Game of Thrones begins with House Baratheon seated securely on the Iron Throne of Westeros. Robert Baratheon secured the title of King for himself by leading a successful rebellion against the ruling Targaryen family. His queen is Cersei Lannister, whose rich family serves to bankroll much of the kingdom's formidable expenses. Robert's two younger brothers are the severe Stannis and the young, lovable Renly.

Following Robert's death in Season One, Joffrey Baratheon takes the throne with his mother Cersei as his adviser and regent. Unbeknownst to Robert and the vast, vast majority of the kingdom, however, Joffrey wasn't his son, and isn't even a Baratheon...