The background of the story is set about two hundred years before the events in Game of Thrones, and tells the story of the rise and fall of the Targaryen family.

While Rhaenyra struggles to come to terms with the murder of her son, back in King's Landing, Alicent becomes increasingly concerned that Aegon's small council could plunge them into all-out war.Larys suggests that Aegon needs a new Hand, and Rhaenyra makes a fateful decision.

Otto plots to turn the people against her, and Rhaenyra questions Daemon's loyalty.Meanwhile, Sir Criston Cole plots a revenge plan that goes wrong.

As old grudges resurface, Rhaenys thinks Alicent may be seeing reason, while the man around her is looking to kill.

Sir Criston proposed a bold plan.

Daemon arrives at Harrenhal to raise an army for the Men in Black.

In Rhaenyra's absence and no word from Daemon at Harrenhal, Rhaenys attempted to keep the peace on the Dark Council while Cole launched a campaign into the crown lands.In King's Landing, Aemond continues to undermine Aegon's fragile power.

Amid whispers of foreboding, the Green Men consider how to fill the vacancy on Aegon's council, Jacaerys sets out on a secret mission to seal a deal, and Daemon recruits Lord Willem Blackwood to help convince Brackens to submit.

Rhaenyra has no choice, so she recruits a trustworthy knight, embarks on an adventure, and conspires with Mysaria to incite the common people.Meanwhile, Daemon's unease grows and Aemond takes steps to reshape the Green Council.

When Rhaenyra seeks to gain advantage through unusual means, Daemon pressures a young lord to summon his vassals.

As Aemond becomes increasingly testy, Larys plots an escape, and Alicent becomes increasingly concerned for Helaena's safety.Rhaenyra has gained new powers, and she hopes to use them to her advantage.