King Robb's Dilemma: Fate of Tommen and Myrcella in a Victorious Westeros

Introduction

In the ever-changing landscape of Westeros, the fates of monarchs, nobles, and their heirs often hinge critically on the whims of political alliances and the flow of battle. If King Robb Stark had emerged victorious in his quest for the Iron Throne, how would he have dealt with Tommen and Myrcella Baratheon, the young Crown Princes and Princesses? This article explores the myriad decisions and considerations that might have shaped Robb's actions.

Hostage or Ward Status

Given the propensity for nobles to use their heirs as hostages, it's plausible that Robb would have declared Tommen and Myrcella as 'Tommen Waters' and 'Myrcella Waters,' symbolism that their legitimacy as heirs to the throne was both ambiguous and potentially contested. This could involve either sending them to Oldtown as Maesters and Septors, where they would be trained in the ways of Westerosi society and potentially neutralized as a future threat, or to the Wall upon reaching a certain age, ensuring they would serve as wardens and perhaps important council members in the North.

Morality and Mercy

Robb Stark, known for his sense of justice and his father's complex morality, would likely have shown mercy to Tommen and Myrcella. His understanding of their innocent status and potential political utility suggests he would not have chosen to execute them. Additionally, since Margery Tyrell was not yet married to Tommen, and thus not bound by any current Lannister-Tyrell alliance, Robb might have used this opportunity to strengthen his ties with House Tyrell or even consider marrying Margery himself.

Political Alliances and Marriage Strategies

Considering the current political landscape, Robb would need to navigate complex alliances. If Tywin Lannister, Cersei, and Jaime had all perished (or if Tywin had simply supported Robb), the Lannisters would be in tatters. This situation would open up vast opportunities for political maneuvering. Marriages could play a critical role in these strategies:

Margaery Tyrell: If Robb won, he could annul the marriage of Margaery Tyrell to Tommen (assuming it was not consummated), which would serve to sever the Tyrell-Lannister alliance. Alternatively, he might marry Margaery himself, thereby securing an important supporter in the Reach. Sansa Stark: Whether Sansa escaped to the Vale and remained safe or married Roslinn Frey, Jeyne Westerling, or Talisa Maeker, she would still be a valuable ally. Marrying her to a Tyrell or another powerful house would further strengthen Robb's position.

Securing the Throne and Beyond

With the Lannisters weakened and the Tyrells potentially in line for Tommen's hand, Robb could assert his claim to the Iron Throne. The key would be managing the remaining Lannister threat through Kevan Lannister, who, as the last Baratheon ally, could be coerced into recognizing Robb's kingship.

The Fate of Tommen and Myrcella

The ultimate fate of Tommen and Myrcella would depend significantly on the terms of his victory. If Robb could gain support from Stannis Baratheon and maintain the Iron Throne, the two could be sent to Oldtown to become Maesters or to the Wall to become Septors. Alternatively, if Robb decides to allow Stannis to claim the throne, he could give them to Stannis under the guise of a religious upbringing, ensuring that they would not produce any heirs who could challenge Robb's rule from the North. This would be an effective way to neutralize the Baratheon threat.

Ultimately, Robb Stark's actions towards Tommen and Myrcella would be a reflection of the complex political environment of Westeros, where alliances, marriages, and power struggles play pivotal roles in determining the course of history.