The Council of Nine

Structure and Origins

The Frostborn know no kings and no hereditary rulers. For generations, their society has been governed by a collective body: the Council of Nine.   This form of government emerged after the Exodus, when the Frostborn were forced to develop new structures. In that chaotic time, certain families rose to prominence through determination, wisdom, or skill. But instead of forming a new ruling class, the young society chose a model based on balance.  

Composition

The council consists of nine members—three from each of the following societal groups:

• Warriors: responsible for protection, defense, and strategic leadership
• Mages: in charge of magical knowledge, education, and supernatural matters
• Civic Representatives: including merchants, sailors, craftsmen, and others who uphold daily life in the community

 

Faction Speakers

Each faction selects a speaker from among their own. In cases of internal disagreement, this speaker may cast a binding vote on behalf of all three voices. This power is rarely used and relies on deep trust between the speaker and their group.  

The Council Leader

From the full council, a Council Leader is elected. Their main duties are ceremonial: reading new laws, attending public ceremonies, and officially representing the council. The leader is usually chosen from the civic faction, as warriors and mages already carry distinct responsibilities. However, there have been times when a warrior or mage held the position.  

Significance

Within Frostborn culture, the Council of Nine is not seen as perfect—but as a proven system, shaped by pragmatism, balance, and the will to place no one above the whole.