As long as you’re thinking about the political maneuvering of 298, what do you think the ratio of “Carrot to Stick” of Robert’s procession North was? He definitely put a friendly face on the whole thing (visiting his best friend during a time of grief, offering a powerful office). On the other, he needed to keep the Starks in pocket after a key ally died, and you’ve frequently mentioned how visiting a vassal was a good way to “kill with kindness”. Was he worried about Ned stirring up trouble?