Village Elder

A Village Elder is a form of title used amongst many of the anarchistic settlements within the Disputed Lands.

The Village Elder holds a vital role as the leader, mediator, and custodian of their community. In small, self-sustaining settlements, the Elder serves as both a guiding figure and a symbol of continuity, bridging the past with the present. Revered for their experience and insight, the Elder is often seen as the heart of the village, embodying its collective memory and aspirations.
Selected by communal consensus, the Elder is chosen not for their wealth or strength but for their wisdom, fairness, and proven dedication to the community's welfare. They are entrusted with the well-being of the village and are expected to lead with a balanced hand, placing the needs of the many above personal or factional interests.
The Elder’s responsibilities are diverse, ranging from resolving disputes and preserving cultural traditions to overseeing resources and coordinating responses to external threats. They also act as the village’s representative when dealing with neighboring communities or external powers, ensuring that the village’s autonomy and interests are protected.
Serving until they can no longer fulfill their duties, the Elder’s role is one of profound responsibility, requiring them to navigate challenges with resilience and wisdom. In times of crisis or celebration alike, the Village Elder remains a steady presence, guiding their people with the knowledge that the strength of the community lies in its unity and shared purpose.

Appointment

The position of Elder is determined by communal consensus rather than heredity or formal election. When an Elder can no longer serve due to age, infirmity, or death, the villagers gather to nominate candidates from among themselves. These candidates are typically individuals who have demonstrated wisdom, leadership, and a deep commitment to the community’s welfare over the years.
Once nominations are made, discussions and debates ensue, during which the merits of each candidate are weighed. The villagers then reach a decision through either a vote or a unanimous consensus. The chosen Elder is expected to serve for life or until they voluntarily step down due to incapacity.

Duties

The Elder’s role is multifaceted, encompassing leadership, mediation, and representation:

Leadership

The Elder is the primary decision-maker for the village, tasked with guiding the community through crises, managing resources, and ensuring its survival. They oversee major projects such as rebuilding efforts, agricultural planning, and fortification construction.

Mediation

As the village’s moral and social authority, the Elder mediates disputes among villagers. Their judgments are expected to be impartial, balancing the needs of individuals with the collective good.

Representation

The Elder serves as the voice of the village when dealing with outside parties, such as traders, neighboring villages, or external powers like the Pactbound. They negotiate agreements, advocate for the community’s interests, and protect its autonomy.

Preservation of History and Culture

Elders are often seen as the keepers of the village’s oral traditions and collective memory. They recount stories, offer guidance rooted in past experiences, and preserve the identity of the village for future generations.

Emergency Leadership

In times of crisis, such as raids or natural disasters, the Elder acts as a figure of stability. They organize defenses, allocate resources, and make difficult decisions to ensure the village’s survival.


The Elder’s role is one of profound responsibility, requiring a balance of strength, wisdom, and compassion. Though their power is significant, it is tempered by the understanding that they serve at the trust and will of their people.

Type

Civic, Political