These venerated Tarth seers are part of millennia-old tradition that stretches back all the way to the creation of the Great Labyrinth. They are trained from a young age to read the runes of prophecy which mark an ancient door to the Astral Veil deep within the Great Labyrinth, similar in design to the Bridge of Teyat.
The Runeseers enjoy a position of authority adjacent to the Highgaard, due to their sacred purpose. Because the Runeseers are cut off from regular life in Tarth, they are not warriors. In times of trouble in Farlas, the Highgaard are known to consult with them, albeit reluctantly.