Celestial Radiance
Qualifications
Requirements
Appointment
The Celestial Radiance is elected by the Council of Peers in consultation with the Imperial Spirits.
When the Celestial Radiance dies, the Council of Peers enter seclusion. The only food permitted within the council chamber is that which is presented in ritual offer unto the Imperial Spirits; until the Council has reached an agreement they are forbidden from eating, although they are permitted drinks. This requirement was put in place after the death of his Celestial Radiance Parminder III, when the council argued for over a year without agreeing on a successor.
Once the Council has chosen a new Celestial Radiance, the appointee is informed of their decision. It is traditional to offer the appointee the position three times and to be refused twice. It is considered a bad omen if the appointee accepts the position on the initial offer, and a very bad omen if they refuse a third time and the council must enter seclusion again.
The coronation of a new Radiance is a national holiday, with all citizens of the empire expected to spend the day celebrating their new ruler's ascension. In the capital, the Celestial Radiance must make a ritual journey up the ninety nine steps before being seated on the throne and having a gold circlet placed upon their head. They must then display their halo to prove their right to the position and swear to lead the Lands Under Them to glory and prosperity.
Duties
The Celestial Radiance must adhere to the traditions and values of the Visavan Empire.
The Celestial Radiance must look first to the care and prosperity of the Nɘka and Nɘgɘraka of the Empire.
The Celestial Radiance must obey the Imperial Spirits.
Responsibilities
The Celestial Radiance is responsible for overseeing the courts, beaurocracy, and military affairs of the Lands Under Them. They have the final say on all national matters brought before them, although most matters never make it as far as the radiant court.
As well as being the monarch of the Visavan Empire, they also bear the responsibilities of the head of the Imperial Family. As such, they are responsible for communing with the Imperial Spirits, have the final say on marriages within the family, and are responsible for ensuring the health and happiness of all members of their family.
Benefits
Accoutrements & Equipment
The Celestial Radiance is expected to comport themselves with dignity first and foremost.
The crown jewels are a gold circlet with an azurite stone at the brow, and a spear. The blade of the spear is bronze, while the haft is oak. A faceted topaz is mounted just behind the head of the spear.
