ASOIAF/GOT Let Madness Reign – Aerys SI (ASOIAF)

[david99t1]

I think that Rhaegar's kidnapping could be used to eliminate at least one problem if he and Robert were to be allowed to duel over her hand.

 

[Basileus_Komnenos]

I think that Rhaegar's kidnapping could be used to eliminate at least one problem if he and Robert were to be allowed to duel over her hand.

Well the problem with that is Rhaegar is already married and Lyanna is betrothed to Robert. According to feudal laws she'd be married to Robert. Her running away with Rhaegar would be a major loss of prestige for the Baratheons and House Stark. Rhaegar wouldn't come out of this scott free as the Faith would be pissed at the prospect of a polygamous/bigamous Targaryen. This was party what they're rebellion against Maegor was about. A lot of the more pious noble and peasants would be outraged. Princess Elia would also be pissed since her child would now endanger her children's right to the throne. The Martells would be enraged since Elia did her duty in siring Rhaegar heirs. Something which nearly killed her. It would be an immense dishonor to their house. If anything its more likely that Oberyn would end up challenging Rhaegar to a duel and likel killing him. If there's no duel, he'd probably poison Lyanna and her child.

Aerys' position is already precarious and such a controversy could tip the scales against him.