Elder Council

The Elder Council, sometimes called the Imperial Council, is the paramount advisory and governing body in the Empire.

Convened and presided over by the High Chancellor, the Elder Council traditionally meets in the White-Gold Tower. Originally assisting the Emperor or Empress in governing the Empire as mere advisers and administrators, it accumulated vast powers and prerogatives throughout the Third Era (particularly during the reigns of weak emperors). Gaining much potency during the reign of the itinerant Empress Katariah, the Elder Council demonstrated its authority in 2E 247 by disinheriting the son of Emperor Uriel IV and electing Cephorus II to the Ruby Throne.

Role and Powers
Whilst the emperor rules, the Elder Council governs. True to its original purpose, the Elder Council constitutes the central government of the Empire and its members are burdened with the tedium of imperial administration (generally concerned with the taxation of provinces). The affairs of the Empire – great and small – are conducted by the High Chancellor, who depends upon the succour and the assent of the Elder Council to govern effectively.

Formerly the mere executors of the emperor's will, the Elder Council now enjoys the authority to promulgate laws. The emperor possesses a nominal veto on such laws, which is rarely exercised. As well as legislative initiative, the Elder Council may also issue interpretations on existing laws.