrows.  He demands Cersei execute their leader the High Sparrow.

Cersei goes to “Flea’s Bottom” to find the High Sparrow, serving the poor food.  He is humble and shoeless.  He deduces the reason for her visit, “The gods have sent you here to tempt me or to arrest me.”  Cersei decides she maybe able to use him and replies, “The Crown and the Faith need to protect one another.”  The reason could be she senses this man presents less a threat to her than the pompous High Septon.  He may also keep the poor focused on religion and not politics.

Upon her return to the castle, Cersei asks Qyburn to send an urgent message to Littlefinger.  Qyburn was preforming some sort of gruesome experiment prior to Cersei’s interruption.  Was he possibly trying his hand at necromancy? (There has to be a good reason he was stripped of his maester’s chain.)

Ramsay Bolton assures Littlefinger he won’t hurt Sansa. Papa Bolton interrupts and asks to speak with Littlefinger privately.  Littlefinger assures Roose Sansa is a maiden. Roose is more concerned with Littlefinger’s ties to the Lannisters. The message from Cersei was received. (That must be one fast raven!)  Littlefinger reveals his plan is to rule the Eyrie.  Tywin’s death weakens the influence of the Lannisters, especially their influence beyond King’s Landing. Roose and Littlefinger, both being cunning traitors, don’t trust one another.

Tyrion is going bananas on the endless road to Volantis. He begs Varys, “I need to get out of this wheelhouse!” In simple clothes, Tyrion and Varys leave the carriage in search of a brothel.  They come upon a slave market where there is a constant flow of people and commerce.  In the middle of the chaos an attractive Asian woman preaches about the Lord of Light.  Her face marks her as a former slave/prostitute. She speaks about the “Stone Men,” or those afflicted with greyscale. (In the books, this disease is nearly always fatal, with the strange exception of Stannis’s daughter. Did the Lord of Light heal her? It would make her parents devotion understandable.) The woman makes brief eye contact with Tyrion and he flees.

In the brothel there are several prostitutes dressed as Khalesi, who is quite a hero in this slaving city. Johar Mormont drinks in the corner and spies Tyrion.  Tyrion flirts with a dark haired “Khalesi,” but suddenly realizes he has no desire for her. “No one is more shocked about this then me!”  He exclaims and hastens to “see a man about a horse.”

Tyrion is enjoying peeing off a bridge, when Mormont sneaks up behind him with a rope and captures him. “I’m taking you to see the Queen!” He sneers.  Does he hope Khalesi will forgive him if he can bring her a hated Lannister?  Unfortunately, have to wait another week to find out!

The Americans Season 3 Finale: March 8, 1983

The title of the episode comes from Ronald Reagan’s famous speech declaring the Soviet Union to be “The Evil Empire” and framing the Cold War as an epic battle between good and evil.  The Americans often blurs the lines of morality and criminality.  But, often the actions of our protagonists are evil, justified by blind nationalism. Stan murdered Vlad, Phillip and Elizabeth have killed numerous people in their efforts to protect their ideals.  With Paige newly initiated to the grim reality that the world is not black and white, the adults challenge is to make her believe in ideals over reality.  Or, will Paige simply call her parents out for what they are, treasonous criminals who’ve harmed HER country of origin.

The final episode begins with Paige and Elizabeth about to depart for a trip to West Germany.  Phillip and Henry see them off, as Phillip explains the trip is due to some free tickets available from their travel agency.  As Phillip embraces Elizabeth he whispers, “I’m sorry I’ll never get the chance to meet her.” Elizabeth replies, “She wouldn’t have liked you.” Sweet.

Phillip meets Yousef in an abandoned industrial area.  Yousef states the murderous mujahedeen’s actions have spooked the CIA from further collaboration.  Yousef observes this makes Annalise’s death worth it, because it achieved the objective. Yousef asks pointedly, “Was it worth it?” Phillip begins with the idealist argument that her life saved many other Soviet young men from being killed in the conflict. But then Phillip stops, and adds truthfully, “I feel like shit, all the time.”  Phillip’s detached façade is slipping.

The Russian embassy staff is meeting.  There is a new directive prohibiting assassinations or threatened assassinations not cleared with Moscow. This is a response to Oleg’s “visit” to Zianda.  Oleg looks uncomfortable.  It’s unclear whether anyone knows he collaborated with Beeman to put pressure on Zianda.

