Udirza (oo-deer-za)

Simply translated to "man to follow", an Udirza leads the communities that live within his domain. According to Kalamian tradition and ideals, the Udirza is the most respectable and wise xylen man of an individual region. They have proven themselves through the strength of their character to have the honor and responsibility of leading the people.

Qualifications

There are no specific qualifications to becoming an Udirza. The role primarily makes demands on aspects of a person's character, not specific skills. Therefore it is accepted that someone of any trade or background can become an Udirza.

Requirements

To become an Udirza, an eligible member of the community must challenge the current holder and succeed in earning a majority vote in their favor. Requirements include being a full-blooded male xylen, a minimum of 25 years of age, and at least 2 prior generations that have lived in the community.
When a challenge is issued, a vote is not immediately held. The two men must showcase their worth first. Elders of the area prepare competitive trials of skill, combat, and wisdom. There must be at least 3 trials before the vote and the winner must be announced within a month after the challenge was issued. If the previous Udirza passed away before any trials could be carried out, villages can send one man to compete in larger competitions.

Appointment

If a challenger receives a majority vote, the challenger and the standing Udirza must travel with a party of elders to meet with the reigning emperor of Kalamia. During this meeting, the elders report the events of trials and the results of the vote. The emperor can approve or deny the transition of power. If the emperor gives his blessing, there is a short symbolic and prayerful ceremony and the new Udirza is given orders to enact upon his return to the community.

Duties

"What beats from the Emperor's heart flows to the Udirzas. They are his blood." - Emperor Ganbatar, Patriarch of Kalamia

Udirzas are expected to be the pinnacle of Kalamian ideals, ideals established by the wisdom of the generations or by the Emperor himself. Udirzas should be devout, teaching the way of Mehlehkh and not straying from those tenants himself, as is the expectation of all in Kalamia. If the people are acting in a dishonorable manner against Mehlehkh, it is the Udirzas duty to correct the community and shape the sermons of preachers. There is also an expectation for Udirzas to be available to their communities, taking heed to individual struggles and concerns as well as participating in village life. Udirzas who are unseen are viewed as untrustworthy, as exemplified by the Kalamian phrase "How can a shepherd lead his sheep if he is not among them? How can he find the path if he is not with the one who has a map?"

Responsibilities

"What the Emperor wishes to be done will be carried out by the Udirzas. They are his hands." - Emperor Ganbatar, Patriarch of Kalamia

With the aid of the elders and specialists of the area, the Udirza enacts laws and cultural precepts. They make periodic trips to the emperor to report about the area's status, inquire about any new rulings or orders, and either pay taxes or receive monetary aid. In the day-to-day Udirzas settle major disputes, command stationed troops, organize festivals, and oversee public work projects. An Udirza is working constantly to attend to all of their duties and thus the position is not for the lazy or unmotivated.

Benefits

The Udirza is granted a home and a salary set by the emperor. An Udirza's pay is not exorbitant but is considered to be a rich position by many. The true reward of this position is seen to be the respect and honor of the community.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

The emperor can remove the Udirza at any time for any reason. Once the order is issued, a military troop is brought in to take over the Udirza's duties until a suitable replacement is chosen through the trials.

Type

Civic, Political

Source of Authority

The Emperor of Kalamia

Length of Term

Until usurped or upon death

Related Organizations

• Kalamia