Following Roberts death, Stannis was sent word by Ned Stark as to the illegitimacy of his children, including the newly-crowned King Joffrey. With this knowledge, Stannis declares his claim for the Iron Throne. This leads to Renly also declaring his own claim, as he believes he would be a better leader than Stannis, and Robb Stark and Balon Greyjoy both crown themselves as well. All of this becomes the War of the Five Kings, one of the biggest and most important parts of the show so far. Stannis is defeated on the Blackwater, but far from easily. Despite having most of his ships destroyed by wildfire, he still makes it to Kings Landing - leading from the front all the way - and his army are close to winning the fight before Lord Tywin and the Tyrells turn up.