The Magus is the magical community’s main governing body. It is always run by an elected Archmagus (whose term lasts three years before reelection, though an individual may run or be reelected an unlimited amount of times once nominated unless impeached), who is supported by one Battlemage of their choice.
The High Magus is a council of twenty-five high-profile mages within magical society. Twelve of these positions are reserved by birthright by the most influential magical families, going back hundreds of years, with the rest going to notable scholars, war veterans, politicians, or other mages of high renown. It is expected that the eldest child of the current birthright council member take their place upon the current member’s retirement, although exceptions have been and continue to be made as times move on. Some birthright families include the Evergreen family (descendants of the goddess Alentia), the Davenport family (founders of Shadestead), and the Hajare family (contributors to magical science in the past as well as several very influential velumancers), though each of these three families are considered to be at different “hierarchies” within the council with varying levels of influence.
THE MODERN MAGUS.
As times become more modern, politics and ideologies have changed greatly within the magical community. Many Magus members, particularly those from birthright families, hold views considered these days to be dated or "old fashioned." These views are most often those regarding nonhumans or women being eligible to take Magus seats, or indeed nonhumans being involved in the magical community in any capacity. Opposing and controversial viewpoints in these areas are a large reason why, despite the fact that the Magus is officially "at odds" with radical magical purist groups like the Corans, more and more "old guard" members of the council seem to be changing their views and realigning themselves publicly in recent years.
Current Archmagus, Antoine Fontaine, has openly disavowed viewpoints like these, with his election campaign several years ago heavily relying on his support for a "modern and accepting Magus." This has not seemed to have discouraged the more vocal of Magus members with opposing viewpoints.