Eddard awakes to the sound of Lannister guardsmen drilling with Sandor in the yard below. He takes breakfast with Septa Mordane, Arya, and Sansa. Arya asks to have one more lesson with Syrio before leaving, and Eddard gives his assent. Pycelle comes in after breakfast to report that Robert is dead, and Eddard has him convene the small council in Eddard's solar. Ser Barristan arrives first, followed by Petyr, who says all arrangements are made, and then Varys. Varys reports that Renly and Loras left for the south early in the morning. Eddard has Ser Barristan read Robert's will and asks to be confirmed in his role as lord protector. Just then, Tomard arrives with the king's steward, who asks that the small council attend Joffrey.

Eddard, the council, Tomard, and eight members of Eddard's guard walk to the throne room. Janos Slynt meets the council at the door and escorts them in. Joffrey sits on the throne with Tommen, Myrcella, and Cersei at the base. Ser Mandon, Ser Meryn, Ser Arys, Ser Boros, and Ser Preston are arrayed at the base of the throne in full armor. Sandor also guards the prince. Twenty Lannister guardsmen stand behind the throne and city watchmen are arrayed along both walls. Joffrey asks for the fealty of the council, and Eddard produces the king's letter. Cersei rips it in half and tells Eddard that if he swears fealty he will be allowed to go back to the North and live in peace. Instead, Eddard denies Joffrey's claim to the throne and declares Stannis to be the true heir. Cersei orders Ser Barristan to seize him, and Eddard orders the city watch to take Cersei into custody. Instead, they turn on Eddard's men, killing all of them, including Tomard, Varly, and Cayn. Petyr unsheaths Eddard's dagger and places it at his throat.