How does one become Titled in our game and what does that mean?
Titles are not just for NPCs in our game; players can also work towards their PCs earning titles. There is common confusion over “what a title is” especially when it comes to player created content or Organizations/groups that have their own titles and rank. These are not recognized by the official Titles of Prestige/Peerage.
To earn an official “Sanctioned” Title, a PC must work towards various goals in the game world and become recognized. PCs may become well known by other players, but it isn’t until a PC strives for recognition with the NPC entities of the world that they can legitimately earn/claim sanctioned Titles. To become a Squire, you must find a Knight and serve them. To become a Baron, you must pledge fealty to an NPC group. To become a Named Ulven, you must have deeds witnessed by someone of note. The various methods for achieving each title, the ways to become recognized, and the responsibilities that are expected by having a Title, will vary.
Titles can also be taken away for various reasons, such as being derelict of duty or failing expectations by NPCs that the PC is now a “larger part of”. Some Titles may also be awarded as prizes, such as earning an Edler Title from winning a market faire tournament.
Some sort of NPC person or group will “officially recognize” a PC, representing a sort of “Let Me Clarify” moment that allows a player to know a Title being granted is official. This then allows that PC to use that title in social encounters. The link to the PC’s Bio on our wiki will then be updated with the official Title.
Key Points, circa August 266
The following titles of Prestige, Peerage, and Ulven titles are not an exhaustive list of titles in Last Hope. Each and every Kingdom on Faedrun would have had an extensive and most likely complex system of titles that they used. However, most of these systems did not survive the trip over to Mardrun. With a mixing pot of kingdom backgrounds all smashed together in one small continent, the titles became obsolete.
In August of 266, Lord Baron Richards of the City-State of Newhope, as part of the infrastructure building initiative of the colonial territories, has put in motion a plan to standardize titles of prestige and peerage on Mardrun. Anyone with titles worth noting have been encouraged to come to Newhope territory and have their title “converted” to the appropriate title in this system and receive approved documentation is necessary. What this has done is streamline down the titles into an easy to handle an easy to remember system that Mardrun as a whole can recognize.
Titles of Prestige (Non-Nobility):
These are earned like service awards or recognition. They hold meaning and are important, but are not actual ranks of nobility. Recipients of titles of Prestige are recognized but do not own territories (save for a Baronet) or have responsibility to the overall nobility structure. All titles of Prestige, save for Squire/Esquire, will have official papers drawn up explaining the achievement to earn such a title.
Ranked lowest to highest.
Squire/Esquire
Pledged service and oath to a Knight, Knight-In-Training. This holds no actual prestige as there could be many squires, but shows more of an intent to earn prestige or status.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “[Name], Squire to [Knight’s Name].”
Edler
Small title, recognition of some sort for almost anything (martial/political/economic service). Mainly a “This is a person of note”. There are many Edler titles awarded to individuals and this title of prestige would be the absolute minimum needed to gain influence towards a Title of Peerage.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “[Name], Edler of [Noble’s Name].”
Knight
Requires martial prowess, exceptional service, training in combat. Commonly a stepping stone before earning a title of Peerage, usually awarded to army commanders, distinguished soldiers, and elite bodyguards. Knighthood is awarded to more for the sake of the realm and not the sake of the individual noble, but their papers will dictate which noble awarded them their Knight status.
Commonly addressed as “Sir” or “Dame”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Sir/Dame [Name], Knight of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Baronet
Given land or a single settlement to maintain. Commonly addressed as “Sir” or “Dame”. This prestige could be awarded for exceptional service or longstanding fealty to a noble. Baronet would be the highest esteem someone could get without true nobility and is reserved for the most trusted allies and companions. A Baronet wishing to become a Noble could “release their fealty” by purchasing it from their Noble.
Commonly addressed as “Sir” or “Dame”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Sir/Dame [Name], Baronet of [Noble’s Name].”
Titles of Peerage(Nobility):
These are earned through lineage transition or exceptional rewards for service. No individual can gain a Title of Peerage without at least first accomplishing a Title of Prestige first. They hold meaning and are important and are full ranks of nobility. Recipients of Titles of Peerage are recognized and must own or be in charge of land/territories and have responsibilities to the overall nobility structure. All Titles of Peerage, will have official papers drawn up explaining the achievement to earn such a title.
Ranked Lowest to Highest.
