Bill Clinton Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Bill Clinton - Essay Example Clinton woke himself up on Sunday mornings, wore his best garments at that point strolled to Park Place Baptist Church, which was a large portion of a mile away from his home to go to administrations alone. Gospel music performed by the congregation ensemble was among the significant impacting components to Clinton’s love for the congregation, which additionally motivated him to begin playing the jazz saxophone. When Clinton was through with his secondary school instruction, he had built up his aptitudes in playing jazz saxophone where many remembered him as the best saxophonist in the city (Finkelman and Wallenstein 80). Clinton went to Hot Springs High School, which was an isolated secondary school for the whites where he turned into a heavenly understudy notwithstanding being a necessary individual from the school’s jazz band. Clinton went to the Arkansas Boys State in 1963 and was effectively chosen the Arkansas delegate for the American Legion's Boys Nation. Every delegate got an opportunity to meet the USA president which gave him an open door through a challenge to meet the then President John F. Kennedy. Because of the photograph shoot the youthful Bill Clinton had warmly greeting President Kennedy; the photo has since become a notable picture meaning a going of the administration cudgel between ages of present day Democratic authority (Benson 11). His political nature having taken roots in his secondary school years, Clinton right away entered college governmental issues at the Georgetown University being chosen leader of his first year recruit and sophomore classes yet later lost the political decision for understudy body president in his lesser year. Clinton at that point moved his concentration from grounds governmental issues to his work as a representative for the Foreign Relations Committee, which at the time was under Senator Fulbright (Benson 19). Clinton’s quick accessibility to take the Rhodes grant to go to Oxford Univer sity he had won while at Georgetown University became unsure not long after his appearance in Oxford as he was required back to Arkansas when he got a draft notice. To guarantee he goes to Oxford, Clinton took a crack at the ROTC program at the University of Arkansas Law School to maintain a strategic distance from military help, however didn't go to graduate school that fall, as he came back to Oxford to take up his grant (Benson 27). It was while going to the Yale Law School in the wake of seeing out his Rhodes grant, that Clinton met Hillary Rodham, a brilliant young lady whose political goals were in agreement with those of Clinton (Finkelman and Wallenstein 80). The Clintons moved to Arkansas after their graduation, where Bill took up a showing position at the University of Arkansas however since his heart was in governmental issues, he immediately entered the universe of legislative issues. His originally took shots at an elective seat subsequent to moving on from Yale was in 1974 when he confronted the Republican occupant U.S. Place of Representatives John Paul Hammer Schmidt in a political race Clinton lost. Clinton lost the political decision in just barely to the astonishment of many denoting his height as the quick rising political star of the Arkansas Democratic Party. Clinton was to include again the political races two years after the fact this time getting chose the state lawyer general a position he held until 1978 when he ran for the governor’s position vanquishing Republican Lynn Lowe to get perhaps the most youthful senator in American history at 32 years old (Gaines 16). Having made sure about his

Eudora Weltys The Ponder Heart. :: Eudora Welty The Ponder Heart.

Eudora Welty's The Ponder Heart The basic exposition The Strategy of Edna Earle Ponder by Marilyn Arnold communicates the possibility that Edna Earle Ponder is evaluating the lady who has gone to the Beulah Hotel, while her vehicle is being fixed, as a potential new spouse for Uncle Daniel. Arnold accepts that the account ear is significant character in the novel. Arnold contends that the audience is a youthful female who is naã ¯ve and modest and that Dean Earle uses her self-maintained insight to get Uncle Daniel wedded once more. By wedding again Uncle Daniel would come out of his reclusivness and be upbeat again. She states:Throughout the novel the dexterous Edna Earle ventures to every part of the course of her story choosing subtleties intended to appeal and dazzle a young lady and simultaneously she presents the desires that would administer a contact between her visitor and Daniel(Arnold 70). As indicated by Arnold, Edna Earle is totally frustrated in the two past relationships of Uncle Daniel. As his defender and the one individual who is worried about his satisfaction any further ladies will be first evaluated, at that point sought, at that point admonished and destined by Daniel's niece and protector(71). It is Edna's conviction that Uncle Daniel must be genuinely upbeat when he is enamored. In the start of her story Edna Earle gives her audience a plenty of great portrayals and records of Uncle Daniel. Edna Earle is particularly mindful so as to pressure Daniel's energy disregarding fifty or more years(72). She likewise clarifies how she, Daniel's dad, and the residents of the town have dealt with Uncle Daniel. Arnold states:Her story becomes to some extent an exercise on the most proficient method to treat Daniel: that is, the means by which to secure him and let him do whatever makes him happy(73). In conclusion, Arnold affirms that Edna Earle stresses how Uncle Daniel parted with practically the entirety of the Ponder cash. Eudora Welty's The Ponder Heart. :: Eudora Welty The Ponder Heart. Eudora Welty's The Ponder Heart The basic exposition The Strategy of Edna Earle Ponder by Marilyn Arnold communicates the possibility that Edna Earle Ponder is evaluating the lady who has gone to the Beulah Hotel, while her vehicle is being fixed, as a potential new spouse for Uncle Daniel. Arnold accepts that the account ear is significant character in the novel. Arnold contends that the audience is a youthful female who is naã ¯ve and bashful and that Dean Earle uses her self-proclaimed insight to get Uncle Daniel wedded once more. By wedding again Uncle Daniel would come out of his reclusivness and be glad again. She states:Throughout the novel the competent Edna Earle ventures to every part of the course of her story choosing subtleties intended to appeal and intrigue a young lady and simultaneously she presents the desires that would administer a contact between her visitor and Daniel(Arnold 70). As indicated by Arnold, Edna Earle is totally frustrated in the two past relationships of Uncle Daniel. As his defender and the one individual who is worried about his bliss any further ladies will be first evaluated, at that point sought, at that point admonished and predestined by Daniel's niece and protector(71). It is Edna's conviction that Uncle Daniel must be genuinely upbeat when he is enamored. In the start of her story Edna Earle gives her audience a plenty of ideal portrayals and records of Uncle Daniel. Edna Earle is particularly mindful so as to pressure Daniel's energy regardless of fifty or more years(72). She likewise clarifies how she, Daniel's dad, and the residents of the town have dealt with Uncle Daniel. Arnold states:Her account becomes to a limited extent an exercise on the most proficient method to treat Daniel: that is, the way to secure him and let him do whatever makes him happy(73). Ultimately, Arnold attests that Edna Earle accentuates how Uncle Daniel parted with practically the entirety of the Ponder cash.

Dehydration Causes and Symptoms

Dehydration Causes and Symptoms Addiction Drug Use Print Dehydration Causes and Symptoms By Elizabeth Hartney, BSc., MSc., MA, PhD Elizabeth Hartney, BSc, MSc, MA, PhD is a psychologist, professor, and Director of the Centre for Health Leadership and Research at Royal Roads University, Canada. Learn about our editorial policy Elizabeth Hartney, BSc., MSc., MA, PhD Updated on January 07, 2020 RunPhoto/Moment/Getty More in Addiction Drug Use Cocaine Heroin Marijuana Meth Ecstasy/MDMA Hallucinogens Opioids Prescription Medications Alcohol Use Addictive Behaviors Nicotine Use Coping and Recovery Dehydration is the loss of more fluid from the body than is replaced. Dehydration is a common problem among people who use drugs, both during the intoxication and the withdrawal phases, and sometimes requires medical attention. Extreme dehydration is dangerous, and can even cause death. There is a particularly high risk of developing dehydration if you are using drugs in hot environments such as crowded dance floors or summertime outdoor festivals. However, dehydration can also occur in people of all ages who are not using drugs. Causes Drug use can lead to dehydration through the effects of the drugs themselves, which can speed up breathing, increase sweating, increase urination, and cause vomiting and diarrhea, all of which can lead to dehydration. Drugs can also cause dehydration indirectly, for example, by stimulating people to be over-active, and interfering with their attention and body awareness, so that they ignore their bodys need for fluid. However, drug use isnt the only behavior that can lead to dehydration. Several other addictive behaviors and related disorders can lead to dehydration as well. For example, people who binge and purge are also vulnerable to dehydration through the fluid loss resulting from vomiting, or through inducing diarrhea through laxative over-use, while those with exercise addiction can become dehydrated through excessive sweating. Some of the controversial and dangerous pro-ana approaches advocate weight loss at any price, even if it means dehydrating the body to achieve it. This process is accelerated by diuretic pills and laxative pills, which are sometimes taken for this purpose. Both methods of weight loss â€" which dont actually result in any reduction of body fat â€" can also lead to dehydration. Whenever you lose too much fluid through excessive urination, sweating, diarrhea or vomiting, you are risking dehydration. Symptoms Symptoms of dehydration include a dry mouth, dry eyes, chapped lips, and feeling thirsty. As dehydration worsens, you could also experience pain in the bladder or kidneys, or suffer from constipation. However, attempting to replace fluid through drinking large amounts of pure water can be a mistake, particularly if you have also lost fluid through excessive sweating.   Replacing the water without replacing the minerals your body also loses through dehydration can lead to an imbalance of the electrolytes needed for proper fluid regulation in the cells of the body. In the worst cases, a condition called hyponatremia or water intoxication can result, which can lead to interference with brain function and even death. Avoiding Dehydration The best strategy for avoiding problems with dehydration and the risk of water intoxication is to not become dehydrated in the first place. Sip water regularly, rather than gulp it down, and make sure that you eat enough food containing salt to replace the salt lost through sweating. It doesnt take much â€" a handful of salted potato chips or nuts every so often would be enough. Energy drinks are touted as a great way to avoid dehydration, as they contain water, sugar, and electrolytes. But take care not to choose brands which contain a lot of caffeine, as this can lead to over-stimulation and a variety of other health risks. Overheating is a common problem with stimulant drugs such as ecstasy, amphetamines, and methamphetamine, cocaine, ketamine, and methoxetamine, particularly if you are also dancing for long periods, overexercising or if your body temperature rises as a result of drug use. When to Seek Medical Attention If you find that you get overheated after taking a stimulant drug even without much exercise or being in a particularly warm environment, it is a good idea to head to the emergency room. Occasionally, peoples bodies are unable to properly regulate temperature when it becomes elevated, and medical intervention is required. It is better to do this sooner rather than later, and the drug may also affect your consciousness and ability to clearly communicate to medical staff what you have taken. You can also avoid overheating and dehydration by cooling off rather than simply drinking a lot of water, and this will reduce sweating and the associated fluid and mineral loss. This is the reason that many dance events, raves, and clubs now have chill out areas so that dancers can take a break and cool down. Relaxing, although difficult when you are overstimulated, will also give your heart and lungs a break from working overtime, and will reduce the amount of fluid you are losing.

