Alternate Realities: What If Tywin Lannister Fought for Aerys During Robert's Rebellion?

In the complex world of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the Game of Thrones universe, various minor alterations can have profound impacts on the grand narrative. One such scenario is the hypothetical question of what would have happened if Tywin Lannister had chosen to fight for Aerys II Targaryen during Robert's Rebellion.

1. Impact on Military Strength

Tywin was renowned as a brilliant military strategist and an excellent commander. If he had supported Aerys, his strategic acumen and leadership would have bolstered the king's forces significantly.

Key Battles: The Lannisters' involvement could have shifted the balance in key battles, particularly at the outset of the rebellion. Their wealth and power would have provided crucial resources and troops, strengthening the Targaryens' positions. Outcomes: The presence of Tywin's forces would have made the opposing forces, such as the Starks and Baratheons, much more challenging to overcome. This could have altered the course of battles and the overall outcome of the rebellion.

2. Political Alliances and Fragmentation

Tywin's allegiance to Aerys would have strained or severed his relationships with other houses that supported Robert. This political fragmentation could have allowed Aerys to consolidate power more effectively.

Strained Relationships: The Starks and Baratheons, among other powerful houses, would have been less likely to join the Lannisters or to stay neutral. This would have weakened the opposition and allowed the crown to maintain a tighter grip on power. Power Dynamics: With less support from the other major houses, Robert's rebellion might have faltered, leading to different political landscapes in Westeros.

3. The Fate of Key Characters

The rebellion's outcome would have been significantly different if Tywin had been present. Some key events, such as the fall of Storm's End and the siege of King's Landing, might have played out differently or not at all.

Defense of King's Landing: Tywin could have helped Aerys defend the capital more effectively, potentially preventing the eventual downfall of the Targaryen dynasty and the events leading to the arrival of Daenerys Targaryen. Character Arcs: Jaime Lannister's decision to kill Aerys, for instance, might have been influenced by Tywin's presence. The storylines involving these key characters could have shifted dramatically if Tywin had not joined the Targaryens.

4. Aftermath and Long-Term Consequences

Successful quelling of the rebellion by Tywin and Aerys would have dramatically shifted the political landscape of Westeros. The Targaryens might have retained power, with the Lannisters solidifying their position as the most powerful house, albeit in service to a weakened monarchy.

New Dynamics: The Targaryens could have taken a different path, perhaps leading to a different set of struggles and alliances. Tywin might have positioned himself as a "kingmaker", influencing events from behind the scenes rather than being an adversary. Historical Alteration: Such an alliance could have altered the course of Westerosi history, with potential long-term consequences on the political, economic, and social structures of the realm.

Overall, Tywin Lannister's involvement with Aerys during Robert's Rebellion would have drastically changed the power dynamics, military outcomes, and character arcs within the story. It would have possibly prolonged Targaryen rule and shaped the political landscape of Westeros for generations to come.