What if Jaime Lannister Killed Arya Stark? Unfolding Consequences in *A Song of Ice and Fire*

In the complex world of A Song of Ice and Fire, the actions of even a single character can have profound and far-reaching consequences. If Jaime Lannister had killed Arya Stark on Cersei's orders after she hit Joffrey Baratheon, the repercussions would have been significant and multifaceted. This essay explores the potential outcomes if Jaime had committed this deed, delving into the political fallout, the impact on the Stark children, the effects on Jaime's reputation, Cersei's manipulation, Arya's vengeance, and the broader implications for the prophecy.

Political Fallout

The immediate and intense backlash from House Stark and their allies would have been far-reaching. As a Stark, Arya's death would have intensified the already simmering tensions between the Lannisters and the Starks. This conflict could have pushed the North and the Lannisters towards a confrontation that might have quickened the onset of a full-scale war. The Starks, knowing the value of their lineage and the strategic importance of their territory, would have rallied their forces and allies to challenge the Lannister hold on the throne. The death of a Stark child under Lannister influence would have further entrenched the Starks' vow to regain Winterfell and their rightful place as rulers of the North.

Impact on the Stark Children

Arya's death would have had a profound impact on the Stark children, especially Sansa, who was already vulnerable and navigating the treacherous political landscape of King's Landing. Her position as a hostage and her perceived role in betraying the Starks to secure Robert's succession to the Iron Throne would have been further destabilized by Arya's death. Sansa's commitment to the Stark cause might have been rekindled, leading her to flee King's Landing or to secretly plot her return to Winterfell. On the other hand, Sansa might have closed the deal with the Lannisters, leveraging her weakened position to secure her place in the South under any circumstances. Regardless of her actions, Arya's death would have shaken the very foundations of Sansa's fragile alliance with the Lannisters.

Jaime's Reputation

Killing a young girl, especially one from a prominent house, would have further tarnished Jaime's already tarnished reputation. As a member of a noble house, Jaime's actions would have been scrutinized by his peers, and the public. The notion of a Lannister putting down a direct threat to the Lannister cause through an act of violence against a Stark would have been viewed as a betrayal of the sense of honor that many in the Seven Kingdoms held dear. Jaime's reputation as a formidable soldier and a master of combat would be increasingly negated by his perceived lack of honor. This act would have made him even more reviled by those who already distrusted him for pushing Bran Stark from the tower, adding to the stigma of his character and further isolating him from the political favor and support he once commanded.

Cersei's Manipulation

Cersei's manipulation of Jaime would have been solidified, but at the cost of a deepening rift between them. Her command to kill Arya was a test of Jaime's loyalty, and his adherence to her orders would have reinforced his allegiance. However, if Jaime were unable to reconcile his actions with his own code of honor, it could have led to internal conflict and resentment towards Cersei. This would have further complicated the already fragile dynamics between them, potentially driving Jaime to reconsider his allegiance and the future of their partnership. The Lannisters' ability to navigate the treacherous waters of Westeros politics would have been severely affected by these internal disputes.

Arya's Vengeance

Arya is known for her strong desire for vengeance. If Jaime had killed her, it would have fueled her quest for retaliation against not only him but the entire Lannister family. This act would have galvanized Arya's character, turning her from a mischievous and street-smart child into a more ruthless and determined woman bent on exacting her revenge. Her revenge might have taken many forms, ranging from nuanced and strategically planned actions to direct and calculated attacks. The impact of her vengeance could have extended beyond just the Lannisters, influencing the broader narrative and political landscape of A Song of Ice and Fire.

The Prophecy

Arya's death could have unintended consequences regarding the larger narrative and prophecies surrounding the characters. Many of the prophecies and omens in the series are tied to specific characters and their fates. Arya's role in the events that unfold later in the series is crucial, and her death would have altered the course of significant plot points. Her disappearance and subsequent return drastically change the story's direction, leading to new configurations of power and alliances. The prophecy of Eddard Stark and Arya's role in the eventual defeat of the White Walkers and conquest of the Others would have been significantly impacted. The narrative's broader arc might have taken a different path, potentially altering the way the Seven Kingdoms are unified and the final outcomes of the series.

Overall Impact

The killing of Arya Stark by Jaime Lannister, as ordered by Cersei, would have escalated the existing conflicts in Westeros. It would have deepened the animosity between the Starks and Lannisters, leading to further political maneuvering and vengeance. The Lannisters would have faced a profound challenge in maintaining their hold on power, while the Starks would have gained a powerful driver for their cause. The Stark children, particularly Sansa, would have been forced to navigate a new and more dangerous political landscape. Jaime's actions would have tarnished his reputation and potentially lead to a rift with Cersei. Arya's quest for vengeance would have reshaped her character and influenced the broader narrative. The overall impact would have been a significant shift in the power dynamics and the trajectory of the Westerosi story.