Introduction

The Targaryen lineage has always been a complex web of political intrigue and dynastic power struggles. What if one significant event changed its course? In this hypothetical scenario, we explore the implications if Aerion Targaryen had only daughters, focusing on the House Greens and Blacks and the broader geopolitical impacts.

Impact on the Greens’ Claim

The downfall of House Targaryen is well-documented in the War of the Roses, a series of untimely deaths that weakened their claim to the Iron Throne. If Aerion Targaryen had only daughters, the Greens’ position could be further weakened as they would lack a male heir to continue their lineage. This would place immense pressure on Helaena to produce a male child, much like Aemma Arryn, who died in childbirth. The Greens might find themselves further marginalized as the pressure mounts.

Focus on Rhaenyra Targaryen and Her Sons

Despite the significant pressure on Helaena, Rhaenyra Targaryen would still have the option of producing male heirs. However, these sons would be crucial for their survival and the strength of the Targaryen claim. The subsequent deaths of Aegon II’s children, coupled with the deaths of Rhaenyra’s strong sons, would leave Aegon III and Viserys II as the sole survivors. Despite the hypothetical change in circumstances, the outcome would likely remain the same, with the focus on legitimizing Aegon III and eliminating any potential rivals.

Political Maneuverings and Marriages

Aegon II Targaryen might marry his sisters, as part of their traditional customs. His commitment to producing a male heir would be evident, and he would continue this effort even after the birth of a female. He might seek alliance marriages from the Valyrian line or the Martells. Martells, known for their strategic acumen and martial prowess, would be a better fit for securing political support. They would also represent a strong diplomatic alliance, aligning with Dorne and strengthening Rhaenyra’s position.

Strategic Moves and the Role of Dragon Riders

Beyond the immediate political maneuverings, the hypothetical presence of female Targaryen heirs would alter the dynamics in several ways. Helaena, with her interests focused on learning and ensuring her daughters’ positions, would likely prevent any direct confrontations. This would mean no humiliated princesses or lost eyes, thus potentially averting the circumstances that led to Vhagar’s untamability and the subsequent death of Luke. The absence of Vhagar’s presence might have prevented the Greens from achieving a decisive victory, allowing Rhaenyra to maintain her claim and secure the Iron Throne within a few months, even without the support of major dragon riders.

Unequivocal Outcomes Despite Hypothetical Changes

Despite the significant changes in the political landscape, the ultimate outcome of the war may not have been drastically altered. The Greens’ primary advantage would lie in the untamability of Vhagar, a factor that would remain crucial in the conflict. If Vhagar had been tamed by Hugh or Ulf instead, the Greens’ strategy would have been fundamentally altered. The Greens might have fallen to their perceived lack of control over their own dragon, leading to a swift defeat for the Greens and a decisive victory for the Blacks under Rhaenyra. However, with Vhagar remaining untamed, the Greens might have still seen a chance to challenge Rhaenyra’s rule, leading to further conflicts and a different path for the conflict.

Conclusion

The imagined scenario of only daughters for Aerion Targaryen offers an interesting perspective on the War of the Roses. While it presents several hypothetical changes and strategic shifts, the ultimate outcome remains largely the same. The focus on diplomatic and strategic marriages, as well as the role of dragons, would play a crucial role in determining the victor of the conflict.