Will Wyman Manderly Use Rickon Stark as a Puppet Ruler of The North?

Speculation reigns high in the A Song of Ice and Fire fandom, with many fans questioning whether Lord Wyman Manderly and his wife, Reylla Manderly, might manipulate Rickon Stark to become the puppet ruler of The North. This hypothetical scenario presents an intriguing narrative twist that could significantly alter the power dynamics in Westeros.

Stannis Baratheon and the Boltons

One potential scenario involves Stannis Baratheon leading a victorious campaign against the Boltons, who currently control Winterfell and the North. It is conceivable that after Stannis consolidates his power, he could be eliminated, and Rickon Stark, being a weaker and less formidable adversary, might be proposed as the new ruler of The North. This transition would aim to stabilize the region and remove any potential threats from Stannis.

Alternative Scenario: Dance of the Wolves

An alternate theory suggests that following the fall of the Boltons, the region may experience a significant political upheaval, reminiscent of the Dance of the Dragons. Here, the factions supporting Rickon Stark could include the Manderlys, the Glovers, and perhaps the Locke and Umber families. The ability of Rickon to warg (possess animals through his mind) might also earn him the respect of the Stoneborn, adding a unique power dynamic to his claim for the North.

Jon Snow's Return and Power Dynamics

On the opposing side is Jon Snow, who is presumed to return from the Night's Watch. With the support of the wildlings, House Thenn, and possibly House Mormont, Jon could challenge Rickon Stark for control of the North. It is speculated that a resurrected Jon may be significantly different from his past self, leading to a complex power struggle. Despite the moral implications of fighting a child, the motivations and decisions of resurrected Jon Snow could heavily influence the outcome.

Sansa Stark and Her Alliances

Sansa Stark may seek an alliance with Rossart and the Vale, possibly under the control of Petyr Baelish. However, it is also possible that Sansa could overthrow Petyr and rule independently. This scenario adds another layer of complexity, as it involves Sansa's strategic maneuvering to secure her position and align with other powerful factions.

The Complication of Robb Stark's Will

The arrival of Galbart Glover, Maege Mara, and Howland Reed could further complicate matters, especially if they are part of Robb Stark's will. If Robb has named Jon as his heir, Wyman Manderly might argue that Rickon's claims are nullified by his father's will. This potential conflict could lead to a fractured North, with various factions vying for control.

The Role of the Riverlands

The Riverlands and specifically the Blackfish and Blackwoods play a crucial role in this scenario. Some of the riverlords, especially those loyal to House Tully, might not accept Rickon Stark's rule. Their support for the Blackfish and Blackwood families could create a significant challenge for the Manderlys and their allies.

While these scenarios involve numerous complex elements, the ultimate outcome is highly speculative. Fans and experts in the lore of A Song of Ice and Fire continue to debate the possibilities, and the true path of the future of Westeros remains uncertain.