What if Stannis Had Been Killed During the Greyjoy Rebellion?
What would have happened if Stannis Baratheon had been killed during the Greyjoy Rebellion? The narrative alters significantly, with a series of events unfolding that could reshape the world of Westeros. Here, we explore two possible scenarios: the resurrection of Stannis led by Melisandre, and the consequences if he had not been resurrected.
Scenario 1: Stannis is Resurrected
One of the primary possibilities is that Melisandre would attempt to resurrect Stannis from the dead, using Shireen as a sacrifice. If she succeeded, the journey would continue, albeit with a potentially more ruthless and angrier Stannis. His command would eclipse that of Davos Seaworth, the loyal advisor. Davos, ever the loyalist, would try to safeguard Stannis' soul, but this endeavor would ultimately fail, mirroring his earlier failures.
Domino effects could be significant. The Iron Bank, likely hesitant to back Shireen in light of Stannis' return, might turn their support towards the Iron Throne. Shireen, now abandoned, would likely take refuge at Storm's End. The Lannisters would besiege the stronghold, and Shireen's hopes for a successful endgame would be slim to none. She might end up in a betrothal agreement with Tommen, uniting House Lannister with House Baratheon. Alternatively, with the support of the Greyjoy line, Shireen could be smuggled away, potentially on a Daenerys parallel arc. In both cases, the chances of Shireen becoming a queen are dim.
Scenario 2: Stannis Is Not Resurrected
If Melisandre's attempt at resurrection fails, a more likely outcome, due to her absence at the Battle of the Blackwater, Stannis' loyalists would flock to the Iron Throne. Shireen, losing all her allies, would take refuge at Storm's End, besieged by the Lannisters. The Iron Bank, unlikely to support Shireen, would abandon her, leaving her with no support and little hope of success. She would likely seek refuge in Dorne through a betrothal with Tommen, or crowned queen if the Lannisters support her.
The fall of the Wall to the wildlings is a significant consequence in this scenario. Sam and Jon would fall in the battle, but the lack of discipline among the wildlings and the strength of the Bolton army would ensure a quick victory. The Boltons would then re-establish a more loyal Night's Watch, further solidifying their power in the North. The scenario all but eliminates Jon Snow's possible death or resurrection, judging by the Battle of the Bastards. Daenerys would face little opposition from both the North and the Bolton army, leading her direct invasion to seize the Iron Throne.
Rebels and the End Result
The scenario postulates that the realm would be far from untied and that the Lannisters, with the removal of Robert and the influence of Dorne, would have little reason to support the rebellious casus. This leaves the realm more prepared and unified against the threats like the Night King. The consolidation of power would likely bring stability and unity among the realms, resulting in a stronger, more cohesive Westeros facing the looming Long Night.
Conclusion
Stannis Baratheon's death during the Greyjoy Rebellion would have profound repercussions on the narrative of Westeros. Whether through his resurrection or his untimely demise, the nature of the conflict shifts significantly. The absence or presence of the powerful Stannis would shape the future of the Seven Kingdoms in ways that reverberate beyond the immediate events of the narrative.