I really think Lord Stark has lost his head.
The lack of tactical awareness from the man is just staggering. He tells The Queen that he knows the secret then gives her enough time to kill the King, round up all the Stark swords and seize the throne.
He's becoming a bit of a pathetic figure, to be honest. Not sure how much sympathy one can have for someone so inept.
Those of us that have read the book know whats coming.
Those that haven't read the book can guess whats coming.
Unfortunately, as loveable a character as Sean Bean plays, he isn't that smart. He has good intentions, and wants to find a peaceful solution to things and avoid violence. But this isn't daytime kids TV.
The lannisters are ruthless killers, hell bent on getting whatever they want, at whatever cost.
If Eddard had played it wisely, he would have fled Kings Landing with proof that Joffrey was not his child, taken the kings will and returned to Winterfell leaving the lannisters thinking he knew nothing and was returning home having done his duty to Robert. Once home he could have raised his bannermen, joined forces with Baratheons and their supporters and all marched together towards kings landing to take the throne.
But then the book wouldn't be as interesting if Ned was clever
