Satrap
Satrap (in Yuran Satiya) is a broad, blanket term for the seven holders and rulers of each Satrapy. As such the title confers different duties, responsibilities, and benefits based on the Satrap's Satrapy and the laws and rules by which they govern it. Therefore, the descriptions below will attempt to outline, in broad terms, the basic functions of a Satrap, drawing distinctions when relevant or unique. One similarity between the Satraps is that they are all powerful, wealthy, and most of the political power resides in them and through their position on The Imperial High Council. While technically subservient to the Emperor/Empress of Yura the homage paid is nominal (especially in domestic matters). The Empire of Yura despite its Imperial nomenclature, is controlled by this group of men and women.
Requirements
The qualifications for Satrap vary based on Satrapy but the two universal qualifications apply:
-The Satrap in question must have reached the age of majority (which varies based on Satrapy)
-The Satrap is able to trace their ancestry to a legendary bloodline of a Liberated Line corresponding with their direct ancestors.
Appointment
The appointment of a new Satrap varies between Satrapies, though most involve a formal ceremony and oaths being sworn by the nobles to the new Satrap (and occasionally oaths being sworn by the Satrap). It is at this point that the newly crowned individual is considered a Nayitsatiya (literally Partial-Satrap). The Satrap then travels to Magava, Capital of Yura and Artamus, and presents themselves before the Emperor/Empress of Yura who formally recognizes the Satrap and the ruler of their respective Satrapy. (This recognition is purely ceremonial and is done as a show of nominal homage to the Emperor/Empress.)
Duties
The duties of a Satrap, in the most basic terms, are to govern a Satrapy. Besides their obligation to govern any duties assigned to them through their position on The Imperial High Council must also be carried out.
Responsibilities
Each Satrap has different responsibilities in their Satrapy due to a variety of variables such as centralization of power, economic structure, size, etc. The Imperial Legal Code vaguely outlines their roles. The Satraps are responsible for the highest level of governance and politics in the Satrapy, maintaining the security, safety, and integrity of their domain and their people. (The observance of this legal universal responsibility is variable.)
Accoutrements & Equipment
All Satraps are given a ring denoting their position. Each is fashioned of a alloy comprised of Yuran silver, Eriran gold, and Legeoryn steel, reinforced with magic. Each ring is set with a large gem of varying colors, denoting the ruled Satrapy in questions (Blue Sapphire for Western Lilira, Green Emerald for Arismat, etc.)
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
Their exists no legal method by which a Satrap can be forced to relinquish their position.
History
The term Satrap (Satiya) was first used in the Ultimatum of Sovereign Deference by Ratna Angara who demanded that all the other monarchs of Yura submit to her. (Ratna Angara mistakenly believed that by using the term Satiya, which at the time roughly meant sovereign, the other rulers would be more willing to submit, as they were not being called servants or subjects.) The term remained throughout the War of Seven Satraps, eventually giving the conflict its name following Ratna's victory. The term and its role was officially enshrined into law by the Treaty of Redress.
Cultural Significance
The term Satrap is often misunderstood but non-Yurans and has a complex legal history in Yura due to its creation and evolution overtime. As was mentioned above the Satraps of Yura are far more autonomous than the title would suggest and are, in many respects, the true rulers of Yura rather than the emperor/empress. The Satraps in many ways are a perfect representational of Yuran culture and its strong emphasis on the ideal of independence. Most Yurans take great pride in their Satraps and are more fiercely loyal to their Satrapy than to any notion of Yura as a whole. Ultimately, while the Satraps due contribute to factionalism and regionalism and are seen as a weakening influence by many other nations, they stand as Yura's most powerful bulwark against threats internal and external (due in no small part to personal self-interest).
Type
Nobility, Hereditary
Form of Address
His/Her Majesty
Source of Authority
The Satrap is empowered by the legendary blood of the predecessor to the Liberated Line corresponding with their direct ancestors.
Length of Term
A Satrap, once they reach the age of majority (which varies between Satrapies), serves for life.
Current Holders
Past Holders
Reports directly to
Related Locations
Related Organizations
Comments