The Rightful Owner of Storm's End: Stannis or Renly?

Throughout the complex history of Westeros, one of the central questions has been who truly deserved the fortress that stands at the heart of House Baratheon's power: Storm's End. This question revolves around the brothers Stannis and Renly, each claiming their rightful ownership based on their position in the succession.

Stannis Baratheon: The Middle Brother

Stannis Baratheon was the middle and third-born brother in the Baratheon lineage. According to the rules of succession, he was the next in line for the Iron Throne, both by birthright and by the traditional order of succession. As the middle brother, it was expected that Storm's End—the primary seat of power for the Baratheons—would eventually pass to him.

Renly Baratheon: The Favorite of Robert

On the other hand, Renly Baratheon was the favorite of Robert Baratheon, their eldest brother. Due to Renly's charisma and charm, Robert was inclined to give him the fortified castle that is Storm's End. This decision wasn't only a gift but also a strategic move. Robert, who had taken the throne with the help of Stannis, was using his popularity to cement his rule and ensure that any potential rival would be weakened.

Officially, Renly was bestowed with Storm's End by Robert. However, Stannis fiercely contested this decision, arguing that he was the rightful owner. He had a strong case, as the traditional norms and rules of succession would have ultimately made him the rightful heir to the Baratheon throne, and thus, to Storm's End.

Stannis's Contested Position

From Stannis's perspective, he felt betrayed and sidelined by Robert's decision. He was technically the second in line for kingship, which meant he would eventually inherit the Iron Throne and, by extension, Storm's End. However, the title of "Prince of Dragonstone" that Robert awarded him was somewhat hollow. While it was a prestigious position in terms of indicating his potential to take the throne, Dragonstone itself was significantly weaker and less powerful than Storm's End.

The complexities of the Baratheon family heritage and the politics of Westeros make the question of rightful ownership a matter of interpretation. The official stance was that Storm's End belonged to Renly, but Stannis’s argument was based on strict adherence to inherited rights.

Conclusion: The Murky Waters

The issue of who truly deserves Storm's End remains a contentious one in the intricate history of Westeros. Whether it is seen as Renly's due reward for his charisma and Robert's favor, or Stannis's right by birth and traditional succession laws, the question highlights the often murky waters of royal succession in the Seven Kingdoms.

The dispute between Stannis and Renly is a microcosm of the larger struggles for power in Westeros. It serves as a reminder of the importance of lineage, the changing dynamics of royal politics, and the fine line between one's rightful claim and the reality of political power.