ARCHMAGI (arch-magi)
OVERVIEW
The Archmagi is the highest office of the Sarton magi, with the position being established after the reign of the first Sarton kings. The Archmagi is seen as the living embodiment of the power possessed by the Sarton Magi, and the supreme leader of the Sarton magi. The Archmagi also hold the position of arcane advisor to the Sarton king. The Archmagi is rivaled by the High Priest of the Pharas Tribe.Qualifications
The person who holds the title of Archmagi must first be of Sarton heritage, trained within the order of Sarton magi, be well-versed in Sarton magic, and prove that they are capable of leading through holding the rank of High Magi. Afterwards, they may attain the position through election by the Magi Council upon become the previous Archmagi’s chosen successor.
Requirements
The candidate for the title of Archmagi must be a native-born Sarton resident, and raised/trained as a Sarton magi for many years. Foreigners are excluded from the position. Having ties to Sarton nobility is allowed, but the candidate cannot hold any noble titles officially. The candidate must demonstrate mastery of all forms of Sarton magic.
Appointment
Once the candidate has achieved all of the requirements, the Magi Council holds a special session where the candidate participates in a arcane ritual. This ritual, called the Arising Ceremony, is held within the Arcane Citadel west of the Sarton capital city of Shaulen. The exact details are kept secret by the Sarton Magi, so much that even the Sarton King is forbidden by Sarton law from attending. What is known about this ritual is that no one from the Council may leave the ritual until either the candidate fully ascends to the office, or fails in doing so. Should the candidate be successful, he will emerge from the Arising Ceremony adored in the robes of the Archmagi for all outside the ritual room to see. The audience kneels before the Archmagi to affirm their vow to honor & serve the Archmagi.
Duties
The duties of the Archmagi are the daily care of the Sarton magi under them, governing for the order as a whole. They also represent the interests of the Sarton Magi before the Sarton Court, conducting themselves as the very living embodiment of all the magic of the Sarton Kingdom. They also are responsible for communicating the will of the gods of Sarton to the Sarton Court.
Responsibilities
The Archmagi are responsible for the guardianship of the secrets of the Sarton magi, ensuring that no one who is not of the Sarton magi order gains unsupervised access. They also guide the Sarton Court on arcane matters, including consulting the Sarton nobility on matters that require their attention. The Archmagi also oversees all temple ceremonies within the capital city of Shaulen held each month. They also act as mediator between the people of Sarton and the gods of Sarton.
Benefits
The Archmagi is subject only to the authority of the Sarton royalty, having a higher rank than many nobles & military leaders. Sarton military leaders who desire the aid of Sarton magic must receive permission from the Archmagi. The Archmagi is highly respected among many magi within Sarton, and extremely envied by them. Most magi view the Archmagi as a very powerful magi, although they are careful to hide any disrespect of the Archmagi. The Archmagi gains access to the increased wealth of the office, and often all Archmagi have used the office to enrich their personal wealth. The Archmagi can also have a special personal guard of Sarton magi who are loyal only to him.
Type
Magical, Honorific
Status
The title of Archmage is very much active from the time that the Sarton Kingdom has existed.
Form of Address
Your Greatness
Alternative Naming
No
Equates to
The Archmagi is rivaled in by the High Priest of the Pharas Tribe.
Source of Authority
The magic of the Sarton magi, and the favor of the gods of Sarton.
Length of Term
The title of Archmagi is usually held for the lifetime of the person, unless that person is removed via special session or unsavory means (including assassination).
Related Organizations
It sounds like such a powerful and influential position - but because it's chosen by council vote, I'm wondering if there is much politicking involved in the office or if they're more chosen by merit / approved by the gods during the Arising Ceremony. Like, could an enterprising, ambitious guy work up to getting nominated but then be found lacking? Or is the ceremony more of a decorative thing? Just more questions because I love magical groups - especially those adjacent to royalty or other divine orders. Figuring out how they work and what separates them, or how they might be corrupt, is just my nature as a monster. XD Well done, though.
Without giving away any spoilers, I can say that there is plenty of politicking involved in the position. Anyone who gets the office of Archmagi has to be on top of their game, as they are not the only ones who has the qualities for the position.