A World Without the Starks: Altering the Course of Robert's Rebellion

The Game of Thrones universe is ripe with possibilities for alternate histories. Imagine a world where every Stark dies during Robert's Rebellion. What would Robert's Rebellion look like without Ned Stark, Benjen Stark, and Robb Stark?

The Fall of the Starks and Aftermath

Suppose Ned Stark falls on the Trident and dies, killed by Barristan Selmy. Benjen Stark succumbs to sickness, and Robb Stark is stillborn. This scenario significantly reduces the Starks' influence in Westeros. Ned Stark's death would be a devastating blow to the rebellion, but it's not enough to ensure Targaryen victory. Jaime Lannister might have already told his father, Tywin Lannister, or Robert Baratheon about the true intentions of Aerys Targaryen, potentially influencing the outcome of the battle.

The North's line of succession would likely pass to a junior branch of the Royces or Waynwoods, as Catelyn Stark mentions in the books. This would create internal strife within the North and potentially destabilize the region. Thus, Robert Baratheon might give the North to Rickard Karstark as the nearest suitable choice, akin to granting the Vale to the Arryns of Gulltown when Harry Hardyng was closer in blood ties to the Starks. With Catelyn Stark's marriage, she would either remarry Jaime Lannister or to another minor bannerman of House Tully, perhaps even Stannis Baratheon. This union could bring a new stability to the region, particularly with Stannis, a more distant but valid claimant to the Iron Throne. Stannis and Catelyn could form a strong partnership in the northern regions.

Control and Governance

The North might remain largely independent, much like the Vale under the Arryns. After Ned Stark's death, Robert Baratheon may be forced to choose either Renly Baratheon or Tywin Lannister as his Hand. If Robert chooses Tywin Lannister, Bran Stark's discovery of Jaime and Cersei would be prevented, thus removing an immediate source of tension that could spark another war. Tywin Lannister would be ruthless in maintaining the legitimacy of his family, especially if questioned during Robert's reign. If Robert dies, Stannis Baratheon might rebel, but Renly Baratheon, with fewer allies, would be unlikely to do so. The Arryns, Royces, and Martells would likely remain out of the conflict.

In terms of manpower, with the North withdrawn and the Arryns aligned, Tywin Lannister would have a numerical advantage over Renly Baratheon, who would struggle to match his forces. If Stannis Baratheon challenges Renly, the more prepared Tywin Lannister would defeat him in a large battle outside the capital. Dragonstone would be sieged for a year, but the North, with more than enough men, would easily deal with Mance Rayder and the wildlings. Lord Commander Alliser Thorne's warnings about the White Walkers would also be heeded.

The Long Game

Assuming Jaime Lannister is released from the Kingsguard, he and Catelyn Stark could form a stable and powerful alliance in the north. However, if Jaime is incarcerated, Catelyn might marry a minor Tully bannerman or even Stannis Baratheon. This marriage would secure the north for the Baratheons, providing a strong foundation for future conflicts.

The Rise of Prince Aegon

With Ned Stark dead, the Kingsguard would have to send his son, Jon Snow, over the Narrow Sea. However, Robert's longevity would lead to continuous assassination attempts on both Daenerys Targaryen and her dragons. Barristan Selmy, who would never leave the Kingsguard, would ensure the Targaryens remain vulnerable. Over time, these attempts would result in Daenerys' death, leaving "Prince Aegon the Sixth" as the last hope for his dynasty. He would control the dragon eggs and pose a significant threat to King Joffrey Baratheon's reign.

Should Aegon eventually invade with an army and dragons, his success would largely depend on the state of the Seven Kingdoms. Tywin Lannister's family has not seen war in over a decade, making them well-prepared. Prince Aegon, lacking the discipline and foresight of Jon Snow, would be more hotheaded, brash, and entitled. Dany, if not dead, would also be different, having known from the moment Viserys died that she was not the true heir to the Seven Kingdoms.

Concluding Thoughts

This alternate scenario presents a complex and intriguing exploration of the Game of Thrones world, challenging the established narrative and introducing new layers of conflict and intrigue. The absence of the Starks would significantly alter the power dynamics, leading to a series of unexpected events and historical outcomes.