The Impact of Rhaegar Targaryen Killing Robert Baratheon with Jaime Lannister Already Dispatching the Mad King
The Impact of Rhaegar Targaryen Killing Robert Baratheon with Jaime Lannister Already Dispatching the Mad King
Imagine a different narrative in Westeros where Rhaegar Targaryen dispatches Robert Baratheon, and Jaime Lannister dispatched Aerys II the Mad King. This twist would dramatically alter the political landscape, public sentiments, and the destiny of individual characters and houses. Here's how it might play out:
Survival of House Targaryen
With Rhaegar Targaryen alive and in control, the Targaryen claim on the Iron Throne becomes stronger. Rhaegar's presence would allow him to solidify his rule over the realm and might lead to a restoration of the Targaryen dynasty. He could potentially gain the support of key houses, such as the Starks and Lannisters, by offering stability and a return to Targaryen governance.
The Fate of the Rebel Forces
The death of Robert Baratheon would likely demoralize the remaining rebel forces. Numerous lords who supported the Robert Baratheon Rebellion might reconsider their allegiances, especially if they see the Targaryens as a more stable or favorable alternative. The chaos of the rebellion could give way to a more organized and unified opposition.
The Role of the Lannisters
Jaime Lannister's act of killing the Mad King remains a pivotal moment but would shift under Rhaegar's rule. Jaime might find himself in a more favorable position, especially if he is seen as a hero for ending Aerys' reign of terror. This could potentially solidify his place in Lannister history and his relationship with Rhaegar, enhancing his standing in the favor of the Targaryens.
Political Alliances
The political landscape would shift dramatically. Houses that supported Robert, like House Baratheon and House Stark, would be in a precarious position. Some may choose to bend the knee to Rhaegar, while others might continue to resist, leading to further conflict. This could also lead to a realignment of alliances, with old rivals befriending each other in the face of a common Targaryen threat.
Daenerys and Viserys
For Daenerys and Viserys, the fates would be different. They might grow up in a more stable environment, and Daenerys' journey could be profoundly altered. She might avoid the hardships she faced on her journey to reclaim the Iron Throne, potentially leading to a more peaceful and prosperous future for her and her seat of Dragonstone.
Potential for War
Despite Rhaegar's victory over Robert, tensions would still be high. There would likely be factions within Westeros that oppose Targaryen rule, leading to potential conflicts between loyalists and rebels. These conflicts could create a new chapter of warfare in Westeros, with different actors and motivations than the initial rebellion.
Different Outcomes for Key Characters
Characters such as Eddard Stark, who would have been closely involved in Robert's Rebellion, would have different arcs. His loyalties might shift, and his fate could be very different. This could lead to a different outcome for the North, potentially allowing for a more united and stable region under Targaryen rule.
In summary, if Rhaegar Targaryen killed Robert Baratheon while Jaime Lannister had already killed the Mad King, it would lead to a complex web of political intrigue and shifting alliances. This scenario would ultimately reshape the history of Westeros significantly, affecting the survival of House Targaryen, the fate of the rebel forces, the role of the Lannisters, political alliances, and the outcomes for key characters like Daenerys and Viserys.