High Thane - Dwarves

The Dwarven High Thanes are the Lords and Ladies at the service of the Dwarven Kings. These are considered to translate roughly to a 'chief of staff,' who helps manage the affairs of the King and their Clan Den. They hold almost all authority the King does but serve at their leisure to their policies and political ideologies. 

Origin

In dwarven tradition, the High Thane was considered a Battle Partner to the King or Queen, a nomenclature used to describe souls bonded and wedded in battle, much like how souls can be bonded and wedded in love. They would grow up together, fight, and seek support from one another through it all. Though much of this tradition has subsided due to less battle and war, the tradition of an Heir to the Throne growing up with their future High Thane continues today.

Appointment

The King or Queen of the Den appoints High Thane, with each new Heir electing their own upon taking the Throne. This appointment is given to a King's trusted friend and advisor, who is usually someone they grew up with since birth due to dynasty succession models used by Dwarven society.

Duties

The High Thane manages the King's Counsel and operates as a chief of staff, who handles daily operations of the Clan Den. These include commerce, judicial duties, education, religion, and military or police influence.
In the absence of the King (and Queen if applicable), the High Thane is the head of state for the Clan Den until the King and/or Queen return to the Throne. 
Should the King pass with no heir-of-age (typically around age 50) and no Queen, the High Thane serves as 'Lord Thane' or 'Lady Thane' instead, a title granted to them as Acting King or Queen. 
If the King passes with no relatives nor heirs, the High Thane is granted the full Rite of Succession and becomes the new King or Queen.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

The position of High Thane is a lifelong appointment. It is scarce in modern times for a High Thane to be removed or dismissed, but they can be should the King or Queen deem them:

• No longer worthy of the position - The High Thane dishonors themselves or the Throne
• Unfit for the position - When a High Thane does not effectively act on the wishes of the Throne
• Removed due to treason - When the High Thane overtly disobeys the Throne or acts against it

The most common method of any of these is being removed due to resignation, often in retirement, and done at the same time the King or Queen dethrones themselves for their heir to take over.

Type

Civic, Diplomatic

Form of Address

"High Thane", "Lord/Lady Thane"

Length of Term

Lifetime Appointment (Typically)

Reports directly to

Dwarven Kings

Related Locations

• Nidavillir
• Sierra Blazar