The Likelihood of Cersei Passing Off Her Baby as Euron’s
After considering the question, it becomes clear that regardless of whether Cersei is truly pregnant, she will likely be long dead, or she will become the Night Queen. This situation also brings us to consider the historical context and Cersei's behavior, as well as the strategic advantages of propagating such a myth.
The Question of Cersei's Pregnancy and Survival
Maggy the Frog’s prophecy did not predict this fate for Cersei's unborn child, leading to the assumption that Cersei herself won't live long enough to deliver or might even lose the baby. Cersei is known for maintaining a facade that masks her true actions and relationships. For instance, she consistently passed off her children as Robert Baratheon's offspring, asserting her control over their lineage.
Cersei's Motivation and Strategic Importance
One key motivation for Cersei in passing off her child as Euron’s is her desire to eliminate Jaime Lannister. She is unlikely to admit that the child belongs to her brother, Bronn, or anyone else, as it would undermine her authority and her plans.
From a strategic standpoint, Euron Greyjoy is a significant and powerful threat. He has a vast navy and has just acquired mercenary forces, allowing him to potentially strengthen Cersei’s position. Additionally, maintaining the appearance of a connection with Euron can be vital to preserve the alliance with the Greyjoys, a group that is one of the biggest threats to the Lannisters in Westeros.
Feasibility and Recent Rumors
It is not impossible that Cersei might pass off the child as Euron's, but recent rumors cast doubt on this possibility. In the first episode of season 8, many newspapers reported that Lena Headey (portraying Cersei) wasn't sure why Cersei would be sleeping with Euron, given his historical disappointments and arrogance. Headey required some convincing for the scene, indicating a discrepancy in her character's motivation. If Cersei were planning such a strategy, she would have needed to convince Headey convincingly, which makes this scenario less likely.
Moreover, Euron Greyjoy is dangerous and powerful, and Cersei’s influence is waning. Maintaining his connection to the Greyjoy navy and the newly acquired mercenaries is crucial. Having another heir to the throne further bolsters the Lannister line, and producing another child contradicts the prophecy from Maggy the Frog.
Considering the strategic alliances in Westeros, Cersei would be wise to maintain connections with the Greyjoys. With the northmen occupied, the Martells neutralized, and Dorne leaderless, forming a united front with the Greyjoys makes sense. If they can survive the coming winter, such an alliance could be unstoppable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the idea of Cersei passing off her baby as Euron’s is a plausible scenario given her character and the need to maintain advantageous alliances, recent events and character dynamics suggest that this particular strategy is unlikely to come to fruition. However, as a seasoned and cunning strategist, Cersei is capable of adapting to any situation to achieve her goals.