With few options left, Rhaenyra summons a trusted knight for a risky venture: Ser Steffon Darklyn, a distant Targaryen descendant, attempts to claim the dragon Seasmoke and is incinerated. Jason Lannister leads his army to the Golden Tooth, but Aemond refuses his vassal Humfrey Lefford's request to fly there in support. Reshaping the Green Council, Aemond wants Tyland Lannister to ally with the Triarchy to break the Velaryon blockade, orders Criston to march on Harrenhal, dismisses Alicent from the Small Council, and has Larys summon Otto Hightower back to court. Daemon's unease grows: he keeps having disturbing dreams and irrationally believes he is being poisoned. Aegon, slowly recovering, tells Aemond he remembers nothing about the battle.
Gwayne Hightower assures Alicent that her youngest son, Daeron, is kind, unlike his brothers. Corlys appoints his illegitimate son, Alyn of Hull, his flagship's first mate, while Alyn's brother, Addam, is pursued by Seasmoke. Plotting with Rhaenyra to catalyze the smallfolk, Mysaria has her spies spread rumors that the royals regularly feast while the people starve, then sends food-laden Targaryen boats to King's Landing; the grateful citizens fight over the limited supplies, causing a riot that Alicent and Helaena barely survive. Mysaria tells Rhaenyra that her father sexually abused her and why she is loyal, and they passionately kiss. Upon hearing Seasmoke has a new rider, Rhaenyra leaves on Syrax to confront him.