What Would Have Happened if Rhaegar and Lyanna Had Only Sons?

In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire and the television adaptation, Game of Thrones, the complex fates of various characters and their progeny can significantly alter the course of the story. One intriguing scenario involves the hypothetical offspring of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. In the books, Rhaegar and Lyanna produce one son, Aegon Targaryen, while in the TV show, Jon Snow is identified as the result of their union. However, if Rhaegar and Lyanna had only sons, how would the story unfold?

The Rhaegar-Lyanna Union

Rhaegar Targaryen, one of the premier characters in the series, marries Lyanna Stark, a noblewoman and a key figure in the North. Their son, Aegon Targaryen, is the focus of much speculation and intrigue. If Rhaegar and Lyanna had only one son and no daughter, the implications would be vast. According to the TV show, Jon Snow is the one born under questionable circumstances, potentially altering the timeline of events. In the books, though, his parentage remains an open question.

Arthur Dayne’s Role and the Changing Dynamics

Arthur Dayne, a significant knight in Westeros, could have played a crucial role if Aegon had been the only son. While the TV series shows Arthur Dayne bringing Jon Snow, Alys, to Winterfell, in our scenario, he might have opted to assist in the upbringing of Aegon. This shift could dramatically alter his interactions and the alliances formed around the Targaryen family, all linked to the real heir of the Targaryen line. If they were certain of Aegon’s birth and the succession, the dynamics of the court and the kingdom would change accordingly.

Eddard’s Adoption and Outcomes for Aegon

Despite Eddard’s adoption of Alys (Jon Snow) as Joanna Snow, a similar outcome would occur for Aegon under the new scenario. Joanna would still remain closer to Sansa but would be just as hated by Catelyn for her true parentage. In the original storyline, Eddard leaves for King’s Landing, but with Aegon as the surviving son, Joanna’s fate remains largely unresolved in terms of her options. Given the absence of the option to join the Night’s Watch, it is likely that she would continue to reside at Winterfell, potentially as an indirect caregiver to Sansa.

The Implications of the North

Without Needle and Syrio Forel, Arya Stark would never escape King’s Landing, and she would likely be blamed for Joffrey Baratheon’s death. Similarly, in the absence of Joanna at the Wall, Jeor Mormont would likely die at the hands of a wight. This would make Ser Alliser Thorne Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch, which could alter the Great Ranging and Samwell Tarly’s discovery of the dragonglass. However, the North would be stronger with no threat from wildlings, leaving Mance Rayder to meet his fate at the hands of Stannis Baratheon.

The Rise of Rickon and Dany

With Rickon Stark declared King in the North by House Umber, with Joanna and Sansa as regents, Dany Targaryen’s future would look drastically different. Equipped with her dragons and the full might of the southern legions, Dany would march towards the capital, sweeping aside Cersei Lannister and Euron Greyjoy, and then proceed to pacify the North. King Rickon would likely have to bend the knee, completing the reunification of Daenerys Targaryen and the Targaryen crown.

Alternative Fates for Alys and Sansa

In a divergent story where Rhaegar and Lyanna have no daughter, Alys (Jon Snow) might be raised alongside Sansa and Arya as noble ladies. However, it is possible that she would be sent off to the Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing if Eddard Stark leaves for the capital, or she might be married off to someone with ties to the Night’s Watch, keeping the story beats similar to the series.

Key Points to Explore Further:

Rhaegar and Lyanna’s decision Arthur Dayne’s involvement in raising Aegon The future of Winterfell and the northern courts The rise of Dany and House Targaryen Alternatives for Alys and Sansa in their upbringing

These scenarios and twists offer a rich tapestry of possibilities within the expansive world of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones. The fates of the characters and the overall narrative in this hypothetical scenario provide numerous avenues for exploration and discussion.