The Unique Path of Joffrey: Marrying Margaery with a Twist

Introduction

When King Joffrey Baratheon coveted Sansa Stark and created a strategic marriage engagement, little did anyone anticipate the twist that would ensue. However, a hypothetical scenario suggests a chilling turn of events: If Joffrey had killed Sansa as a traitor's daughter and chosen Margaery for marital ties, how might the plot of A Song of Ice and Fire and A Game of Thrones differ?

Impact of Joffrey's Decision to Marry Margaery

Joffrey's engagement to Sansa was a complex arrangement, but it never transpired into a formal marriage. His union with Margaery Tyrell after the Tyrells' military support marked a significant strategic move. King Joffrey accepted Margaery as his wife, effectively aligning the Lannisters with the Tyrells, a powerful alliance.

Margaery's charm quickly permeated Joffrey, leading to a shift in the young king's control. Despite Cersei's initial apprehensions, Joffrey continued to maintain his alliance with the Tyrells, solidifying their bond and ensuring loyalty.

Following Joffrey's Death

However, Joffrey's death dealt a severe blow to the Lannisters' dominion. The queen's subsequent poisoning and the death of Littlefinger further complicated matters. Asked hypothetically how Sansa and Margaery would fare, the answer veers towards a very different narrative without Joffrey's callous execution of Sansa and his subsequent marriage.

Herein lies the question: What if Joffrey had killed Sansa and married Margaery? This hypothetical scenario opens up a myriad of potential outcomes, each altering the course of the game in Westeros.

Key Players and Their Interactions

1. Sansa Stark: As the daughter of the North, Sansa is a critical player in the grand narrative of Westeros. Her survival and potential to produce heirs is vital, making her the key to the North. Her death would significantly impact the Lannisters' hold over the North, as stated in the original text: 'Sansa makes a baby and there’s a good chance that baby gets control of the North.' Robb Stark, having disinherited Sansa in anticipation, would further cement her importance as a potential heir.

2. Jamie Lannister: Should Sansa be killed, the Lannisters would lose a significant lever of control over her. Jaime's fate intertwines with hers, and his death would be a direct response to her disappearance. His guard would switch from protecting Sansa to retaliation, further destabilizing the kingdom.

3. The Tyrells and Margaery: The Tyrells' alliance would crumble if they found out Joffrey killed Sansa. Sansa's death could lead to Margaery's abandonment as a bride, causing the Tyrells to reconsider their commitment. The Lannister-Tyrell alliance would waver, as the Tyrells might align with Robb to protect their interests and reclaim their betrothal ties.

Evaluating the Consequences

1. **Marauding Kingdoms and the Northern Cause**: The death of Sansa would allow Robb Stark to rally further support from the North. The Northern cause would gain greater traction, as the Stark loyalists push for stronger ties and more support against the Lannisters.

2. **Cersei and Littlefinger's Struggles**: With Sansa gone, Cersei and Littlefinger would face significant challenges. Cersei's need to secure Sansa's location would diminish, as would Littlefinger's strategic leverage over her. The death of Sansa could lead to a shift in alliances, potentially causing more factions to distance themselves from the Lannisters.

3. **Joffrey's Reputation and His Reign**: Joffrey's act of regicide would tarnish his reputation further and earn him enemies from across Westeros. His kinslaying would be condemned by all, making it harder for him to maintain his rule. The betrayal would be viewed as a grave offense against Gods and men, prompting a harsh reaction.

4. **Margaery's Engagement and Betrothal Status**: Margaery's engagement to Joffrey would be seen as a cursed alliance, instilling fear in the Tyrells. They would be wary of risking Margaery to Joffrey, leading to strategic shifts in political alliances. The betrothal's importance in Westeros would make it even more essential for the Kingsguard to protect Margaery, eliminating any potential threats.

Conclusion

While the hypothetical scenario of Joffrey killing Sansa and then marrying Margaery seems grim, it highlights the complexities of the political landscape in Westeros. Sansa Stark's survival and potential to produce heirs make her an invaluable asset, regardless of the outcome of her fate. The decisions made regarding her could profoundly impact the future of Westeros, reshaping its politics and power dynamics.