Sandra and Stan are busy at the house sorting and dividing their shared property. Stan wants the plants.  Sandra is surprised since he’s never taken care of them before.  Stan insists he’s nurtured them and even purchased plant food. She lets him keep a plant.  Sandra looks at the photo albums and Stan offers to make another set so they both can have them.  Sandra opens the wedding album and promptly shuts it and says he can keep it.  Stan looks hurt and angry that she doesn’t want it.

It’s night in West Berlin and Paige and Elizabeth walk on nearly empty streets.  Paige asks if they can talk here. (Remembering the stern warnings not to talk about their jobs unless they are alone.) Paige asks if her grandmother knows she’s coming and what her grandmother is like. Elizabeth replies, “ She’s tough, not like grandmothers you know.”  Paige says she knows some tough grandmothers. Elizabeth is distracted and Paige notices.  Elizabeth explains she’s checking to see if they are being followed.  Paige seems surprised and nervous about this.  Elizabeth explains she just needs to be cautious when she’s working.  Paige asks if she’s working. Elizabeth replies, “Sort of.”

Gabriel is upset to learn Phillip arranged the trip to see Elizabeth’s mother. Phillip states, “I’m getting done what I need to get done.” This statement sounds ominous, like Phillip doesn’t believe there is much time before they are caught.  Gabriel replies, “You’re not looking ahead.  You need to grow up.”

Beeman and Oleg meet privately.  Oleg explains Zianda must have got a message through because there are new rules regarding assassinations and threats.  Stan is frustrated at their lack of progress. Stan asks, “What is it like, for Nina?”  Oleg explains the despair of the Siberian gulag, even after long imprisonments, some prisoners’ stay on in the towns and die there.  Stan wonders if Nina were to see him if she wouldn’t “put a bullet in my head.”

Anton is brainstorming with the assistance of the new photographic information obtained from Northrop.  Nina observes his work.  Anton says, “I don’t understand it but it’s exciting. All I have left is my mind.  They have my body but my mind is free. Understand?” Nina nods.

Stan approaches Agent Gaad privately.  Stan asks if he remembers when Nina was convicted then slides him a tape of Oleg confirming Zianda is a spy.  Gaad asks, “Who does he say this to?”  Stan reveals that Oleg discovered his affair with Nina in the months preceding her arrest.  Stan admits he’s been working with Oleg at first because he was blackmailing him, and now to help free Nina.

Gaad is incredulous. “Do you care about the FBI? Did you place the bug in my office?” It’s a fair question.  Stan says he thinks he could turn Oleg, which would be a huge asset for the Bureau. Gaad asks him pointedly why should he trust Stan in light of these revelations. Stan pleads with him that he owes it to Nina. Gaad walks out speechless.

Phillip is at Est, alone, listening to a woman discuss intimate details of her sex life. Phillip stares blankly at nothing.  Sandra catches up with Phillip after the session. She’s surprised to see him there without Stan.  Phillip is secretive about his presence.  Is he there for himself or to try to get close to Sandra?

Elizabeth and Paige wait in a hotel room in East Germany where Elizabeth’s mom is scheduled to meet them. The door opens and Elizabeth’s mother is wheeled in, looking shrunken and pale. Elizabeth approaches her and the tears flow. “All this time is gone.” She says in Russian. “I had to let you go, everything was at stake.”

After a moment, she sees Paige who comes over and holds her hand.  The pain and emotion of the scene could have easily been trite had it not been done silently.  The pain and separation is shared among the three generations of women.

Zianda rides in a motorized cart with top military officials.  They are confronted by a gaggle of FBI officers.  Zianda looks concerned, but not surprised. Stan is not part of the arresting detail.

Elizabeth looks out the window to watch her mom leave, knowing she is seeing her for the last time. Paige looks introspective and tells Elizabeth she is praying for her mom. Elizabeth slides down to sit on the bathroom floor looking pale and weak.

Agent Gaad informs Beeman he’s just spent an hour and a half with the FBI director and has managed to get the investigation of Agent Beeman dismissed.  Gaad states Zianda has been arrested and will be “traded” for a high level CIA agent in the Soviet Union, not Nina.

Paige asks Elizabeth how her mom was able to let her leave, knowing it was likely permanent? Paige inquires further, “Would you let me do that?” Elizabeth assures her she would never have to make a choice like hers.  But is Paige thinking running away from her family is an option?  It may be a better choice then trying to live a life of deception.

