The show has been building up to this moment for the past few episodes. First there was the heart-to-heart between Stannis and Shireen back in episode 4, then a couple of weeks ago when Melisandre stated to him what needed to be done, an idea he rejected. That seed was planted though, and it has continued to grow ever since. It comes to fruition when Ramsay Boltons attack leaves Stannis forces depleted, and his chances of even making it to Winterfell, much less winning a war, look all but over. Theres only one card left to play, the one thing that has always worked for him so far, but surely he wouldnt, would he? First we see the aforementioned conversation between Davos and Shireen, and it becomes clear that he just might. Then he talks to Shireen himself, and not only do his intentions become explicitly clear, but the poor girl unknowingly agrees to them. He talks of what must be done to fulfil his destiny, and she says she is willing to help, unaware of just what that entails. Shes led towards Melisandre through Stannis army, and as the penny begins to drop she starts to scream for her father. He does eventually appear, as does her mother, but both remain impassive to her pleas. It is only once she is on the stake with the fire lit, and you can hear her wails, that Selyse breaks down, but even then Stannis does not make any attempt to stop his daughters death. Its an absolutely brutal moment, even if we dont actually see it, we can still hear it and know what is happening. Shireen was always too innocent to survive in this world, and now shes paid the ultimate sacrifice. Whether itll actually pay off for Stannis remains to be seen. For now, though, its an awful moment for the character, and he is definitely no longer The Mannis.
NCTJ-qualified journalist. Most definitely not a racing driver. Drink too much tea; eat too much peanut butter; watch too much TV. Sadly only the latter paying off so far.
A mix of wise-old man in a young man's body with a child-like wonder about him and a great otherworldly sensibility.
