The Future of Dorne: Who Will Reign After the Martell Dynasty Falls?

Dorne, the mysteriously stone-like region of Westeros, has seen a significant power shift following the downfall of the Martell dynasty. With Aldorric Martell no longer at the helm, the region's fate remains uncertain, sparking speculation about its future rulers and the emerging forces vying for control.

The Reach: Bronn's Temporary Reign

In the aftermath of the Martell’s demise, the Reach has found itself under the governance of Bronn, a character known for his intelligence and strategic acumen. Though Bronn seems to hold temporary control, it's no secret that his rule is unlikely to endure. The show has yet to sufficiently justify Bronn's sudden rise to power. It's speculated that Tyrion Lannister, his chummy ally, arranged for Bronn to assume control, sidestepping the need for a more legitimate transitional period.

Dorne: A New Prince Emerges

Dorne, on the other hand, has recently introduced a new prince, who, according to my head cannon, is Quentyn Martell. This decision, however, raises questions about whether the new governance will be stable or merely a facade. In my head cannon, Dorne is relieved to see the infamous Sand Snakes and Ellaria Sands gone, and has quickly installed Quentyn as a placeholder.

While the writers seem eager to clean up the mess from Dorne in the show, my theory posits that Dorne might have quietly elected a major house to take over or found a distant relative of House Martell who avoided the Sand Snakes' wrath. This individual, though offering token support to Daenerys Targaryen, has maintained a low profile to ensure their safety and influence.

House Martell's Resilience: Inheritance and Heritage

Even with the unfortunate deaths of Obara, Tyene, and Nymeria Sand, the likelihood of House Martell going extinct in Dorne is slim. Dorne's unique inheritance laws allow for the transfer of property and titles based on seniority rather than strict gender norms. Oberyn Martell, the late prince, had eight daughters, and at least five of them remain alive. With each of these daughters potentially claiming the throne, the extinction of the Martell line is not a foregone conclusion.

Moreover, it's important to recognize that bastards can inherit in Dorne, unlike in most other parts of Westeros. This means that a legitimate heir could emerge from the"description siblings or other relatives, ensuring the continuation of House Martell. The Baratheon line, for example, is a continuation of the Durrandon line, demonstrating the fluid nature of Dorne's inheritance laws.

Conclusion and Speculation

As the series progresses, the fate of Dorne remains a subject of intense speculation. Whether Bronn holds temporary power in the Reach or Quentyn Martell reigns in Dorne, the region's future is a mixture of uncertainty and potential change. With House Martell's resilience and the unique nature of Dorne's inheritance laws, the Martell line may yet see a resurgence. Only time will tell who will ultimately reign in this enigmatic region of Westeros.

Key Points:

Bronn in the Reach: Likely to be overthrown soon, though he currently holds power. Quentyn Martell in Dorne: New prince, possibly a temporary placeholder or part of a broader transition. House Martell's Resilience: Inheritance laws in Dorne allow for the continuation of the Martell line, despite setbacks.