Regency in the Riverlands: Exploring the Succession After Hoster Tully's Death

In the intricate political landscape of Westeros, the riverside can be just as tumultuous and politically charged as any other region. The death of Hoster Tully, the Lord of Riverrun, would likely trigger a succession crisis, especially if the immediate heir, Edmure Tully, were unavailable. This article delves into the plausible scenarios for regency in the Riverlands should such an event occur.

The Immediate Succession

As the immediate son of the deceased Lord, Edmure Tully would typically take over the ruleship of the Riverlands. However, this scenario depends on Edmure's current age and status. If Edmure were on the higher end of the 8-16 age range, he might not be of sufficient maturity to govern independently and would likely require a regent to oversee his rule until he came of age.

Alternatives to Direct Rule

If Edmure were already estranged from the family or otherwise unavailable, the Riverlands would need a regent to ensure stability. In such a case, the region could be ruled by another member of the influential Riverlords, such as a Mallister, a Bracken, or a Blackwood. These families have long histories in the Riverlands and maintain significant influence in the region.

Political Implications and Stability

The choice of who becomes regent is critical, as it could significantly impact the stability and alliances in the Riverlands. For instance, a Mallister regency might emphasize trade and commerce, a Bracken regency might focus on strategic military support, while a Blackwood regency might prioritize land expansion and territory control.

It's also crucial to consider the role of the powerful Lannisters and Starks in determining who holds the regency. The Lannisters, due to their recent conquest, might assert their influence over the Riverlands, while the Starks, as an old and respected family, could also play a significant role in such power dynamics.

Historical Precedents

Looking at historical precedents in Westeros, the Riverlands have often been contested territories. The frequent changes in leadership and alliances within the region have led to numerous wars and conflicts. During times of instability, powerful families or even external forces might seek to gain control by appointing their own candidates as regents.

Moreover, the appointment of regents often entails complex political negotiations and sometimes even military engagements. The regent must be seen as a legitimate guardian of the region's interests, and their ability to maintain order and ensure the loyalty of local lords and subjects is crucial.

Current State of the Tully Family

Edmure Tully's current estrangement from his family means that without a regent, the Riverlands could face significant challenges. His estrangement could be due to conflicts with other family members or his own internal struggles. In such a scenario, Edmure might initially rule with a regent to maintain stability and re-establish his authority.

Other factors that could influence the choice of regent include the current political climate, the balance of power within the Riverlands, and the Stannis-Baratheon war's impact on the region. If the Stannis-Baratheon war escalates, external stability could decline, and the need for a strong regent might increase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the succession of the Riverlands after Hoster Tully's death hinges on the availability of Edmure Tully. If he is unavailable or already estranged, the region would need a regent to ensure stability. The choice of regent would be influenced by historical precedents, the current political climate, and the interplay of powerful families in Westeros.

Understanding the dynamics of regency in the Riverlands is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the complex political landscape of Westeros. The appointment of a regent is more than just a ceremonial position; it is a key strategic move that can shape the future of the region and the entire realm.