What is Socrates being accused of - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 545 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2019/08/06 Category People Essay Tags: Socrates Essay Did you like this example? Imagine being accused of three things that you dont agree with what they are saying. In the apology Socrates was accused of multiple things and was sent to court for the trial to find out if he was guilty or not. One of the things Socrates was accused of was him corrupting the young people that followed him because of their actions. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "What is Socrates being accused of?" essay for you Create order Another accusation was of him not believing in the gods of Athens. Socrates was also accused of making or inventing new gods. The court was examining evidence of all those things so that they could find whether he was guilty or not guilty. If he was found guilty a death sentence awaited him. Socrates is one of the founders of western philosophy. He was a very intelligent man who was very concerned about ethics being a good Athenian and behaving justly. Socrates has developed his reputation of being the wisest, thanks to his way of thinking and doing things. Socrates used the Socratic method to make his follower questions their beliefs and thought. Socrates simply shared his ideas and thoughts with the young student and they themselves chose their own path to follow and which kind of action to make. Based on one of his students Plato in the apology dont believe that Socrates was corrupting the minds of the youth but instead of opening them. I say this because Socrates did not in any way mislead or misguide any of his students in any way but rather showed them that there has their own mind where they can think for themselves. This method was called Socratic because he was the one who invented the term. socrates shows the students that just because a person held a higher position or was older did not mean that they were wiser or they were better them god or other people. Socrates question the youth of their daily lives on what they think is right and what they think is rough and that they should follow they own heart no matter what and to not let anyone say otherwise. Socrates does not explicitly answer whether or not he believed in the many gods of Athens but he definitely believed in at least one divinity: his inner voice. Just like how he told the student is that to follow what is in their heart and not what others tell you too. But if Socrates did believe in any god that would be in a philosophical idea of good which he sometimes referred to as the god as well as the omnibenevolent demiurge or craftsman who created the world. It almost sounds like Socrates was a Muslim but his conception of the divine was philosophical, not religious. Although this may still be considered a form of reverence by an Athenian jury it is misguided to describe Socrates as an atheist. Even though he does not speak in favor of the gods either does he move to deny spirituality or divinity? It still not proven that Socrates invented any new gods. In conclusion, Socrates was a person with a strong will who believe in doing thing rightly by following one’s heart. It shows that even if one is strong hearted doesn’t mean he is a bad person.

What Is Unschooling Strengths and Weaknesses

Because there are now over two million homeschooled children in the United States, most people are familiar with the idea of homeschooling even if they dont quite understand it. However, even some homeschooling families are confused about the concept of unschooling. What Is Unschooling? While often considered a homeschooling style, it is more accurate to view unschooling as an overall mindset and approach to how  to educate a child. Often referred to as child-led learning, interest-based learning, or delight-directed learning, unschooling is a term coined by author and educator John Holt. Holt (1923-1985) is the author of education books such as  How Children Learn and How Children Fail. He was also the editor of the first magazine dedicated exclusively to homeschooling, Growing Without Schooling, published from 1977 to 2001. John Holt believed that the compulsory schooling model was a hindrance to the way children learn. He believed that humans are born with an innate curiosity and the desire and ability to learn and that the traditional school model, which attempts to control and regulate how children learn, was a detriment to the natural learning process. Holt thought that schools should be a resource for education, similar to a library, rather than the primary source of education. He felt that children learn best when they are with their parents and are  engaged in everyday life and learning through their surroundings and circumstances. As with any philosophy of education, unschooling families vary as far as their adherence to unschooling principals is concerned. On one end of the spectrum, you’ll find â€Å"relaxed homeschoolers.† They prefer to follow their students’ lead with interest-led learning for the most part, but also have some subjects that they teach in more traditional ways. At the other end of the spectrum are â€Å"radical unschoolers† for whom educational activities are relatively indistinguishable from everyday life. Their children fully direct their own learning, and nothing is considered a â€Å"must teach† subject. Radical unschoolers are confident that children will acquire the skills they need when they need them through natural processes. There are some things that unschoolers usually have in common regardless of where they fall on the spectrum. All have a strong desire to instill in their children a lifelong love of learning – a realization that learning never stops. Most like to employ the art of â€Å"strewing.† This term refers to ensuring that  interesting and engaging materials are readily available in a child’s environment. The practice of strewing creates a learning-rich atmosphere that encourages and facilitates natural curiosity. Benefits of Unschooling This educational philosphy has many advantages. At its core, unschooling is natural learning based on pursuing passions, satisfying one’s natural curiosity, and learning through hands-on experimentation and modeling. Stronger Retention Adults and children alike tend to retain more learned information on topics that interest them. We stay sharp in the skills that we use every day. Unschooling capitalizes on that fact. Instead of being forced to  memorize random facts long enough to pass a test, an unschooled student  has a vested interest in learning the facts and skills that pique their interest. An unschooled student may pick up geometry skills while working on a building project. He learns grammar and spelling skills while reading and writing. For example, while reading he notices that dialogue is set apart by quote marks, so he begins applying that technique to the story hes writing. Builds on Natural Gifts and Talents Unschooling can prove to be the ideal learning environment for children who might be labeled struggling learners in a traditional school setting. A student who struggles with dyslexia, for example, may prove to be a creative, talented writer when he can write without worrying about having his spelling and grammar  critiqued. That doesn’t mean that unschooling parents ignore vital skills. Instead, they allow their children  to focus on their strengths and help them discover tools to overcome their weaknesses. This shift in focus allows children to reach their full potential based on their unique skill set without feeling inadequate because they process information differently than their peers. Strong Self-motivation Because unschooling is self-directed, unschoolers tend to be very self-motivated learners. One child may learn to read because he wants to be able to decipher the directions on a video game. Another may learn because she’s tired of waiting for someone to read aloud to her and, instead, wants to be able to pick up a book and read for herself. Unschooled students tackle even subjects that they don’t like when they see the validity in learning them. For example, a student who doesn’t care for math will dive into lessons because the subject is necessary for his chosen field,  college entrance exams, or successful completion of core classes. I have seen this scenario played out in multiple unschooling families that I know. Teens who had previously balked at learning algebra or geometry jumped in and progressed rapidly and successfully through the lessons once they saw a legitimate reason for and need to master those skills. What  Unschooling Looks Like Many people - even other homeschoolers -  don’t understand the concept of unschooling. They picture kids sleeping, watching TV, and playing video games all day. This scenario may be the case for some unschooling families some of the time. There are those who find inherent educational value in all activities. They are confident that their children will self-regulate and pursue learning the topics and skills that ignite their passions. In most unschooling families, however, lack of formal learning and curriculum does not mean lack of structure. Children still have routine and responsibilities. As with any other home education philosophy, a day in the life of one unschooling family will look drastically different than that of another. The most significant difference most people would note between an unschooling family and a more traditional homeschooling family is that learning happens naturally through life experiences for unschoolers. For example,  one unschooling family gets up and does household chores together before heading out to the grocery store. On the way to the store, they hear the news on the radio. The news story sparks a discussion about current events, geography, and politics. Upon returning home from the store, the children head off to different corners of the house  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ one to read, another  to write a letter to a friend, a third to his laptop to research how to care for  the pet ferret he’s hoping to  acquire. The ferret research leads to making plans for a ferret pen.  The child looks up various enclosure plans online and begins drawing out plans for  his  future ferret’s home, including measurements and a supply list. It’s important to note that unschooling isnt always done without homeschool curriculum. However, it usually means that the use of curriculum is  student-directed. For example, the unschooled teen who decides that he needs to learn algebra and geometry for college entrance exams may determine that a specific math curriculum is the best way to learn what he needs to know. The letter-writing student may decide she’d like to learn cursive because it’s pretty and would fun to use for writing letters. Or, perhaps she received a handwritten note from Grandma that she’s having trouble deciphering. She decides that a  cursive workbook will help her achieve her goals. Other parents may feel more comfortable unschooling some aspects of their children’s education while taking a more traditional approach to others. These families may choose to use homeschool curriculum or online classes for math and science, for example, while opting to allow their children to study history through books, documentaries, and family discussions. When I asked unschooling families what they most wanted others to understand about unschooling, they worded their answers a bit differently, but the idea was the same. Unschooling does not mean unparenting and it doesnt mean unteaching. It doesnt mean that education is not taking place. Unschooling is just a different, holistic way of looking at how to educate a child.

