Season 4 may have upped the ante when it comes to murdering its characters, but this new season looks to be a breath of fresh air and may raise the murder rate and boob count a little bit higher. The fifth season of Game of Thrones has premiered on HBO. At least, the official version has. Hours ago, the first four episodes of the season have been leaked online and millions have already downloaded the files. For those who followed the HBO screenings, here’s what to expect over the next nine weeks. For those who followed the torrents, here’s what to expect NEXT MONTH when your new episode comes out.
NOTE: Spoilers ahead! You have been warned, read at your own risk.
Welcome to Dorne
Have you all been too tired of seeing endless snow, mountains, and King’s Landing? Well, prepare for a change of view. The series will finally introduce Dorne, the southernmost part of Westeros, home to the Martells. Dorne—which was reportedly shot in Sevilla, Spain—will add a new flavor to the series.
The head-crashing death of Dorne’s Prince Oberyn will bring forth blood and vengeance from his bastard daughters—the Sand Snakes. And you know what they say about Dornish women? They know how to fight.
Cersei’s walk of shame
The last season concluded with Cersei as the Queen Regent while her boy king son Tommen sits on the Iron Throne after the death of Joffrey. However, things may get a little bit on the edge as Cersei gets paranoid and alcoholic—not a very good combination. This will lead to the infamous scene that is the Walk of Penance as she faces conflict with The High Septon, the leader of the Westeros’ dominant religion the Faith of the Seven.
The Stark children’s journey
If you’ve been following The Sight of the Three Eyed Raven lately, most of the visions are a big old wooden door and the Three Eyed Raven himself. Arya’s journey to Braavos brings about exciting new times for her, something she might have always wanted to do.
As for the Prince of Winterfell, last we’ve seen of Bran is him getting rescued by one of the Children of the Forest and finally meeting the Three Eyed Raven. Will Bran be his successor? Will he ever walk again? Or will he fly?
The adventures of the Imp
Aside from the Purple Wedding, probably one of the memorable deaths in Season 4 is that of Lord Tywin’s in his privy. It is a bold move that will change Tyrion’s life forever. And then we see the Imp being smuggled by Varys onto a ship out of Westeros. His destination (especially his journey) and the people he hopes to meet will probably one that will keep us on the watch come Season 5.
The Watcher on the Wall
Oh, Jon Snow. He has lost his family, his brothers, and his wildling love. Isn’t it about time he gets what he deserves? After all, he has done a lot in defending the Wall during the attack. (Hint: He will.) With Stannis and his army on the Wall, the possibilities in Castle Back may just heat up.
Where is Drogon?
One of the most heartbreaking scenes in Game of Thrones was Dany chaining Viserion and Rhaegal inside the catacomb. Drogon had burned to death a child and is still on the prowl. The Khaleesi’s motherly instincts are tearing her apart on what to do. Should she protect her people and hide her dragons? Or should she wake the “dragon” in her and be the queen she ought to be?
