The Spoils of War (TV serial)

The Spoils of War is the fourth episode of the seventh season of the HBO fantasy television series Game of Thrones. It is the 64th episode overall. Written by David Benioff & D. B. Weiss, and directed by Matt Shakman, it aired on August 6, 2017.

The episode primarily focuses on Daenerys Targaryen's response to recent Lannister victories. Faced with dwindling support and limited options, she makes a decisive move to use her dragon, Drogon, in an attempt to directly confront the Lannister army returning from the sack of Highgarden, led by Jaime Lannister and Bronn. The ensuing battle, often referred to as the "Loot Train Attack," is a major action sequence featuring a large-scale clash between Dothraki horsemen and the Lannister forces, showcasing Drogon's devastating power.

Other storylines within the episode involve Arya Stark's reunion with Sansa and Bran at Winterfell, where she displays her fighting skills and receives the Valyrian steel dagger from Bran. Jon Snow continues his efforts to convince Daenerys of the threat posed by the White Walkers, showing her ancient cave paintings depicting the First Men fighting the White Walkers.

The episode is notable for its spectacular visual effects, particularly in the depiction of Drogon's fiery attacks, and for its significant impact on the strategic landscape of Westeros. The battle demonstrates Daenerys's willingness to use overwhelming force, while also highlighting the vulnerability of even well-trained armies to dragonfire. The episode also advances character development, particularly for Arya and her integration back into life at Winterfell, and reinforces the looming threat of the White Walkers.