Titles and Ranks
Although there is no caste system (as is found in the Empire), Galea still has recognized ranks and titles, as well as an established nobility. The following are notable titles and ranks in order of precedence:
King and Queen - The ruling entities of Galea. The Queen only assumes the throne when there is no heir and she is judged competent to rule by the Council of Rulers.
Crown Prince - The established heir to the Throne of Galea. Traditionally, he will sit as Regent over the Ruling House if he is old enough.
Prince and Princess - Titles given to siblings of the Crown Prince.
This is also the title given to whomever stands as the Heir Apparent, the individual deemed most likely to take the Throne if something should happen to the King. The Heir Apparent is designated by the King, but they still must pass the Judgement of Succession administered by the Council if and when the time comes.
Duke and Duchess - Title of the heads of each of the ruling Houses and, therefore, each of the Provinces of Galea. Often considered "minor kings" in that they hold command and control over large areas and populations.
Chancellor - The highest non-ruling title given by the King. Although it normally is bestowed upon an heir, no post is intrinsically hereditary. The King may therefore appoint and remove Chancellors at will. The posts served by Chancellors are very highly-placed, such as important advisors and Chief Diplomats.
The Head of the Royal Staff is the High Chancellor. When necessary, the High Chancellor has stood as Regent over Galea.
Baron and Baroness - Titles of ruling landowners within the Provinces. Barons usually rule from a central municipality (such as a township of keep). A Baron is usually served by various Lords and either a Commander (if his realm is of strategic value) or a Sheriff.
Lord and Lady - Titles that stand as the proper address for any nobility lesser than Prince or Princess. This is also the standing title of honor granted to any appointed official in the service to the Throne. Note that the title of Lord confers nobility upon the family of its owner; it is therefore more than possible to achieve nobility without having to be "born to it."
Master and Mistress - Titles of address for most non-nobility persons of status, such as guild masters, highly-placed merchants, bureaucrats, mages, and teachers. It is also in common usage as a title of address for anyone not of nobility (which sometimes grates upon the nerves of those who bear the actual title).
Knight - Special military title awarded to soldiers who meet stringent requirements of training, service, valor, and character. This title can be awarded by any nobility of the ranking of Duke or above. The King may choose to grant Knighthood to anyone at his leisure. A Knight, in turn, may appoint a number of Squires (who are considered to be viable candidates for Knighthood).