" -- Outsiders learning of the isolationist and outlander-hating disposition of the House Dragastis Princes often assume it would be impossible to obtain positions in service to the Dragastis Council. Nothing could be further from the truth, as the Councillor Princes depend on loyal, well-paid and skilled retainers for most services."
SUMMARY -- Lacking the usual trappings of many feudal societies in Westacre, the constituent hierarchy of House Dragastis is as clean and straightforward as is their diplomatic language to its neighboring states. In this respect, there is no formal central authority as usually seen in the hands of kings, emperors and other feudal territories which depend on a centralized government. The position of High Councillor held by Hadra XXI Serapis as of 391 SE is no more powerful or prestigious than her Council-Prince peers, and the only true power granted with the office is the permanent right to veto any Council motions. Although there is merit to the common man's observation of House Dragastis' strict bias against foreigners, this disposition is only present in their diplomatic language towards foreign countries. Mercenaries and ambitious men applying for a candidacy as a House Dragastis retainer or client at the Council Seat in Tel Dragast can expect a cordial welcome from the Council Princes and their underlings.
HIERARCHY OF HOUSE DRAGASTIS
Due to the Dragastis Council's distaste towards a central authority (largely for the purpose of acquiring more power for themselves), the classifications of their hierarchy apply to the individual realms governed by the Council Princes.
Council-Prince: Although they are recognized within the borders of House Dragastis as Council-Princes, formally they are the sovereign rulers of their own Principalities over which they may exercise their supreme authority as they desire. Since their responsibilities are largely centered around the acquisition of more lands, resources and prestige, as well as the maintenance of their hirelings to assure their loyalty and performance, the likelihood of corruption within the office of a Council-Prince is unlikely.
Magister: Local governor directly appointed by the Prince overseeing a province under their domain. While their office is largely administrative, they essentially become the semi-independent rulers of their given territories, including economy, military and the essentials of a functioning society.
Master: Underlings of the Magisters who are the chiefs of their respective companies, such as slavery, mining and other industries completing Dragastis' economy. They may be regarded as private companies in service to the state with quasi-total autonomy.
Retainer: These are people outside of the hierarchy, usually as clients and investors who would strike a deal with the Princes and their companies. They may possibly be included within the Dragastine administrative hierarchy as oath-bound hirelings.