Prince Aemon the Dragonknight: The alternative King of Westeros
Imagine a different outcome for the Targaryen dynasty. What if Aemon the Dragonknight had ascended to the Iron Throne? Mirroring the rule of Viserys II, his reign could bring a period of peace and prosperity to Westeros, as detailed in this in-depth analysis.
The Perfect Targaryen
Prince Aemon the Dragonknight, cousin of Aegon the Unworthy and grandnephew of Daeron II, is by all accounts one of the best and most honorable Targaryens. With his ascent to the throne, the realm of Westeros would have seen a ruler akin to a Targaryen Ned Stark, embodying both noble lineage and wisdom.
Alongside a Queen
Together with Queen Naerys, Aemon would continue the legacy of his father Viserys II. His peaceful and just rulings would maintain the balance of power within the realm. Here is a plausible scenario of how Westeros might have looked under Aemon's rule:
Continuing Peace with Dorne
Aemon would likely follow his father's path in maintaining peace with Dorne. An alliance through marriage, particularly by marrying his son to a Martell princess or his daughter to a Martell prince, would ensure a lasting peace and strengthen the ties between the Targaryen and Martell families.
Legacy of Good Rulership
His son, either Daeron or an alternate son, would continue the good rulership of his father. The line of children would likely have different trajectories, but Aemon’s reign would lay the foundation for continued harmony in Westeros.
No Civil Wars
Given his honorable and just nature, Aemon would not produce any bastard children, thus avoiding the catastrophic civil wars that have plagued the Targaryen family. The absence of a Barristan Selmy in the Kingsguard would not impact the overall stability, as the line of succession and rule would be fundamentally different.
Madness or Stability
While Targaryen madness is a coin flip, it’s conceivable that Aemon might also fall victim to madness. However, assuming his rule is peaceful, Aemon's long reign (spanning well into season 5) would see a stable and powerful realm. His son, a grown and powerful knight, would be well-prepared to take the throne.
The Long Reign and Legacy
At the end of Aemon's reign, the families of Westeros would be settled and at peace. Key figures would still be in position:
Stable Families and Houses
Mirriah Baratheon (Steffon's wife) and her sons, who would continue the Baratheon line. The Starks would be strong under Brandon Stark, with his son taking over after him. Edmure Tully would inherit the Riverlands after declaring his daughter is the legitimate heir. Tywin Lannister would still be alive, maintaining control over the Lannister fortune.Minor Conflicts and Challenges
Minor conflicts such as the Blackfyre rebellions would be swiftly dealt with, as Aemon's regime would have established a powerful and stable rule. A wildling invasion would also be easily contained, thanks to the unified strength of the realm. The rise of the dead would be a formidable challenge, but Brandon Stark would lead his troops to fight them off.
Final Years and Succession
Aemon's death could potentially incite a massive civil war between his sons, reminiscent of the conflict between Renly and Stannis Baratheon. This scenario highlights the potential for political instability, even in a period of peace and prosperity.
During Aemon's long and peaceful reign, the line of Targaryen kings would have been strengthened by his just and wise rule. The future of Westeros would be secure, with the key families united and powerful. This hypothetical scenario offers insights into the potential for a different, perhaps more stable, direction for the Targaryen dynasty.
Related Keywords and Phrases
In your search for further exploration of this fascinating alternative history, consider these keywords and phrases:
Aemon the Dragonknight Targaryen legacy Westeros continuity Alternate Targaryen reign