Rhaegar Targaryen was the eldest son and heir of King Aerys II Targaryen, also known as the Mad King, and Queen Rhaella Targaryen. He held the title of Prince of Dragonstone and was crown prince to the Iron Throne. Rhaegar was the older brother of Viserys and Daenerys Targaryen. He was married to Elia Martell, with whom he had two children: Rhaenys and Aegon
. Rhaegar was known as a skilled warrior and a thoughtful, somewhat reserved individual who was more interested in music and prophecy than in battle, despite his martial prowess. He was popular among the smallfolk during his lifetime. Notably, he was involved in a controversial relationship with Lyanna Stark, which played a significant role in sparking Robert's Rebellion, a civil war that ultimately led to the fall of House Targaryen. During the rebellion, Rhaegar was killed in single combat by Robert Baratheon at the Battle of the Trident, a location thereafter known as the Ruby Ford due to the rubies from Rhaegar's armor scattered in the water
. His wife Elia Martell and their children were brutally murdered during the Sack of King's Landing, an event that further fueled the downfall of the Targaryen dynasty. The true nature of Rhaegar's relationship with Lyanna Stark remains a mystery, but it is suggested that it was based on love rather than abduction, contrasting with the perception held by many characters within the story
