The answer is: Destroyed the rest of the royal family

2 Ki 11:1 - Athaliah who was intent on taking over the kingdom killed all the royal family except for Joash who was hidden away for six years to keep the royal line alive.

Athaliah, the daughter of Jezebel and Ahab, was one of the most notorious queens of ancient Judah. When she learned of her son Ahaziah’s death, her ruthless ambition led her to eliminate any potential rivals to her rule. This act of summarily wiping out the royal family might seem like a plot twist from a drama, but it reflects the cutthroat nature of monarchy and the striving for power that was rampant among the rulers of that time.

In her whirlwind rise, Athaliah acted out of fear and self-preservation, much like kings and queens before her. The Bible hints at a tradition of powerful women influencing dynasties. From Deborah judging Israel with wisdom to Esther’s cunning that saved her people, we see women profoundly impacting history. Athaliah's story serves as a reminder that not all influence is positive.

The hidden child, Joash, ultimately survived, a fascinating reflection on divine protection. His preservation echoed God’s enduring promise to David, ensuring that the line continued. There’s a rich narrative here: while Athaliah sought to extinguish the royal lineage, the plans for the future were securely in place, quietly unfolding behind the scenes.

Athaliah's tragic story emphasizes the extent of her desperation and the precarious nature of power and lineage, showing that sometimes, the darkest moments can lead to remarkable turns in history. Joash would later reform Judah, showcasing how the flicker of life against tyranny can yield transformative results.