Think of the Targaryen family tree as a pretzel that’s been twisted a few too many times. Jon Snow isn’t a Stark bastard—he’s actually Aegon Targaryen, the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. And Daenerys? She’s the daughter of the Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen.
So, on the Targaryen side, Jon is Dany’s nephew. His dad, Rhaegar, was Dany’s older brother. That makes Jon the son of Dany’s sibling—like your cool uncle’s kid being your cousin, but with more fire and dragons.
Wait, does that make them direct family? Yes—first cousins once removed in modern terms, but in Targaryen tradition, they’re basically a perfect match. Why? Because Targaryens have been marrying siblings and cousins for centuries. It’s their weird, fire-proof version of “keeping it in the family.”
Why It’s So Confusing (and Kinda Brilliant)
Here’s where it gets fun: Jon and Dany grew up thinking they were from different worlds. She’s the exotic dragon queen across the sea; he’s the brooding Northerner who can’t stay dead. But their blood runs through the same ancient line—both are descendants of Aegon the Conqueror.
Imagine finding out your long-lost cousin is also the most famous person on the planet, and you both have a pet dragon. Awkward family reunions, anyone? Their relationship isn’t just royal—it’s prophecy-level special. The books hint that Jon is the “Prince That Was Promised,” a savior figure, while Dany is the “Mother of Dragons.” Together, they’re like two halves of a mythical puzzle piece.
But hold up—does this make their romance weird? In our world, sure. In Westeros? The Targaryens did it to keep their dragon-blood “pure.” Think of it like a royal tradition where marrying your cousin is as normal as naming your kid “Joffrey.” It’s gross by our standards, but fascinating to watch play out.
Daenerys / Jonerys / Dream of Spring | Jon snow and daenerys, Dany and