Chain of Authority



The "Chain of Authority" for the Kingdom of Fastheld, one should understand how to view this order before using it as a basis of knowledge.

The chain shows each major military, social, and political titles that one might encounter in Fastheld, as well as showing where one titles 'ranks' against another in the greater scheme of the social landscape.

However, one should also be aware that these are relative comparisons.

For example, a Canon of the Imperial Cult rests between a Viscount and an Earl in regards to comparative ranking, and is thus entitled to the social title of "Viscount" in that regards (rounding down).

Likewise, one should understand that while a Canon of the Imperial Cult technically "out ranks" a Marshal of the Royal Guard, they only do so in matters pertaining to faith within the Kingdom. A Canon could not, for example, give orders to a Marshal in matters of law and security.

As another example, the Grand Master of the Royal Order of the Crown is listed as being equally ranked to a Duke or Duchess of a Noble House; however (again, rounding down), the Grand Master's "political" rank remains that of Marquis, and they have no authority to dictate politics to a Duke or Duchess, while - equally - a Duke or Duchess has no authority to supercede the Grand Master in matters of Royal Law.

It should also be noted that Freelanders and Wildlanders may sometimes hold positions that put them "on par" with lower ranks of the Nobility, such as Viscounts and Barons. However, again, this is only in terms of authority within the area in which they hold that title, and a Citizen - unlike a Noble - may NOT adopt a political title because of this role.

Citizens may only hold the positions of Guardsman, House Guard, and Ordinator. Nobles may hold the same ranks, but are permitted to adopt the "rounded down" political title if they do not already hold a higher rank.