Under the Sea Free Essays

One very hot summer day I went scuba diving in the ocean. It was so beautiful under the water. There were so many different kinds of fish, plants and other sea creatures. We will write a custom essay sample on Under the Sea or any similar topic only for you Order Now My favorite was a purple octopuses, a school of color full sea horses and of souse the most magnificent sea turtles. They were huge. One of them was even 3 times my size. I was so fascinated about the beauty of the sea, I lost track of time. As I was wondering around I suddenly came across a hidden city. In the middle of the entrance it looked like a board hanging with a name written on but, I could not make out the letters due to many years of fading. It was Like the city called me closer. As I entered the city I saw so many different kinds of tumbled down houses. There was small ground level ones and big double storage one’s. I stumbled across what once was the mall. I absolutely loved It. I wish I could have been part of this magnificent city. Yes, It’s true, everything was under water and old but It was so fascinating. I wonder what happened to the people. At the very end of the city there was this gigantic palace. The king probably lived there. I decided to go and Investigate. As I swam in I was amazed. It was so beautiful in there and it was almost like the time Todd still. A faded red carpet welcomed me and at the side’s there was statues which ended at the throne. Obviously I sat down. After pretending to be the Queen, I wondered through the palace. Each room had a different theme. Suddenly I heard a beep, it was the gas tank telling me I only had a few minutes of air left. I really did not want to go but I had no choice. On my way out I took a souvenir to remember this place. When I got home I told everyone of this hidden city, but no one would believe me. Looks like the city of wonders (that’s what I called it) did not want to be found. How to cite Under the Sea, Papers Under The Sea Free Essays The annoyance of the reminding call that is my alarm clock telling me to leave the safety and warmth of my bed and get up for school is drilling through my dreams as I fall out my bed and collapse in a sleepy heap trying to turn the damn thing off. Its only 7 o-clock and I’m finding sheer bliss in the thought of sleep for an extra half an hour but don’t because I have to get in the shower before school. I love my bedroom, not just because my bed is there but also because it reflects on who I am. We will write a custom essay sample on Under The Sea or any similar topic only for you Order Now I choose the colours the items and most of all it’s the only space I can call mine and in a house of 6(or 7 including the cat) that is a big achievement. I stumble up the stairs like I have no head and dive into the bathroom before anyone else even thinks about getting in. after a long karaoke session and running out of shampoo and soap (I use far too much of everything! ) I run downstairs to my room and start to blow dry my hair. This may seem really pathetic but like most other women I think I would die if I never had a hair dryer, it is one of the most important inventions ever made god bless its creator. Then its time to fix my face and correct it by adding a washable mask onto it. By now its usually 8 o-clock and I’m packing my bag and eating my breakfast at the same time I never have time to do one at a time because by the time ive done my hair and make up I’m not allowed to wear I have no time left hardly so I double jobs up. At 8:30 I ring stef to make sure she is actually ready for a change and then leave my house. My house on the outside looks huge but once you’re in it, it looks really small. When I was younger it was my grans house and I remember thinking it was a castle with its sandstone blocks and its bay windows. Its quite funny walking to school with stef because we used to be best friends during primary school, but since we went to the comp she turned into a â€Å"charva† and I apparently turned into a â€Å"Goth† which I know I’m not because I don’t dress in all black I dress in baggy jeans n’ tops which I would say is more punk than anything of the Goth description but we still get along and tell each other all the gossip from the night before; but usually mine is better because charva’s don’t have gossip because they spread everything they know around anyway. I’m usually in school for just before the bell, which gives me all the time in the world to walk down the corridor to my tutor room, its not as though I will get told off for being late anyway because my tutor is always late or never even turns up! My school looks like attack of the killer snots because it has been painted a horrible dingy green apparently some people call our school the green school because it is renowned for its dank colour. I have 5 snore making lessons, which are broken down by a 15-minute break and a 45-minute lunch. Break and lunch are the best part of the school day. I go to the benches usually. The benches are another part of the school that have been labelled as something they are not, all I will say is charvs wont come here. After school if I haven’t got work I stay in for a while and laze until about 6! Then I start to do my homework (yeah right) depending on how my day has been I either go in the bath and have an early night or I go on the computer and talk to people on the internet. It may sound silly but I never talk to strangers on the internet I only accept â€Å"i. m’s† off a name I recognise, some people think that is strange but I think I’m being precautions because not everything and everyone are what they seem. After a world of gossip and arguments I hit back reality and go back to the dreams I was so rudely disturbed from about 16 hours previously but only to be interrupted again in about, oh say in 8 hours time†¦ How to cite Under The Sea, Papers

Information Technology Through Systems

Business Overview GTS Medical has been offering its services to a range of customers for quite a while; however, with technological advances of the XXI century, the methods of promoting to the target audience that the company has been using up until now seems to have become inconsistent and, therefore, need to be changes. In the light of the fact that the company is going to expand, it is especially important to choose the technology that will help move the business forward.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Information Technology Through Systems specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It should also be noted that the GTS Medical has been experiencing considerable issues in its information management process. Due to the lack of cooperation between its departments, employees often use dated information, which results in misunderstandings and makes the production process, as well as the relationships with the end c ustomer, increasingly slower and worse. By putting a stronger emphasis on the use of technology in the company and, therefore, improving the organizational processes, GTS Medical can possibly avoid a crisis and even consider further expansion into the target market. Business niche of the organization As it has been stressed, the company in question deals with providing medications to its target clients. It is noteworthy, though, that the company sells medicine not to drug stores but to medical centers, surgery centers, from the most part. Among the GTS Medical customers, there are also small hospitals, offices and numerous partners overseas. Current business model Judging by the fact that the GTS Medical Company is outing a very strong emphasis on the use of information technologies, it is reasonable to assume that the company’s business model can be defined as the development of innovative healthcare services. In other words, the GTS Medical Company strives for the reorganiz ation of the current healthcare system by using new and improved technology. Indeed, according to the official statement of the company representative, the business model adopted by the organization can be described as the integration of the latest technological advances for the further promotion of the most innovative medical solutions to the target audience. It should be noted that information management and information technologies play a huge role in the company because of the choice of the business model. As long as the GTS Medical Company is capable of carrying out such processes as information acquisition, information analysis and information distribution efficiently, it can retain its target audience by providing them with fast and high-quality services.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is important that the business model used by the GTS Medical could pro vide its clientele enough flexibility, which the informational model does – it can be assumed that the customers will be satisfied with the ability to navigate the company’s site fast and to choose from a wide range of services, as well as remove certain items from their cart, and perform other manipulations that would have been impossible without the integration of IT elements into the company’s business model. Role of IT and information Apart from being the key to the company’s strategy in shaping its relationships with customers and the element that the company’s key product is extremely dependable on, information in general and IT, in particular, is especially important for the GTS Medical Company now, since the organization is clearly suffering from the lack of cohesion between the actions of its departments. According to the recently acquired data, the actions carried out by the employees of different departments of GTS Medical, as well as th e performances of these departments in general, are not coordinated at all. The lack of connection between these departments leads to employees using dated information and, therefore, failing to deliver high-quality services to the end customer. It should be noted that information management in the GTS Medical Company affects not only the production process, though the inefficacy of data distribution definitely affects the latter the most. Apart from the fact that the company clearly lacks cohesion between the performance of its departments, it is obvious that the introduction of efficient information distribution system will affect other spheres of the organization’s performance as well. To start with, the introduction of efficient knowledge management will lead to better integration of the efforts produced by the employees of different departments. Once the cooperation principles are introduced into the GTS Medical’s system, it will be possible to raise the companyâ €™s performance standards a few notches. However, by far, the most significant issue that the company is facing at present concerns the integration of the QuickBooks with the company’s inventory and its e-commerce strategy. As the recently acquired data shows, the company needs to integrate the existing software with the barcoding process and the e-commerce opportunities that the QuickBooks provides it with. The given process is going to be rather challenging, with the necessity to make changes to the GTS Medical’s software. With the efficient use of informational technologies, GTS Medical has higher chances of solving the problem concerning the integration of QuickBooks applications and barcodes into its process of interacting with customers.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Information Technology Through Systems specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Situational Analysis Areas of business b enefitting from technology On the one hand, the GTS Medical Company deals with the products that are rather detached from technology. However, being an online company, GTS Medical needs the information system that will help the company staff communicate with their customers in order to provide quality services and gather feedback. Therefore, the promotion process, as well as the sphere of inventory management, will benefit greatly from the introduction of QuickBooks applications into the company’s operation process. Though often overlooked, the process of communicating with the customer and gathering feedback from the people who have used the company’s service is extremely important for the company’s reputation and, hence, its revenues. In addition, the interface that will help the company’s clients search for the required products quickly, browse through the existing options and choose these products, as well as be able to remove the products from their baskets easy will make customers feel comfortable. As comfort is the key for customer satisfaction, it can be assumed that the choice of the QuickBooks application is an obvious must for GTS Medical at present. While the process of communication with the clientele is extremely important for the company’s success, at present, it is imperative that the customers were able to order and view the services that the company has to offer; the time for gathering the feedback will come a bit later. Therefore, the inventory management issues are the key reason for GTS Medical to reconsider its approach towards technology and make efficient use of the applications that are offered at a reasonable price, such as QuickBooks. This research paper on Information Technology Through Systems was written and submitted by user Dario Snow to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Part one drama essays

Part one drama essays For our performance of Still I Rise we wanted to use texts and performances we had seen and read in the past to help us make it better. A text we used from which to draw inspiration was The Crucible by Arthur Miller. Having studied The Crucible in depth, I feel that it is easy to see a resemblance between the two. As in The Crucible, some of our performance took place in a courtroom setting. In fact, our main themes were taken from The Crucible. For example with Still I Rise, we wanted to convey a sense of misplacement for Lauras character, who my character bullied into killing herself. This was to do with the outlawing of Mary Warren by the other girls in the courtroom scene and the way in which human nature tends to turn its back on outsiders. We also wanted to draw out the unfairness of the witch-hunts in The Crucible through our own performance and this is why we deliberately did not show a reason behind the cruel and unprovoked torture of Lauras character. We also wanted to give a feeling of Arthur Millers writing, in which he puts in small movements and accidental outbursts of speech for each of the characters that hide things from other people. For example, when in Act 2 John Proctor comes in from outside where it is taken that he has been with Abigail, he puts extra salt into the pot of food that Elizabeth has cooked for him then later tells her that it is well seasoned. However, being as it is a non-naturalistic piece, we did not want to put in too many humanlike actions so we decided to create characters to act as consciences. As my character is tormented with guilt, so does my conscience torment me by playing games and by pushing me around. Likewise, as Lauras character is consumed by self-pity and suicidal feelings, so therefore her conscience actively kills her and dies with her. Interestingly, this also relates to B ...

