The Bond Between Ned and Robert

A Game of Thrones

The friendship between Eddard Stark and Robert Baratheon, strained by time and duty.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

Old Friends Old Friends from "A Game of Thrones". The Reunion The Arrival Robert visits Winterfell, and he and Ned reminisce about their youth. They were like brothers.

Old Friends from "A Game of Thrones". The Reunion The Arrival Robert visits Winterfell, and he and Ned reminisce about their youth. They were like brothers.

The Reunion The Arrival Robert visits Winterfell, and he and Ned reminisce about their youth. They were like brothers. The Crypt Robert visits Lyanna's tomb, showing his enduring love for her. Ned is moved. The Offer Robert offers Ned the Handship, and Ned accepts out of friendship. Their bond is strong but tested.

The Strain The Strain from "A Game of Thrones". The Growing Rift The Disagreements Ned and Robert clash over the assassination of Daenerys and the treatment of the realm. Robert has changed.

The Strain from "A Game of Thrones". The Growing Rift The Disagreements Ned and Robert clash over the assassination of Daenerys and the treatment of the realm. Robert has changed.

The Growing Rift The Disagreements Ned and Robert clash over the assassination of Daenerys and the treatment of the realm. Robert has changed. The Confession Robert admits he is a bad king and that he still loves Lyanna. Ned sees the man beneath the crown. The Death Robert dies, and Ned is left to deal with the consequences. Their friendship ends in tragedy.

early in the story, at Winterfell

during Ned's time as Hand