Why Arthur Dayne and the Kingsguard Kept Ned Stark’s Group Out of the Tower of Joy

The events that transpired in the Tower of Joy during the series A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin have puzzled fans for years. Among the most pressing questions is why Arthur Dayne and the Kingsguard kept Ned Stark’s group out of the tower, knowing that Lyanna Stark was to give birth to Aegon Targaryen. This article delves into the motivations behind their actions, shedding light on the prophecy and the personal and political stakes involved.

Prophecy and Human Sacrifice

The prophecy of Azor Ahai foretold the birth of a savior, who would be reborn to draw his sword from the flame, making Lightbringer. This sword symbolizes the promise of a new dawn, but also entails significant sacrifices. Lord Commander Gerold Hightower, Sir Oswell Whent, and Arthur Dayne, known as the Sword of the Morning, were tasked with a crucial duty—to ensure the birth of the savior. According to the prophecy, the savior must be born amidst salt and smoke under a bleeding star, and the flame needed for his birth involves burning Lyanna Stark alive.

These individuals did not guard Lyanna to protect her. Rather, they imprisoned her to create the necessary conditions for her to give birth to the savior. Their actions were driven by the belief that such a birth would fulfill a crucial role in the fate of Westeros. This understanding, rooted in the prophecy, makes their actions align with the greater purpose, rather than protecting her.

Protecting the True Heir

The Kingsguard were sworn to protect the King of the Seven Kingdoms, which includes safeguarding the rightful heir. By the time the events at the Tower of Joy occurred, it was clear that Jon Aegon was the true heir to the Iron Throne, having been named by Elia Martell and Tournament winners. However, the death of Rhaegar Targaryen and the disappearance of Aegon seemingly left the path open for others to claim the throne.

Ned Stark, as Lyanna’s brother, had no legal right to the prince if he did not use force. Yet, the Kingsguard would not allow him passage, knowing the dire consequences of allowing him to enter. Their decision was not based on Ned’s relationship to Lyanna, but rather on their duty to the prophecy and the safety of the potential savior.

The Role of Duty and Loyalty

Rhaegar and Arthur Dayne were childhood friends, and Arthur took his duties as a member of the Kingsguard very seriously. Therefore, if Rhaegar commanded Arthur to defend the tower, Arthur would comply unconditionally. This unwavering loyalty to their prince and their oaths to the Kingsguard meant that protection of the tower, and specifically the delivery of the reborn Azor Ahai, was a top priority.

Furthermore, the Kingsguard were complicit in the death of Aerys Targaryen and the subsequent downfall of House Targaryen, which included the death of their prince. They saw Ned Stark as an agent of this downfall, and thus had a personal interest in preventing him from interfering with the prophecy’s fulfillment.

In summary, the actions of Arthur Dayne and the Kingsguard to keep Ned Stark’s group out of the Tower of Joy were driven by the fulfillment of a significant prophecy, the protection of the true heir to the Iron Throne, and a combination of loyalty, duty, and personal vendettas. These factors underscore the complex motivations and the broader political and religious context of the events in the Tower of Joy.