The Regent: Temporary Ruler in Gorean Cities

A Regent in Gorean society is an individual who holds temporary governing power, typically in the absence or incapacity of the city's Ubar (or other supreme ruler), or during a period of political transition. Their position is one of high authority, but often carries inherent instability and vulnerability.

I. Position and Authority

1. Substitute Ruler: The primary role of a Regent is to govern "in the absence of Marlenus, Ubar of the city," or when the designated Ubar (e.g., Henrius Sevarius) is too young or otherwise unable to exercise direct power.

2. High-Ranking Official: Regents are drawn from the city's highest ranks, often a "high councilor" and "first minister" (e.g., Gnieus Lelius of Ar). They are described as "excellency" and "august personage."

3. Extensive Power: A Regent wields significant power, comparable to an Administrator, overseeing governance, military (e.g., commanding armies, like Gnieus Lelius sanctioning the march north), and administrative functions. They are entrusted with crucial "diplomatic communications" and state secrets.

4. Civilian Capacity: Gnieus Lelius is explicitly stated to hold his regency "in a civilian capacity," distinguishing his rule from a purely military one (like Seremides). However, a Regent still directs military action.

5. Not Necessarily Ubar: While they act as the city's leader, they "are not wearing the purple of the Ubar" and may not desire the permanent title, preferring "excellent governance, and the peace and prosperity of the city."

II. Responsibilities and Actions

1. Maintaining Governance: Regents are responsible for the overall "governance" and administration of the city during their tenure. This includes military strategy, maintaining records, and managing civilian affairs.

2. Leadership During Crisis/Transition: They often seize or are appointed power during periods of chaos (e.g., after an Ubar's flight or a military coup), serving until a new, permanent leader (Administrator, Ubar, Ubara) can be elected by the High Council.

3. Public Accessibility (Potentially): Some Regents (like Gnieus Lelius) make a point of being "available to the people," holding "Day of Generosity and Petitions" where citizens can approach them, often receiving coins or assurances. This can make them "much loved."

4. Official Communication: They send dispatches and messages to commanders and officials (e.g., Gnieus Lelius sending messages to Ar's Station).

5. Dependence on High Council: The High Council is typically the body that elects the new leader after a regency, and the Regent is part of the "high councils" that are kept informed.

III. Precariousness and Vulnerability of the Position

1. Temporary Nature: The regency is usually a "temporary power" to be wielded until a permanent leader is chosen.

2. Political Intrigue: The position is highly vulnerable to political intrigue, treachery, and coup attempts (e.g., Claudius's attempts to kill Henrius Sevarius; Gnieus Lelius being deposed by Seremides).

3. Betrayal: Regents can be betrayed by their own agents or subordinates (e.g., Gnieus Lelius sending Tarl Cabot with a "betraying message").

4. Public Scrutiny: Despite being loved, Regents are under constant public scrutiny and judgment. Their actions are debated in taverns and markets.

5. Harsh Consequences of Deposition: Being deposed as Regent can lead to extreme humiliation and brutal punishment, including public chaining, whipping by children, and being dragged in rags through the city (e.g., Gnieus Lelius's fate). This highlights the unforgiving nature of Gorean power struggles.

6. Trust and Information: Regents are expected to be "well informed" and rely on information from various sources, but trust can be misplaced, leading to failures or unintended consequences.

In conclusion, a Gorean Regent is a powerful, high-ranking individual who steps into a governing void, exercising significant temporary authority over a city. While some are beloved for their good governance, the position is inherently unstable, marked by political machinations and the ever-present threat of brutal deposition.

- Kati Evans