Introduction

The decision to crown Baela Targaryen as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms after the Dance of Dragons would have significantly altered the landscape of Westeros. This article explores the potential outcomes and implications of such an event, delving into the political, social, and military facets of her reign.

Legitimacy and Support

Targaryen Legacy: As a Targaryen, Baela would carry the bloodline and historical claim to the throne. Her legitimacy might have surpassed that of Aegon III, who was often perceived as a figure manipulated by the regents.

Support from Dragonriders: Baela’s connection to her father, Prince Daemon, as a dragonrider would have given her significant military power. Her dragon, Moondancer, could have served as a powerful deterrent against rebellion and uprisings.

Political Alliances

House Velaryon: Baela’s mother, Rhaenyra, is a member of House Velaryon, which is one of the most powerful noble houses in Westeros. Baela’s alliance with this house could have amplified her position and strengthened its naval power.

Other Houses: Depending on her marriage alliances, Baela could have forged new or reinforced existing political ties among the noble houses, influencing the balance of power in the Seven Kingdoms.

Handling the Realm

Reconciliation Efforts: Baela might have taken steps to heal the wounds caused by the civil war, including offering clemency to former enemies and initiating reconciliation efforts. This could have created a more stable realm.

Focus on Governance: Unlike her predecessors, Baela could have placed a greater emphasis on governance and administration, potentially leading to a more prosperous and stable kingdom.

Opposition and Conflict

Resistance from Aegon III Supporters: Aegon III had his own faction of supporters, and Baela’s ascension could have led to further conflicts if these supporters felt disenfranchised.

Potential for Civil Unrest: The realm was still reeling from the aftermath of the Dance of Dragons, so any instability in her rule, whether internal dissent or external threats, could have led to more conflict.

Impact on Future Generations

Dynastic Changes: Baela’s reign could have set a precedent for the future of the Targaryen dynasty. Depending on her heirs, the Targaryen lineage and its claims could have taken a different path.

Cultural Shift: The reign of a female monarch could have influenced societal views on women in power, potentially altering the cultural fabric of Westeros.

Dragons and Warfare

Military Strategy: With dragons remaining a significant factor in warfare, Baela might have used Moondancer to assert dominance and deter conflicts. Alternatively, she could have faced challenges if other factions managed to acquire dragons or dragon-related power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baela Targaryen’s ascension to the throne would have brought a more unified realm if she successfully navigated the complex politics of the era. However, the deeply entrenched rivalries and the aftermath of the Dance of Dragons would have posed significant challenges. Her reign would likely reflect the tumultuous nature of Westerosi politics during that era.