What if Robb Accepted Cersei’s Terms and Bent the Knee to Joffrey?

Imagine a vastly different narrative in the narrative of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, where Robert Stark accepted Cersei Lannister’s terms and pledged allegiance to Joffrey Baratheon. Such a decision would have profoundly altered the political dynamics and fates of the House Starks and the realm of Westeros.

Immediate Peace

By bending the knee, Robb Stark would have successfully concluded the hostilities between the North and the Lannisters. This immediate peace would have allowed the North to transition from the chaos of the War of the Five Kings to a period of relative stability. The North could have begun the process of rebuilding, healing wounds, and restoring order to a region ravaged by years of war.

Legitimization of Joffrey’s Rule

Robb’s acceptance of Joffrey’s authority would have reinforced the young king’s claim to the Iron Throne. Cersei Lannister’s influence on Joffrey would have increased, making him appear more legitimate and the Lannisters more powerful. This could have persuaded other houses to reconsider their loyalty, thus aligning with the Lannisters and diminishing support for the Starks. The legitimization of Joffrey’s rule might have also spread to the wider populace, further solidifying his position on the Iron Throne.

Impact on the North

The North would have faced intense internal conflict. Many noble houses and their supporters loyal to House Stark and their ideals of independence would have strongly opposed Robb’s decision to bend the knee. This could have led to possible rebellions or a splintering of loyalty. The North would have to contend with internal divisions and a fractured leadership, making it vulnerable to future threats from both the Lannisters and other house factions.

Catelyn’s Influence

Catelyn Stark’s earlier actions, including her release of Tyrion Lannister, might have been viewed very differently. If Robb had chosen to bend the knee, Catelyn could have been seen as undermining the Stark cause, leading to significant tension between her and her son. Her decision to release Tyrion would have been interpreted as a betrayal, and she might have faced criticism and condemnation from those who supported the Starks.

Tyrion’s Role

With Robb supporting Joffrey, Tyrion Lannister, who had been working to enact reforms and manage the realm more reasonably, might have had a greater opportunity to introduce beneficial changes for both the North and the Crown. These reforms could have helped to ease tensions and lay the groundwork for a more cohesive and stable realm. Tyrion’s influence on the monarchy might have allowed for some degree of reconciliation between the North and the Lannisters, potentially breaking down longstanding enmities and paving the way for a more united Westeros.

Future Conflicts

While immediate peace might have seemed like a clear and favorable outcome, it is important to consider the long-term implications. The Lannisters, known for their lack of trust and willingness to use others as pawns, might have used Robb’s capitulation as a strategic move. Future betrayals and conflicts could have arisen, with Robb being continually exploited or betrayed by the very king he had pledged loyalty to. The decision to bend the knee would have set the stage for future political maneuverings and betrayals, making it a complex and potentially disastrous choice.

Robb Stark’s reputation as a noble leader would have faced significant tarnishment. Many supporters of the Starks, especially those who had admired his initial stance against the Lannisters, would have seen his decision as a betrayal of trust. His legacy would have been forever marred, and the Stark family’s standing in Westeros would have declined. The House Starks would have struggled to regain the trust and support of the people and other houses, making it extremely difficult for them to rise to prominence once more.

Conclusion

While the immediate peace and legitimization of Joffrey’s rule might have signaled the end of war, such a decision would likely have brought about long-term complications and resentment. The intricate web of alliances and enmities in Westeros means that such a choice would have had far-reaching and often unintended consequences. The North would have faced intense internal conflict, Catelyn Stark would have faced significant tension with her son, and Robb’s once noble reputation would have been tarnished. In the end, the decision to bend the knee might have set the stage for future conflicts, making it a choice that ultimately led to more harm than good.