The Perfect Ending for 'Game of Thrones' and 'A Song of Ice and Fire'

Introduction

For many fans of George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series and its television adaptation 'Game of Thrones', the question remains: how should the story have ended to satisfy all aspects of the narrative?

Alternative Endings for 'Game of Thrones'

One compelling alternative ending involves Bran Stark taking the Iron Throne and blurring the lines between reality and delusion. This poignant scene could involve Bran using his greensight abilities to ascend to the throne, then a close-up of his hand, now containing a face, without revealing which face remains. The dialogue, 'A king has no name,' could signify the dissolution of old power structures in Westeros and open up possibilities for the storyline to continue through a series of flashbacks.

Another tense and tragic ending involves Jon Snow killing Bran, who turns out to be an authoritarian and power-hungry figure. This twist could have deepened the moral complexities of the series, exploring the consequences of power and the nature of leadership. However, it would leave audiences questioning the series' overall message and the journey of its characters.

Unsatisfactory Ending and Character Arcs

The actual ending of 'Game of Thrones' was widely criticized for its rushed and abrupt resolution. Many of the character arcs built over seven seasons were left unresolved, leaving fans with a sense of dissatisfaction. While it is subjective to decide how the story should have concluded, it is clear that several important storylines deserved a more satisfying conclusion.

The fate of the Night King, Bran Stark's connection to the Night King, and Jon Snow's status as the true heir to the throne remain unsolved mysteries. Additionally, the deaths of Cersei and Jaime Lannister in a tower collapse were seen as clichéd and lacked emotional depth. These unresolved narratives left fans craving a more comprehensive finale that honored the intricate character development and complex storylines.

Unfulfilled Story Arcs and Potential Sequels

One potential storyline involves revisiting the fate of the Night King and exploring his true intentions. This could involve revealing that Bran Stark was initially manipulated to build a dire need for the Night King, leading to his eventual downfall. By expanding on these elements, the creators could provide closure to these unsatisfying story arcs and create opportunities for future sequels or reboots.

For instance, a scene where Bran asks Pod to bring him to the Iron Throne and announces, 'A king has no name,' would offer a poignant and ambiguous finale. It could open doors to a new narrative exploring the identity and role of a faceless king, leaving room for character-driven sequels that delve into his origins and legacy.

Speculative Alternate Timeline

In a speculative alternate timeline, imagine the following sequence of events following the destruction of the Night King:

Jaime Lannister's Dilemma and Execution of Justice

Jaime Lannister faces a moral dilemma when his sister Cersei is revealed to have orchestrated the deaths of thousands of his soldiers. This discovery leads to a climactic confrontation between Jaime and Cersei. Jaime visits Cersei, intending to persuade her to surrender, but she refuses, revealing the pregnancy as a ruse to manipulate him.

Jaime struggles with the weight of duty and love. He recalls the deaths of his soldiers and the unbearable guilt he carries. Despite his moral conflicts, Jaime ultimately decides to kill Cersei, understanding the gravity of her actions. In a series of swift and intense scenes, Jaime slits Cersei's throat, symbolizing justice for her crimes against the Lannister family and the Kingdom.

Cersei curses Jaime, blaming him for her death. She accuses him of failing in his responsibility as a brother. Jaime, consumed by guilt and duty, contemplates his own actions before killing himself. Ser Gregor Clegane, loyal to Cersei, then kills Jaime, completing his journey as a protector and a tragic figure.

Ascent to Power and Jon Snow's Coronation

The news of Cersei's death sparks chaos anda power vacuum that ultimately leads to the rise of Daenerys Targaryen, who claims the Iron Throne for herself. This move prompts a new conflict, as Jon Snow, now the true heir to the throne, confronts Daenerys at Dragonstone. After a tense standoff, Jon ultimately recovers his true heritage and is crowned as the rightful ruler of Westeros, marking the culmination of his journey and the satisfying resolution of the series.

Conclusion

While these are just alternative endings and speculative sequences, they offer a more satisfying narrative arc that honors the intricate storylines and character development of 'Game of Thrones' and 'A Song of Ice and Fire'. Future adaptations or sequels could explore these paths, providing a more fulfiling experience for dedicated fans and newcomers alike.