“Let the hammer forge judgment, and the people choose the one who wields it.”
§4.1 – On the Office of Thane
A thane is the elected guardian and steward of a dwarven districts or more within the Kingdom of Rusthome. The thane acts as a judge, a military commander, and a voice for their kin in the Great Moot, where laws are forged and kings are chosen.
§4.2 – The Path to Office
Nomination: A worthy candidate must be nominated by at least three recognized clans or guilds, one of which must be laboring or martial in nature (craftsmen, miners, or defenders).
Trial of Honor (optional): For greater prestige, candidates may undergo a trial of combat, wisdom, and loyalty to Moradin.
Election: All citizens with clan or guild ties may vote—including nobles and the extended royal family, each with one vote.
§4.3 – In Case of Dispute or Tie
The King's Right to Contest: If there is suspicion of misconduct or dispute in the outcome, the reigning king may formally contest the result. The Great Moot may override this contest with a two-thirds majority vote.
In the Event of a Tie: Should two candidates receive an equal number of votes, the Royal Privilege is invoked:
The king and members of the extended royal family are granted double votes, which are then used to break the tie.
§4.4 – The King's Role
The king does not vote in ordinary elections but traditionally confirms the chosen thane as a ceremonial gesture of unity. If the king refuses, the Great Moot may enforce the confirmation with a two-thirds majority.