Primogeniture and Election

Most areas of Mythic Europe have a well-developed body of inheritance law, but these statutes are open to interpretation. In most cases the succession for noble title and influence is clear, for instance where an eldest son is the only viable successor to a dying father. But when a noble dies with no immediate heir these laws provide guidance to his councillors on selecting the closest relative, or the individual with the strongest claim.

The selection process itself is governed by local law or custom, which may give greater weight to male heirs over female, pass title to brothers rather than nephews, or bar the female line from succession altogether. And in cases where these laws must be relied upon, the candidates have their supporters vying for future influence.