High chieftain of Ikatha

High chieftain is a title given to the ruler and the highest military commander of Ikatha. The title predates the fall of Drazar but at that time it was used exclusively as a title for the military commander and only in times of high conflict with the empire not as a permanent title. The title became permanent sometime after the end of the divine age as a form of consolidating power and order over the area of today's Ikatha.

Requirements

To become a claimant for the title of the high chieftain one must be nominated by the current high chieftain or by one of the lesser chieftains. Both high and lesser chieftains can nominate at most two claimants while only one of them can be related to the chieftain. The chieftains can not nominate themself and if high and lesser chieftain are related only one of them can choose a related person. To be eligible for nomination one must be a citizen of Ikatha and of adult age based on their species.

Appointment

Once the current high chieftain decides to step down or die all current claimants gather for the rite of succession. In this rite, they compete against each other for the right to rise to the rank of high chieftain. The specifics of the rite are unknown as it is not held publicly and its contents change each time. The contents are chosen by the previous high chieftain who also presides over the rite if still alive.

Responsibilities

The high chieftain is responsible for keeping peace through Ikatha. The chieftain does not necessarily preside over courts outside special cases but ensures the law is followed and stays relevant to the current time. In case of military emergency the high chieftain also takes role of highest military commander.

Type

Royalty, Non-hereditary

Length of Term

The title is given for life or until one willingly steps down. So far all the holders relinquished the title before their death.