Dissertation Service

Dissertation Service Dissertation Service Dissertation Service Our time is running out, our time is running out These words by English musical band Muse are no more than a song, but for some students they are becoming a horrifying reality. Indeed, time goes by too fast, how is your dissertation progressing? If you are stuck with your dissertation, maybe it is high time to address a dissertation service. Do not worry, you are not alone in your trouble. Luckily, our experienced writers are ready to provide you with any kind of dissertation writing assistance. Why do people decide to contact a dissertation service? The reasons for this are many:Lack of time. With your busy schedule it is impossible to devote about 2 hours to writing your dissertation every day. Sometimes to be able to devote time to dissertation writing you have to sacrifice something. It is difficult to choose between your studies and part-time job, isnt it? Not enough sources. Your topic may turn out to be not well explored, and you might have failed to find the needed amount of material. Problems with your supervisor. Your supervisor rejects your work time after time and you do not understand why.This list may be even longer, as many students have troubles of their own. Many problems, one solution. When you choose to address our dissertation service for assistance, you may relax and forget about your anxiety, as the fate of your dissertation is in reliable hands. Each of our dissertation writers is an expert in a definite field of science. We have been working with our dissertation writers for some years on end, that is why we know you can rely on them. A qualified writer from our dissertation service will send you definite chapters of your dissertation on the interim deadlines, so you will be able to see the progress. In the process of dissertation writing you will contact your writer, you will always know on what part of your dissertation the writer is working at the moment. We guarantee that our dissertation expert wil l deliver your dissertation by the time specified by you. When you order a dissertation from our dissertation service, be sure that your dissertation will be free of plagiarism. This means that your university dissertation will be 100% unique and authentic. So, why keep worrying and losing your precious time? Order your dissertation now and you will forget about your problems.

Chemical andsedimentary processes in acidic salinelakes andtheir Research Paper

Chemical andsedimentary processes in acidic salinelakes andtheir significancefor Martiangeology - Research Paper Example Rover missions sent to Mars and consequent investigations of the evidence found from the planet, have revealed extensive geochemical evidence regarding the presence of standing bodies of water early in the history of Mars. Geochemical archives in lake sediments provide information that aligns with the geological features of Mars. Various acidic saline lakes in Australia, the United States and other countries are analogous with the rocks and soil qualities of planet Mars. The conditions of regional acid saline lakes will be discussed, and terrestrial hematite concretions will be compared with those found on earth. Amino acids are the key to terrestrial biochemistry, widely prevalent in terrestrial life, and easlily identified by means of advanced instruments and technology. For this reason, amino acids are ideal as a biomolecular class, to use for planetary exploration. How chemical biosignatures in amino acids can help to indicate life in Mars will be examined. Introduction â€Å"Un derstanding lake chemistry is critical for correctly interpreting the geochemical archives of lake deposits† (Cohen 69). The presence of elements and isotopes in lakes are closely associated with external climatic and watershed processes. The concentrations of solutes determine the distribution of organisms, and the precipitation or dissolution of mineral phases. Sedimentary archives develop from both fossils and minerals, and interpreting aspects of ancient water chemistry from these records may enable the reconstruction of paleoclimate or activity prior to the presence of human life around the lake. Similarly, the interpretation of isotopic records require a preliminary understanding of their behavior in lakes, and its relationship with external factors such as rainfall or nutrient discharge. Paleolimnology is the study of past conditions or processes of ancient lakes, and of the sediments and history of existing lakes It is recognized that lakes probably existed on Mars and on other planets of the solar system. This invites the next generation of paleolimnologists with tremendous opportunities â€Å"to apply terrestrially gained knowledge of how ‘small’ water bodies record their histories through their sedimentary records† (Cohen 398). Planetary geologists would require the paleolimnological literature to help them interpret these records. However, geologists should be proactive in suggesting the ways in which such deposits should be explored. They are also required to devise analog studies of lake histories from extreme terrestrial environments that replicate those of other planets like Mars. Research that specifically target lakes increase the signals of interest, providing the most highly resolved temporal records possible. Rapid advances in the accuracy of dating lake sediments is expected to play a critical role in advancing paleolimnology, permitting an increasing refinement in the interpretation of time series data and to us e those data to test quantitative model predictions. Cohen (p.398) asserts that the swiftly developing field of paleolimnology works towards making exciting discoveries. Thesis Statement: The purpose of this paper is to investigate chemical and sedimentary processes in acidic saline lakes and their significance for Martian geology. Evidence of the Presence of Water in the Early History of Mars â€Å"

Last Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Last - Essay Example argument that they had the same constitutional rights and standing as biological parents, ruling that the application of the â€Å"Existing Indian family exception† did not apply in the said case. The ruling on this case has two major implications. First, Brewer, according to the words of Barbara Atwood, notes that it scraps the ‘Existing Indian Family’ exception, one that has always been a cause of disagreement within the Californian Courts. Secondly, the ruling also discards the constitutional issues brought forward by the foster couple in favor of their argument. This ruling signals a predisposition of the nation towards rejecting Existing Indian Family exception. To answer the questions, in the event that the court rules against John E, he will still be obliged to provide child support to Baby A. According to the principles underlining guidelines formation, both parents should share the legal responsibility of their children, and John is no exception here. Secondly, the Child Support Recovery Act of 1992 and the Deadbeat Parents Punishment Act of 1998 can both be used to compel John towards providing support to the child. Furthermore, paternity tests did show that he is the father to the child, and thus he must take the full responsibility. However for the mother to Baby A, this far little has been heard about her, but in the event that she shows up, and given that she is a well-known drug addict, her fitness must be confirmed before she can be allowed near the child. If the tests prove her fit, the she should be allowed access to the baby, but not custody. The bonding the child has created with the caretakers is healthy enough at this point , and disrupting it by allowing the mother to have her might be detrimental to her wellbeing. In the case of Stanley v Illinois, the initial ruling had some inadequacies. The argument that the bond between a mother and a child is often stronger than that between a father and a child was sound; however, in the event

Effectiveness of self instructional module in immunizations

Effectiveness of self instructional module in immunizations Abstract Immunization is the one of the most important and cost effective strategies for the prevention of childhood sicknesses and disabilities and it is a basic need for all children. Seven killer diseases causes a major threat to children and this decreases the health status and making them more vulnerable to infectious disease. The major cause for death is vaccine preventable diseases such as neonatal tetanus, measles, TB, diphtheria, pertusis, polio and Hepatitis B. Infectious diseases are now the worlds biggest killer of children and young adults. They account for more than 13 million deaths a year one in two deaths in developing countries. The present study objective was â€Å"to evaluate the effectiveness of self instructional module.† The Pre- experimental one group pre test and post test design was adopted. The sample of 100 mothers of under-five children selected by convenient sampling technique. A structured knowledge questionnaire was adopted to collect the data from the samples. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used in data analysis. The result of study shown that there was significant difference in the mean post test score. The findings reveals that pre test and post test mean knowledge of mothers of under-five children regarding vaccine preventable diseases is 8.5(SD+3.95) and 16.33(SD+4.79) respectively. Post test mean knowledge score higher than pre test mean score. The‘t’ test value was 12.54 which was significant at 0.05 level. Hence it is concluded that the self instructional module was effective to increase the knowledge of mothers of under five children. This study recommends that similar study can be undertaken on large sample to generalize the findings. Study can be done to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of nurses regarding vaccine preventable diseases. Keywords: Self instructional module, knowledge, vaccine preventable diseases, mothers of under- five children. I. Introduction Children are fortunately being recognized as people in their own right with their special requirements. Quality survival of the human race depends on provision of adopt care to his vulnerable population in their formative and developmental life years. Therefore Health services for children should be aimed at improving the future quality of human resources of the nation by enabling as many children as possible to reach adulthood with their potential uncompromised by illness, environmental hazards, or unhealthy lifestyle. According to WHO â€Å"Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely absence of disease or infirmity In India diseases like guinea worm, small pox has been eradicated since 1947 and now poliomyelitis is near to eradicate. In developed countries like in India 68 out of 1000 under-five children were dying each year and another 5 million were disabled by infectious diseases. The vaccination of children against infectious diseases (tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertusis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles and hepatitis B) has been a cornerstone of the child health care system in India. As a part of the National Health Policy, the National Immunization Programme is has been implemented on a priority basis. Awareness building about immunization of children, who are under five years of age, provides a sense of responsibility towards the need of the children and their protection. The involvement of mothers in immunization programme help in reduces seven killer diseases. Those mothers who are living in tribal and rural areas mainly ignore the immunization and they do not vaccinate their children. Some mothers have misconception about immunization and they believe their children can catch diseases if they immunize their children. To prevent seven killer diseases it is necessary to screen every child for immunization, coverage opportunities; otherwise full immunization coverage may not be possible. Delayed immunization is associated with low socio-economic status, female illiteracy, lack of knowledge on Vaccine Preventable Diseases as recommended by Universal Programme Immunization (UPI). II. Review of literature A comparative study was conducted to estimate the vaccination coverage level of children aged between 19-35 months living in rural and urban area in Kolar District of Bangalore. The result of study revealed that Statistically significant differences in vaccination coverage levels between the rural population and their urban counterparts were determined for individual vaccines and vaccine series as evidenced by 28% of the children were covered by immunization residing in rural areas whereas 46% were covered in Urban area. The study recommended that health care personnel need to execute the awareness among the needy population of the Kolar District. A study was conducted upon improving status of underfive children through awareness and knowledge of mothers regarding vaccine preventable diseases through health education messages and compare them with those without intervention. An increase of 19 % to 22 % increase was seen in the utilization of vaccination. The mother’s knowledge increased in the follow up from 60 % to 76.5% and the immunization status increased significantly from 46.5% to 75 % after the intervention. The surveys show that the health education messages significantly increased the vaccination status of children of under five years. A study was conducted to assess the knowledge of caretakers of underfive children in a pulse polio immunization booth in the Delhi. A semi –open-ended questionnaire was used. Study results showed that Only 252 (37.0%) respondent correctly answered, 176 (25.8%) gave a wrong answer while the remaining 37.2% gave no answer. While 268 (39.3%) knew at least of four diseases covered by universal immunization programme, only 23.9% knew all four diseases. The researcher concluded that immunization status needs to be improved by educating mothers and caregivers regarding immunization. A quasi experimental study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of structured teaching programme (STP) among 50 mothers of underfive children in selected paediatric hospital, Pondicherry. A closed ended questionnaire was used to collect the data followed by intervention of STP. The study finding shows that the post-test knowledge score (22.73) was higher than the pre-test knowledge score (12.78). The study claimed that STP is effective to enhance mother’s mother knowledge regarding the importance of immunization. The study recommended that nursing personnel should continue in health teaching approach especially to the health problems which can be prevented. III. Purpose of the Study: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of self instructional module regarding vaccine preventable diseases among the mothers of under-five children; this is achieved by one group pre and post test knowledge score obtained by the subjects under the study. This study also obtaining answer to research hypothesis. IV. Methodology: A Pre- experimental research design with one group pre test and post test design, to measure the effectiveness of self instructional module. The study was conducted at selected areas in Tarn Taran. Subjects were selected by convenient sampling technique. Structured knowledge questionnaire was used to collect data. Part-I: Socio demographic variables. This part is consist of variables such as age, educational status of mothers, type of family, occupation, religion, family monthly income, no. of children and source of information. Part-II Structured knowledge Questionnaire: It consists 36 items of objective type questions related to knowledge on vaccine preventable diseases. Each item contains four alternative responses. The knowledge questions are chosen from seven common vaccine preventable diseases likely, Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Measles, Polio, Tetanus, Whooping cough and Hepatitis B. All the items were given equal score. Each correct answer was given a score of 1 and wrong answe rs a score of 0. Thus maximum score was 36 and minimum score was zero. The questionnaire was prepared in English and Punjabi languages. Reliability of an instrument is the degree of consistency with which it measures the attribute it is designed to measure. The reliability of the tool was assessed by collecting data from 10 mothers of under-five children from selected areas in Tarn Taran. The reliability of structured knowledge questionnaire was computed by Split half method i.e by calculating co-efficient correlation first and then by applying Spearman Brown prophecy formula. The reliability of structured knowledge questionnaire was 0.96 and thus found to be highly reliable. Ethical clearance had been obtained from ethical committee, prior permission for conducting the research was obtained from Municipal Corporation of District Tarn Taran and informed consent was taken from mothers of under-five children. The data was analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. V. Data Analysis Section A: Analysis of Socio -Demographic characteristics of the samples Table 1: Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Demographic Variables Table no.1 indicates the Majority of subjects 37% are in the age group of 21-25 years, about 25% were in the age group of 30 years. About 36% mothers were secondary educated, 24% were primary educated and minimum no. 20% were Graduate and another 20% respondents were of post-Graduate. Majority of subjects 30% were house wife, 26% were non-government employee, 24% were government and 20% mothers were self employee. About half of respondents were 47 % belong to Sikh religion, 32% were of Hindu, 14% mothers were Christian and 7% were belong to other religion. Majority of mothers 60% were belong to nuclear family and other 40% belong to joint family. 38% subjects were in the family income group of >15000. 26% were in the group of 10000-15000, 20 % were comes under the group of 5000-10000 and minimum number of subjects 16% belongs SECTION B: To assess the level of knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases among the mother of under five children before and after self instructional module administration. Table 2(a)Grading the knowledge of samples regarding vaccine preventable diseases in pre-test.N=100 The above table 2(a) shows that most of the of samples 76% had inadequate knowledge, 24% of samples had moderately adequate knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases and there was no adequate knowledge samples regarding vaccine preventable diseases. Table 2(B): Grading Of Knowledge Regarding Vaccine Preventable Diseases Among Mothers Of Under-Five Children In Post Test N = 100 Table 2(b) shows that most of the samples 67% had moderately adequate knowledge, 16% of samples had adequate knowledge and 17% of samples had inadequate knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases in post-test. SECTION C: Table 3: Mean and standard deviation of pre test and post test knowledge regarding vaccine preventable diseases among samples. Table 3 shows that mean score of pre test and post test of samples regarding vaccine preventable diseases is 8.55 (SD + 3.95) and 16.33 (SD + 4.79) respectively. Post test mean score was higher than the pre test mean scores the‘t’ test value is 12.54 which was significant at 0.05 level as (p>0.05). SECTION D: Association Between The Post Test Knowledge Sores And Selected Socio Demographic Variables TABLE-4: Analysis of Association between the post test knowledge sores and with selected socio demographic variables Table 4 shows that the association between post test knowledge score and socio- demographic variables such as education, occupation, no. of children and type of family of mothers of under-five children found significant as calculated values greater than table values at the level of (0.05). The association between knowledge score and the socio- demographic variables score of mothers, religion, family monthly income and source of information found non significant as the calculated value is less than the tabulated value at 0.05 level of significance. VI. Limitation and Research Needed The size of the sample was 100; hence it was difficult to make broad generalizations. No attempt was made to control extraneous variables. This study recommends the following further research. The study can be replicated on large samples for wider generalization Comparative study can be done on knowledge among urban and rural mothers regarding vaccine preventable diseases. Study can be done on the knowledge of health personnel regarding vaccine preventable diseases. A study can be done to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of nurses regarding vaccine preventable diseases. VII. Conclusion As good health is very important for each individual and knowledge regarding v

