Shieldbearer

As the reigning warlord of Gwa'aag can be removed from office at any time by rite of combat, the custom has developed that any prospective challenger must first defeat at least three of the warlord's chosen warriors. The title given to these warriors is Shieldbearer, and the warlord frequently chooses for the position from amongst his favourite drinking buddies.

Shieldbearers serve to prevent the warlord from constantly having to deal with an unending stream of upstart challengers. In exchange, they have a prestigious title and an endless source of entertainment to divvy between themselves.

Anyone who loses to the Shieldbearers--or to the warlord--doesn't get a second chance to challenge the warlord.