Welcome to an in-depth exploration of what would have happened if Cersei Lannister had ordered Grand Maester Pycelle to the Wall to join the Night's Watch.

Introduction to the Scenario

The possibility of such a transfer is an intriguing one, considering the fate of other characters in the series. Our analysis will explore the potential consequences of this action, including the impact on key characters, the Night's Watch, and the broader War of the Five Kings.

Pycelle’s Unsuitability for the Wall

It is highly likely that Pycelle, due to his age and frailty, would not be able to endure the harsh conditions and rigorous duties of life at the Wall. As noted, his loyalty and survival skills are questionable. In the event that he managed to make it to Castle Black, his only real use might be as an assistant to Maester Aemon or a potential replacement for him, given the latter's old age and cowardice.

Impact on Jon Snow and Maester Aemon

Jon Snow, presumed loyal to House Lannister, would likely encounter significant opposition from Pycelle. Any return by Pycelle to Winterfell would mean a renewed effort to eliminate him due to his Stark lineage. With Maester Aemon in poor health, Pycelle's presence would only exacerbate tensions, leading to potential dangers for Jon Snow and others deemed enemies of House Lannister. Moreover, Pycelle's attempts to seek favor within the Night's Watch could lead to a change in leadership, such as Slynt becoming Lord Commander, further destabilizing the organization.

Geopolitical Implications within the Wall and Among Major Factions

Given Pycelle's advanced age and frail health, his role at the Wall would be severely limited. The Night's Watch comprises only three fully effective maesters, each with their own challenges:Shadow Tower - Maester Mullin is sober but incompetent.Castle Black - Maester Aemon is both sober and competent but too old to perform other duties effectively.Eastwatch - Maester Harmune is drunk but competent.

Upon Pycelle’s arrival in A Storm of Swords, he would attempt to curry favor with factions such as Janos Slynt and Alliser Thorne, potentially leading to a landslide election for Jon Snow as the new Lord Commander. However, this new addition to the Watch could create significant divisions, especially among Night's Watch members who are wary of Lannister influences. The political implications are not merely contained to the Wall, as other dominions such as the Hightowers and King's Landing would also be influenced by such a decision by Cersei Lannister.

The Brothel of Moles Town and the Fate of Pycelle

In addition to political and military implications, the night's entertainment at Moles Town brothels could offer some respite to Pycelle. His knowledge of crafting 'moon tea' (a euphemism for a drink used to aid in prostitution) would likely ensure his popularity among the women there. However, such a life would be short-lived, given his inability to withstand the cold temperatures of the Wall.

With his lack of strength and resilience, Pycelle's life at the Wall would be fraught with difficulties, making him a likely candidate for an untimely demise. The harsh climate and environmental factors would pose a significant challenge to his survival, given his frailty and age.

Conclusion

The decision by Cersei Lannister to send Grand Maester Pycelle to the Wall to join the Night's Watch would have far-reaching consequences. It would not only endanger the Night's Watch but also exacerbate tensions within House Stark and the broader political landscape of the Seven Kingdoms. Pycelle's presence would be a political and personal liability, leading to potential conflicts and an uncertain future for the Watch. The intricate balance of power among the major houses and characters would be significantly affected, further complicating the ongoing War of the Five Kings.