Reimagining the Seven Kingdoms: If Daemon Blackfyre Won the Rebellion

Imagine a world where Daemon Blackfyre, the notorious black blood aspirant, won the Blackfyre Rebellion and reclaimed the Iron Throne of Westeros. This essay explores how this scenario might have reshaped the regions and the lords paramount who ruled them.

The Regions and Their Lords Paramount

Following Daemon Blackfyre's victory, the regions of the Seven Kingdoms would undergo significant changes. Here's a detailed look at how each area might have been governed:

1. The North

The conflict in the North was not a central front during the Blackfyre Rebellions, as the Starks were not directly involved until the fifth rebellion. If Daemon had won, it’s highly probable that the Boltons, who are known for their loyalty and ambition, would become the lords paramount. The Boltons' strategic location and martial prowess would allow them to assert dominance over the North.

2. The Riverlands

The Riverlands would fall under the control of House Bracken, a powerful clan supportive of Daemon and kin to Aegor Rivers, Daemon's half-brother. Their historical alliance and support for Daemon would make them the de facto rulers of the Riverlands. If the Lothstons had not defected to Daeron, they might still hold Riverrun, but in practice, House Bracken would be the true lords paramount.

3. The Westerlands

The Westerlands, rich and strategically important, would likely come under the control of House Reyne. The Reynes have historically been fierce and supportive of strong claimants to the throne, making them a natural choice to support Daemon Blackfyre.

4. The Vale

The Vale of Arryn would see House Sunderland, historically at odds with the Targaryens, replace House Arryn as lords paramount. This shift would symbolize a new era of stability and power in the Vale.

5. The Iron Islands

With the Dragonlords extinct and the old traditions shaken, the Iron Islands would likely be ruled by House Greyjoy, should they remain faithful to Aegor Rivers. If they do not, rival families like the Drums or other houses would usurp their place as lords paramount. Loyalty and unity within the Iron Fleet would be crucial.

6. The Stormlands

The most turbulent region, the Stormlands, could be ruled by a Storm King who opposes Dornish influence. House Swann, known for their enmity towards Dorne, could assert dominance over the rest of the Stormlands, potentially ruling from Dragonstone.

7. The Reach

House Peake, known for their strong support of House Blackfyre, would likely rule the Reach. Alternatively, House Osgrey, another strong contender, could gain power under the Blackfyre banner, allowing them to take control of Highgarden and the Red Keep.

8. Dorne

Dorne, a proud and independent region, would likely remain outside of the control of the Seven Kingdoms. Despite Blackfyre support, Dorne might continue to resist union under an Iron Throne, maintaining its independence and unique culture.

9. The Crownlands

The Crownlands, historically under the direct rule of the Iron Throne, would fall under the control of the Blackfyre line. House Blackfyre would become the lords paramount of the Crownlands, with significant influence over King's Landing.

Causes of the Blackfyre Rebellion

While there were numerous reasons for the Blackfyre Rebellion, two primary factors stand out:

1. The Old and New Ways of Doing Things

The conflict between the traditional and the new ways of governance is a significant factor. Daemon Blackfyre represented the old warrior king model, similar to Daeron, Maegor, and Aegon Targaryen. In contrast, Daeron II Targaryen was more of a bookworm and negotiator, which irked many lords who feared his soft approach to governance. The old ways, represented by warrior kings who could wield the sword, were seen as more reliable and strong.

2. Erosion of Tradition and Hierarchy

In the past, the hierarchy was set in stone by tradition and dragon fire. However, by the time of the rebellion, many traditions had been shaken. Dragons were extinct, and the old system of inheritance and appointments by the king were no longer sacrosanct. If Daemon could become king, it would be a sign that the old ways were truly dead, and the nobility could assert their power over the throne.

Limitations of a Victorious Blackfyre

Despite his potential to change the game, Daemon Blackfyre was only human. As king, he would still be constrained by logistics and the goodwill of his lords. Convincing a Bracken to march north and oust a Stark, or a Peake to take Casterly Rock, would be a monumental task. Local lords would remain loyal to their regions and their families, dying for their lords to the last man.

Therefore, the changes would be largely cosmetic. If Daemon Blackfyre were to help House Yronwood claim Dorne, they would likely be expected to bend the knee to the Blackfyres. Alternatively, Yronwood could gain freedom under the Blackfyre banner, but their independence would still be tenuous.