Game of Thrones Recap: The Game has Changed

Westeros is about to go an entirely new direction. The balance of power has been thrown into chaos. The game has changed.

Before this last episode the balance of power favored the Lannister-Baratheon force, led by Tywin Lannister, wisest prince in the Seven Kingdoms. His competitors just couldn’t add up. They included Stannis Baratheon, a poor strategist and uncharismatic leader obsessed with the Red Priestess. Balon Greyjoy never had a chance, but is still technically in rebellion. Queen Daenerys was mired in the struggles of governing Slaver’s Bay, a long way from retaking the throne.

But the game has changed.

Tywin Lannister is dead. There is no one with his ability to defend Tommen’s claim. Jaime has no interest in politics. Cersei’s track record is abysmal.

Of all the houses, who will stay loyal to Tommen? Doran Martell has a perfect opportunity to defect. House Arryn is already on the path to rebellion. I count three kingdoms ready to fight his claim (Stormlands, the Vale, Dorne). Four kingdoms are loyal (Riverlands, Westerlands, the Reach, and the North).

On a side plot, Brandon Stark made it to his three-eyed raven but I don’t know what that means.

As a northerner myself (born and raised in the Chicago area), I have a soft spot for the Starks but don’t see a way for them to restore their power. Rickon is too young and Brandon is in the far north. Sansa is preparing to marry Petyr Baelish or Robin. I am guessing the scenario will be Sansa marries Robin Arryn but sleeps with Petyr, which is what Petyr wanted all along. Arya is on her way to Braavos, which I was always privately hoping would happen.

My prediction is Stannis gains ground in his bid for the Iron Throne. He could roll up Tommen’s forces in the North led by Roose Bolton. If there are any lower houses still loyal to the Starks they will align with Stannis and eliminate the Boltons. A regency is established for Rickon or Brandon, depending on who returns to Winterfell. Stannis is a stickler for laws and rights, so he’d probably restore a Stark to Warden of the North. It also helps that Ned Stark died asserting his claim to the Iron Throne.

Alternatively, Stannis could make another run at King’s Landing and go straight for the throne. It didn’t work too well last time. This would be a poor move. He needs allies but as I mentioned he is not politically savvy.

Queen Daenerys will face many more challenges governing Slaver’s Bay and at some point will need to make a choice. If she wants the Iron Throne, she needs to drop the whole justice and breaker of chains crusade and leave someone to rule the region for her. So far it looks like nobody is up to it.

I think Balon Greyjoy’s attempt at independence is over. He lacks the power to defend himself from Stannis or Roose Bolton.

The new season is laid open for an entire new era of war. Stannis Baratheon, Tommen Baratheon, and Daenerys Targeryen have their work cut out for them. The Seven Kingdoms are far from peace and unity.

J

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