Archmage

An archmage are a sect of mages who have distinguished themselves among their peers. They are casters who have wielded magic for a long time, long enough to have mastered it and bend it to their will in ways that others cannot. They are a sparse group, as most mages are either not of the caliber necessary, or are too concerned with their own pursuits or studies to bother.

Archmages that live among society often hold sway within the nobility of their region, if they aren't given an outright noble title or position. They often serve as sages and/or advisers within the court, and often have a retinue of acolytes or apprentices to take care of more mundane tasks. Many leaders would be foolish to completely ignore the advice of their resident archmagus.

Other Archmagi choose instead to ignore the goings-on of their respective governments, in lieu of official tasks, they pursue their own motives. They might even be plotting to establish themselves as usurpers to the current regimes. Archmages might also disguise themselves as simple commoners in public, wishing to be left alone, but still live among the people. Who knows what a given archmage could desire? After all the motives and desires of those who can reshape reality would likely be beyond the comprehension of normal people, right?