Baron/Baroness
A Baron/Baroness is beholden to their Kingdom/City-State and it’s rulers. A Baron/Baroness is a ruler of a single settlement/village (minimum size of a single faction). They are expected to aid the kingdom in any way they can. The title would carry a commanding weight with those of a lesser rank but their word would be given an amount of trust with those of equal or greater station. Their lands are known as a Barony.
Commonly addressed as “Lord” or “Lady”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Baron [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Count/Countess
A Count/Countess would rule over a grouping of close settlements/villages (about 3-5) which is known as a County. This would also be a larger area of land than a Baron/Baroness would be given. A Count/Countess would be in charge of protection and taxation of these lands but the extra people could be called upon to serve their County. They are beholden to a Kingdom or City-State. They would carry a commanding weight with those of a lesser station and their words would carry a bit more trust with those of equal and higher station.
Commonly addressed as “Lord” or “Lady”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Count/Countess [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Marquess/Marchioness
A Marquess/Marchioness would rule over a settlement on the border of the Kingdom/City-State and is expected to defend the Kingdom from invasion. This would be a border shared with another kingdom not just an empty border. They would rule over equal or potentially less land than a Count/Countess but because of their expected bravery and duty they are given higher station. Again they may have a commanding presence with those of a lower station and given a good deal of trust by those of equal and higher station.
Commonly addressed as “Lord” or “Lady”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Marquess/Marchioness [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Prince/Princess
Prince/Princess is the station of the children of Nobility of a rank of Duke/Duchess or higher. Heir Apparent would be the title of a Prince/Princess who is the next in line for a title and Crown Prince/Princess is the title for one in line for the title of King.
Commonly addressed as “Your Highness”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Prince [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Duke/Duchess
A Duke/Duchess is the title granted to any noble on the Council of the City-State of Newhope. Each Duke is responsible for one of the 10 districts of Newhope but may acquire additional lands outside of the city. They could claim territories made up of 5-10 settlements/villages called a Duchy. They are the highest rank in Newhope and second only to the title of King/Queen.
Commonly addressed as “Your Grace”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Duke/Duchess [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Grand Duke/Grand Duchess
This is a Duke/Duchess given a special station such as the head of the Newhope Council of Ten.
Commonly addressed as “Your Grace”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “Grand Duke/Grand Duchess [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
King/Queen/Emperor/Empress
A King/Queen rules over a Kingdom and all of its nobles. The title of Emperor/Empress is used to mean “a King of Kings” meaning one who rules over multiple kingdoms.
Commonly addressed as “Your Majesty”.
Addressed in a formal capacity as “King/Queen/Emporer/Empress [Name] of [Kingdom/Territory/Realm].”
Ulven Based Titles:
Ulven do not recognize titles the same way that humans and Syndar do. There is a very defined hierarchy (pecking order) of what status has more say than another. Ulven that earn a Name Title, Station Title, or Deed Title are not individuals that gain authority over others but by default may gain some due to the recognized abilities, clout, or personal glory of the titled individual.
Ulven that earn any of the Authority Titles (Hersir and beyond) are respected as leaders and are expected to be leaders regardless of their history or supporting skills. Where a human noble would be scrutinized and heavily kept in check by other nobles (and up and coming nobles right behind them) the Ulven have a much simpler look at their leadership. This follows a “You have earned this title of authority; therefore, you have earned the right to lead”.
All Ulven titles, regardless if personal or authoritative, are sought after and earned through deeds recognized and publicly acknowledged; none are awarded as some sort of barter or contractual deal. However, Ulven do not carry papers or official documentation that proves their titles. The proof of a title is the ability to verbally state their title and the deeds done to earn such a title after being officially recognized by someone in a worthy leadership role within a Clan. While uncommon, an Ulven that has a title questioned must be able to recite the source of acknowledgement, making the act of granting titles something that is not taken lightly as the awarding individual’s own credibility could become suspect. It is highly taboo in Ulven society for anyone to deceive another regarding their titles.
Ulven Naming Conventions / Introductions
Ulven will commonly ask “Who are you?” during social, political, or martial encounters with one another. This is a social invitation to recite their name and their titles for those assembled. It could be two combatants squaring off to just each other or two political delegates speaking in front of hundreds at an assembly. Is it also just as common for an Ulven to open a public statement/boast/claim with “I am…” and recounting their full name with titles but this is usually during moments when lending their credibility or clout to the proclaimed words is important.
The normal naming structure, based on the titles below, are used as follows to introduce yourself (and therefore your “worth”) to others:
- Formal: [Name] the [Name Title], [Authority Title] of [Pack/Clan], [Station Title #], [Deed Title #]
- Note: It is common for an Ulven to have more than one Station Title and/or Deed Title, each of which are recounted during introductions.
