Grandmistress of the Order of the Argent Raven
The Grandmistress of the Order of the Argent Raven is the unquestioned, though not absolute, leader of the organization of the same name. This position has, since the beginning of the Order held only by a single person, one Annwyn, who was one of the key founders of the Order and has led the organization for almost five hundred years. The Grandmistress historically did rule over the organization with nearly absolute authority, especially when its entire might was concentrated in their main base of operations in Antiokus. However, as the Order has expanded, and as other chapters have been founded, the Grandmistress has gradually given up absolute power, ceding more and more authority to local chapter leaders, and instead has assumed a role more as the first among equals than as a dictator.
Requirements
There are currently no officially established requirements for the office of Grandmistress. As the position has been occupied by the same person, since the foundation of the organization, and since, despite her extremely advanced age, Annwyn has displayed no signs of mental deterioration, and is still in relatively good shape physically. Therefore the council has not yet established any major requirements for succession, officially speaking of course. It is likely however, that in the event that Annwyn is found incapable of discharging the office of Grandmistress that the other members of the Council will select one from among their own number.
Duties
The Grandmistress of the Order of the Argent Raven historically was responsible for running the entire organization by herself. However, as it has expanded, more responsibilities were delegated. Regardless, the Grandmistress is responsible for setting major policy, and is at the head of the council comprised of the high ranking members of the order. In the event that there is a major crisis for which the entire order must take to the field of battle, the Grandmistress is responsible for leading the Order as a general, commanding the whole order.
Type
Religious, Military
Form of Address
Her Excellency
Alternative Naming
High Mistress of the Order
Source of Authority
Nominally, Hadriana the Ascended; Functionally the High Council of the Order
Length of Term
In good behavior, and in good state of mind, life (subject to removal by the council)
Related Locations
Related Organizations
