GAME OF THRONES

Alicent and Criston stare at each other as Aemond dismisses them both. He has no need for his mother's advice which he deems restrictive, and he sees shell-shocked Criston as a nuisance more than an asset to his resolves. I love this moment where both of them realize that they are being discarded in their own way by their son and that there is nothing they can do about it: Alicent is silenced and will soon be removed from the council, and Criston is set to march again to Harrenhal. They could say so many things to each other but lack the space and the words. The tension is off the charts.

Alicent seeks out Criston in the yard. She wants to bid him farewell as she did the last time he left King's Landing to march into battle. This time Gwayne stops her from getting closer and talking to him. And yet, as she converses with her brother, three times she turns around to get a glimpse of Criston before he leaves. Will she have the chance to see him and speak to him again?

Criston senses her presence, but he cannot get himself to approach her. Where has his boldness gone? He who so courageously and with disregard about the onlookers' curious eyes asked for her favor before, now hesitates to claim his parting moment with her.

Alicent yearns to speak to him again. Does she want to apologize for being so cold and distant with him? Would he now call her name if she hadn't denied him permission to use it?

Alicent and Criston do not have the chance to say goodbye. He leaves for war again, and she is left behind. She cannot tell him that she will be praying for his safe return, nor can he reveal how worried he is about never returning, but they both know. They look at each other's eyes and it's enough.

"May the Seven guide you, and grant you victory."

"Stay safe while I'm gone."

"Do take care, Good Knight."

"Wait for me until we meet again."