- Informal: [Authority Title] [Name] [the Name Title]
When an Ulven rises to the rank of Priestess or higher, the expectation of their name changes drastically. All Station Titles and Deed Titles are no longer used as the entire weight of their clout is focused on their current Authority Title and their Name Title is only used in informal settings or not at all. This evolution shows the focus on the Pack or the Clan and less on the individual. However, Station Titles and Deed Titles are still retained, and possibly still earned, to be used again should the individual no longer hold those higher Authority Titles.
- Formal: [Name], [Authority Title] of [Pack*] of [Clan]
- Clanleaders and High Priestesses remove the [Pack*] part and only introduce themselves as part of their Clan.
- Informal: [Authority Title] [Name]
Being Named [Name Title]
An individual that acts in a profound way can become “Named”. This could be due to continued exceptional service to a cause but it is almost always based on a single defining moment of glory. Being named is a note of worth for the individual but does not come with the expectation of leadership and higher station that comes with the titles of authority. Any individual person Named can only ever be named once. Being named is usually the first step on the journey for more titles and positions of authority in most Ulven organizations but it is not required to do so.
Honorifics [Station Title]
Diplomatic, skill, or duty recognized positions deem as honorable and important to the individuals immediate influence (like a Pack or Family) are called “Honorifics”. These can vary dramatically among the Ulven people but are lumped into a minor category that is given a “nod of respect/recognition” when dealing with other Ulven or people within their normal social circle. Honorifics can be self-given or granted by others as applicable. It is not uncommon for an Ulven to claim an Honorific of their current duty and also the last most recent significant role that they upheld, similar to a “job resume” of sorts.
- Some examples are Skald, Ambassador, Daughter of Gaia, Truthseeker, Quartermaster, Huntmaster, Weaponmaster, Lorespeaker, Runeseer, Ulfednar, Viknar, Hirdman, etc.
- The role of “hunting pack leader” and “war pack leader” are not earned Station Titles but are instead temporarily roles granted for a singular purpose. It is common for an individual to earn a Name Title or Deed Title from any exemplary efforts during their times as a group leader, but as a standalone role it is not added part of an Ulven’s name. In some settings, an Ulven may add “and I am currently a war pack leader on the eastern border” as a job description to others should it be relevant but that is usually denoted during the continued conversation and not part of the Ulven’s claimed name and titles.
- Honorific titles are ones that add context to someone’s character by showing experience but only Name Titles, Authority Titles, and Deed Titles are usually weighed for judgement of “worth”.
Moments of Glory [Deed Title]
The last non-authority-based title that can be earned are called “deeds”. Deeds are action oriented, requiring the individual to do some sort of greatness or profound thing that is witnessed by others. Where a warrior might fight, one who earns a deed would lead a defining charge or single handedly turn a battle. Where two Ulven may duel in a profound moment of honor, only those who would survive a Maw of The Wolf (duel to the death) would earn a deed for it. A warrior may fell many Mordok, but only someone who kills an Alpha or a Shaman would earn a deed from it. Deed Titles hold considerable weight on the clout, personal glory, and influence of any Ulven and the judgement of their ”worth”. Where Station Titles focus on job experiences, Deed Titles focus on exceptional moments and notably accolades.
Hersir [Authority Title]
A Hersir is a distinguished person in Ulven society, usually due to some sort of recognized feat. This commonly comes from combat service but some ulven are known to have great force of will and be recognized for exceptional skill or service. A Hersir’s actions reflect the honor of the awarding entity and there is a responsibility to maintain it to avoid tarnishing the greater honor of the group. Hersir’s are not “nobles” per se, and the closest human equivalent would be an Edler or a Knight.
Jarl [Authority Title]
The upgrade to Hersir is a Jarl, as no Ulven that is not at first a Hersir would even be given the title of Jarl. A Jarl is put in charge of some sort of responsibility (ships, people, land, commerce) and reports to a Packleader or some sort of appointed leadership. Except for rare instances, a Jarl oversees and manages people of varying size and scope. Due to the number of Packs in Ulven culture and the commonality of Packleaders and Priestesses, Jarls are not a common practice among the Ulven. Most Packleaders would rather rule over their own territories themselves and not bring others in to share the honor and the fame. However, larger territories such as Clan Stormjarl, Clan Nightriver, and Clan Grimward have a much higher presence of Jarls due to their sheer size, as some territories or duties are deemed too vast for a single person to be able to manage.
