The Hidden Truth: How Rhaegar's Son Was Shielded from the Sack of King's Landing

Who could have envisaged that Prince Aegon VI Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen, would survive the turbulent times following the Sack of King's Landing? The answer lies in the intricate web of politics, loyalty, and hidden plans developed by key players including Prince Doran Martell, Ser Arthur Dayne, Prince Oberyn Martell, and Ser Willem Darry. This article reveals how these characters were involved in protecting the rightful heir to the Iron Throne during one of the most critical moments in Westerosi history.

Rhaegar’s Son, Aegon VI

Among those who considered Rhaegar's son Aegon VI Targaryen as the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne, his lineage alone makes him a strong candidate. He is the nephew of Prince Doran Martell, the son of Ser Arthur Dayne's best friend, and the nephew of Prince Oberyn Martell. While Ser Willem Darry's loyalty to Viserys I Targaryen or Aegon VI is ambiguous, it's clear that Aegon VI would have needed a secure and hidden sanctuary during the perilous times.

The Intricate Plan at Starfall

The rumors around Ashara Dayne, the daughter of Ser Arthur Dayne, suggest that her role might have been pivotal. During the War of the Five Kings, it is speculated that Ashara managed to bring a baby to Starfall, believed to be someone in need of care. The network of communication between Ser Elia Martin and Rhaegar Targaryen through Ashara is a key element that led to the discovery that the true heir was being hidden from the Targaryen guards at King's Landing.

It's highly likely that Ashara and Elia switched Aegon VI with someone else on Dragonstone before Elia and Rhaenys Targaryen ever ventured to King's Landing. Ashara then meticulously took care of Aegon VI, keeping him safe from prying eyes. The secrecy around Aegon VI's whereabouts earned him the name "dragonseed," a moniker that reflects his Targaryen lineage and his clandestine protection.

Supporting Characters at the Tower of Joy and Beyond

At the Tower of Joy, Rhaegar Targaryen would have taken a significant role in ensuring Aegon VI's safety. Ser Arthur Dayne would have made regular trips to the Tower, checking on the child and providing essential supplies. The complex family dynamics at Starfall would have seen Ashara returning with supplies and information, coupled with Wylla's preparations for the birth of Jon Snow. The Tower of Joy, a last bastion of Targaryen resistance, would have been the primary hiding place for Aegon VI.

Speculatively, the trueborn son being hidden in the Tower of Joy might indeed have been Aegon VI. The complexity of the situation, involving multiple family members and trusted advisors, suggests that Ned Stark would have missed his chance to find the true heir, leading to a dead end in his investigations.

Veracity and Doubt

While most of the above is speculative, it's important to consider the motivations and uncertainties surrounding the characters involved. Doran Martell and Oberyn Martell might have initially been unaware of Aegon VI's true identity, only suspecting later when there was evidence pointing to the possibility. William Darry might have been another key figure, as the frequent journeys to Starfall hint at a more sophisticated and extensive plan.

Regarding Rhaella Targaryen, the mother of Viserys I Targaryen and daughter of Aerys II Targaryen, there are conflicting accounts. The discrepancy between her known history and the descriptions given by Dany, Viserys's child, add a layer of mystery. The mention of a girl with a red door and the descriptions of William Darry suggest a complex and intertwined history that might not be entirely straightforward.

Conclusion and Future Implications

The story of Aegon VI Targaryen's survival and subsequent escape to Essos is a testament to the enduring Targaryen spirit and the survivors of the Targaryen line. The various characters, including Doran Martell, Ser Arthur Dayne, Prince Oberyn Martell, and Ser Willem Darry, played crucial roles in the hidden plans that protected the rightful heir during the chaotic period post-Sack of King's Landing. This hidden history adds a more intricate and nuanced layer to the broader narrative of Westerosi history, suggesting that the Targaryen legacy might have been much more complicated and resilient than initially thought.

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