Would Cersei’s Decision to Choose Ser Loras as Champion Impact the Game of Thrones Saga?

In the intricate world of Game of Thrones, the outcome of decisions can drastically alter the narrative. What if Cersei Lannister had chosen Ser Loras Tyrell, a seemingly perfect match for Jaime Lannister, as her champion against the notorious Tyrion Lannister? This hypothetical scenario introduces a myriad of potential consequences, particularly concerning the fate of Tyrion and the dynamics of power in Westeros.

The Immediate Consequences: Tyrion's Freedom

Contrary to popular belief, choosing Loras as champion significantly reduces Tyrion's chances of imprisonment. Oberyn Martell, known for his unmatched skill in combat, would easily outshine the already charismatic Loras Tyrell. Thus, Tyrion's sentence would be immediately lifted, and he would be exiled from King's Landing, a common fate for those considered too dangerous to remain in power.

Long-Term Prognoses: Tyrion's and Tywin's Fates

Even though Tyrion would be exiled, the decisions of King's Landing might still go awry. While it is unlikely that Tyrion would remain in power, there is a slight chance that Cersei might still try to arrest Oberyn for the poisoning of Tywin, believing that he is a threat to the Lannister dynasty. However, given her current state, she might be too focused on her rage to arrest him, considering his noble origin as a Prince of Dorne.

On the other hand, Tywin Lannister's demise remains a certainty. The poisoning incident would certainly seal his fate, as Oberyn would likely choose the most opportune moment to strike, possibly during Tywin's toilet break, leaving him for Dead Man's Cross.

The Mountain's Current Condition

The situation with The Mountain continues to remain volatile. His whereabouts are unknown, and his continued rampage across Westeros would likely create even more chaos. It remains uncertain whether he has been dispatched to a distant sanctuary or is still causing havoc, but his presence looms large over thereste of the realm.

The Aftermath: Cersei's Responses and the Impact on Future Events

Cersei's decision to choose Loras would lead to a series of unpredictable outcomes. If Oberyn was arrested, the alliance with Dorne would be severely jeopardized, leading to more isolation for the Lannisters. However, if he were not arrested, the alliance would be maintained, fostering a power balance that Cersei desperately needs.

The loss of Ser Balon Swan is a direct consequence of Oberyn's continued involvement. His death would prevent the need for Myrcella to be safeguarded, but it would also lead to a void in the Kingsguard. In contrast, Loras's physical injury would lead to a temporary break in his duties but would not affect his role in the small council or his continued participation in the Kingsguard once fully healed.

The Reach and the Trial by Combat

The decision to choose Loras as champion would also have implications for the Reach. The trial by combat would likely end with Oberyn injuring, rather than killing, Loras, thus sparing the latter any serious harm. This outcome would appease the Martells and maintain the balance of power in the region. Mace Tyrell may be upset but would need to ease his anger to preserve the alliance.

The current precarious state of Westeros makes such a hypothetical decision unlikely. The Mountain, still at large, adds another layer of danger, and the war-drunk Varys, despite his antics, provides a delicate balance that maintains the status quo. Ultimately, the survival of Tyrion and the preservation of alliances remain the critical factors in the ongoing saga.

While this scenario offers a glimpse into a different path for Game of Thrones, the unpredictable nature of the series means that any decision would have unforeseeable consequences. The characters' fates remain intertwined, and their actions continue to shape the landscape of Westeros.