The Trusted Council was established by Rune as one of his first acts as Kuningas (High King) of Asgartha in Year 1 AC. This advisory body was created to ensure that the sovereign’s decisions would be informed by diverse perspectives and could be challenged when necessary—a crucial check on monarchical power.
Rune convened the Trusted Council around himself, appointing both his original allies who had helped prevent civil war and the former opposition Barons who had reconciled after the Phoenix’s divine selection. This inclusive composition sent a powerful message: Rune did not want to lead only a part of the survivors, but all of them.
The initial Trusted Council consisted of what would become known as the Runic Knights:
- Heshkari
- Caellach
- Tamrat
- Aksoy
- Heeren
- Cilistro Tighe
- Ainara Aldana
- Balram Kasun
The Council’s purpose was twofold: to advise the Kuningas on matters of state and to challenge decisions when advisors deemed it necessary. This structure reflected Rune’s wisdom in recognizing that even a divinely chosen leader needed counsel and accountability.
The Trusted Council played a crucial role in establishing the early policies, laws, and structures of Asgarthan civilization. The diverse backgrounds and perspectives of its members—representing different tribes, regions, and political philosophies—helped ensure that decisions considered the needs of all survivor communities.
While the composition and specific structure of the Trusted Council evolved over Asgartha’s history as the political system changed, the principle it established—that rulers should be advised and accountable—remained a cornerstone of Asgarthan governance. The current governmental system still includes advisory bodies like the Conclave and the Chancellery that echo the original Trusted Council’s purpose.