What was the significance of Rhaegar and Lyanna's relationship in Game of Thrones?

In the Game of Thrones universe, Rhaegar and Lyanna's story is a tragic and complex one. Rhaegar was a complex character, often misunderstood. He was drawn to Lyanna for reasons that may have been related to his understanding of certain prophecies. When he took Lyanna, it sparked a war. The Starks, led by Lyanna's brother Brandon, felt they had to rescue her. This led to Brandon's death at the hands of the Mad King, Aerys II. The war that ensued, Robert's Rebellion, changed the political landscape of Westeros forever. And all because of the relationship between Rhaegar and Lyanna, which also had the unforeseen consequence of Jon Snow's birth, a character who would play a crucial role in the later events of the series.

Well, in fanfiction, the relationship between Rhaegar and Lyanna can vary greatly. Some stories might focus on their initial meeting, perhaps at a tourney, and how that sparked their connection. It could be a love at first sight kind of thing. Other fanfictions might explore how they coped with the secrecy of their relationship, given that Rhaegar was already married. And there are also those that delve into the idea of their relationship being part of some grander prophecy or plan in the world of Game of Thrones.

In fanfiction, their love can be seen in multiple ways. Some stories paint it as a love that was doomed from the start. Given the political situation and Rhaegar's existing marriage, there was little chance for them to be together happily. However, other fanfictions present it as a more pure and selfless love. They were willing to face all the difficulties for each other. And then there are fanfictions that focus on how their love was a catalyst for change in the Seven Kingdoms, whether it was a good change or a bad one depending on the story's perspective.

Some fanfics may also depict it in a more complex way. For instance, they might show that Rhaegar was initially attracted to Lyanna for political reasons, but then truly fell in love with her. And Lyanna might have been hesitant at first but then grew to love him deeply. It could also explore how their relationship affected the political landscape around them, not just as a love story but as a catalyst for change.

A fanfic might show a different side of their relationship. For example, it could be set during Lyanna's captivity by Rhaegar. However, instead of a forced situation, it could be that Lyanna actually stays with him willingly because she has come to understand his vision for the Seven Kingdoms. They might be planning together for a better future that involves changing the old, corrupt ways of ruling.

Often, the theme of prophecy plays a role. Maybe Rhaegar believed Lyanna was part of some prophecy, which led to his actions. Also, the theme of family loyalty is big. How the Starks react to Lyanna's disappearance and how the Targaryens are involved in Rhaegar's actions are things that are frequently written about. It's all about the complex web of relationships and loyalties in this scenario.

One common theme is the idea of a forbidden love. Since their relationship was controversial in the original story, this often plays a big part in fanfiction. Another theme is the impact on the Seven Kingdoms. Their marriage could have had major political and social consequences, which is often explored.

A great Lyanna x Rhaegar fanfiction often has well - developed characters. The author should be able to capture the essence of both Lyanna and Rhaegar as they are in the original source material, while also adding their own unique interpretations. For example, showing Lyanna's strength and Rhaegar's complex nature.

One great fanfiction could be 'A Love Beyond the Throne'. It beautifully portrays the relationship between Lyanna and Rhaegar. It delves into their initial encounter and how their feelings gradually developed. The story is rich in details about the world they live in, the political unrest around them, and how their love was a glimmer of hope in a dark time.

Yes, there are some out there. You can try searching on fanfiction platforms like Archive of Our Own. Some stories might explore different motives behind Rhaegar's actions, whether it was true kidnapping or a more complex situation involving love or prophecy. However, interpretations can vary greatly among different authors.