The Last Days of the Seven Kingdoms: Sideways in Time and Fantasy

The Westeros we know may have taken a different turn if Cersei Lannister had died just before Jon Arryn. Let's explore the possible scenarios and their impacts on the age-old power struggles of the Seven Kingdoms.

The Immediate Aftermath

Upon Cersei Lannister's death, Robert Baratheon faces the daunting task of finding a new queen to produce a trueborn heir. Margaery Tyrell, a Hightower girl, or a highborn lady from the Westerlands are his top candidates. This shift in the royal household could have profound implications for the political landscape of Westeros.

The Role of Jaime Lannister

Jaime Lannister, despite his personal turmoil, remains a key figure whose actions could significantly alter the course of events. Depressed and possibly without his trademark cloak, he vowed to protect his children. Ironically, their safety is enhanced due to the absence of sexual relations with Cersei. Consequently, Bran Stark avoids falling and near assassination attempts, and Littlefinger's claim on Tyrion's guilt fails. This sequence of events would prevent Tyrion's capture and substantially change his fate, especially after the disagreement with Danerys Targaryen.

The Choice of a New Hand

The role of Hand of the King becomes crucial in light of Robert's financial troubles. Tywin Lannister, with his vast financial clout and expertise, would be a compelling choice. Alternatively, Renly Baratheon, eager for the prestigious title, might be another contender. Regardless of who is appointed, he would confront Jaime with the truth, leading to a tense and violent confrontation. Renly opts to capture the children to secure the throne, but his new queen convinces him to send Joffrey and Tommen to the Wall and Myrcella as a hostage to ensure Tywin's good behavior.

The Rebellion of Tywin Lannister

Despite the temporary calm, Tywin Lannister's son's death ignites the smoldering flame of rebellion. Tywin's forces, bolstered by the intact Northern army led by Ned Stark, take on the wildling forces. By the time of Cersei's death, Robert Baratheon's reign has faltered. A new heir, a half-Tyrell child, steps forth, inheriting the throne and the legacy of the Lannisters and Tyrells.

The Consequences of a Divergent Timeline

Robert's untimely death brings about a new chapter in Westeros's history, with the intact Northern army under Ned Stark dealing a significant blow to the wildling forces. However, the story takes another dramatic turn as the White Walkers successfully invade Westeros four years later. This invasion sets the stage for the War of Five Kings, wherein all our heroes are forged as ultimate conquerors and heroes.

The intricate web of power, love, and destiny that binds the Seven Kingdoms in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series reveals that even the smallest changes can have seismic effects. Cersei's untimely death just before Jon Arryn's disruption of Robert's rule could have redirected the complex political dynamics of Westeros, altering the fates of its most influential families.

While this divergent timeline might sound intriguing, the original narrative remains a captivating exploration of human nature, power, and survival in a dark and brutal world.