Phillip waits at Gene’s house. He idly plays with his collection of toys and robots.  As Gene returns, he gets a “chloroform hug” from Phillip.  Phillip accesses his computer (a Commodore 64 just like my brother’s!) and types a simple message. “I had no choice, sorry.” Gene is seen hanging from the ceiling.  Phillip planted a listening device in the apartment so that it appears Gene was the one who bugged Gaad’s office. This action should make Martha’s life easier.

Agent Beeman is summoned to the “vault” for a chat with Gaad’s superior.  The boss recalls that Beeman has complained about the amount of “red tape” in the agency. He observes that twice Beeman has been caught dealing with the Soviets without repercussions.  He orders him to go ahead working with Oleg as an asset.  Beeman asks if this will get Nina released. His boss says,  “That I can’t do, you’ll figure it out.”

Phillip is back at Est where a man is describing his failed marriage. The facilitator opines that feelings are as important as your intellect.  After the session, Phillip finds Sandra again. Phillip asks if she talks to her boyfriend about these issues. Sandra admits they are having some problems but begs him not to tell Stan. (She doesn’t want him to think he may still have a chance at reconciliation.)  She wonders why Phillip was taking this course on sexual issues. Phillip assures her everything is fine between him and Elizabeth.  Sandra adds that the course helps her to be “open” and she’s not sure if she’s really been open in her relationships.  Phillip says Elizabeth is the only one who really knows him.  Sandra suggests they try an experiment to tell each other everything over the next month.  Phillip isn’t sure he could do that. (Without being hauled to prison!)  Sandra decides they should try this even if it’s “scary.”

Anton is writing a letter to his son Jacob when Nina knocks at the door.  Nina asks what he’s writing but Anton refuses to say.  Nina asks him if he knows why they brought her to him. Nina reflects she can’t keep “buying back my life.” Anton urges her not to cooperate with “their way” and to resist the temptations they use to manipulate her.  Nina is tempted to manipulate Anton to win her release, but now feels guilty about it, because they’ve formed a friendship.  How can they not cooperate with “them” who wield control of their lives?

Paige is stunned to be back in the United States.  She tells her mom she’s not sure she can just go home and “Lie to everyone, about everything, forever. It’s not who I am.” (Spoken in true adolescent infinitives!)  Elizabeth tries to coax her stating, “We’re telling each other the truth now and we’ll get through this together.”

Elizabeth fails to see whom her daughter is, an idealistic young woman with a conscience who will stand up against injustice even if it means turning in her parents.  Phillip is much more like his daughter and was correct in his assessment the truth about their lives would be too much for their daughter to handle.

Phillip comes home and hears a message that Henry is at Stan’s playing a game. Henry and Stan have developed a surrogate father-son relationship out of their shared loneliness. On the news there is talk of a possible peace deal in Afghanistan.  Elizabeth and Paige return and Phillip greets them warmly.  Paige feigns jet lag and excuses herself. Phillip first asks about how Paige did, then about his mother-in-law.  Elizabeth reports Paige did well and it was good to see her mother.  Elizabeth thanks him for arranging the trip. Paige is in her room, crying silently.

Phillip says he took care of the “Martha thing” and that it was hard because the man’s toys reminded him of Henry. Elizabeth thinks Phillip should tell Martha before the news of Gene’s death becomes common knowledge. Elizabeth chides him for “not seeing things clearly.”

In the next room, Paige approaches the phone in her room and dials.  She asks to speak to Pastor Tim.  Paige stumbles with her words, saying she is “hurting a lot.” She says her parents have been lying to her.

Elizabeth’s focus shifts to Ronald Reagan delivering his famous “Evil Empire” speech. Paige breaks down and says her “Parents aren’t Americans, they’re Russian!” It’s a powerful yet subtle way to end the season with these simultaneous confessions. Both father and daughter are sensitive and drowning in guilt.  Phillip hoped for some guidance from Elizabeth while Paige seeks guidance from her surrogate father, Pastor Tim.

Is this the end of the Jennings? Will Paige be believed? Will Stan finally realize the illegals having been right under his nose for three years? Will Anton and Nina find a way to escape the gulag?

