princeps stellina
The princeps stellina is the acknowledged successor to the Princeps. They assume the princeps custode role temporary when the princeps is unavailable or taking a break.
Upon the death of the princeps, the princeps stellina assumes the role of princeps custode upon acceptance of the princeps' ring, unless there is a vote of no-confidence called.
It is rare for a vote of no-confidence to be called - the princeps' ring is said to have been blessed by Stella Regina themselves, and it has never sat peacefully on the hand of someone who had taken it by force. It is generally accepted that if the princeps' ring does not cause any harm to the princeps custode, then they have the support of both the princeps and the coelicola, and is an acceptable candidate for the role.
For the vote to be called, it must have the support of 60% of the concilium stellaris, at which point it then goes to a vote of people, and must be supported by 60% of the people.
If the vote of no confidence is carried, then the Promus consul steps in as caretaker while a special election is called.
Requirements
Preferably the princeps stellina is of the Cultus Regis, or at least Regis Lineage, but this is technically not a legal requirement.
Typically the stellina is a close confidante of the princeps who they trust to take on a caretaker role as required.
Appointment
Selected by the princeps, there is a formal acknowledgement ceremony in which anyone can raise an objection to be discussed.
If satisfaction cannot be reached through discussion or mediation, a vote can be called for. For the objection to be sustained, 60% of the population must support it.
As this is a position of trust for the princeps, it is by appointment only. There is no mechanism to force the princeps to accept a stellina they do not want.
Duties
The princeps stellina is the princeps' closest confidante, and is expected to be both loyal and discreet. They are privy to most of the discussions between the princeps and the various concili, and they are at the princeps' side for most rituals.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
If the princeps wishes to release their stellina, or the stellina wishes to step down, then there is a simple ceremony presided over by the Justitia consul, dissolving the appointment.
If the stellina is accused of corruption, or acting against the interests of the princeps and the stellarum, then the matter is taken to arbitration. If the person is found guilty of the act, their culpability and remorse are examined.
If there are no mitigating circumstances, or genuine remorse, then the guilty party is given a potion that causes them to forget the period of time in which they were stellina, and go into the care of the medicus for rehabilitation. This potion is administered to ensure that they cannot use the secrets they learned against the stellarum or princeps, and they are informed of their crimes by the medicus assigned to their care.
They are forbidden from seeking appointment to any public role for their rest of the life, and typically will find themselves unwelcome in any insula or household, however they will always be provided with the basic housing and resources afforded to all stellarum.
Type
Civic, Honorific
Form of Address
stellina
Source of Authority
Selected by the princeps
Reports directly to
Related Locations
Related Organizations
In response to the prompt Describe the title given to the next-in-line or successor in an organization's hierarchy.
