The Impact of Rhaenyra Targaryen Possessing Vhagar in the Dance of Dragons

Imagine Rhaenyra Targaryen, the daughter of Viserys I, possessing Vhagar, one of the largest and fiercest dragons in the world, during the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. The consequences of this hypothetical event would have been profound, significantly altering the dynamics of the conflict.

Strategic Advantage

Vhagar's Tactile Advantage: Vhagar, as one of the largest and most fearsome dragons, would have granted Rhaenyra a significant tactical advantage in battle. Her forces would have been bolstered by Vhagar's immense size and combat capabilities. A dragon of such power and strength would have made her a more formidable opponent against her half-brother, Aegon II Targaryen. The scale of her aerial assaults and the sheer force of her presence would have been intimidating to her enemies.

Psychological Impact

Public Sentiment and Support: The presence of Vhagar would likely have had a powerful psychological impact on the conflict. The sheer reputation of Vhagar as a legendary dragon could have swayed public opinion, potentially encouraging more noble houses to support Rhaenyra's claim to the Iron Throne. The fear and awe inspired by Vhagar would have demoralized Aegon II's supporters, fostering discord and weakening his coalition.

Air Superiority

Aerial Assaults and Defense: Control of Vhagar would have markedly enhanced Rhaenyra's air superiority. This would have allowed her to launch more effective aerial assaults and defend her territories against Aegon II's dragon, Sunfyre. Vhagar's capabilities in the air would have changed the outcome of several key battles. The additional dragons and their riders would have likely participated in different alliances, leading to a more fluid power structure and possibly resulting in greater successes for Rhaenyra's faction.

Dragon Dynamics and Alliances

Intense Rivalry and Alliances: The Dance of the Dragons was characterized by the intense rivalry between the dragons and their riders. The possession of Vhagar could have led to different confrontations and alliances among the dragon riders. Different fates for dragons and their riders would have been possible, altering the balance of power and potentially changing the outcome of the conflict.

Political Ramifications

Influencing Loyalty and Resolution: Rhaenyra's possession of Vhagar might have influenced the loyalty of other noble houses. If they perceived her as more powerful, there is a higher likelihood that they would support her. This could have led to a quicker resolution to the conflict in Rhaenyra's favor, hastening the establishment of her rule as the rightful Targaryen king.

Consequences of Loss

Devastating Military and Moral Blow: The consequences of losing Vhagar in battle would have been significant. Beyond the immediate military decline, the loss of such a powerful dragon would have been a severe blow to Rhaenyra's cause. Morale would have plummeted, and the loss of a key asset in the conflict would have made it even more difficult for her to claim the Iron Throne.

In summary, if Rhaenyra had possessed Vhagar, it would likely have shifted the balance of power in the Dance of the Dragons. The presence of such a formidable dragon would have given Rhaenyra a strong chance of claiming the Iron Throne, redefining the outcome of the civil war.