A Game of Thrones Chapter Thirty

Eddard I stood last vigil for him myself,† Ser Barristan Selmy said as they looked down at the body in the back of the cart. â€Å"He had no one else. A mother in the Vale, I am told.† In the pale dawn light, the young knight looked as though he were sleeping. He had not been handsome, but death had smoothed his rough-hewn features and the silent sisters had dressed him in his best velvet tunic, with a high collar to cover the ruin the lance had made of his throat. Eddard Stark looked at his face, and wondered if it had been for his sake that the boy had died. Slain by a Lannister bannerman before Ned could speak to him; could that be mere happenstance? He supposed he would never know. â€Å"Hugh was Jon Arryn's squire for four years,† Selmy went on. â€Å"The king knighted him before he rode north, in Jon's memory. The lad wanted it desperately, yet I fear he was not ready.† Ned had slept badly last night and he felt tired beyond his years. â€Å"None of us is ever ready,† he said. â€Å"For knighthood?† â€Å"For death.† Gently Ned covered the boy with his cloak, a bloodstained bit of blue bordered in crescent moons. When his mother asked why her son was dead, he reflected bitterly, they would tell her he had fought to honor the King's Hand, Eddard Stark. â€Å"This was needless. War should not be a game.† Ned turned to the woman beside the cart, shrouded in grey, face hidden but for her eyes. The silent sisters prepared men for the grave, and it was ill fortune to look on the face of death. â€Å"Send his armor home to the Vale. The mother will want to have it.† â€Å"It is worth a fair piece of silver,† Ser Barristan said. â€Å"The boy had it forged special for the tourney. Plain work, but good. I do not know if he had finished paying the smith.† â€Å"He paid yesterday, my lord, and he paid dearly,† Ned replied. And to the silent sister he said, â€Å"Send the mother the armor. I will deal with this smith.† She bowed her head. Afterward Ser Barristan walked with Ned to the king's pavilion. The camp was beginning to stir. Fat sausages sizzled and spit over firepits, spicing the air with the scents of garlic and pepper. Young squires hurried about on errands as their masters woke, yawning and stretching, to meet the day. A serving man with a goose under his arm bent his knee when he caught sight of them. â€Å"M'lords,† he muttered as the goose honked and pecked at his fingers. The shields displayed outside each tent heralded its occupant: the silver eagle of Seagard, Bryce Caron's field of nightingales, a cluster of grapes for the Redwynes, brindled boar, red ox, burning tree, white ram, triple spiral, purple unicorn, dancing maiden, blackadder, twin towers, horned owl, and last the pure white blazons of the Kingsguard, shining like the dawn. â€Å"The king means to fight in the melee today,† Ser Barristan said as they were passing Ser Meryn's shield, its paint sullied by a deep gash where Loras Tyrell's lance had scarred the wood as he drove him from his saddle. â€Å"Yes,† Ned said grimly. Jory had woken him last night to bring him that news. Small wonder he had slept so badly. Ser Barristan's look was troubled. â€Å"They say night's beauties fade at dawn, and the children of wine are oft disowned in the morning light.† â€Å"They say so,† Ned agreed, â€Å"but not of Robert.† Other men might reconsider words spoken in drunken bravado, but Robert Baratheon would remember and, remembering, would never back down. The king's pavilion was close by the water, and the morning mists off the river had wreathed it in wisps of grey. It was all of golden silk, the largest and grandest structure in the camp. Outside the entrance, Robert's warhammer was displayed beside an immense iron shield blazoned with the crowned stag of House Baratheon. Ned had hoped to discover the king still abed in a wine-soaked sleep, but luck was not with him. They found Robert drinking beer from a polished horn and roaring his displeasure at two young squires who were trying to buckle him into his armor. â€Å"Your Grace,† one was saying, almost in tears, â€Å"it's made too small, it won't go.† He fumbled, and the gorget he was trying to fit around Robert's thick neck tumbled to the ground. â€Å"Seven hells!† Robert swore. â€Å"Do I have to do it myself? Piss on the both of you. Pick it up. Don't just stand there gaping, Lancel, pick it up!† The lad jumped, and the king noticed his company. â€Å"Look at these oafs, Ned. My wife insisted I take these two to squire for me, and they're worse than useless. Can't even put a man's armor on him properly. Squires, they say. I say they're swineherds dressed up in silk.† Ned only needed a glance to understand the difficulty. â€Å"The boys are not at fault,† he told the king. â€Å"You're too fat for your armor, Robert.† Robert Baratheon took a long swallow of beer, tossed the empty horn onto his sleeping furs, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, and said darkly, â€Å"Fat? Fat, is it? Is that how you speak to your king?† He let go his laughter, sudden as a storm. â€Å"Ah, damn you, Ned, why are you always right?† The squires smiled nervously until the king turned on them. â€Å"You. Yes, both of you. You heard the Hand. The king is too fat for his armor. Go find Ser Aron Santagar. Tell him I need the breastplate stretcher. Now! What are you waiting for?† The boys tripped over each other in their haste to be quit of the tent. Robert managed to keep a stern face until they were gone. Then he dropped back into a chair, shaking with laughter. Ser Barristan Selmy chuckled with him. Even Eddard Stark managed a smile. Always, though, the graver thoughts crept in. He could not help taking note of the two squires: handsome boys, fair and well made. One was Sansa's age, with long golden curls; the other perhaps fifteen, sandy-haired, with a wisp of a mustache and the emerald-green eyes of the queen. â€Å"Ah, I wish I could be there to see Santagar's face,† Robert said. â€Å"I hope he'll have the wit to send them to someone else. We ought to keep them running all day!† â€Å"Those boys,† Ned asked him. â€Å"Lannisters?† Robert nodded, wiping tears from his eyes. â€Å"Cousins. Sons of Lord Tywin's brother. One of the dead ones. Or perhaps the live one, now that I come to think on it. I don't recall. My wife comes from a very large family, Ned.† A very ambitious family, Ned thought. He had nothing against the squires, but it troubled him to see Robert surrounded by the queen's kin, waking and sleeping. The Lannister appetite for offices and honors seemed to know no bounds. â€Å"The talk is you and the queen had angry words last night.† The mirth curdled on Robert's face. â€Å"The woman tried to forbid me to fight in the melee. She's sulking in the castle now, damn her. Your sister would never have shamed me like that.† â€Å"You never knew Lyanna as I did, Robert,† Ned told him. â€Å"You saw her beauty, but not the iron underneath. She would have told you that you have no business in the melee.† â€Å"You too?† The king frowned. â€Å"You are a sour man, Stark. Too long in the north, all the juices have frozen inside you. Well, mine are still running.† He slapped his chest to prove it. â€Å"You are the king,† Ned reminded him. â€Å"I sit on the damn iron seat when I must. Does that mean I don't have the same hungers as other men? A bit of wine now and again, a girl squealing in bed, the feel of a horse between my legs? Seven hells, Ned, I want to hit someone.† Ser Barristan Selmy spoke up. â€Å"Your Grace,† he said, â€Å"it is not seemly that the king should ride into the melee. It would not be a fair contest. Who would dare strike you?† Robert seemed honestly taken aback. â€Å"Why, all of them, damn it. If they can. And the last man left standing . . . â€Å" † . . . will be you,† Ned finished. He saw at once that Selmy had hit the mark. The dangers of the melee were only a savor to Robert, but this touched on his pride. â€Å"Ser Barristan is right. There's not a man in the Seven Kingdoms who would dare risk your displeasure by hurting you.† The king rose to his feet, his face flushed. â€Å"Are you telling me those prancing cravens will let me win?† â€Å"For a certainty,† Ned said, and Ser Barristan Selmy bowed his head in silent accord. For a moment Robert was so angry he could not speak. He strode across the tent, whirled, strode back, his face dark and angry. He snatched up his breastplate from the ground and threw it at Barristan Selmy in a wordless fury. Selmy dodged. â€Å"Get out,† the king said then, coldly. â€Å"Get out before I kill you.† Ser Barristan left quickly. Ned was about to follow when the king called out again. â€Å"Not you, Ned.† Ned turned back. Robert took up his horn again, filled it with beer from a barrel in the corner, and thrust it at Ned. â€Å"Drink,† he said brusquely. â€Å"I've no thirst—† â€Å"Drink. Your king commands it.† Ned took the horn and drank. The beer was black and thick, so strong it stung the eyes. Robert sat down again. â€Å"Damn you, Ned Stark. You and Jon Arryn, I loved you both. What have you done to me? You were the one should have been king, you or Jon.† â€Å"You had the better claim, Your Grace.† â€Å"I told you to drink, not to argue. You made me king, you could at least have the courtesy to listen when I talk, damn you. Look at me, Ned. Look at what kinging has done to me. Gods, too fat for my armor, how did it ever come to this?† â€Å"Robert . . . â€Å" â€Å"Drink and stay quiet, the king is talking. I swear to you, I was never so alive as when I was winning this throne, or so dead as now that I've won it. And Cersei . . . I have Jon Arryn to thank for her. I had no wish to marry after Lyanna was taken from me, but Jon said the realm needed an heir. Cersei Lannister would be a good match, he told me, she would bind Lord Tywin to me should Viserys Targaryen ever try to win back his father's throne.