The current state of Westeros was forged 15 years before the series begins during a civil war known as Robert’s Rebellion .
: While in King's Landing, Ned discovers that Robert’s children are actually the products of an incestuous affair between Queen Cersei and her brother, Jaime .
: Daenerys spends years building an army of "Unsullied" and freed slaves to eventually sail for Westeros. 5. Beyond the Wall: The Great Threat
: Defend King Joffrey’s (and later Tommen’s) claim to the throne.
: Launch their own rebellion to reclaim the independence of the Iron Islands. 4. Across the Narrow Sea: The Targaryen Return In the east (Essos), the last Targaryens plan their return.
: The "Mad King" Aerys II Targaryen executed Lyanna's father and brother, prompting Eddard "Ned" Stark and Robert Baratheon to lead a rebellion.
: Robert killed Rhaegar at the Trident, and Jaime Lannister killed the Mad King, ending centuries of Targaryen rule. Robert became King and married Cersei Lannister to secure the throne. 2. The Stark Family and the Hand of the King The main story begins with the Stark family in the North.
: Prince Rhaegar Targaryen allegedly kidnapped Lyanna Stark, the betrothed of Robert Baratheon .