Game Of Thrones: 12 Questions We’re Asking After 'Mother's Mercy'

6. Is House Baratheon Finished?

Stannis' stubborn march to Winterfell has cost him everything. His daughter was sacrificed, his wife committed suicide in grief, his most loyal advisor was cast away, his Red Priestess fled, half of his army deserted him in fear, and the other half were butchered by the Boltons. If that wasn't bad enough, he crawled into the path of Brienne, the one woman swearing to kill him. She swung the sword, but is certainly didn't show his death. This is the sort of issue that will be wrapped up quickly next season. If Brienne and Pod are first seen walking alone, it's clear that Stannis was killed and left there. There's a slim chance that he survived, meaning he could still play a big part, but it's hugely unlikely. Stannis' immediate family is dead. King Robert is dead. Renly is dead. And the only living Baratheon heir, Tommen, isn't even a Baratheon. The last hopes of the Baratheon family could rest with Gendry (if he ever stops rowing). He, or any other of Robert's bastard children, could potentially be legitimised and start the family afresh. But for now, the Baratheon threat is vanquished.