Noble Definitions

[Janus]

- Governments of Illiria -

~*Definitions*~

((Keep in mind, I do use some terms in here that we are familiar with as nobility in Europe, but the definitions are quite different here in Illiria as well as some responsibilities given to them))

Keep in mind, there are no gender specifics in each title. Beyond 'lord' and 'lady', a 'duke' is still a 'duke' whether female or male. Not a 'duchess' for a female. It is the way they honor the old system of political power, where a 'king' was still a 'king' regardless of gender.

League - Highest rank of nobles in the land, they reside in the city of Illiria, within it's heart and guide the kingdom through it's dictations and councilship. It's an elective position that is only reviewed upon the removal of a member (usually through death) or extreme circumstances (convictions of death).

Duke - Dukes are acting officals within each region, so this totals to only four individuals. They act upon the requests of the League and impliment their orders and decree's, as a 'hand' of the League. It is a highly respected position, and like the League, this position remains with the elected offical until death, or removal upon review. The League elects Dukes. Dukes mediate large scale problems.

Marquis - Per region there are two Marquis. Like a pyramid of power, they are the 'hands' of the Duke. Since each region is too difficult for one person to handle, the Marquis handles things for the Duke on a smaller perspective. Larger issues usually call for the duke to be involved directly, however smaller issues he can hand off to a Marquis to supervise. Duke's elect Marquis'. Marquis mediate medium scale problems.

Earl- Once again, acting upon a 'ladder' effect, there are four earls per Marquis which act upon the Marquis' decree, in effect, by the Dukes, and by the Leagues. Earls are on a more 'personal' level with the people and normally overlook several cities at once. Marquis' elect Earls for eachother. Earls mediate complications between towns.

Baron - There is one Baron per city/town. If the town is very small, their respective baron is the one in the nearest city to them. They enforce the collection of taxes, and help mediate problems with the townsfolk. Baron's perhaps have one of the most important positions as they are the ones who need to present the people's needs before the League.