A Hypothetical Marriage Between Robb Stark and Margaery Tyrell: Impacts on Westeros

Imagine a scenario where Robb Stark, the King in the North, and Margaery Tyrell, the impoverished Lady of Highgarden, enter into a union. This hypothetical scenario poses an interesting question: how would such a marriage have affected the political landscape of Westeros? Below, we explore various possibilities based on the provided narrative and analyze the potential impacts on key figures and factions.

Potential Origins of the Alliance

The hypothetical marriage between Robb Stark and Margaery Tyrell comes into play after Renly Baratheon's death. With the Tyrells recognizing the Lannisters as potential betrayers, they decide to back a more reliable political figure. Robb Stark, known for his honor and the lands he controls, appears to be the perfect candidate. The Tyrells choose to reach out to Robb, unwilling to risk rejecting a formidable army of 80,000 and the substantial wealth and lands of the Reach. Once Robb agrees to the union, he begins to crush the Lannisters and reclaim the North from the Ironborn, while Stannis Baratheon meets his demise before the marriage takes place.

Initial Impact on Westeros

The marriage signals a significant shift in alliances. Robb Stark, with the support of the Reach, the North, and the Ironborn, gains a formidable advantage. His forces now number well over 100,000, making him a formidable opponent for anyone challenging his claim to the Iron Throne. Additionally, the Lannister threat diminishes as Robb continues to grow stronger. By the time Robb meets Jon Snow, who informs him of Renly's death, Robb has consolidated his power and is prepared to take on any challenge.

Family Dynamics and Future of the North

Robb, now the King of the North, decides to man the Wall and let the Wildlings through, defying the Wall's purpose. Despite this decision, he ultimately resides in the North with Margaery, allowing Jon Snow to take the Iron Throne. However, it's worth noting that the death of Robb leaves the future of his rule uncertain. If he were to produce a son, he could secure his succession and strengthen the North's position in the broader scheme of Westeros.

Alternatives and Opposing Factions

While the marriage potentially offers Robb and Margaery a powerful alliance, other factions are not likely to stand still. Stannis Baratheon, upon learning about Renly's death, likely plans to duplicate his shadowbaby strategy by attempting to usurp the brother of his rival. However, the Tyrells do not fall in line, leading to Stannis's eventual defeat by the Lannisters and seige of Dragonstone. This scenario sets the stage for further strife and alliances.

Outcomes and Final Stand

After Robb's triumphant reign, Bran Stark emerges as a key figure, with armies marching south to confront Tywin Lannister, the new Lannister leader. The Tyrell army of 80,000 begins to encroach on Tywin’s defenses, leading to a decisive battle. The Tyrells, with their vast support, have a choice: take Joffrey's head, leaving Tommen alone, or name Mace Tyrell as the king in the South.

In the end, Dany Targaryen's invasion creates an even more complex power dynamic. Despite the potential for conflict, Robb’s alliance with Margaery and their control over the army of the dead could potentially give them an upper hand. However, the war they face would be intense, as they face a united and powerful Westeros under Mace Tyrell's rule. The outcome would likely depend on the skillful negotiation and strategic alliances of both sides.

Conclusion

The hypothetical marriage between Robb Stark and Margaery Tyrell represents a significant shift in the power dynamics of Westeros. While it offers an alliance that could unite large swaths of land and armies, it also sets the stage for further political maneuvering and battle. The series of events following such a marriage would alter the course of Westeros, potentially leading to new alliances and a different path for the looming battles to come.