† The king shook his head. â€Å"I loved that old man, I swear it, but now I think he was a bigger fool than Moon Boy. Oh, Cersei is lovely to look at, truly, but cold . . . the way she guards her cunt, you'd think she had all the gold of Casterly Rock between her legs. Here, give me that beer if you won't drink it.† He took the horn, upended it, belched, wiped his mouth. â€Å"I am sorry for your girl, Ned. Truly. About the wolf, I mean. My son was lying, I'd stake my soul on it. My son . . . you love your children, don't y ou?† â€Å"With all my heart,† Ned said. â€Å"Let me tell you a secret, Ned. More than once, I have dreamed of giving up the crown. Take ship for the Free Cities with my horse and my hammer, spend my time warring and whoring, that's what I was made for. The sellsword king, how the singers would love me. You know what stops me? The thought of Joffrey on the throne, with Cersei standing behind him whispering in his ear. My son. How could I have made a son like that, Ned?† â€Å"He's only a boy,† Ned said awkwardly. He had small liking for Prince Joffrey, but he could hear the pain in Robert's voice. â€Å"Have you forgotten how wild you were at his age?† â€Å"It would not trouble me if the boy was wild, Ned. You don't know him as I do.† He sighed and shook his head. â€Å"Ah, perhaps you are right. Jon despaired of me often enough, yet I grew into a good king.† Robert looked at Ned and scowled at his silence. â€Å"You might speak up and agree now, you know.† â€Å"Your Grace . . . † Ned began, carefully. Robert slapped Ned on the back. â€Å"Ah, say that I'm a better king than Aerys and be done with it. You never could lie for love nor honor, Ned Stark. I'm still young, and now that you're here with me, things will be different. We'll make this a reign to sing of, and damn the Lannisters to seven hells. I smell bacon. Who do you think our champion will be today? Have you seen Mace Tyrell's boy? The Knight of Flowers, they call him. Now there's a son any man would be proud to own to. Last tourney, he dumped the Kingslayer on his golden rump, you ought to have seen the look on Cersei's face. I laughed till my sides hurt. Renly says he has this sister, a maid of fourteen, lovely as a dawn . . . â€Å" They broke their fast on black bread and boiled goose eggs and fish fried up with onions and bacon, at a trestle table by the river's edge. The king's melancholy melted away with the morning mist, and before long Robert was eating an orange and waxing fond about a morning at the Eyrie when they had been boys. † . . . had given Jon a barrel of oranges, remember? Only the things had gone rotten, so I flung mine across the table and hit Dacks right in the nose. You remember, Redfort's pock-faced squire? He tossed one back at me, and before Jon could so much as fart, there were oranges flying across the High Hall in every direction.† He laughed uproariously, and even Ned smiled, remembering. This was the boy he had grown up with, he thought; this was the Robert Baratheon he'd known and loved. If he could prove that the Lannisters were behind the attack on Bran, prove that they had murdered Jon Arryn, this man would listen. Then Cersei would fall, and the Kingslayer with her, and if Lord Tywin dared to rouse the west, Robert would smash him as he had smashed Rhaegar Targaryen on the Trident. He could see it all so clearly. That breakfast tasted better than anything Eddard Stark had eaten in a long time, and afterward his smiles came easier and more often, until it was time for the tournament to resume. Ned walked with the king to the jousting field. He had promised to watch the final tilts with Sansa; Septa Mordane was ill today, and his daughter was determined not to miss the end of the jousting. As he saw Robert to his place, he noted that Cersei Lannister had chosen not to appear; the place beside the king was empty. That too gave Ned cause to hope. He shouldered his way to where his daughter was seated and found her as the horns blew for the day's first joust. Sansa was so engrossed she scarcely seemed to notice his arrival. Sandor Clegane was the first rider to appear. He wore an olive- green cloak over his soot-grey armor. That, and his hound's-head helm, were his only concession to ornament. â€Å"A hundred golden dragons on the Kingslayer,† Littlefinger announced loudly as Jaime Lannister entered the lists, riding an elegant blood bay destrier. The horse wore a blanket of gilded ringmail, and Jaime glittered from head to heel. Even his lance was fashioned from the golden wood of the Summer Isles. â€Å"Done,† Lord Renly shouted back. â€Å"The Hound has a hungry look about him this morning.† â€Å"Even hungry dogs know better than to bite the hand that feeds them,† Littlefinger called dryly. Sandor Clegane dropped his visor with an audible clang and took up his position. Ser Jaime tossed a kiss to some woman in the commons, gently lowered his visor, and rode to the end of the lists. Both men couched their lances. Ned Stark would have loved nothing so well as to see them both lose, but Sansa was watching it all moist-eyed and eager. The hastily erected gallery trembled as the horses broke into a gallop. The Hound leaned forward as he rode, his lance rock steady, but Jaime shifted his seat deftly in the instant before impact. Clegane's point was turned harmlessly against the golden shield with the lion blazon, while his own hit square. Wood shattered, and the Hound reeled, fighting to keep his seat. Sansa gasped. A ragged cheer went up from the commons. â€Å"I wonder how I ought spend your money,† Littlefinger called down to Lord Renly. The Hound just managed to stay in his saddle. He jerked his mount around hard and rode back to the lists for the second pass. Jaime Lannister tossed down his broken lance and snatched up a fresh one, jesting with his squire. The Hound spurred forward at a hard gallop. Lannister rode to meet him. This time, when Jaime shifted his seat, Sandor Clegane shifted with him. Both lances exploded, and by the time the splinters had settled, a riderless blood bay was trotting off in search of grass while Ser Jaime Lannister rolled in the dirt, golden and dented. Sansa said, â€Å"I knew the Hound would win.† Littlefinger overheard. â€Å"If you know who's going to win the second match, speak up now before Lord Renly plucks me clean,† he called to her. Ned smiled. â€Å"A pity the Imp is not here with us,† Lord Renly said. â€Å"I should have won twice as much.† Jaime Lannister was back on his feet, but his ornate lion helmet had been twisted around and dented in his fall, and now he could not get it off. The commons were hooting and pointing, the lords and ladies were trying to stifle their chuckles, and failing, and over it all Ned could hear King Robert laughing, louder than anyone. Finally they had to lead the Lion of Lannister off to a blacksmith, blind and stumbling. By then Ser Gregor Clegane was in position at the head of the lists. He was huge, the biggest man that Eddard Stark had ever seen. Robert Baratheon and his brothers were all big men, as was the Hound, and back at Winterfell there was a simpleminded stableboy named Hodor who dwarfed them all, but the knight they called the Mountain That Rides would have towered over Hodor. He was well over seven feet tall, closer to eight, with massive shoulders and arms thick as the trunks of small trees. His destrier seemed a pony in between his armored legs, and the lance he carried looked as small as a broom handle. Unlike his brother, Ser Gregor did not live at court. He was a solitary man who seldom left his own lands, but for wars and tourneys. He had been with Lord Tywin when King's Landing fell, a new-made knight of seventeen years, even then distinguished by his size and his implacable ferocity. Some said it had been Gregor who'd dashed the skull of the infant prince Aegon Targaryen against a wall, and whispered that afterward he had raped the mother, the Dornish princess Elia, before putting her to the sword. These things were not said in Gregor's hearing. Ned Stark could not recall ever speaking to the man, though Gregor had ridden with them during Balon Greyjoy's rebellion, one knight among thousands. He watched him with disquiet. Ned seldom put much stock in gossip, but the things said of Ser Gregor were more than ominous. He was soon to be married for the third time, and one heard dark whisperings about the deaths of his first two wives. It was said that his keep was a grim place where servants disappeared unaccountably and even the dogs were afraid to enter the hall. And there had been a sister who had died young under queer circumstances, and the fire that had disfigured his brother, and the hunting accident that had killed their father. Gregor had inherited the keep, the gold, and the family estates. His younger brother Sandor had left the same day to take service with the Lannisters as a sworn sword, and it was said that he had never returned, not even to visit. When the Knight of Flowers made his entrance, a murmur ran through the crowd, and he heard Sansa's fervent whisper, â€Å"Oh, he's so beautiful.† Ser Loras Tyrell was slender as a reed, dressed in a suit of fabulous silver armor polished to a blinding sheen and filigreed with twining black vines and tiny blue forget-me-nots. The commons realized in the same instant as Ned that the blue of the flowers came from sapphires; a gasp went up from a thousand throats. Across the boy's shoulders his cloak hung heavy. It was woven of forget-me-nots, real ones, hundreds of fresh blooms sewn to a heavy woolen cape. His courser was as slim as her rider, a beautiful grey mare, built for speed. Ser Gregor's huge stallion trumpeted as he caught her scent. The boy from Highgarden did something with his legs, and his horse pranced sideways, nimble as a dancer. Sansa clutched at his arm. â€Å"Father, don't let Ser Gregor hurt him,† she said. Ned saw she was wearing the rose that Ser Loras had given her yesterday. Jory had told him about that as well. â€Å"These are tourney lances,† he told his daughter. â€Å"They make them to splinter on impact, so no one is hurt.