How did the king priests come to rule the cities?

The king-priests rose to power in the cities through a combination of religious authority and political influence. They were often seen as divine representatives, which allowed them to consolidate power by merging spiritual leadership with governance. By leveraging their control over religious practices and institutions, they gained the loyalty of the populace and established their rule over the cities, often through a blend of charisma, prophecy, and military strength. This dual authority helped them maintain stability and order, further entrenching their dominance.