This season has seen some major departures from Clash of Kings, but each one so far has seemed (to me) to be done in a way that signals to readers that they're going to cover the important stuff, and not stray too far.

Yeah, none of the changes they've made so far would prevent any of the characters from arriving at the big important moments, just from slightly different angles.

Interesting theories re: characters from the Free Cities! I'll just point out that that list also includes Varys.

Sean - I think you're right! about the woman who becomes besties with Cersei.

Hmmm, its amazing how many different conspiracies there are or may be.

Myr, not Volantis - [link]

(Book spoilers behind link.)

Peter Dinklage on the cover of Rolling Stone.

Is anyone watching Veep? Can't decide if I like it or not.

I'm watching, and love it, but I've been a fan of Iannucci (and the rest of this writing team) for ages, since their British series The Thick of It. He basically does one thing - bumbling vulgar politicians - but he does it so very, very well.

Joffrey being hit with things.

[link]

Am I supposed to be shipping Sansa and the Hound? Because I feel like I'm supposed to be.

Maybe a little? I wouldn't link them romantically, but there's something between them.

This whole episode was conversations between unlikely people. Love it!

Am I supposed to be shipping Sansa and the Hound? Because I feel like I'm supposed to be.

Yeah, kind of, a little bit.