Duke of Albion
The ruler of one of the 8 duchies of Albion. An incredibly powerful position, they are practically beholden to noone and have almost unlimited power within their realms, as well as vast access to resources.
A duke will typically control a total of 1200 manors, varying from 800 on the low end and 1400 on the high, and so around a 1000 to 1100 knights, along with their retinues, which is a total of around 10-14k soldiers. In times of total war this could increase to around 30k. In their domain there are typically around half a million people. The dwarven and elven systems are different, but similar.
Requirements
Simply being the heir through the Spark augmented male preference primogeniture
Duties
Generally, running their duchy and managing their vassals. Directly they will likely have 10-15 counts and marchlords below them, as well as another dozen or so lesser lords, perhaps a city or two, and their personal manors. In practice, this tends to look like travelling throughout their realm on a regular basis, visiting thier vassals, hearing their grievances and issues, and figuring out simple solutions.
In addition of course, they are the primary defence against exterior forces, such as invasions from other duchies or even kingdoms. As such, they are commander in chief of whatever army they would be able to raise.
In addition of course, they are the primary defence against exterior forces, such as invasions from other duchies or even kingdoms. As such, they are commander in chief of whatever army they would be able to raise.
Responsibilities
Fundamentally, it is just to keep the duchy running at a high level, but practically it entails managing competing interests, negotiating with other dukes, and handling the many affairs of state. While not a physically demanding job, it is one that can be very stressful and quite challenging, which leads most dukes to relying on a network of stewards, advisors, and other helpful people, each of whom of course have their own goals.
Benefits
A heck of a lot of money, a heck of a lot of power, a heck of a lot of prestige, and a pretty comfortable life all things considered.
Accoutrements & Equipment
Most dukes wear a ring of iron around their heads, and most will wear fine chain in their day to day, but otherwise incredibly varied.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
Generally most dukes can be removed by a concerted effort from their likely heir, though generally only if they are quite old and senile. In addition, theoretically the king could remove them, even at will, but this would not be popular with the other dukes and would also likely be ignored by the duke.
Type
Nobility, Hereditary
Form of Address
High Lord
Alternative Naming
Dux
Source of Authority
The gods
Length of Term
Life or senility
Current Holders
Reports directly to
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