The Pirate King of The Independent Nation of Saltspire is selected through trial by combat – one of the combatants must either die or forfeit, and the winner must have a large enough base of support to defend their claim.
The Pirate King has several powers which are generally enforced by all other residents of the country, but still rely on a large retinue of loyal supporters:
- Exile: The Pirate King may exile a person or group of people. They return on pain of death
- Call to Arms: In the case of war or defending the country, the Pirate King may call all able residents to arms. Refusal may result in exile
- Tax: The Pirate King by law can select one piece of treasure from any haul brought to the islands. In return, the rest of the haul is offered protection from theft while in the country. Failure to announce treasure can result in exile