‘Game Of Thrones’ Season 6 Spoilers, Episode 7 Preview: Riverrun, House Stark, Septon Meribald And More In ‘The Broken Man’

“Game of Thrones” is heading into the homestretch with just four episodes left in Season 6. After last week’s episode set up turmoil in King’s Landing and some hasty decisions that could lead to some deadly consequences, “The Broken Man” will be busy catching up with many storylines currently in motion. Through it all, Dorne appears to remain on the sidelines based on the released “Game of Thrones” Season 6, episode 7 preview.

Warning: “Game of Thrones” Season 6 spoilers ahead.

With everything that’s happened so far in “Game of Thrones” Season 6, it’s easy to forget there are only a handful of episodes left in a season that will set up the remaining 13 episodes of the entire series. Of course, those plans can always change, but show creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss have been pretty consistent with their plans to end “Game of Thrones” after two shortened seasons. If that’s the case, expect these next five episodes to be very busy.

Aside from Jon Snow’s dead-or-alive routine, the initial previews for “Game of Thrones” Season 6 featured a massive battle in the North pitting bannermen loyal to House Bolton against House Stark and its allies. It would be a battle royal that would be the biggest yet for the show, but that requires getting all the players in place for some epic fighting. We have already seen Jon Snow and Sansa Stark reunite before heading to the Vale where Sansa had a heart-to-heart with Littlefinger. There are many Northern houses that are still loyal to the Stark family, which is where Sansa appears to be headed in “Game of Thrones” Season 6, episode 7.

The most prominent banner seen in the“The Broken Man” preview is that of House Glover with the debut of Robett Glover. There’s another scene with Sansa with what appears to be the House Mormont sigil in the background. The recruitment also extends to the Wildlings, with Tormund Giantsbane offering his support of Jon Snow. House Manderly, the largest northern house that has not pledged fealty to House Bolton, could also make an appearance in “The Broken Man.”

Speaking of armies, the Blackfish is back. Ser Brynden Tully, Catelyn Stark’s uncle, has been busy waging war against the Freys and their allies. The Blackfish has retaken Riverrun with the support of House Mallister, House Blackwood and the Brotherhood Without Banners supporting his cause. After getting stripped of his duties by King Tommen, Jaime Lannister is tasked with quelling the rebellion. Jaime does not appear to be too happy having to team up with House Frey, but at least Bronn makes his debut in “Game of Thrones” Season 6. Jaime appears to be taking the diplomatic approach whereas House Frey wants a swift resolution by threatening to kill Edmure Tully.

“The Broken Man” also will explore the fallout from the High Sparrow’s victory over House Tyrell and House Lannister. Cersei Lannister and the Queen of Thorns are seen plotting their next move in the preview while the released photos show a very modest Margaery Tyrell free from the cells. Additional shots of Yara and Theon Greyjoy in Volantis close out the preview.

As “Game of Thrones” Season 6 begins to wrap up, HBO is releasing fewer details about what to expect from each episode. Aside from checking in with Arya, little else is known about “The Broken Man.” This period also happens to be the best time for “Game of Thrones” fans who can speculate on possible surprises. With the return of the presumed dead Benjen Stark, many hope Lady Stoneheart has her own debut this season. With so much action taking place in the Riverlands, along with the return of the Brotherhood Without Banners, it’s not implausible.

There’s also the introduction of Ian McShane’s character that could take place in “The Broken Man.” The episode’s title is a nod to the septon’s response to a Podrick’s question of “Is a broken man an outlaw?” More specifically, the title could refer to the Hound. Ser Gregor Clegane was quite broken by the time he was defeated in battle by Brienne. The Hound’s body, or death, were never explicitly covered in “Game of Thrones,” which opens up the possibility for his return as a rehabilitated person. Septon Meribald may have found a dying Hound in his travel and nursed him back to health. The Hound could also be the High Septon’s champion if Cersei elects to have a trial by combat. With the Hound facing off against his brother, it would be a fitting end for his character.