A good series makes you think and is relatable. There are no hero’s or villain’s here, just flawed people. The heartbreak is palpable and even if the “good guys” win over the “evil empire” it has been done at great cost to both parties. The action in this finale was in the emotional turmoil fighting within each person struggling with his or her truth and identity. Things may shift the next season with defections of heart and mind. It's only nine months away.

Game of Thrones Season 5, episode 2, The House of Black and White

Expectations for this season have been very high.  The show has promised to keep even the book readers guessing.  But after two episodes I’m wondering how well the story can be adapted for the small screen.  It’s hard to keep track of over a hundred characters.  The current format keeps both the characters and the stories superficial, due to the whiplash pacing.  In short, I’m not impressed, yet.

The episode opens with Arya sailing under the massive guardian warrior of Braavos. (Is there anything under his kilt, I kept daring Arya to look up.)  Arya takes in the scenery around her, fishing boats and markets.  Braavos to me is analogous to Greece.  Arya is rowed to the House of Black and White.  A curious hooded man opens the door.  Arya presents her coin and utters the oath, only to have the door slammed in her face.  Arya waits in front of the curious building, alone and confused muttering her “death prayer.”

Brienne and Podrick stop at a village tavern.  Sansa asks Littlefinger about the scroll he received in the previous episode. Littlefinger states “My marriage proposal has been accepted.” (It’s unclear to whom.)  Podrick sees Sansa and Littlefinger at a nearby table.  Brienne goes over to confront Littlefinger and offer her “protection” to Sansa Stark.  Littlefinger cruelly lists Brienne’s failure to protect Renly Baratheon and Catelin Stark. Brienne offers her allegiance to Sansa.  Sansa coldly notes Brienne knelt before King Joffery at his ill-fated nuptials.  She commands the pair to leave.

Brienne tries to release some of Littlefinger’s horses as she and Podrick flee.  A crazy horse chase through the woods ensues.  Brienne is able to slay a man in order to save Podrick.  After the melee ends, Podrick wonders if Brienne is free of her vow to Catelyn Stark since both her daughters have refused her protection.  Brienne doesn’t  acknowledge his statement and orders him to retrieve his horse.

Cersei calls Jaime to her room. She has received an upsetting “gift” from Dorne.  It is a golden box, which opens to reveal a preserved red viper with Mycella’s golden necklace hanging from its throat.  It is clearly a threat from Elia Sand the widow of the “Red Viper” who died fighting the Mountain.  Cersei yells about trying to protect their eldest daughter but Jaime begs her to lower her voice.  If the truth were known about their children, the Lannister’s would be removed from rule.  Jaime offers to go to Dorne.  Cersei cruelly observes “What good is a one handed knight alone?”  Jaime says he doesn’t plan on going alone.

Bronn and a young woman walk on the beach. He’s distracted as she babbles.  Bronn spies Jamie in the distance. He introduces Lolly as his fiancé.  Brone shoos her away, so he may talk to Jaime.  Its revealed Brone is marrying Lolly for a castle and title.  But Cersei has now promised Lolly’s hand to another one of her crony knights.  Jamie offers him a “better girl and a better castle” if he’ll do him a favor.  Bronn can’t say no to Lannister gold.

Mycella is seen walking the beautiful gardens of Dorne. (Dorne reminds me of Italy culturally and weather wise.) Ellaria Sand approaches Prince Doran, who rules from a wheelchair due to his crippling gout. Ellaria is very angry there has been no “justice” for the Red Viper.  The Prince points out that no crime was committed since he offered to participate in “Trial by Combat.”  She and her five daughters, know as the “Sand Snakes” are angry and restless with the prince’s inaction.

Grey Worm and Daario search for the murderous “Sons of the Harpy.”  They enter a seemingly empty room.  Grey Worm is about to leave when Daario points out the Unsullied have been trained not to fear and are at a disadvantage facing men who are afraid. Daario stabs the wall to prove his point and locates the suspect who was hiding.

Khalesi meets with her advisors.  They discuss slavery and the unrest in Myreen.  Ser Barrister pulls Khalesi aside and speaks of her father the “Mad King.”  He recounts how the King burned his enemies alive.  The Mad King’s actions almost wiped out the Targaryen line.  Danny considers this and decides to give the “Son of the Harpy” murderer a fair trial.

