Eddard

The construction of the tourney grounds was almost done when Eddard arrived at Storm's End. As expected of Robert, he hadn't held back in the slightest with the festivities. He could see a stage on which a troupe of mummers were rehearsing a play. He sighed as his eyes landed on the list field, it was extravagant with rows upon rows of seats lining it. The duelling arena was even larger, which, if Eddard had to guess, was made for a group melee.

As he rode through the front gate he was greeted by a tall thin black-haired boy, "Eddard Stark, welcome to Storm's End, my brother has been expecting you." This made him smile, "Then you must be Stannis." He dismounted his horse and offered his hand, "It's almost tragic that we must meet under such circumstances." The boy took his hand, "I feel the same."

"Now please follow me, I will lead you to my brother." Stannis said motioning towards the massive keep. As they traversed the grounds Eddard turned to the younger Baratheon, "Please accept my condolences, I cannot imagine what it must have been like." Stannis's face tightened in displeasure, "Thank you."

It became apparent to Eddard that unlike his older brother Stannis wasn't very talkative and didn't appreciate the mention of his parents. So he decided to hold his tongue till they reached their destination, which luckily for Eddard wasn't too far into the keep. "He's waiting for you inside.'' Stannis said glaring at the oak door. Eddard smiled, "Thank you, again." and swung the door open.

Stepping inside, he saw Robert sitting at a massive desk, murderously staring at a piece of parchment before him. "What do you want!" he asked, still looking at the table. "I don't think that letter's going to be intimidated any time soon." Eddard said, raising an eyebrow. Robert jumped up from his seat, a big grin on his face, "Ned!" he roared and moved around the desk arms wide.

Eddard smiled and embraced his friend in a bear hug. "It's good to see you!" Robert said laughing. Eddard released his friend and bowed "You as well my lord." This made Robert frown, "Ned, stand up straight. I will not have you bow to me." He chuckled, "Alright, if that is what you wish." His friend nodded, "It is."

Turning to the desk, Eddard asked, "So, what has you so preoccupied?" Robert scratched his head, "Well, Rhaegar will be coming." Eddard's eyes widened, "Is everything ready for a royal visit?" His friend shook his head, "No, and I suspect he sent this letter late, on purpose."

Luckily for them, Rhaegar arrived slightly later than expected, giving them enough time to prepare a wing of the castle for him and his retinue. He rode in on a black stallion, dark armour gleaming under the sun. Behind him, only four men, Ser Barristan Selmy and Ser Arthur Dayne of the Kingsguard, Ser Jon Connington and lastly Rhaegar's squire, a boy Eddard didn't know the name of. The lords and ladies cheered as the crown prince dismounted his gigantic warhorse, ruby-encrusted breastplate shimmering.

Eddard saw Robert grin from where he sat only two seats away. "Prince Rhaegar," he roared, catching the Targaryen's attention, "I'm glad you could join us for this occasion." Rhaegar smiled and removed his helmet, "I am truly happy that I could make it Lord Robert. Please don't let my entrance disturb you we shall just sit down quietly and you may give your speech." The crown prince then moved over to the bottom of the stands and sat next to Lord Hasty.