Introduction

The world of Game of Thrones is fraught with intrigue and deception. One such character, Petyr Baelish, a.k.a. Littlefinger, has proven himself to be a master manipulator. His intricate schemes are well-documented, particularly in the final seasons where he orchestrated the Red Wedding. However, what if his plan had been slightly different? Specifically, what if he had killed King Robert Baratheon and Lord Jon Arryn simultaneously? This hypothetical situation would have sent ripples throughout the Seven Kingdoms, affecting the narrative and the fate of many characters.

The Impact on Robert Baratheon

Robert Baratheon, who is often depicted as a sickly child and alcohol-loving king, would have perished either through natural causes or a carefully planned assassination. In the original storyline, Robert dies at the Red Wedding, causing a significant political shift. If he had died sooner, his younger brother Stannis would have taken the throne more quickly, leading to a different set of events.

Stannis Baratheon and the North

Stannis would have ascended to the Iron Throne without the political maneuvering that allowed King Edmond Stark to become Hand of the King. Without Ned Stark as Hand, Stannis would have taken full control, potentially leading to a less complex political landscape. Additionally, if Robb Stark had not declared himself King of the North, Stannis would have faced a weaker northern opposition, making his claim to the throne more solid.

The Involvement of Jon Arryn

Lord Jon Arryn died shortly before Robert was killed, falsely believed to have perished from natural causes. However, if Baelish had orchestrated his death before Robert's, the political landscape would have shifted dramatically. Jon's untimely demise would have fractured the Lannister’s alliance as they would have questioned the Lannisters' actions. Furthermore, Edmond Stark, who was appointed Hand of the King, would have faced less resistance from Joffrey than if Jon had still been alive to protect Ned Stark.

Consequences for Ned Stark

Edmond Stark's position would have been even more precarious if Jon had been killed before Robert. Joffrey's rejection of Ned as Hand would not have come as a surprise, and Ned would have been even more likely to refuse the position. Stannis, rather than struggling against the Lannisters, would have been a more immediate threat, and Ned might have remained in the North to confront the Stannis-Baratheon alliance.

The Alternate War of the Five Kings

The absence of Jon Arryn and Robert Baratheon would have meant a different set of alliances and conflicts. Renly Baratheon, who was set to become king, would have recognized the tension and might have chosen to leave King's Landing and call his banners.

Political Maneuvering and the Tyrells

The Tyrells would have had a strategic advantage if they had married Sansa Stark to Renly Baratheon. This would have allowed Renly to gain an alliance for war against Stannis and the Lannisters. However, Sansa's lack of presence in King's Landing would have weakened Renly's position, and his marriage to Margery Tyrell could have served as a power move to secure his position as king.

The Role of Tywin Lannister and Dornish Support

Tywin Lannister, who was a formidable opponent, would have had a chance to contain Stannis and Ned Stark with his command and son Jaime. Additionally, Tywin's son Jaime, who is a skilled warrior, would have played a crucial role in defeating the Stannis-Baratheon alliance. Without the Northern forces, Tywin would have been in a stronger position to retake the Iron Throne.

The Role of Daenerys Targaryen and the Dance of Stags

The presence of Daenerys Targaryen would have brought a new element to the political landscape. Her forces would have been a potential ally or threat, depending on how she aligned with the various factions. Her arrival would have made the situation more complex, leading to a "Dance of Stags" rather than a straightforward war of the Five Kings.

The Final Outcome

Ultimately, the premature death of both Robert and Jon Arryn would have altered the final narrative of the show. With Stannis in charge and Stannis-Baratheon alliance not fully formed, the fight for the Iron Throne would have been more focused. Joffrey's reign would have been shorter, leading to his poisoning, and Tyrion would have been blamed. Tywin's death would have set the stage for a more complex political landscape, with Daenerys potentially becoming the Queen of Westeros. Meanwhile, Eddard Stark would have had the opportunity to place Jon on his birthright, leading to a new political agenda.

Conclusion

The hypothetical scenario of Littlefinger killing Robert and Jon simultaneously would have significantly altered the final seasons of Game of Thrones. It would have created a more complex web of alliances, leading to a different outcome for the war and the eventual rulers of Westeros.