How Would Westeros Change if Robert Baratheon Was Killed by a Boar Just Before Myrcella's Birth?

In the intricate world of A Song of Ice and Fire, the death of a character can dramatically alter the course of events. What if Robert Baratheon, the King in the North, was killed by a boar just a few months before Myrcella Baratheon's birth? How would Westeros be reshaped by such a turn of events?

Political Repercussions

The death of Robert Baratheon would have profound political implications. Joffrey would ascend the throne, although as a boy, with his mother, Cersei Lannister, acting as his Regent. King Septon

Regent Cersei would would wield even more power, as any whispers about Cersei's duplicity regarding R

Without Robert, concerns over Cersei's legitimacy would be raised. This could jeopardize their position at court. Thus, Tommen, Robert's heir, would be eliminated, ensuring Joffrey's place as the sole heir.

The Rise and Fall of Old Jon

Old Maester Catelyn "Old Jon" Stark would be banished by Cersei, who is always power-hungry. Stannis and Renly Baratheon would likely follow suit, driven to secure their own positions. The fate of Littlefinger remains uncertain, as his power would largely depend on the presence of Old Jon. If Old Jon were gone, Littlefinger might lose his influence. On the other hand, Pycelle would remain close to power, possibly with Tywin’s support. Though Barry stands uncertainly, Tywin may keep him around to counteract Cersei’s influence, alongside Varys.

The New Council

The positions of the Small Council would shift dramatically:

King: Joffrey I Baratheon Regent: Queen Cersei Lannister, until Tywin sends her back to the Rock or marries her for political gain Hand of the King: Lord Tywin Lannister Grand Maester: Pycelle Lord Commander of the Kingsguard: Ser Barristan Selmy Master of Whisperers: Varys Master of Coin: Unknown, possibly a Highower, Tyrell, or rich bannermen of Tywin Master of Ships: Lord Redwyne Master of Law: Kevan Lannister Commander of the City Watch: Ser Addam Marbrand

The Lannister Dominance

In this scenario, the Lannisters would hold the most power in Westeros. The court would be dominated by Lannisters and Tywin's chosen men. Joffrey would be educated harshly by the Old Lion (Tywin), turning him into a formidable Lannister king. Myrcella, raised at court, would be betrothed to the heirs of High Lords, most likely Robb Stark, to bind their houses and pacify the North. Joffrey could eventually marry Margaery Tyrell or Arianne Martell to strengthen his reign.

Marriage Alliances

Cersei might marry either Willas Tyrell or Oberyn Martell, both with significant political connections. Alternatively, Tywin could arrange Selyse to die, allowing Stannis to marry Ser Gregor Clegane. Tywin, with his immense power, would strive to release Jaime from his vows, making him the heir to the Rock. Potential heiresses could include Talla Tarly or Desmera Redwyne.

Stannis and Renly's Fate

Stannis and Renly would likely be suspicious of Robert's alleged children, but the golden children of Cersei are harder to accuse of high treason. Renly might still rebel, but without full Tyrell support, he and Loras could do little to challenge Joffrey's reign. Renly would remain Lord of Storm's End until his death, after which either Stannis or Joffrey's firstborn son could inherit the position.

Given the complex political landscape of Westeros, this hypothetical death of Robert Baratheon would set in motion a series of events that could drastically alter the future of the Seven Kingdoms. The balance of power would shift, and new alliances and hostilities would emerge from the shadows of the past.