Varys and Tyrion ride in an elegant carriage on the road to Volantis, and from there on to Daenerys.  Varys remembers Tyrion was a good “Hand of the King.”  Tyrion remembers how his lover Shae pleaded with him to leave Westeros. He muses if he should have gone long ago. Varys offers that the worlds need men like them, men who offer counsel to the rulers. Tyrion is unmoved by his speech and is determined to drink himself to death. Varys advises him to stay hidden because Cersei has put a price on his head. Tyrion scoffs, “Is she going to kill every dwarf in the Seven Kingdoms?”

As if on cue, Cersei is presented with a dwarf’s head, which is clearly not Tyrion.  She isn’t terribly upset, “mistakes will happen.” Qyburn, her new advisor, wishes to have the head for his experiments. (Yuck.)  Cersei takes her seat at the head of the small counsel table.  Tywin’s brother Kevan protests but Cersei insists she is the “provisional ruler” until her son comes of age.  Cersei assigns Mace Tyrell (Margery’s father) to Master of Coin.  Qyburn, the disgraced maester is made the new “Master of Whispers” over Pyrcelle’s protests.  Cersei attempts to make her Uncle Kevan the Master of War but he calls her council a sham and says he’s going to return to Casterly Rock.

At Castle Black, Shireen is teaching Gilly how to read as Sam excitedly reads the History of the Night’s watch in the background.  Gilly is surprised Shireen has survived with “greyscale,” a disease which claimed two of her sisters.  The princess asks what became of them and Gilly recounts they lost their minds and then her father took them out to the woods. (To sacrifice to the White Walkers.) The Queen interrupts and chastises her daughter for interacting with Wildlings.

Jon Snow is summoned before Stannis, due to his shooting of Mance as he was being executed.  Stannis is very unbending when it comes to the law and his orders, as Ser Davos the “Onion Knight” affirms showing his severed fingertips.  Stannis reports Lyanna Mormont, daughter of their late commander, has refused to offer her allegiance to Stannis, stating they only recognize the “King of the North.” (the Starks)  Stannis vents his frustration with the Northern people and the Wildlings.  Stannis has a solution, he offers to make Jon legitimate if he will help him win the North.

Jon speaks to Sam about the King’s proposal. “Its all I ever wanted in my life, to be a Stark.” Sam says he deserves the title.  Jon will not take the tempting offer because he has sworn himself to the Night’s Watch.  Jon muses, if I go back on my word my word will mean nothing.

The elections for the new Commander commence.  Ser Allister, Jon’s nemesis is a likely favorite.  Another ranger named Mallister throws his name in for consideration.  At the last moment, Sam nominates Jon citing his bravery in the battle against the Wildlings.  Ser Allister calls Jon a traitor for his involvement with Ygeritte and his negotiations with Mance.  The votes are tallied and it appears to be a draw between Jon and Allister.  Maester Aemon casts the deciding vote and Jon Snow is the new Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch.

Arya chases a pigeon for her breakfast.  Arya is confronted by three armed men who seek to take her kill.  She fearlessly challenges them with her sword “Needle.”  The monk from the House of Black and White appears and the men flee in terror.  He leads her back to the House and his face changes into her old companion Jaqen H’ghar. Arya calls him by his old name but her corrects her. “I am no one and that is who you must become.”

Khalesi angrily confronts the ex-slave who has murdered the “Son of the Harpy” responsible for the death of the Unsullied warrior.  He pleads with her for mercy recounting his hard life as a slave.  Khalesi is unmoved, this was not his justice to take. “Law is law.”

Myreen has gathered for sentencing of the ex-slave. Khalesi gives a speech to explain her reasons for executing the man. The freed slaves cry out “Mysa” and plead mercy for him. Khalesi signals to Daario to behead the man.  The crowd begins to hiss, then they begin to attack the ex-masters with rocks and swords.  Khalesi is hurriedly rushed away.

Once inside, she asks to be alone. Khalesi walks out to survey the kingdom she now rules.  She hears a great beating of wings, Drogon her missing dragon has returned. She reaches out to touch him but he withdraws from her touch and flies away into the darkness.

So ends the second episode of the season.  It is slightly infuriating how little each story has progressed in the fifty minutes. I wonder if it would be better to follow the book’s process more closely, and focus on only one story each hour. (But either way, people will gripe about not enough screen time for their favorite characters.) More then anything, this season has left me simply wanting more and faster!

