The Complex Reasons Behind Rhaegar’s Decision at the Tower of Joy in ASOIAF

The events at the Tower of Joy in A Song of Ice and Fire are intricate and deeply rooted in the narrative. Rhaegar Targaryen's actions can be interpreted through various lenses, providing a rich tapestry of possibilities. Let's delve into the possible reasons for his actions.

Honorable Intentions

It is often said that Rhaegar was a noble and honorable man. He may have believed that Ned Stark, despite their recent feud, would understand the significance of the situation. Rhaegar trusted that Ned would respect the circumstances, particularly considering Lyanna Stark's delicate condition. This interpretation hinges on the idea that Rhaegar valued trust and believed in Ned's essential goodness.

Kingsguard Loyalty

Another important factor to consider is the loyalty of the Kingsguard. The members of the Kingsguard, sworn to protect King Aerys II Targaryen and the crown, were duty-bound to follow his commands. Without explicit instructions from Rhaegar, they might have felt bound to deny Ned entry, adhering strictly to the rules and their oath of protection.

The Nature of the Conflict

The political tension at that time was intense, and the rapid changes in the political landscape created a highly vigilant atmosphere. The Kingsguard, being ever-vigilant, may have interpreted Ned's approach as a potential threat, especially with the backdrop of the recent Battle of the Trident and the animosity between the Starks and the Targaryens. This heightened state of alert could have contributed to their stringent adherence to protocol.

Rhaegar's Fate and the Absence of Instructions

Perhaps the most significant factor is Rhaegar's tragic death. If he perished at the Battle of the Trident, he would not have had the chance to give any instructions or clarify his intentions regarding Ned's entry. The rigid adherence to duty by the Kingsguard, in this case, suggests that they followed their orders to the letter, without further context or clarification.

Lyanna's Condition

Rhaegar may have known of Lyanna’s pregnancy and her critical condition. He might have felt a deep sense of responsibility to protect both her and their secret child. This secret could have been so significant that Rhaegar did not prioritize publicizing his plans, knowing that fewer people who knew the truth could better safeguard it.

Conclusion

The combination of Rhaegar’s noble intentions, the loyalty of the Kingsguard, and the chaotic circumstances of the rebellion all contributed to the tragic outcome at the Tower of Joy. Each of these factors provides a plausible explanation for why Rhaegar did not order the Kingsguard to allow Ned into the Tower, highlighting the complexity of the situation and the deep layers of conflict and loyalty at play.

Additional Context

Rhaegar’s decision at the Tower of Joy was far more than a straightforward act of either honor or betrayal. He considered the house lineages, the potential for magic, and the looming risk of wildfire. Even if Ned was a trusted figure, his companions might not have been, and Rhaegar’s calculations included the potential for conflict with Robert Baratheon. Secrecy was paramount, and he aimed to protect Lyanna and their secret, which meant keeping as much information confidential as possible.