Guardians of Westeros: The Targaryens Fate in an Alternative Scenario

In the rich tapestry of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, the fate of characters and dynasties is often shaped by pivotal decisions and events. One such juncture is the central dilemma involving Jon Arryn and the Targaryens. What if Jon had, instead of calling his banners in rebellion, sided with Aerys Targaryen's order to eliminate Ned Stark and Robert Baratheon? This hypothetical scenario opens doors to a cascade of events that could fundamentally alter the course of Westeros's history. Let's delve into this fascinating narrative and explore the potential outcomes.

Initial Scenarios

With Jon Arryn's allegiance to the Targaryens, any rebellion led by Stannis Baratheon and Ben Jonson (Benjen Stark) would still ensue. However, the Arryns, loyalists to their house, would remain steadfast in their support. Hopes of a prolonged resistance from the North under Benjen's leadership would be short-lived. This scenario sets the stage for a series of significant events:

Decisive Battle and Aftermath

Prince Rhaegar Targaryen, with the Arryn support, would consolidate his power and rout Stannis's forces in a decisive battle. The assassination of Robert Baratheon would further solidify Rhaegar's grip on power. The next logical step for Rhaegar would be to execute his father, King Aerys, and marry his lover, Lyanna Stark. This marriage, however, would alienate Dorne, leading them to withdraw their troops in response.

The withdrawal of Dorne creates a power vacuum. Meanwhile, Quellon Greyjoy and Tywin Lannister, recognizing the threat, would turn against Aerys. Their invasion of the North marks a pivotal shift, as they seek to leverage their strength to solidify their positions and end the turmoil. In this scenario, Rhaegar consolidates his power, naming the Lannisters and House Bolton as the new rulers of the rebel lands.

Escalating Revenge and Rebellion

Benjen Stark, deeply mourning his family and resenting the royal order, would undoubtedly plot revenge. Seeing his family's and Ned Stark's fates, Benjen would either declare himself king in the North or lead a rebellion similar to Robb Stark's. Stannis's rebellion is likely to be delayed and involve different players, including Benjen, Hoster Tully, and perhaps even Hodor.

The scenario presents a chaotic political landscape with multiple factions vying for power, but Rhaegar's central position remains intact. His reign would be characterized by reconciliation and attempts to restore order, marking a dark chapter in Westeros's history. However, under Rhaegar, there's a glimmer of hope: potential reconciliation and a striving for order.

The Resiliated Starks and Targaryens

It is essential to consider the broader implications of a Targaryen reign without the intervention of the Baratheons and Starks. Without the Baratheons, their support for Aegon VI Targaryen would fail, and the Starks and potentially the Baratheons could go extinct. Rhaegar, as a more rational ruler, would not continue the massacre and could introduce some semblance of normalcy. If Lyanna and Jon had live children, the Stark lineage could be revived, and with Aegon as the senior line, there is potential for a more stable and unified Westeros.

Conclusion

Our narrative would indeed face a significant challenge if Jon Arryn had executed Robert's orders. However, the alternate paths offer a compelling exploration of Westeros's history, with Benjen's revenge and the eventual consolidation of Rhaegar's power creating a complex and vivid tapestry of events. The Targaryens, with Rhaegar's support, would bring stability, but also maintain the darker aspects of their rule. This scenario invites us to ponder the impact of a single decision on the fate of a dynasty and the future of a kingdom.