The Americans Season 3 Episode 12, I Am Abassin Zadran

This is the penultimate episode of the season, and what a wild ride it’s been.  The big secret is out and it looks like other people close to the Jennings are catching the suspicious change in the air.  Phillip and Elizabeth struggle to keep working under these new extraordinary circumstances.

Elizabeth is rocking a short blonde wig, dressed as a phone company repairperson, as she enters the bowel of the hotel.  Upstairs, Phillip and the CIA agents are converging for the covert meeting with the Afghani Mujahedeen.  Elizabeth listens in until she intercepts Phillip’s room.  Phillip requests more pillows. (These maneuvers were facilitated by the seduction of Neal, the horny hotelier!)

The Jennings arrive home from work to find Henry watching television alone.  He says Paige has gone to a lecture at the church and will be spending the night with Pastor Tim. (Wow, that sounds wrong.) They are upset at her presumption of permission, and decide to leave to retrieve their very dangerous daughter.  If Paige were anyone but their daughter she would have been dead by now.

The Jennings wait in front of Pastor Tim’s house.  It’s late and Elizabeth sarcastically suggests “a potluck, poster making and sing-a-long”, probably detained them.   Pastor Tim and his wife seem genuinely shocked the Jennings are waiting for them.  Paige protests stating her homework is done and she packed a bag to stay.  Phillip commands her to get in the car and she relents, sulking.

At home Phillip tells her she can’t just “run off like that.” That’s funny coming from the parents who are always running off!  Elizabeth adds that with knowing their secret comes great responsibility.  Its obvious they are frightened about Paige speaking out.  Paige is more frustrated then ever but reports she didn’t tell Pastor Tim.  If she had, the authorities would have probably already tossed them in jail.

Phillip still has to leave for Martha’s.  Hans drives by and signals him.  Inside, Stan has come to visit Martha’s apartment.  Stan tries to keep the meeting casual but Martha is suspicious of his motives.  Stan says, “I saw you staring into your coffee cup for a solid minute yesterday.  You seem distracted.”  Martha does her best to lie to him explaining its been stressful having Taffet’s investigation disrupting her work.  Stan says how much he appreciates the work the secretaries do in the office.

Martha calls Stan out, “What are you doing here? I know your marriage is over.” Embarrassed, Stan tries to explain he’s there in case she needed to talk.  Martha shoos him out the door.  When Stan is gone, she opens the nightstand drawer and looks longingly at a photo of Clark and her.

Phillip returns home and its Elizabeth’s turn to be surprised.  Phillip reports Hans warned him Martha had a visitor, someone with government plates.  Elizabeth wonders what Phillip plans to do next.  Phillip says, “I don’t know.”

As Martha crosses the street, Hans who identifies himself as a “friend of your husband’s” intercepts her.  Hans tells her Clark knows she’s worried and Martha gets into the car with him.

Elizabeth is instructing Lisa how to use the camera she has installed in her purse. She asks for pictures to be taken at certain angles to capture the details of the new bomber.  Maurice is present and actively hostile.  Elizabeth insists Lisa take a low dose sedative to keep her calm during this delicate mission.

Hans brings Martha to an abandoned area where Clarke is waiting.  Martha is frantic, stating she tried to call him five times last night.  Clarke says he couldn’t call because he didn’t know if it was safe.  Martha reports it was Agent Beeman who came to her apartment last night. Clarke says, “We might have to go.” Martha protests she doesn’t want to leave her job and life in D.C.  Clarke promises he’ll figure something out.

Aderholt tells Stan he wants to ask him a few questions about Nina.  Stan is livid, “What are you accusing me of? You’re not as smart as you look!  This office has been a target of the illegals.  The people who killed my partner Amador, the woman who hit you and bugged Gaad’s office!”  It seems Stan has a clear idea about WHAT has happened, but he still doesn’t know WHO they are.  He’s maddeningly close.

Arkady watches as a pool of secretaries transcribe the information emitting from the “robot bug” in the FBI.

Elizabeth meets with Maurice to obtain the Northrop photos.  He continues to display hostility, even threatens to expose the film if she doesn’t do things his way. Their little standoff ends when Elizabeth presents him with a purse filled with cash. Elizabeth is likely looking for a way to get Maurice out of the picture due to his unpredictability.

