Introduction

The legendary saga of the Seven Kingdoms, as told by George R.R. Martin, has captivated countless readers and fans. The War of the Five Kings was largely fueled by the tragic story of Lyanna Stark. What if, in a different turn of events, Lyanna Stark survived, but unfortunately, Jon Snow was stillborn?

Part 1: The Regional Conflict and Political Dynamics

The war would have taken a different path if Lyanna Stark had survived. She would not have been promised to Robert Baratheon, the deceased Targaryen prince, but would have married Robert just to keep the peace. This scenario would see Robert and Lyanna ascending to the Iron Throne, legitimizing Jon as the son of Robert rather than the bastard of Rhaegar Targaryen.

Ruling as King and Queen

Robert and Lyanna would have three children together, including a son named Edric Baratheon. Edric would be the first-born and a tall, black-haired 'badass' who would eventually marry Margaery Tyrell and rule as the king unopposed, particularly after Robert's death.

Behavior and Leadership of Robert

Robert, being a happier and less drunk man, would have been a better king. Under such a rule, the capital would have been more stable, and the kingdom would have thrived under less volatile circumstances.

Part 2: Lyanna's Life in Essos

Another possible scenario involves Lyanna fleeing to Essos, joining other Targaryen exiles. Her journey would be fueled by a desire to protect her son, and she would join forces with Viserys Targaryen and Daenerys Targaryen. Her fierce and untamed nature would result in her teaching Viserys valuable lessons in obedience, given her 'wild wolf' spirit.

No Marriages to Dothraki

Lyanna would not have allowed any marriage to a Dothraki, choosing instead to seek alliances through political means and ensure her son's safety.

Part 3: Fatal Consequences and Legacy

Without Jon at Winterfell, he would not have been able to convince Ned Stark to spare the direwolves. This would lead to the potential deaths of Bran and Catelyn. Ned, upon learning the truth, would quit his position as Hand and be replaced by Tywin Lannister, who would start to suppress rumors surrounding Joffrey's parentage.

No War for the Fifth Kingdom (WOFK)

This alteration would have prevented the war at Winterfell. Stannis's rebellion may still occur, but the Lannister army would quickly end it. With the North no longer divided, the wildlings would be easier to defeat. Joffrey's eventual death would result in Sansa marrying Tommen, leading to a relatively stable rule for King and Queen.

No Dragons

Without marrying Drogo, Daenerys Targaryen would not have received her dragons, leading to an invasion attempt doomed to fail like previous attempts by other Targaryen claimants.

Conclusion

The loss of Jon would not have just affected the Starks; it would have significantly altered the fate of the Seven Kingdoms. While the political landscape would be different, the loss of her son would likely have crushed Lyanna, even for her strong Northern values that focus on family. In a different world, however, Lyanna would continue to play her part, and the story would evolve in unforeseen ways.