Introduction

Before exploring the fascinating 'what if' scenario where the Targaryens had dragons before conquering Westeros, it's important to understand their historical context. The Targaryens were not only pioneers of dragon culture but also key figures in the legendary civilization of Valyria. Despite the Valyrian fall and the aftermath of the Doom, the Targaryens remained as the sole guardians of dragonlore and dragonfire.

The Targaryens in Valyria

The Targaryens were dragonlords even before the fall of Valyria. They were essential members of the Valyrian nobility, though they were not considered the greatest dragonlords due to their departure from the continent before the Doom.

Conquering Westeros with Dragons

Had the Targaryens possessed dragons when they began their conquest of Westeros, the outcome of the war would have been dramatically different. Dragons, with their immense strength and unmatched flying ability, would have been a force to be reckoned with from the outset. The conquest of Westeros would have been more rapid and decisive, possibly reshaping its political landscape sooner than it did in the actual timeline.

Political Impact on Westeros

The presence of dragons would have influenced the noble houses of Westeros. They could have chosen to submit willingly, or they could have formed strategic alliances against the Targaryens. This shift in power dynamics would have made the path of conquest less bloody and more strategic.

Restoring the Targaryen Dynasty

The Targaryen queen, likely Rhaenyra Targaryen, would have succeeded in restoring the Targaryen dynasty. She would have used the dragons to stomp out any enemies and unify the realms with fire and blood. This action would later be remembered as a conqueror's rule, hated by many but recognized as a decisive force in Westeros.

Dragons and Resistance

With dragons as significant as Drogon, the idea of rebelling against the crown would have been laughable. Rhaegar Targaryen could have flown his dragon to confront any opposition easily. For example, if Jon Arryn had resisted, Rhaegar could have flown to his castle and asserted control. Similarly, Aerys II Targaryen, with his dragons, would have used them as a tool for intimidation and bullying to maintain control, making him more like Maegor the Cruel.

Alternate Ruling Dynamics

In an alternate timeline, the primary reason for the Targaryen fall would have been non-existent. Aerys II would not have been randomly set on fire; instead, he would have used a dragon to face Rickard Stark in a decisive battle. This would have drastically altered the narrative and outcome of the War of the Five Kings.

Conclusion

The Targaryens' dragons would have significantly altered the conquest and the subsequent political landscape of Westeros. Their presence would have made rebellions unlikely and dissenters vulnerable. Thus, the Targaryen dynasty would have maintained control over Westeros without the random fires and brutal plots.