I don't think that's true, the societies the Heortlings are based on (Celtic and Viking) did not have absolute monarchies. It's not a democracy as we know it today where every few years everyone gets to vote on which of a small number of choices is least unacceptable. It is however a system whereby a clan chief is chosen by the acclaim of a meeting which everyone can attend. Similarly the High Priestess of Ernalda is chosen by the priestess's as the best person to represent them on the ring. At the tribal level the clan representatives do the same to select a tribal chief and tribal ring. At all levels those who chose can change their minds and the leaders. So Broyan is reliant on the support of the clan leaders to retain his position. They're not going to kick him out just on a whim, especially not during the siege but they must be taken notice of and they in their turn must respond to the demands of their clans.
-- Donald Oddy http://www.grove.demon.co.uk/
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