The Ancient Mage

The Ancient Mage is considered to be the First Mage, and their knowledge of the arcane absolute. Stories tell of them speaking with the Sun and Moons, negotiating peace between the people of the world and the arcane forces that warred against them in the Beginning. It is unknown how old the Ancient Mage is, nor is their real name known.
To date, there have been three failed assassination attempts, all failing horrifically. Bodies of assailants are found, miles away, blasted with magic that no other mage could have mustered.
Many spells used by the powerful Battle-Magi of the Council were developed by the Ancient Mage, as well as many of the wondrous buildings, erected in only minutes by the power of the Ancient Mage.
Stories say that they are many things; the first person, an Immortal, or even a God. Indeed, some say that the Ancient Mage is in fact a series of powerful Magi, selected from the council to step up to fill the position when the previous Ancient Mage is either too old, or chooses to step down. Whoever they are, it is widely seen that to challenge the right to rule this being has is the equivalent of challenging the natural order. Those that challenge the rule are invited to an audience with the Ancient Mage, and then never seen again.