Viscount Korostrovia
The Viscount Korostrovia is a noble title whose seat is in the city of Balagoras. Appointed directly by the Duke of Korostrovia, this political and civil position oversees the administration of all cities, towns, and settlements across Korostrovia except for the capital city itself.
Qualifications
Typically, the Viscount Korostrovia is appointed only to those from noble families with long-standing history of service. There have been several notable exceptions.
In order for an individual to be successful in this role, they must possess political savvy, leadership skills, and administrative prowess.
Overseeing many of the island's remote communities, personability and compassion are also instrumental.
Although these skills are conventional, as the Viscount Korostrovia is appointed directly by the Duke of Korostrovia, no formal requirements are defined or enforced, and instead the Duke stakes their reputation on their selection.
Appointment
The appointment of a new Viscount Korostrovia typically begins with a nomination.
Influential nobles, member of court, high-ranking officials, or other people of note and authority will submit potential candidates to the Duke for consideration.
The Duke may decide immediately based on the recommendations, or may have candidates undergo an evaluation process where they will be expected to demonstrate the skills necessary for the role.
Once the Duke has made their selection there is a ritual of offer and denial that has a long-standing history in Korostrovia. This event takes place at a ball, feast, or other social event, and marks the official beginning of the Viscount's appointment.
First, the Duke will ask the chosen individual if they would wish to become Viscount. The expected answer to this is a denial, noting the Duke's kindness at making such an offer. Secondly, the Duke will formally offer the title to the candidate. Again, the expected answer is a denial, with the candidate claiming that they are not worthy of the title. Finally, the Duke decrees that the candidate shall hold the title, to which the candidate can only accept with grace and gratitude.
Responsibilities
The Viscount Korostrovia is responsible for all matters concerning every settlement on Korostrovia, not including Balagoras.
This includes judicial matters, ensuring the proper functioning of the judicial system in all settlements, appointing judges, magisters, and other officials.
The Viscount is also responsible for managing political governance of the many towns and cities across the island. They coordinate with local officials to maintain order, address issues, and ensure effective administration and communication.
Though there has been little military activity in Boslandië and Korostrovia, the Viscount is responsible for military oversight. Working with military leaders and strategists, they ensure the safety of the people and protect the island from external threats.
A time-consuming and difficult task, the Viscount must ensure economic prosperity and maintain proper taxes, tithes, and funding for all the Korostrovian settlements. This goes hand-in-hand with mediation, conflict resolution, and diplomacy. The Viscount is seen as the face of and the liaison between the political world of Balagoras and the daily life of the citizens.
Benefits
The title of Viscount Korostrovia offers political power as the administrator of and authority over the settlements of the Iron Island as well as a noble status within Balagoras.
The Viscount is well-paid on behalf of the Duke, and a cunning individual can find many opportunities for collecting additional wealth, from the legal economic maneuvers to extortion and bribery.
The Viscount often carries a high social standing, and is often met with good will by the citizens of the towns and cities which they oversee.
Representing the Duke in diplomatic matters, the Viscount is also given significant freedom in decision-making and authority.
Accoutrements & Equipment
The Viscount is given a badge of silver and gold, intricately crafted to show several symbols interwoven.
At the top of the crest is a noble crown, below which two rivers intersect. Within the space between each river is a sword and quill.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
The Viscount may be removed from office and stripped of title for many reasons, including incompetence, abuse of power, or any other misconduct that compromises the trust of the Duke.
The Duke may revoke the title at any time and for any reason, but typically, the process follows a formal procedure involving a tribunal.
Type
Nobility, Non-hereditary
Form of Address
The Right Honourable The Viscount Korostrovia
Source of Authority
Duke of Korostrovia
Reports directly to
Related Locations
Related Organizations