A New Realm: What If Joffrey and Tommen Were Never Born?
Imagine a realm very different from what we see in George R.R. Martin's epic series, A Song of Ice and Fire. In this alternate universe, Joffrey and Tommen Baratheon are never born, and Robert Baratheon's relationship and reign are dramatically altered. Let's explore this fascinating scenario and its potential consequences.
The Impact on Robert Baratheon
Without Joffrey and Tommen, Robert Baratheon faces a different fate. Cersei Lannister, after enduring multiple rapes from Robert, states that without her children, she would have killed herself. This dramatic shift in her demeanor and actions sets a new stage for Robert's reign. He must now find a new wife, and the striking resemblance of Lynesse Hightower to her sister makes her a logical choice. This choice could significantly impact the realm, as Robert would start producing trueborn children with Lynesse, possibly numerous heirs. This abundance of trueborn children might lead to a more stable succession and a peaceful kingdom, rather than the violence and civil wars that plagued the realm in the original storyline.
The Political Dynamics
Robert's political landscape becomes more complex. His harder reign and the potential for civil war are immediate concerns. However, his new family and strengthened royal lineage could provide a counterbalance to this instability. Financial advisor Varys (Littlefinger) might see less incentive to remove Jon Arryn, preventing the War of the Five Kings as we know it. In this new scenario, Robert's bank, Mace or Leyton Hightower, could manage the growing debt to the Iron Bank, ensuring the realm retains financial stability.
The Rise of Lyndsey Hightower
Lyndsey Hightower's new role as Robert's wife gives her a powerful position. Upon Robert's death, her trueborn sons and daughters will inherit, ensuring a smooth and stable succession. Edric Baratheon, Robert's firstborn, would be a tall, strong, and formidable warrior, embodying the Baratheon heritage. This alliance between Robert and Lyndsey would likely lead to strong alliances with the Stark family, setting Edric up to marry Sansa Stark and Lyndsey's eldest daughter, Lyanna, to marry Loras Tyrell. These marriages could strengthen the realm and solidify the Baratheon claim to the Iron Throne.
The Dance of Stags: A New War
With Robert's death, Edric and Sansa would ascend to the throne, representing a new era of peace and stability. This new regime, particularly with the Starks' support, could prevent a challenge from Renly or Stannis. If Robert only had daughters, Lyanna might be the primary candidate for the throne, and the Tyrells would be more inclined to support her. However, Renly might oppose Stannis, setting the stage for the 'Dance of Stags,' a conflict between the Tyrells and Stannis.
The Final Battle and Beyond
The final battle of the 'Dance of Stags' takes place on the Blackwater Rush, where Stannis' forces are decisively defeated. Lyanna Baratheon emerges as a powerful and charismatic leader, with Loras Tyrell by her side. Their coronation as King and Queen of the realm fills the air with the scent of fresh victory, but the true threat looms on the horizon. The displacing force of the dead, which threatens the living realm, becomes the next major challenge for Lyanna and her kingdom.
In this alternate universe, the realm is redefined by new alliances, stronger leadership, and a more stable succession. The 'Dance of Stags' symbolizes a new chapter in the realm's history, one that values peace, stability, and the strength of trueborn heirs.