First Among Equals

First appearance and context

The title is introduced during a meal-time conversation on the eve of Apert, when Fraa Corlandin is identified as the FAE—First Among Equals—of the Order of the New Circle. The mention comes amid preparations to receive new members and to hold formal rites following the opening.

Definition and rationale

In-text, "FAE" is explicitly expanded as "First Among Equals." It denotes a leadership role within an order while emphasizing collegial parity. Usage in the same period also applies the title to a chapter: a theorical geologist is described as the FAE of the Edharian chapter. The narrative does not yet describe how the role is chosen, how long it is held, or what specific authorities or duties it entails.

Usage at Orithena

At Orithena, a Lineage (ancient scholarly order) identifies its public-facing leader as the FAE. Their FAE, Fraa Landasher, is named as one of the gate interlocutors and later offers a formal welcome and toast during a communal meal. This usage suggests a collegial head who represents the community in external-facing duties while preserving the emphasis on parity among peers.

Relationships and references

• Held by Fraa Corlandin within the Order of the New Circle.
• In the gate-opening scene, a theorical geologist named Fraa Haligastreme is called the FAE of the Edharian chapter.
• Referenced in conversation among Avout as the community prepares for Apert and anticipates a formal Aut called "Eliger."
• Mentioned as a leadership post one might attain within the Reformed Old Faanians when discussing potential advancement within that order.
• At Orithena, Fraa Landasher is identified as the community’s FAE and participates in receiving visitors.

Current status

As presented so far, Fraa Corlandin is serving as the First Among Equals of the Order of the New Circle; elsewhere at the concent, an avout is identified as the FAE of the Edharian chapter. At Orithena, Fraa Landasher is recognized as FAE and performs welcoming and representative duties.