At the steps, a wooden platform had been erected. Straw lay scattered at its base.

The gold cloaks stood in formation, spears glinting. And there, at the center of it all, Lord Eddard Stark knelt in chains. His grey eyes found the crowd, searching.

Above him, the royal box. Joffrey sat on his gilded throne, a cruel smile playing on his lips. Cersei stood at his side, cool and composed. Sansa Stark was there too, pale as milk, her hands clasped so tight her knuckles were white.

A hush fell over the crowd.

And then, from the outer edge of the plaza, a ripple of disturbance. Whispers spreading like wildfire as people parted.

Silver-gold hair, braided and coiled. A gown of black and red, dragon scales embroidered along the sleeves. And behind her—three figures, hooded and cloaked, leading three great beasts on chains of iron.