A Targaryen Dothraki Alliance: How Robert Baratheon Would Respond

The Seven Kingdoms of Westeros would be faced with a radically altered political and military landscape if Viserys Targaryen and Khal Drogo had managed to survive and invade. This scenario would undoubtedly disrupt the established order, particularly for Robert Baratheon and his allies. Here’s a detailed analysis of how this situation might unfold.

Immediate Reactions and Political Turmoil

The return of Viserys Targaryen with an army of Dothraki would reignite the long-dormant Targaryen claim to the Iron Throne. This would likely cause panic among the lords of Westeros, especially those who supported Robert Baratheon’s claim.

Roberts Response

Robert Baratheon, known for his impulsive nature and bravado, would likely react with urgency. He would immediately gather his bannermen and prepare for war. The sight of a Targaryen with dragons, should they have hatched, would be particularly alarming.

Military Strategy

Utilizing Stannis Baratheon

Robert would likely assign his more disciplined and strategic brother, Stannis, to defend the crown’s interests in the Stormlands. Stannis might also be tasked with fortifying key positions like Dragonstone, which could serve as a base for launching counterattacks.

Defensive Strategy

Stannis’s focus on logistics and supply lines would be crucial. He might work on gathering resources and forming alliances with lords who are wary of a Targaryen resurgence.

Gathering Allies

Robert would seek support from House Arryn and the Lannisters, emphasizing the threat that a Targaryen invasion poses to the realm’s stability. He might also send envoys to House Stark, appealing to their sense of duty to the realm and warning them of the chaos an invasion would bring.

Mobilizing the North

To gather more support, Robert could mobilize the North by sending envoys to appeal to House Stark and other northern houses. These northern lords would likely be wary of a Targaryen resurgence and might see an opportunity to further their own claims.

Military Campaigns

Confronting Drogo

Robert would aim to confront Khal Drogo directly, recognizing the need for a decisive battle to assert his authority. This could lead to a series of skirmishes or a major battle depending on Drogo’s strategy.

Using Tactics

Stannis would advocate for defensive tactics and possibly a scorched earth policy to deny Drogo resources as he advanced deeper into Westeros. This strategy would aim to exhaust Drogo’s forces and resources, giving Robert’s army an advantage.

Possible Outcomes

Battle of the Seven Kingdoms

The conflict could lead to a large-scale battle where Robert’s forces face the Dothraki. The ferocity of the Dothraki cavalry would be a significant challenge, but Robert’s experience in rebellion might give him an edge.

Internal Strife

If the conflict drags on, internal divisions among Robert’s allies could surface. As Robert’s leadership is questioned, this could prompt internal strife and conflict among his bannermen.

Stannis’s Rise

If Stannis performs well in defending against Drogo, it could bolster his reputation and lead to increased tension between him and Robert. Stannis might begin to see himself as a more viable claimant to the Iron Throne, especially if Robert’s leadership is being questioned.

Potential for Alliances

If Khal Drogo successfully captures key regions, he might form alliances with local lords who are disenchanted with Robert’s rule. This could complicate Roberts efforts to maintain control and lead to further fragmentation of the North and Westeros.

Conclusion

Viserys’ survival and alliance with Khal Drogo would create a complex and volatile situation in Westeros. Robert Baratheon would need to leverage his military commanders effectively, relying on Stannis’s strategic mind while also managing the political landscape of alliances and loyalties. The outcome would depend heavily on the decisions made by both sides and the reactions of the various noble houses of Westeros.