† Yet he remembered the dead boy in the cart with his cloak of crescent moons, and the words were raw in his throat. Ser Gregor was having trouble controlling his horse. The stallion was screaming and pawing the ground, shaking his head. The Mountain kicked at the animal savagely with an armored boot. The horse reared and almost threw him. The Knight of Flowers saluted the king, rode to the far end of the list, and couched his lance, ready. Ser Gregor brought his animal to the line, fighting with the reins. And suddenly it began. The Mountain's stallion broke in a hard gallop, plunging forward wildly, while the mare charged as smooth as a flow of silk. Ser Gregor wrenched his shield into position, juggled with his lance, and all the while fought to hold his unruly mount on a straight line, and suddenly Loras Tyrell was on him, placing the point of his lance just there, and in an eye blink the Mountain was failing. He was so huge that he took his horse down with him in a tangle of steel and flesh. Ned heard applause, cheers, whistles, shocked gasps, excited muttering, and over it all the rasping, raucous laughter of the Hound. The Knight of Flowers reined up at the end of the lists. His lance was not even broken. His sapphires winked in the sun as he raised his visor, smiling. The commons went mad for him. In the middle of the field, Ser Gregor Clegane disentangled himself and came boiling to his feet. He wrenched off his helm and slammed it down onto the ground. His face was dark with fury and his hair fell down into his eyes. â€Å"My sword,† he shouted to his squire, and the boy ran it out to him. By then his stallion was back on its feet as well. Gregor Clegane killed the horse with a single blow of such ferocity that it half severed the animal's neck. Cheers turned to shrieks in a heartbeat. The stallion went to its knees, screaming as it died. By then Gregor was striding down the lists toward Ser Loras Tyrell, his bloody sword clutched in his fist. â€Å"Stop him!† Ned shouted, but his words were lost in the roar. Everyone else was yelling as well, and Sansa was crying. It all happened so fast. The Knight of Flowers was shouting for his own sword as Ser Gregor knocked his squire aside and made a grab for the reins of his horse. The mare scented blood and reared. Loras Tyrell kept his seat, but barely. Ser Gregor swung his sword, a savage two-handed blow that took the boy in the chest and knocked him from the saddle. The courser dashed away in panic as Ser Loras lay stunned in the dirt. But as Gregor lifted his sword for the killing blow, a rasping voice warned, â€Å"Leave him be,† and a steel-clad hand wrenched him away from the boy. The Mountain pivoted in wordless fury, swinging his longsword in a killing arc with all his massive strength behind it, but the Hound caught the blow and turned it, and for what seemed an eternity the two brothers stood hammering at each other as a dazed Loras Tyrell was helped to safety. Thrice Ned saw Ser Gregor aim savage blows at the hound's-head helmet, yet not once did Sandor send a cut at his brother's unprotected face. It was the king's voice that put an end to it . . . the king's voice and twenty swords. Jon Arryn had told them that a commander needs a good battlefield voice, and Robert had proved the truth of that on the Trident. He used that voice now. â€Å"STOP THIS MADNESS,† he boomed, â€Å"IN THE NAME OF YOUR KING!† The Hound went to one knee. Ser Gregor's blow cut air, and at last he came to his senses. He dropped his sword and glared at Robert, surrounded by his Kingsguard and a dozen other knights and guardsmen. Wordlessly, he turned and strode off, shoving past Barristan Selmy. â€Å"Let him go,† Robert said, and as quickly as that, it was over. â€Å"Is the Hound the champion now?† Sansa asked Ned. â€Å"No,† he told her. â€Å"There will be one final joust, between the Hound and the Knight of Flowers.† But Sansa had the right of it after all. A few moments later Ser Loras Tyrell walked back onto the field in a simple linen doublet and said to Sandor Clegane, â€Å"I owe you my life. The day is yours, ser.† â€Å"I am no ser,† the Hound replied, but he took the victory, and the champion's purse, and, for perhaps the first time in his life, the love of the commons. They cheered him as he left the lists to return to his pavilion. As Ned walked with Sansa to the archery field, Littlefinger and Lord Renly and some of the others fell in with them. â€Å"Tyrell had to know the mare was in heat,† Littlefinger was saying. â€Å"I swear the boy planned the whole thing. Gregor has always favored huge, ill-tempered stallions with more spirit than sense.† The notion seemed to amuse him. It did not amuse Ser Barristan Selmy. â€Å"There is small honor in tricks,† the old man said stiffly. â€Å"Small honor and twenty thousand golds.† Lord Renly smiled. That afternoon a boy named Anguy, an unheralded commoner from the Dornish Marches, won the archery competition, outshooting Ser Balon Swann and Jalabhar Xho at a hundred paces after all the other bowmen had been eliminated at the shorter distances. Ned sent Alyn to seek him out and offer him a position with the Hand's guard, but the boy was flush with wine and victory and riches undreamed of, and he refused. The melee went on for three hours. Near forty men took part, freeriders and hedge knights and new-made squires in search of a reputation. They fought with blunted weapons in a chaos of mud and blood, small troops fighting together and then turning on each other as alliances formed and fractured, until only one man was left standing. The victor was the red priest, Thoros of Myr, a madman who shaved his head and fought with a flaming sword. He had won melees before; the fire sword frightened the mounts of the other riders, and nothing frightened Thoros. The final tally was three broken limbs, a shattered collarbone, a dozen smashed fingers, two horses that had to be put down, and more cuts, sprains, and bruises than anyone cared to count. Ned was desperately pleased that Robert had not taken part. That night at the feast, Eddard Stark was more hopeful than he had been in a great while. Robert was in high good humor, the Lannisters were nowhere to be seen, and even his daughters were behaving. Jory brought Arya down to join them, and Sansa spoke to her sister pleasantly. â€Å"The tournament was magnificent,† she sighed. â€Å"You should have come. How was your dancing?† â€Å"I'm sore all over,† Arya reported happily, proudly displaying a huge purple bruise on her leg. â€Å"You must be a terrible dancer,† Sansa said doubtfully. Later, while Sansa was off listening to a troupe of singers perform the complex round of interwoven ballads called the â€Å"Dance of the Dragons,† Ned inspected the bruise himself. â€Å"I hope Forel is not being too hard on you,† he said. Arya stood on one leg. She was getting much better at that of late. â€Å"Syrio says that every hurt is a lesson, and every lesson makes you better.† Ned frowned. The man Syrio Forel had come with an excellent reputation, and his flamboyant Braavosi style was well suited to Arya's slender blade, yet still . . . a few days ago, she had been wandering around with a swatch of black silk tied over her eyes. Syrio was teaching her to see with her ears and her nose and her skin, she told him. Before that, he had her doing spins and back flips. â€Å"Arya, are you certain you want to persist in this?† She nodded. â€Å"Tomorrow we're going to catch cats.† â€Å"Cats.† Ned sighed. â€Å"Perhaps it was a mistake to hire this Braavosi. If you like, I will ask Jory to take over your lessons. Or I might have a quiet word with Ser Barristan. He was the finest sword in the Seven Kingdoms in his youth.† â€Å"I don't want them,† Arya said. â€Å"I want Syrio.† Ned ran his fingers through his hair. Any decent master-at-arms could give Arya the rudiments of slash-and-parry without this nonsense of blindfolds, cartwheels, and hopping about on one leg, but he knew his youngest daughter well enough to know there was no arguing with that stubborn jut of jaw. â€Å"As you wish,† he said. Surely she would grow tired of this soon. â€Å"Try to be careful.† â€Å"I will,† she promised solemnly as she hopped smoothly from her right leg to her left. Much later, after he had taken the girls back through the city and seen them both safe in bed, Sansa with her dreams and Arya with her bruises, Ned ascended to his own chambers atop the Tower of the Hand. The day had been warm and the room was close and stuffy. Ned went to the window and unfastened the heavy shutters to let in the cool night air. Across the Great Yard, he noticed the flickering glow of candlelight from Littlefinger's windows. The hour was well past midnight. Down by the river, the revels were only now beginning to dwindle and die. He took out the dagger and studied it. Littlefinger's blade, won by Tyrion Lannister in a tourney wager, sent to slay Bran in his sleep. Why? Why would the dwarf want Bran dead? Why would anyone want Bran dead? The dagger, Bran's fall, all of it was linked somehow to the murder of Jon Arryn, he could feel it in his gut, but the truth of Jon's death remained as clouded to him as when he had started. Lord Stannis had not returned to King's Landing for the tourney. Lysa Arryn held her silence behind the high walls of the Eyrie. The squire was dead, and Jory was still searching the whorehouses. What did he have but Robert's bastard? That the armorer's sullen apprentice was the king's son, Ned had no doubt. The Baratheon look was stamped on his face, in his jaw, his eyes, that black hair. Renly was too young to have fathered a boy of that age, Stannis too cold and proud in his honor. Gendry had to be Robert's. Yet knowing all that, what had he learned? The king had other baseborn children scattered throughout the Seven Kingdoms. He had openly acknowledged one of his bastards, a boy of Bran's age whose mother was highborn. The lad was being fostered by Lord Renly's castellan at Storm's End. Ned remembered Robert's first child as well, a daughter born in the Vale when Robert was scarcely more than a boy himself. A sweet little girl; the young lord of Storm's End had doted on her. He used to make daily visits to play with the babe, long after he had lost interest in the mother. Ned was often dragged along for company, whether he willed it or not. The girl would be seventeen or eighteen now, he realized; older than Robert had been when he fathered her. A strange thought. Cersei could not have been pleased by her lord husband's by-blows, yet in the end it mattered little whether the king had one bastard or a hundred. Law and custom gave the baseborn few rights. Gendry, the girl in the Vale, the boy at Storm's End, none of them could threaten Robert's trueborn children . . . His musings were ended by a soft rap on his door. â€Å"A man to see you, my lord,† Harwin called. â€Å"He will not give his name.