Ser Criston was accused of killing a man named Rhaegar Targaryen, who was married to his sister, in the War of the Five Kings.
The arrest of Ser Criston Cole for the murder of Rhaegar Targaryen has left many people wondering how a knight with such a long and distinguished career could have committed such a crime. The answer is complicated and not entirely clear, but it has to do with his sister being married to Rhaegar and having an affair with Robert Baratheon. Ser Criston Cole is the head of House Cole and Lord Paramount of the Riverlands. He’s also been arrested for murder.
Who is Ser Criston Cole?
Ser Criston was born in 280 AC, making him 48 years old at the time of his arrest. He’s known as one of Westeros’ greatest knights and served as Master-at-Arms at Casterly Rock during King Robert Baratheon’s reign. When Prince Rhaegar Targaryen kidnapped Lyanna Stark, Robert called upon his bannermen to join him in rebellion against King Aerys II Targaryen. The war lasted two years before they were able to defeat the Mad King and take control over Westeros. After defeating Aerys II, Robert appointed Ser Criston as Lord Paramount of the Riverlands in gratitude for his service during the war.
What did he do during Robert’s Rebellion?
Ser Criston participated in every major battle during Robert’s Rebellion against House Targaryen. His first notable act was taking part in the siege at Storm’s End when it was held by Lord Stannis Baratheon, brother to both Prince Rhaegar and Queen Rhaella Targaryen.
Why did he kill that guy?
Rhaegar had abducted Lyanna Stark from her home at Winterfell before marrying her in secret on Dragonstone island after their fathers arranged their marriage without either party’s consent (this wasn’t allowed). It was believed that Lyanna ran away with him willingly but she may have been taken by force.
“She was crying when I last saw her,” said Ned.
“She said she would never see me again.” – “A Game Of Thrones”, Chapter 42
“You will never walk again,” said Lord Eddard Stark.
“I don’t mean to,” said Prince Rhaegar.
“You will be wedded here in this hall on this day one month hence.” – “A Game Of Thrones”, Chapter 44“A Game Of Thrones”, Chapter 46