- Commonly addressed simply as “Jarl”.
Champion [Authority Title]
This highly specialized position carries with it the weight of the Authority Title that grants it. Only a Packleader or Clanleader may name a Champion, and each may only name one, respectively. While technically not a position of Authority, others are expected to honor this title and support them in whatever they need to accomplish their goals. Only a Pack or Clan’s enemy would turn away a Champion lest they dishonor themselves and no reasonable support would be denied upon a Champion’s request. Most commonly, a Champion would be chosen to fight in an honor duel where the matter of the entire Pack or Clan is at stake. If a Packleader of Clanleader knows that they are not the best martial choice, naming a Champion to fight in their stead would submit the Pack or Clan’s fate to the outcome of the martial contest. In rare instances, a Clan may choose a Champion for wounded honor that demands vengeance, which is seen as no higher honor to a warrior of that Clan. This form of Champion maintains this title and position not for one martial contest, like an honor duel, but instead until the Clanleader and High Priestess deem their deeds worthy enough to avenge the Clan’s wounded honor.
Priestess [Authority Title]
Each Pack can appoint one Priestess. A Priestess must be a Daughter of Gaia with magical ability of some sort whose sole focus is the spiritual needs, training, and magical abilities of their Pack. Because of the expanded duties and expectations of service to others, a Priestess no longer carries the title of an honorific; they are expected to be well rounded in the management of their assigned responsibilities. Although second to a Packleader, it is very common that a Priestess has almost equal authority in their Pack. The “weight” of this title is based on the size of the Pack.
- Commonly addressed simply as “Priestess”.
Packleader [Authority Title]
Each Pack can appoint one Packleader. A Packleader must be an ulven who is able to fight but does not need to be focused around fighting. No Packleader is recognized as a leader if they are unable to defend their Pack from harm, but the primary responsibility of a Packleader is organizing, managing, and leading the people and settlements in their Pack. A Packleader’s word has the final say in their Pack, but a Packleader will always work closely together with a Pack’s Priestess. The “weight” of this title is based on the size of the Pack.
- Commonly addressed simply as “Chieftain/Chieftess”
- This notable removal from the regular common address names for all other high-tier Authority Title positions is in part a nod of respect to the Pack focused origins of the Ulven people before Clans were formed. It is not uncommon for a Packleader to refer to themselves as “[Name], Chieftain/Chieftess of [Pack]” and this is seen as interchangeable with “[Name], Packleader of [Pack]” and is treated as such.
Warleader [Authority Title]
Each Clan can appoint one Warleader. The Warleader must be an esteemed and recognized warrior within that Clan with plenty of fighting skill and experience. They are responsible for the martial prowess and honor of the entire Clan and the overall mobilization of warpacks and warriors on a larger scale. An ulven must defeat the current Warleader in a highly ceremonial and brutal honor duel and if defeated, must relinquish the title. This challenge is never made lightly and the stakes are high for both combatants. Although an incredibly rare exception, a Warleader can willingly step down from the position without an honor duel, but this move is highly scrutinized and judged to deem if the cause is worthy. Found lacking, the former Warleader could be branded and banished from their Clan for “so easily setting aside their martial oath and pledge to the Clan’s honor”.
- Commonly addressed as “Warleader”.
High Priestess [Authority Title]
Each Clan can appoint one High Priestess. A High Priestess must be a Daughter of Gaia with magical ability and usually has served previously as the Priestess of a Pack. This position oversees the spiritual needs and Daughter of Gaia training of the entire Clan, frequently working closely with the various Priestesses under her charge. They assist with management, political structure, and diplomatic negotiations of the Clan. Although second to a Clanleader, it is very common that a High Priestess has almost equal authority in their Clan. Unlike the Priestess of a Pack, the authority of all High Priestesses is recognized equally among the Clans regardless of their Clan’s size.
- Commonly addressed as “High Priestess”
Clanleader [Authority Title]
Each Clan can appoint one Clanleader. A Clanleader usually has served previously as the Packleader of a Pack, but rare instances have put a noteworthy individual into this position of power without first overseeing a Pack. A Clanleader oversees the management, political structure, and diplomatic negotiations of the Clan. A Clanleader’s word has the final say in their Clan, but a Clanleader will always work closely together with a Clan’s High Priestess. Unlike the Packleader of a Pack, the authority of all Clanleaders is recognized equally among the Clans regardless of their Clan’s size.
- Commonly addressed as “Clanleader”