Wali-Maliks

Wali-Maliks are the supreme rulers of the Merchant Republic of Sahra', a powerful and mercantile state inhabited by the Qawm people. The office of the Wali-Malik, steeped in tradition and political intrigue, is reserved for candidates drawn from the upper echelons of Sahra's merchant society—typically descendants of families connected to the esteemed Kabira alTujaar'amir.

Qualifications

To be chosen as a Wali-Malik, a person must come from the uppermost ranks of Sahra’s merchant society, specifically from one of the families connected to the Kabira alTujaar'amir. Beyond noble lineage, candidates are required to have demonstrated exceptional prowess in both trade and politics, displaying a practical understanding of the shifting dynamics of Sahra’s mercantile world. Experience is considered essential for the office; thus, those who seek this position are generally mature individuals who have built up not only considerable wealth, but also a far-reaching network of business and political relationships. The reputation for wisdom, adaptability, and the ability to navigate complex economic landscapes is a must, as is earning the support and respect of their peers and elders within the merchant houses. Only those who embody this mix of heritage, achievement, and political acumen are put forward as candidates when the time comes to select a new Wali-Malik.

Requirements

To be considered for the supreme rank of Wali-Maliks, a candidate must originate from the upper echelons of merchant society—specifically, each Kabira alTujaar'amir puts forward one candidate from among their family members. Beyond noble lineage, these individuals must display a profound and practical understanding of trade and politics, having demonstrated their skill in navigating the complexities of Sahra’s mercantile world. Maturity is equally essential, as the post demands both seasoned judgment and the capacity to adapt to shifting economic and political tides. For this reason, candidates are generally expected to be at least thirty years old, ensuring they have accrued the wisdom, experience, and connections needed to unify and lead the Merchant Republic of Sahra’.

Appointment

In the world of Sahra', reaching the rank of Wali-Malik is a process as ruthless as it is ritualistic. Behind closed doors, political elites wage a silent war of bribery, strategic alliances, and sometimes even cold-blooded assassinations, each maneuver designed to eliminate obstacles and ensure their favored candidate emerges in a field honed by intrigue. Yet, when the time comes for formal recognition, the process adopts the dignified cadence of sacred ceremony.
The secretive election is overseen by the priests of the Five—clerics who have sworn an oath of neutrality, guarding the divine order from the taint of mortal ambition. They gather to count the clandestine votes, compiled in a web of behind-the-scenes deals and manipulations. After this meticulous process, four candidates, each a product of both cunning and ambition, are presented before the high priest. In a moment charged with solemnity and the weight of ancient tradition, the high priest steps forward and, with his carefully chosen words, proclaims the new Wali-Malik. This declaration, though emanating from ritual few dare to question, embodies the inescapable truth that even the highest office in Sahra' is attained only through a blend of divine sanction and the darker arts of political maneuvering.

Responsibilities

The role of a Wali-Malik is not simply that of a political leader, but that of a steward—one who must hold Sahra' together in prosperity and strife alike. The Wali-Malik must deftly manage the intricate web of alliances among the merchant princes, ensuring that each powerful house remains invested in the stability and collective success of the Republic. Trade, the lifeblood of Sahra', flows or falters at their command; it is the Wali-Malik who must navigate changing markets, set tariffs, and make pivotal decisions that reverberate through every tent city and palace.

Externally, the Wali-Malik represents the face of Sahra' to other lands, negotiating treaties, trade agreements, and mutual defense pacts. Internally, this leader must resolve disputes among the Kabira alTujaar'amir, settle conflicts between lesser merchant houses, and mediate between the economic classes to prevent unrest. The appointment of officials, the establishment of fair laws, and the upholding of customs and festivals all require the Wali-Malik’s wise oversight.

Security is yet another burden—overseeing the safety of merchant caravans, ensuring warriors are well-compensated and loyal, and guarding against both internal intrigue and external threats. Above all, the Wali-Malik stands as a living symbol of unity; the keeper of tradition, trusted to uphold the delicate balance between material ambition and communal values, and expected to embody both the prosperity and the conscience of the Qawm.

Benefits

The Wali-Malik enjoys significant, multifaceted benefits as the supreme ruler of Sahra'. First and foremost, their access to wealth is nearly unmatched: they draw a substantial income from tariffs, tributes, and a share of profits from all major commercial activities throughout the merchant republic. They have the right to claim luxurious palatial residences, accompanied by the finest provisions and personal retinues procured from across Sahra’s markets. Materially, every comfort and extravagance—from rare fabrics and spices to the most skilled artisans and entertainers—is at their disposal.

Politically, the Wali-Malik holds ultimate authority in disputes among the merchant princes, the power to enact laws, and the prerogative to bestow offices and privileges, shaping the course of national policy. With the ability to forge or dissolve alliances, declare embargos, and represent Sahra' in international negotiations, the Wali-Malik commands the respect (and sometimes the fear) of both allies and rivals at home and abroad. Socially, their word sets the tone for culture, custom, and even fashion, making their court the epicenter of influence for the entire region.

Furthermore, the Wali-Malik benefits from formidable protective traditions: the security of elite guards, the loyalty of select merchant houses, and the singular role as the face of the gods' favor in Sahra's official rites—even if the society is not deeply religious. Lastly, the prestige of the office brings the intangible but potent rewards of legacy and renown—the opportunity to weave one's actions into the tapestry of Qawm history, their name inscribed among the most powerful to have ever lived.

Type

Nobility, Household

Form of Address

"Sire", "My Lord Wali-Malik", "Your Excellency, Wali-Malik", "O Exalted Wali-Malik of Sahra'"

Equates to

The tasks associated with the rank. No list

Related Organizations

• Sahra'