27.
Tyrion Lannister rides behind his brother Jaime, studying the castle and its occupants, missing nothing.
JOFFREY BARATHEON (13), the crown prince, tall for his age, and haughty. Beside him:
SANDOR CLEGANE (35), “The Hound,” Joffrey’s bodyguard. Terrible burn scars cover half his face.
A huge man approaches, flanked by knights in snow-white cloaks. A black beard covers his double chin, but nothing can hide the belly that threatens to burst his doublet’s buttons.
This is KING ROBERT BARATHEON (40s). He vaults from his warhorse and gives Ned an imperious once-over.
ROBERT You’ve gotten fat.
Ned tries to maintain his stony decorum, but it’s hopeless. For the first time, we see him laugh -- and it becomes clear that Ned and the King are actually old friends.
Robert joins in, engulfing him in a bone-crunching hug. He finally releases Ned, who takes a moment to catch his breath.
ROBERT Nine years! Why haven’t I seen you? Where the hell have you been? NED Guarding the north for you, your Grace. Winterfell is yours.
As the king’s party dismounts, an ornate wheelhouse pulls into their midst. QUEEN CERSEI LANNISTER (32) emerges with her younger children, TOMMEN (7) and MYRCELLA (8).
Ned kneels to kiss her ring; her smile is pure formality.
Robert, on the other hand, embraces Catelyn like a long lost sister. As the children on both sides are brought forward and introduced, Robert steps back to Ned.
ROBERT Take me down to your crypt. I want to pay my respects. CERSEI We’ve been riding since dawn. Surely, the dead will wait.
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