Premier

Qualifications

The qualifications to become a Premier vary widely across the provinces of Aeldrithius, reflecting the diversity of cultures, governance styles, and values within the world. Despite these differences, several common requirements tend to emerge.
In most provinces, candidates must demonstrate substantial leadership experience, though this does not always have to come from governing settlements or managing territories. Many regions recognize leadership roles in smaller, yet equally challenging contexts, such as heading influential organizations, managing guilds, leading military units, or presiding over community councils or religious orders. The key is to show a proven ability to inspire others, make decisive choices, and manage resources effectively, regardless of the scale of responsibility.
A candidate for Premier is also expected to be of mature age, typically past their early adulthood, to ensure they have the wisdom and perspective gained from years of personal and professional growth. While specific age thresholds may vary by province, there is a common belief that youthful enthusiasm must be tempered by experience to meet the demands of provincial leadership.
Education is another cornerstone qualification. Premiers are expected to possess not only basic literacy and numeracy but also an advanced understanding of topics such as governance, economics, law, history, and military strategy. This level of education ensures that a Premier can navigate the complexities of leadership with competence and foresight. In provinces like Dawnveil, where scholarship is deeply valued, formal education at a recognized institution may be mandatory, whereas other regions might emphasize practical knowledge gained through lived experience.
Equally important is a profound understanding of spirituality. Most provinces hold deep connections to divine or natural forces, and the Premier is often seen as both a political leader and a spiritual figurehead. A candidate must display not only personal devotion but also a nuanced grasp of the spiritual beliefs that shape their province. This might include participating in religious ceremonies, studying sacred texts, or serving in a spiritual capacity before seeking higher office.

Appointment

The ceremony begins with the Procession of the People, a symbolic journey through the provincial capital. The incoming Premier is escorted by representatives from all walks of life, including farmers, merchants, scholars, warriors, and clergy. This procession emphasizes the Premier’s connection to the entire province, showcasing the unity between its leader and the people. Along the route, citizens line the streets to offer blessings, gifts, or symbolic items such as flowers, grains, or written prayers, further reinforcing the bond between the new Premier and their community.
Upon reaching the ceremonial site, the new Premier stands before a central figure or council- such as a high priest, elder council, or spiritual leader- and recites the Oath of Service. This vow includes promises to uphold justice, protect the province, and govern with integrity. While the exact wording of the oath may vary between cultures, its core principles reflect a universal commitment to the responsibilities of leadership. The oath not only binds the Premier to their duties but also serves as a public declaration of their dedication to the province and its people.
Following the oath, a Binding Ceremony is performed to symbolise the new Premier’s connection to their role and their province. The nature of this act varies depending on local traditions. In some regions, sacred cords or ribbons are draped over the Premier’s shoulders, representing the bonds of duty and unity. In others, the Premier places their hand in a ceremonial clay tablet, leaving a permanent mark as a symbol of their lasting impact on the province’s history. Another common variation is the lighting of a central flame, which signifies the spark of leadership and enlightenment that the Premier brings to their people.
One of the most significant moments of the Rite of Ascension is the Bestowal of Regalia. During this portion of the ceremony, the outgoing leader, a council member, or a spiritual figure presents the new Premier with the symbols of office. These items- such as a crown, staff, medallion, or official seal- are often imbued with cultural and historical significance. The regalia not only represents the authority of the position but also serves as a link between the new Premier and their predecessors, grounding their leadership in the traditions of the province.
After receiving the regalia, the new Premier participates in the Blessing of the Land, an act that reflects the interconnectedness of the Premier, the people, and the province itself. Accompanied by Saints, the Premier performs a ritual to invoke prosperity, harmony, and protection for the land. This might involve sprinkling sacred water, planting a symbolic tree, or offering prayers to the province’s deity. In many cultures, this act is believed to spiritually bind the Premier to the land they are sworn to protect, reinforcing their role as a steward of the province’s well-being.
The final ceremonial acts are the Declaration of Leadership and the Feast of Unity. The declaration is made by a central figure, who formally announces the new Premier to the gathered crowd. The Premier then delivers their first official address, reaffirming their commitment to the province and outlining their vision for its future. Following this, the ceremony transitions into a grand feast or celebration, open to all citizens. Featuring music, dance, and shared meals, the Feast of Unity serves as a joyful conclusion to the Rite of Ascension, symbolising the unity and prosperity that the new Premier is charged with upholding.

History

The role of the Premier has evolved significantly over the centuries. Originally, Premiers were leaders of entire nations, wielding vast power and authority. However, this changed around the year 500, when the goddess Abija intervened to address the growing conflicts that threatened the balance of Aeldrithius.
At the time, the god Lynç and his elves were aggressively expanding their territories, driven by an insatiable hunger for land. Their ambitions ignited relentless wars, destabilising the world and causing widespread suffering. Witnessing this chaos, Abija, a goddess known for her wisdom and dedication to harmony, decided that drastic measures were needed to restore peace.
Abija redefined the geopolitical structure of Aeldrithius by dividing the land not based on personal claims or conquest, but according to natural continental boundaries. This decision dismantled the concept of traditional nations and replaced them with provinces, each designed to function as an autonomous entity. To ensure stability and balance, Abija established a hierarchy where provinces would have leaders- now known as Premiers- responsible for their governance. These Premiers, while largely independent in managing their regions, would report to a higher authority overseeing the broader interests of the continent.
This new structure maintained the autonomy of individual provinces, allowing them to govern themselves according to their unique cultures and needs while promoting cooperation under a unified framework. Abija's intervention not only curbed the expansionist ambitions of Lynç’s elves but also brought an end to the endless cycle of wars, laying the foundation for a more stable and interconnected world.

Cultural Significance

Among the general population, Premiers are often regarded with the same reverence and authority as presidents, monarchs, or other supreme rulers. This perception arises from the close relationship Premiers maintain with their communities, as they are typically the ones directly involved in addressing the needs of the common folk. Unlike their higher-ranking superiors, who operate on a more removed, strategic level, Premiers are seen as accessible, relatable, and deeply engaged with the daily lives of the people they serve.
For many laypeople, the Premier is the face of leadership- someone they can approach, petition, or look to for guidance during times of need. This proximity fosters a sense of trust and loyalty that often surpasses the respect given to the Premier’s superiors, who may seem distant or out of touch with the struggles of ordinary citizens. While higher authorities oversee broader governance or inter-provincial relations, Premiers are the ones who attend local festivals, respond to regional crises, and mediate disputes within their provinces.
This perception is further reinforced by the Premier's hands-on role in implementing policies and ensuring the well-being of their communities. Their visible efforts to improve infrastructure, support local economies, and uphold cultural traditions make them not just leaders, but also protectors and advocates of the people. As a result, many citizens view Premiers as more than mere administrators; they are symbols of stability and guardians of their province's identity.
While higher-ranking leaders may hold theoretical power over the Premiers, the unique connection Premiers have with the populace often places them at the forefront of public respect and admiration. This dynamic underscores the vital role Premiers play in maintaining harmony between governance and the people of Aeldrithius.

Type

Civic, Political

Status

Currently in effect

Form of Address

Premier (last name)

Length of Term

Lifelong

Reports directly to

President