A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire, #1)

by George R.R. Martin

Why? Why would the dwarf want Bran dead? Why would anyone want Bran dead?

“The Red Keep shelters two sorts of people, Lord Eddard,” Varys said. “Those who are loyal to the realm, and those who are loyal only to themselves.

“But you, Lord Stark … I think … no, I know … he would not kill you, not even for his queen,

A Lannister always paid his debts.

Only a fool would arm a common footpad with his own blade.”

I never bet against my family.”

Yet somehow the monster seemed to know she was there. She could feel its empty eyes watching her through the gloom, and there was something in that dim, cavernous room that did not love her.

All halls lead somewhere. Where there is a way in, there is a way out. Fear cuts deeper than swords.

I swear to you, I’ll pin the damned thing on Jaime Lannister.”