"This is Petyr Baelish, our Master of Coin. Everyone calls him Littlefinger." Robert pointed to a slight man with a smile on his face. "Don't let that harmless look fool you. This fellow could squeeze money out of a stone."
Petyr bowed gracefully. "Lord Stark, your reputation precedes you. We are honored to welcome the Warden of the North to King's Landing."
Eddard nodded. He disliked this man. His eyes were too sharp, as though they could see through everything.
"Varys, our Master of Whisperers." Robert pointed next to a man in soft gray robes, his face smooth and beardless. "He knows more than the Seven."
Varys bowed slightly, his voice as soft as a woman's. "It is an honor to serve you, Lord Stark. If there is anything you wish to know about King's Landing, you may come to me at any time."
Next came Grand Maester Pycelle, a white-haired old man who kept coughing. He was very old, but the position of Grand Maester was held for life. Only after the incumbent died could the Citadel be asked to appoint a replacement. Besides, Pycelle was putting on an act. He simply wanted to shirk his duties and could not be bothered to serve Robert unless Tywin was Hand of the King.
Cersei sat to Robert's left in an off-the-shoulder golden gown, with lavish jeweled ornaments around her neck and wrists. She was speaking quietly to Jaime beside her, completely ignoring Eddard and Robert.
Only when Robert introduced her to Eddard did Cersei raise her eyes and look at him with the hint of a smile.
"Welcome to King's Landing, Lord Stark." Her voice was sweet, but her eyes were cold. "I hope life in the south will not prove uncomfortable for you."
Eddard nodded in acknowledgment. "Thank you