Society
The populous is generally content and well-treated; there are no serfs, and only the most crass of the nobility uses the term "peasants." The people of Galea are called just that - people, or else citizens. The landed nobility "own" the lands around them only tacitly; they are more governors than lieges. There are families that serve the nobility and the lands they actually own, but they are not slaves. The arrangement between liege and servant is one of mutual benefit and is not to be abused (though it often is in areas far from the capital).
Galea is divided into fourteen Provinces, headed by the ruling Houses. Though it is smaller than the Kal Empire, it has the support of the Landraâ€™Feya, the Druids of Mindoth's Tower, and the Clanhomes of the Wolfhead Mountains. The Kings and Queens since Vol have maintained his precedent for peaceful and benevolent rule (although there is the stain of corruption and dark plans even within the very capital).
Of important note is the Council of Rulers. This body was formed by King Evan Argorn and consists of the Dukes of each of the Provinces as well as the King of the Dwarves, the High One of the Landraâ€™Feya, and the Arch Druid of Mindoth's Tower. Normally an appointed representative sits upon the Council for each Ruler and acts in their stead, although it is not uncommon for each of the actual rulers to serve the seat in times of crisis. Originally a strictly advisory body, the Council has been given some power to make judgements and enforce certain laws. One of their primary purposes is to oversee the peaceful succession of the Throne.
On the social scale, Galea is quite progressive and benevolent. Women may achieve any rank and status they desire (though it would be a cruel lie to let anyone believe that they have it as easy as men). Galea is the only (human) kingdom in the history of Shaintar to have a ruling Queen. Additionally, they may serve in the military (although there are Houses, such as Malakar, that forbid women in their units). Non-humans are welcome in Galea, and there is a wide diversity of species living in the kingdom.