High Cleric

The High Cleric is a single position held by the leader of the Church of the Clockwork King. This individual has the divine right to communicate with the Clockwork King and oversee ceremonies within the Clockwork Temple. The first High Cleric was the gnome John Potts who founded the Clockwork Empire shorty after the events of the Cataclysm.

Qualifications

Before one can even be considered for the position of High Cleric, one must have dedicated their entire life to service of the Clockwork King. All High Clerics have served as a cleric of the church for at least 70 years before they were even considered for the position. Furthermore, since this position is a solitary one, once the previous High Cleric steps down or dies, only one cleric can ascend. Once a new High Cleric is chosen, they must be verified by the Clockwork King before they can be officially sworn in.

Appointment

Once someone is determined to be the best fit for the roll of High Cleric and has been verified by the Clockwork King, in a formal but simple ceremony, they are sworn in to office. This involves them declaring their eternal devotion to the Clockwork King and the Church, as well as being fitted with a clockwork heart that links their well-being with the well being of the Clockwork King himself.

Duties

Oversees official rituals and rights within the Clockwork Temple, from marriage, to divorces, the purging of magical objects. Additionally may be called upon to act as a judge in the court on matters of magical abuse or use of magical items.
In extremely rare occasions, the High Cleric can be called upon to act as the vessel of the Clockwork King in order to purge heretics and magicians from the empire.

Benefits

All needs will be provided by the Empire. Furthermore they can enjoy great political sway over the various mega-corporations that make up the Empire. Furthermore, the power of the divine will be available for the High Cleric to call upon at will, granting them incredible power.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

Should the High Priest be found wanting by the Clockwork King, he will stop the mechanical heart of the Priest, killing him and opening the position up to a new candidate.

Type

Religious, Military

Alternative Naming

Father of Gears, The Grand Inquisitor

Source of Authority

the demi-god, The Clockwork King

Length of Term

Until Death

Related Locations

• Simmsmout
• The Clockwork Temple

Related Organizations

• The Clockwork Empire