The world of Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' is filled with countless "what if" scenarios that fans eagerly discuss. One of the most popular is: What if Rhaegar Targaryen, the Crown Prince of Westeros, had survived Robert's Rebellion? This fanfiction will delve into this question, taking a deep dive into a potential alternative reality in the Seven Kingdoms.

The Aftermath of the Battle of the Trident

In this alternate timeline, Rhaegar emerges victorious from the decisive battle of the Trident. Although gravely wounded, his survival changes everything. Robert Baratheon is destroyed in combat, his rebellion crushed with him. This not only reshapes the political landscape of Westeros but also impacts the personal arcs of key characters involved in feeding or preventing Robert's rebellion.

Eddard Stark, for instance, wrestles with guilt after the massacre of the innocents at King's Landing, while Jon Arryn would probably be stripped of his powers. Jaime Lannister would likely have found a chance to honorably leave the Kingsguard, no longer having to bear the burden of being known as the Kingslayer.

Rhaegar's Kingship

Rhaegar as king is a tantalizing thought, largely due to the reputation he had in the original timeline. Known to be intelligent, charismatic, and compassionate, Rhaegar is painted as the perfect future king. He is also deeply interested in ancient prophecies, and this fixation is bound to alter the course of Westeros in numerous ways.

The mystery of the prince that was promised and the song of ice and fire may unfold in unexpected ways under his leadership. It's possible that his kingship and propagation of prophecy might fundamentally change the way the supernatural is perceived in the Seven Kingdoms, making it more accessible, more trusted, or perhaps feared.

The narrative of Lyanna Stark and Jon Snow

Lyanna Stark's tale unravels differently as well. With Rhaegar alive, she may survive the birth of her son, raising him openly as a true Targaryen. Yet Jon Snow's narrative would change as well, being recognized as the legitimate son of Rhaegar and Lyanna, his entire upbringing, personality, and destiny would shift dramatically.

The presence of his parents might also affect his relationship with his alleged siblings, being openly acknowledged as a Targaryen changes the dynamics. His assumed destiny of being the prince that was promised presents a unique route for him, one that may be filled with a different kind of hardships and choices than he faced when he was believed to be a bastard.

FAQs

Q1: Would Rhaegar still want to marry Lyanna in case of his victory? A1: Given Rhaegar's apparent love for Lyanna and his belief in the prophecy, it's likely he might have sought a way to legitimatize their union and their child.

Q2: How would the Lannisters react in this situation? A2: The Lannisters would probably have suffered a significant loss of influence with Rhaegar on the throne, especially without the event allowing Jaime to murder the Mad King and ensure Tywin's rise to power.

Q3: If the Targaryens are in power, why aren't they using dragons? A3: During Robert's Rebellion, dragons were extinct for about a century. Rhaegar's affection for ancient prophecies might have influenced a quest for their return, although with unknown success.

Source

Although the world of "A Song of Ice and Fire" doesn't accommodate the survival of Rhaegar Targaryen, his life creates an impressive array of possibilities. For more in-depth discussion on this topic, the book "The World of Ice & Fire: The Untold History of Westeros and the Game of Thrones" by George R. R. Martin, Elio M. Garcia Jr., and Linda Antonsson is recommended. It paints a vivid picture of Rhaegar and is a must-read for any fan curious about him.

References

Martin, George R. R., Garcia Jr., Elio M., Antonsson, Linda. (2014). The World of Ice & Fire: The Untold History of Westeros and the Game of Thrones. Bantam.

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