nyser1

One of two scenarios: 1. It is direct and intentional in its meaning. No hidden agendas, other than Ramsay goading a fight. 2. Someone is trying to politik Jon Snow (and likely the Wildlings with him) to leave the wall to enter the fray. For which it would have to be a Stannis supporter or Stark supporter.

Because they interact frequently, current relationship dynamics, and because we know Jon has given into strong female flirtation before.

It depends still on who the wife is (if not wives), how they raise their children, and most importantly whether or not he has a son. Chances are, he’s going to be one who abuses his seven deadly sins and sees a premature grave (albeit later than OTL). How competent and prepared of a ruler a son might be will depend on their upbringing. But if legitimate and without the potential mental genetic disorders of close in proximity breeding, probably better than a Joffrey. And no war for succession.

Given the size of the forces ultimately on both sides during the Red Wedding & variables at play, it still seems awfully lopsided. As to the original question though - the answers are that: -Robb did not have his full strength -Element of surprise on the enemy’s turf. -He was not expecting to be betrayed by Frey or Bolton and thus their guard was as low as it could have been. And even if he did, not there and then and not in that fashion.

Well in addition to having a foot in each race, let’s see what is happening: -Robb, not yet Lord of the North is racing South to save his father and join up with the Riverlords. -Presumably he has also heard about the disappearance of the Baratheon brothers from the capital. -Math and history would suggest at the very least it will be Tully, Stark, and Baratheon versus Lannister. One would think the Vale would join & that the Martells would be neutral or anti-Lannister. Presumably rumors about Renly and Loras being “close” have passed his ears. -He probably personally feels [email protected] on by Tywin over the years himself. Plenty of logical and betting reasons. Things don’t look good for the Lannisters. And were it not for Stannis assassinating Renly, the Lannisters would not have lasted this long.

Cersei will use it to try to destroy her enemies, blind that it will destroy her too. Kind of like Aerys, fitting that the younger brother will kill her as well.

Don't have any particular hopes for Dany in power period. Would be okay with her staying in power in Essos though. All for Jon though, even though I am clearly not a Targaryen fan. Perhaps because of how his "father" raised him.

Tourney at Harrenhal hands down. Also would throw out there: Barristan being allowed to rescue Aerys. Jon bringing Baelish to KL. Varys being pardoned by Robert. Loren Lannister kneeling.

Depends, does Ned reveal what he suspects?

Possible reasons: a big FU to his wife, House Martell. Because he could. To keep her as far away from the looming white walker threat as possible (in addition to their child). To keep her as far away as possible from the fighting, the rebels. Scattering loved ones in case the capital fell.

How is Tommen, an eight year old boy, fated to be a poor King? He's young enough (whikle lacking the psycho incest gene) to learn. As is Myrcellla, but there is so indication she is exceptionally wise, As for Aegon - I am not against him personally. I am against his allies though, and the notion that the Targaryens have a right to rule Westeros.

Light to no armored short distance melee cavalry and archers. They don't last a campaign season. At worst they beat a bunch of unorganized armies and cause terror, sacking and incurring losses of their own in the Riverlands, Crownlands, and/or Reach.

Aerys killed Brandon and Rickard while demanded the execution ("the heads") of Robert and Ned. Jon Arryn lost his heir as well to Aerys. Meanwhile, Aerys' son and heir disappeared with the betrothed virgin daughter of a Lord Paramount (and sister/daughter of the executed). So Aerys and Rhaegar were going to have to go one way or another. I do not see any indication of a threat to the female Targaryens from the main group of rebeles (Queen, Rhaegar's daughter or the unborn Dany, or Elia frankly at this point). I envision it was going to end with one of three scenarios: Aegon has a prolonged regency with Elia in KL. One of the Rebel Leaders (if not all) would form a Regency or Regency Council. One of the rebel leaders (likely Robert) would be betrothed to Rhaenys. He would do his thing and father a lot of bastards until the marriage could be consumated for legitimate children. OTL.

This 100%.

Suspecting it was Tywin Lannister's bannerman without proof and going after themselves, particularly when it seems like they have a tendency to do things on an individual basis, is quite dangerous. They wanted support.