Ned Stark investigates the death of the previous Hand of the King, while Jon Snow befriends Samwell Tarly, a fellow recruit to the Night's Watch. Viserys becomes increasingly desperate to reclaim the throne.

The Starks and Lannisters clash, while Ned Stark discovers a dark secret about the royal family. The Night's Watch faces a threat from beyond the Wall.

The Lannisters launch a campaign against their enemies, while Ned Stark and his allies face a dire situation. The Starks suffer a devastating blow.

Viserys demands that Illyrio deliver on his promise to help him reclaim the throne. Daenerys meets the powerful sorceress, Mirri Maz Duur. The Starks and Lannisters face a critical moment in their struggle for power.