A Game of Thrones, Chapter 33, Eddard
Summary
Small council meeting, after finding out that princess is with child Robert wants to have Dany killed and will not listen to any advice. Ned and King get into a huge fight, Starks steps down wishing Robert’s new Hand “every success”. He intends to leave King’s Landing as soon as possible. Before he can do it though Littlefinger pays him a visit. He tells Ned that King has offered Lordship to Dany’s killer. Petyr also promises to take Ned to the brothel Jory was looking for.
Quotes
“You are the King’s Hand, Lord Stark. You will do as I command you, or I’ll find me a Hand who will.”
“I wish him every success.” Ned unfastened the heavy clasp that clutched at the folds of his cloak, the ornate silver hand that was his badge of office.
“It’s not murder I find amusing, Lord Stark, it’s you. You rule like a man dancing on rotten ice. I daresay you will make a noble splash. I believe I heard the first crack this morning.”
Commentary
Another fight between the King and Stark. This time it’s big. Ned will not put his seal on child murder. Old Robert is gone though, this new one will not listen and Ned loses his patience. He quits.
What’s interesting in this chapter is the position Varys takes. It’s a mystery to me, because just in the previous chapter he was plotting her ascending to the throne (or am I going too far with my assumptions?) and now he wants to send a killer after her. It may make sense though if he was to be behind the planned murder and he could make sure it fails. Just like Petyr arranged it.
Tags: Eddard
