Eddard Stark's Fall from Power

Ned Stark's journey from Hand of the King to prisoner and finally to execution.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Reluctant Hand

The Burden of Office The Offer Robert Baratheon offers Ned the position of Hand of the King. Ned is reluctant but accepts out of duty and friendship. The Journey South Ned travels to King's Landing with his daughters, leaving Winterfell behind. He is uneasy about the south and the intrigues he will face. The First Council Ned attends his first small council meeting and is shocked by the realm's debt and the corruption of the court.

Investigation and Discovery

The Truth Uncovered The Clues Ned investigates Jon Arryn's death, following leads to Gendry and the book of lineages. He realizes that Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen are not Robert's children. The Confrontation Ned confronts Cersei, offering her a chance to flee. She refuses, and Ned's mercy gives her time to plot. The Trap When Robert dies, Ned tries to name Stannis heir, but he is betrayed by Littlefinger and the gold cloaks. He is arrested.

Imprisonment and Death

The End of Honor The Dungeon Ned is held in a dark cell, his leg festering. Varys visits him and convinces him to confess to save Sansa. The Confession Ned publicly confesses to treason, hoping to take the black. But Joffrey orders his execution. The Beheading Ned is beheaded on the steps of the Great Sept. His death sparks the War of the Five Kings and leaves his family shattered.

early in the story, after Robert's visit

during his time as Hand

after the coup