31.
ROBERT These are dangerous times... I need good men around me, men like Jon Arryn. (beat) Men like you. I want you down in King’s Landing, not up here where you’re no damn use to anybody. (stops walking) Lord Eddard Stark, I would name you Hand of the King.
Ned drops to one knee, not at all surprised.
NED I’m not worthy of the honor.
ROBERT I’m not trying to honor you. I’m trying to get you to run my kingdom while I eat, drink and whore my way to an early grave. You know the saying...
NED The King shits, and the Hand wipes.
Robert laughs. Still on one knee, Ned can’t help but join him.
ROBERT Damn it, Ned, stand up. (Ned does)
You helped me win the Iron Throne, now help me keep the fucking thing. We were meant to rule together. (beat) If your sister had lived, we’d have been bound by blood. Well, it’s not too late. I have a son, you have a daughter... my Joff and your Sansa will join our houses.
This does surprise Ned. After a moment he shakes his head and smiles.
NED How long have you been planning this?
ROBERT How old is your daughter?
Both men laugh. Robert’s face grows serious.
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