The real issue lies in the North beyond the Wall. Stannis becomes one of the few characters fully to understand that, which is why in spite of everything he is a righteous man.

All these kings would do a deal better if they would put down their swords and listen to their mothers.

I'm sorry that I never trusted you. I don't know how to do that anymore.

Do the dead frighten you?

One of your northmen hit me with a morningstar during the battle on the Green Fork. I escaped him by falling off my horse. (Tyrion)

Ned was clad in a white linen doublet with the direwolf of Stark on the breast; his black wool cloak was fastened at the collar by his silver hand of office. Black and white and grey, all the shades of truth.

Why do the Gods make kings and queens if not to protect the ones who can't protect themselves?