Dux of Versizo

Requirements

To be eligible for election, one must be a member of one of the noble houses of Versizo, with no pure human ancestors in the last three generations. They must also have been born in the city or baptised in its waters, preferably both.

Appointment

The Dux is elected from a selection of up to thirteen candidates, one from each of the noble houses of the city. The houses are not required to submit a candidate, but almost always do. The election is not valid unless there are at least two candidates. Voting is carried out by those among the thirteen houses who are adults and citizens of Versizo; in other words, those who would be eligible for candidacy themselves. The candidates do not vote.

Benefits

The Dux lives in a palace in the centre of Versizo, with servants, ceremonial robes, and food all provided for the duration of his or her pontificate. On the less material side, the Dux is supposed to be granted the special favour of the god Philotimo.

Cultural Significance

By the Sixth Age, Versizo is one of the most multicultural cities on the planet, and large segments of its population do not even follow the Kadarin faith, much less worship Philotimo in particular. To them, and many of the other residents, the Dux is little more than a curiosity, a historical quirk of their city to be gawped at on festival days but otherwise ignored.

Type

Religious, Special

Status

Largely ceremonial

Creation

Has existed in its present form since 287 NR

Alternative Naming

Sometimes translated, misleadingly, as "Duke".

Equates to

The Dux is equal in rank to the high pontiffs of other Kadarin gods and is technically senior to the head of a religious order.

Source of Authority

The god Philotimo

Length of Term

Elected every hundred years, or sooner if the current Dux dies in office.

Related Locations

• Versizo

Related Organizations

• Kadarin Church