The Impact of Ser Gerold and Ser Arthur's Presence at the Trident
The battle for the Trident, a pivotal encounter in the A Song of Ice and Fire saga, dramatically changed the course of Westeros. If Ser Gerold Hightower, the Knight of the Kingsguard, and Ser Arthur Dayne, the legendary 'Sword of the Morning,' were present, the outcome and subsequent history of Westeros would have been vastly different.
Potential Outcomes
Enhanced Lannister Defense: Both knights, being exceptionally skilled fighters, could have significantly bolstered the defenses of the Targaryens. Their combined prowess might have turned the tide of Robert Baratheon's forces, leading to a much more formidable Lannister position.
Protection of Prince Rhaegar: As a pivotal figure, Prince Rhaegar would likely have been better protected with the presence of Hightower and Dayne. Legend has it that two of the finest knights in Westeros would have made it incredibly difficult for Robert and his forces to penetrate the defensive lines.
Potential for a Targaryen Victory: A Targaryen victory would have solidified their hold on the Iron Throne. With Rhaegar possibly surviving, the reign of the Targaryens could have been extended, leading to a markedly different political landscape for the Seven Kingdoms.
Impact on Robert's Rebellion
The presence of Hightower and Dayne could have demoralized Robert's forces. Their legendary status, coupled with their exceptional swordsmanship, might have caused some of Robert's allies to reconsider their allegiances, leading to a fragmented and weakened rebellion.
Broader Implications
Changing Alliances: A Targaryen victory could have resulted in different alliances forming in the realm, altering the power dynamics. This would have had far-reaching consequences, potentially leading to a different War of the Five Kings.
Future of the Kingsguard: The Kingsguard’s reputation and effectiveness would have been enhanced. Their success with Hightower and Dayne would have further solidified their legendary status, influencing future generations.
Consequences and Speculations
Speculating on the outcomes, it's clear that the presence of such formidable knights would have had a profound impact on the battle. If Ser Arthur Dayne was directly involved in the combat, he would likely have faced Robert Baratheon himself, as he was Rhaegar's best friend and would have wanted to protect him.
Given Dayne's legendary status and superior swordsmanship compared to Rhaegar, it’s likely that Robert would have been defeated and perhaps even killed. The hero of the rebellion, Dorne, and the Three Sisters, would have faced Robert's forces, causing them to rout. The casualty rate on the field of battle would have been significant, leading to a mass exodus of Robert's forces.
A Targaryen victory with the survival of Rhaegar would have solidified the Targaryens' rule and drastically altered the timeline of Westeros, preventing the events of later conflicts such as the War of the Five Kings.
Final Thoughts
Giving ample consideration to the historical context and the capabilities of Ser Gerold Hightower and Ser Arthur Dayne, it’s clear that they would have made a significant difference at the Trident. Their presence would have shifted the balance of power, potentially leading to a Targaryen victory and a different, more stable Westeros.