For centuries, other people came across the Narrow Sea from the eastern continent of Essos: up North, the First Men in the Center, the Andals down South, the Dornish. The imaginary continent of Westeros was once inhabited by a magical people, the Children of the Forest. And soon Eddard will find out what happens when you play the Game of Thrones. But political intrigue, plots, murders, and sexual desires lead to a secret that could tear the Seven Kingdoms apart. So noble Ned goes against his better desires in an attempt to save his friend and the kingdoms. However, a letter in the dead of night informs 'Ned' that the former Hand was murdered, and that Robert will be next.

The solemn and honorable Warden of the North is tasked to depart his frozen sanctuary and join the King in the capital of King's Landing to help the now overweight and drunk Robert rule. And Robert seeks out his only other ally in all of Westeros, his childhood friend Lord Eddard 'Ned' Stark. The King's Hand, Jon Arryn (Sir John Standing), is dead.

In the mythical land of Westeros, nine noble families fight for every inch of control and every drop of power. Years after a rebellion spurred by a stolen bride to be and the blind ambitions of a mad King, Robert of the house Baratheon (Mark Addy) sits on the much desired Iron Throne.