† â€Å"Send him in,† Ned said, wondering. The visitor was a stout man in cracked, mud-caked boots and a heavy brown robe of the coarsest roughspun, his features hidden by a cowl, his hands drawn up into voluminous sleeves. â€Å"Who are you?† Ned asked. â€Å"A friend,† the cowled man said in a strange, low voice. â€Å"We must speak alone, Lord Stark.† Curiosity was stronger than caution. â€Å"Harwin, leave us,† he commanded. Not until they were alone behind closed doors did his visitor draw back his cowl. â€Å"Lord Varys?† Ned said in astonishment. â€Å"Lord Stark,† Varys said politely, seating himself. â€Å"I wonder if I might trouble you for a drink?† Ned filled two cups with summerwine and handed one to Varys. â€Å"I might have passed within a foot of you and never recognized you,† he said, incredulous. He had never seen the eunuch dress in anything but silk and velvet and the richest damasks, and this man smelled of sweat instead of lilacs. â€Å"That was my dearest hope,† Varys said. â€Å"It would not do if certain people learned that we had spoken in private. The queen watches you closely. This wine is very choice. Thank you.† â€Å"How did you get past my other guards?† Ned asked. Porther and Cayn had been posted outside the tower, and Alyn on the stairs. â€Å"The Red Keep has ways known only to ghosts and spiders.† Varys smiled apologetically. â€Å"I will not keep you long, my lord. There are things you must know. You are the King's Hand, and the king is a fool.† The eunuch's cloying tones were gone; now his voice was thin and sharp as a whip. â€Å"Your friend, I know, yet a fool nonetheless . . . and doomed, unless you save him. Today was a near thing. They had hoped to kill him during the melee.† For a moment Ned was speechless with shock. â€Å"Who?† Varys sipped his wine. â€Å"If I truly need to tell you that, you are a bigger fool than Robert and I am on the wrong side.† â€Å"The Lannisters,† Ned said. â€Å"The queen . . . no, I will not believe that, not even of Cersei. She asked him not to fight!† â€Å"She forbade him to fight, in front of his brother, his knights, and half the court. Tell me truly, do you know any surer way to force King Robert into the melee? I ask you.† Ned had a sick feeling in his gut. The eunuch had hit upon a truth; tell Robert Baratheon he could not, should not, or must not do a thing, and it was as good as done. â€Å"Even if he'd fought, who would have dared to strike the king?† Varys shrugged. â€Å"There were forty riders in the melee. The Lannisters have many friends. Amidst all that chaos, with horses screaming and bones breaking and Thoros of Myr waving that absurd firesword of his, who could name it murder if some chance blow felled His Grace?† He went to the flagon and refilled his cup. â€Å"After the deed was done, the slayer would be beside himself with grief. I can almost hear him weeping. So sad. Yet no doubt the gracious and compassionate widow would take pity, lift the poor unfortunate to his feet, and bless him with a gentle kiss of forgiveness. Good King Joffrey would have no choice but to pardon him.† The eunuch stroked his cheek. â€Å"Or perhaps Cersei would let Ser Ilyn strike off his head. Less risk for the Lannisters that way, though quite an unpleasant surprise for their little friend.† Ned felt his anger rise. â€Å"You knew of this plot, and yet you did nothing.† â€Å"I command whisperers, not warriors.† â€Å"You might have come to me earlier.† â€Å"Oh, yes, I confess it. And you would have rushed straight to the king, yes? And when Robert heard of his peril, what would he have done? I wonder.† Ned considered that. â€Å"He would have damned them all, and fought anyway, to show he did not fear them.† Varys spread his hands. â€Å"I will make another confession, Lord Eddard. I was curious to see what you would do. Why not come to me? you ask, and I must answer, Why, because I did not trust you, my lord.† â€Å"You did not trust me?† Ned was frankly astonished. â€Å"The Red Keep shelters two sorts of people, Lord Eddard,† Varys said. â€Å"Those who are loyal to the realm, and those who are loyal only to themselves. Until this morning, I could not say which you might be . . . so I waited to see . . . and now I know, for a certainty.† He smiled a plump tight little smile, and for a moment his private face and public mask were one. â€Å"I begin to comprehend why the queen fears you so much. Oh, yes I do.† â€Å"You are the one she ought to fear,† Ned said. â€Å"No. I am what I am. The king makes use of me, but it shames him. A most puissant warrior is our Robert, and such a manly man has little love for sneaks and spies and eunuchs. If a day should come when Cersei whispers, ‘Kill that man,' Ilyn Payne will snick my head off in a twinkling, and who will mourn poor Varys then? North or south, they sing no songs for spiders.† He reached out and touched Ned with a soft hand. â€Å"But you, Lord Stark . . . I think . . . no, I know . . . he would not kill you, not even for his queen, and there may lie our salvation.† It was all too much. For a moment Eddard Stark wanted nothing so much as to return to Winterfell, to the clean simplicity of the north, where the enemies were winter and the wildlings beyond the Wall. â€Å"Surely Robert has other loyal friends,† he protested. â€Å"His brothers, his—† â€Å"—wife?† Varys finished, with a smile that cut. â€Å"His brothers hate the Lannisters, true enough, but hating the queen and loving the king are not quite the same thing, are they? Ser Barristan loves his honor, Grand Maester Pycelle loves his office, and Littlefinger loves Littlefinger.† â€Å"The Kingsguard—† â€Å"A paper shield,† the eunuch said. â€Å"Try not to look so shocked, Lord Stark. Jaime Lannister is himself a Sworn Brother of the White Swords, and we all know what his oath is worth. The days when men like Ryam Redwyne and Prince Aemon the Dragonknight wore the white cloak are gone to dust and song. Of these seven, only Ser Barristan Selmy is made of the true steel, and Selmy is old. Ser Boros and Ser Meryn are the queen's creatures to the bone, and I have deep suspicions of the others. No, my lord, when the swords come out in earnest, you will be the only true friend Robert Baratheon will have.† â€Å"Robert must be told,† Ned said. â€Å"If what you say is true, if even a part of it is true, the king must hear it for himself.† â€Å"And what proof shall we lay before him? My words against theirs? My little birds against the queen and the Kingslayer, against his brothers and his council, against the Wardens of East and West, against all the might of Casterly Rock? Pray, send for Ser Ilyn directly, it will save us all some time. I know where that road ends.† â€Å"Yet if what you say is true, they will only bide their time and make another attempt.† â€Å"Indeed they will,† said Varys, â€Å"and sooner rather than later, I do fear. You are making them most anxious, Lord Eddard. But my little birds will be listening, and together we may be able to forestall them, you and I.† He rose and pulled up his cowl so his face was hidden once more. â€Å"Thank you for the wine. We will speak again. When you see me next at council, be certain to treat me with your accustomed contempt. You should not find it difficult.† He was at the door when Ned called, â€Å"Varys.† The eunuch turned back. â€Å"How did Jon Arryn die?† â€Å"I wondered when you would get around to that.† â€Å"Tell me.† â€Å"The tears of Lys, they call it. A rare and costly thing, clear and sweet as water, and it leaves no trace. I begged Lord Arryn to use a taster, in this very room I begged him, but he would not hear of it. Only one who was less than a man would even think of such a thing, he told me.† Ned had to know the rest. â€Å"Who gave him the poison?† â€Å"Some dear sweet friend who often shared meat and mead with him, no doubt. Oh, but which one? There were many such. Lord Arryn was a kindly, trusting man.† The eunuch sighed. â€Å"There was one boy. All he was, he owed Jon Arryn, but when the widow fled to the Eyrie with her household, he stayed in King's Landing and prospered. It always gladdens my heart to see the young rise in the world.† The whip was in his voice again, every word a stroke. â€Å"He must have cut a gallant figure in the tourney, him in his bright new armor, with those crescent moons on his cloak. A pity he died so untimely, before you could talk to him . . . â€Å" Ned felt half-poisoned himself. â€Å"The squire,† he said. â€Å"Ser Hugh.† Wheels within wheels within wheels. Ned's head was pounding. â€Å"Why? Why now? Jon Arryn had been Hand for fourteen years. What was he doing that they had to kill him?† â€Å"Asking questions,† Varys said, slipping out the door.