George R.R. Martin has tested the patience of his fans for years, repeatedly delaying the release of the next installment in A Song of Ice and Fire. But as it turns out, even a 15-year delay can have its advantages. While the author continues working on The Winds of Winter — which is expected to cover events from the later seasons of Game of Thrones — there’s still room for a significant update to the story, thanks to House of the Dragon.
With House of the Dragon Season 2, Aegon’s Conquest Gains a Whole New Meaning
Although the Game of Thrones prequel has faced harsh criticism from multiple sources, it made at least one great creative decision: House of the Dragon revealed that the Targaryens are driven by more than just a thirst for power.
In season two, characters begin placing even greater significance on Aegon I Targaryen’s prophecy, first mentioned by King Viserys in season one. According to this prediction, Westeros will inevitably face a long winter and darkness, bringing with it the White Walkers. The only way to resist this deadly threat is through a united realm under the rule of a Targaryen.
George R.R. Martin Has Several Ways to Integrate This Prophecy into The Winds of Winter
Considering that Martin himself introduced this concept to the showrunners of House of the Dragon years ago, it’s unlikely that he will ignore Aegon the Conqueror’s prophecy in The Winds of Winter.
One of the most obvious ways to incorporate it would be through Daenerys. In Martin’s novels, she is still alive and continues to pursue her vision with unwavering conviction, believing she is the only rightful ruler of Westeros.
Alternatively, the prophecy could be revealed by a character well-versed in the history of the Seven Kingdoms, or by someone with extraordinary insight — such as Samwell Tarly or Bran Stark.
