High Auctoritan

The High Auctoritan was the highest-ranking official and ruler of the Trebai Ascendancy. While the position grew out of the old rulership of the High Kingdom of Beurum, it was far more powerful.   "Auctoritan" was originally a word in the Ancient Trebai language, in which it referred to a priest who had great influence with the gods. Because the Trebai Ascendancy was built on worship of Etermel, the Auctoritan was thought to be the official closest to the god. Therefore, he had supreme control.   Unlike the previous highest office among the Trebai, the King of Beurum, the High Auctoritan was not officially subservient to anyone. Whoever occupied the position did not have to listen to any lower assemblies or councils. Some argued that the Auctoritan was under the influence of corporate interests during certain periods, but this was not an official arrangement.   Upon becoming the High Auctoritan, the individual had to swear to protect the Trebai people and expand their supremacy among Beurum. The position had total command of all Trebai civilian and military individuals. Despite this absolute power, the Auctoritan usually appointed regional governors as well as ministers of certain industries. Still, the Auctoritan ultimately had authority over matters pertaining to all subservient governors and the economy, and could remove or appoint officials at will.    There was no legal process for the removal of the High Auctoritan from office.

Succession

The Trebai Ascendancy's rules about succession of the High Auctoritan were unclear. Most agreed that the position would go to the ruler's firstborn offspring upon their death. If this was not possible, then most agreed that a council would be formed of regional governors and ministers, who would then vote on the next Auctoritan. None of this, however, was written in stone.   The official policy of Ivona I, when she held the position of High Auctoritan, was that she would live forever as a result of her proximity to Etermel, becoming a goddess some time during her reign. This was formally accepted but generally disputed by others in the government. As Ivona grew older, it seemed uncertain who the next Auctoritan would be.