Agaros Xamaroth - On Leadership

This book is dedicated to Siamorphe, The Divine Right. May all nobility understand their duty to rule well and wisely for the more common classes beneath them.

Leadership is best described as the application of power. Good leadership has raised empires. Poor leadership has brought them literally tumbling out of the sky.

It begs the question; what is good leadership?

In my opinion, the best answer is this; good leadership is when those in power use their influence to improve the quality of others, with minimal to no harm done unto others.

Naturally, when such ideals are applied, this muddies the waters greatly. What is good for one, is never good for all. Hence this precariously delicate balancing act ensues.

The leading party will be forced to choose. This is a classic case of us or them. Either, reinforce their supporters, or entice those outside of their sphere of influence to join them. The most strategic move is to reinforce power among one’s supporters. After all, they are the ones who help to elevate the ones to the seats of power. This must be performed in such a way to entice non-supporters that the leading party can support multiple interests simultaneously. Despite the power of magic and even the most eloquent silver-tongued politician, this will never happen – be it sincerity or actual results.

So, what can be done? The leading party can and should, take measurements and assess what is within their means. Take stock of everything. Develop a plan to achieve these goals and build into them ‘slack.’ Slack being the buffer allowing for unforeseen circumstances.

The wise leader will open his or her ears to everyone – at first. Good, bad, or indifferent, all citizens should be heard at minimum of one time. Over time, the wise ruler will determine which voices are worth listening to, because the overall net result is positive.

The wise leader will not surround oneself with eager-to-please flunkies who say yes to everything. Hubris is the silent poison. It is slow enough to go unnoticed until it is fatal.

On the contrary, a wise leader will have a court full of those who challenge everything in a constructive manner. Those who force the leader to think and articulate will draw out possible flaws – both foreseen and not. Then by discussing these potential problems, the course can change.

A wise leader will never rush projects, nor will projects be put off without enough reason to justify. Use this knowledge for what you will.

The signature of Agaros Xamaroth (Suspicious Activity) appears at the end of this book.