Arkady summons Tatiana and Oleg to his office.  He announces he’s considering pulling the plug on the Zephyr Operation because it consumes massive resources and has yet to yield any useful information.  Tatiana is opposed to the idea, pleading to give the operation more time.

Phillip fills in Elizabeth about Stan’s late night tea with Martha. Phillip is convinced Stan is onto Martha.  Paige storms in carrying a photo album.  She asks, “Who are these people?”  Paige recalls meeting “Aunt Helen” who was not her aunt.  Paige asks about the “cousins” she met years before. (The spy family murdered by their own son.) Elizabeth tries to calm her down and lower her voice, but Paige is furious. She asks, “Is everything a lie?” Then she leaves slamming the door behind her.

Martha pours herself a large glass of red wine and calls her parents.  It’s heartbreaking how she can’t confide in anyone about her problems with Clarke. Her parents realize she’s upset and urge her to take some time off to visit them.  Martha tries to reassure them she’s fine.

Phillip enters Paige’s room in an attempt to smooth things over.  He tells her not everything in her life was a lie.  He tries to redirect her to some positive memories about the night her brother was born, and a camping trip they made together.  Paige seems to be reassured a little, at least by her father.

Tatiana and Oleg discuss Arkady’s plan to end Operation Zephyr.  Tatiana thinks it’s a mistake, which will cost Arkady and may be viewed as a failure.  Oleg notes Arkady doesn’t care too much about other peoples opinions.  Tatiana suggests maybe he should care. I have the suspicion she has been sent to keep an eye on Oleg and Arkady.

Elizabeth and Phillip pause for a moment before the night’s mission.  Phillip suggests Elizabeth should take Paige with her to visit her ailing mother.  They head into the hotel separately.  Phillip approaches the room of the Mujahedeen and asks to meet with Abassin Zadran.  The agent’s phone is patched through to Elizabeth, who approves the meeting.

Phillip and Elizabeth meet with Zadran in their car for privacy.  They ask how much he knows about the other men who’ve flown in with him to the United States.  Phillip calls into question the men’s loyalty to defeating the Soviets.  Zadran states he doesn’t know the men but his fighters’ only desire is to be martyrs to the cause. Zadran brags about the Soviets he’s killed including the younger soldiers.  Phillip and Elizabeth display amazing detachment as Zadran boasts, “If two hundred infidels were here, I’d gut them like goats!”

Gabriel and Claudia meet at a diner and make small talk about the plethora of choices to be had in America.  The real business is what will the Centre do now Paige knows.  Claudia recounts the chaos following the illegals son, who murdered his family last year.  Gabriel is surprised after that debacle the Centre wishes to pursue Paige as another “second generation” illegal.  Claudia reports Moscow is confident Gabriel can succeed where she failed.

Zadran returns to the hotel and requests the agents allow the Afghani men to have a meeting.  After several seconds behind closed doors, a scuffle and screams are heard. The agents kick in the door to find the other Afghani men’s throats have been slit. The “divide and conquer” tactic worked well among these supposed mujahedeen allies.

Tatiana tries to convince Arkady to keep the operation going for a while longer. (After all, Elizabeth did have to murder the nice old lady to obtain the robot bug.) Tatiana offers, “It’s better to fail slowly.”  She thinks she may have found something relevant in a possibly flirtatious exchange at the office.  Oleg remains skeptical.

Elizabeth comes to Paige’s room to talk.  She says she is planning on going to Russia to visit her dying mother and it might be her only chance to meet her grandmother. From Paige’s clock radio, Ultravox’s song Vienna plays. “This means nothing to me.” The band sings as Paige stares at the ceiling.

Clarke goes to Martha’s apartment to find her packed and ready to leave.  She says she needs to get away and she’s decided to go to her parents.  Martha is convinced everyone at the office knows she’s lying.  Martha cries, “I’m sorry, it’s just not enough!”

Clarke pleads he loves her.  Martha tries to hold firm stating, “I can’t be here with you like this!”  Phillip slowly removes his glasses, then the hair pins and finally removes his wig completely.  She looks at him in horror and awe likely wondering who the hell did I marry?

Whoa, the cat’s out of the bag now! What is Phillip planning to do? It’s not like he can leave his family to be with Martha.  Is he going to kill her, will he be caught? Is Tatiana going to expose Arkady and Oleg's complicency in the Nina affair? What will happen with Nina and Anton? One little episode left that’s bound to be amazing.