Efleim
The Efleim are a pragmatic people, known for their towering heights, natural beauty and grace, and pointed ears. They are a highly opinionated and structured race, holding great pride in their morality and traditions. In order to keep their beliefs alive and flourishing, the Efleim are raised with strict and rigid teachings of their beliefs from a young age. Most of the Efleim kind follow the same ideals, however it seems that even where they differ it is in the same ways and they have still managed to simply split themselves into sub-kingdoms within their main government which align with these deviations.
Physical Attributes
Most notably, the Efleim have pointed ears of different sizes and varying “sharpness” as well as skin tones which range from a chocolate brown to pale porcelain which can tell you about their heritage at a glance, though at this point in time these traits don't bear any true dictation on status. Generally, Efleim are a fairly tall people and have very defined and toned body shapes, being naturally very thin. They are a graceful people which, coupled with their height, gives them an air of pride.
With their heavy focus on their traditions and beliefs, most Efleim will dress and decorate themselves to reflect these openly and outwardly. Many are tattooed with floral patterns, markings, and insignia which affiliate them to their groups, families, and religious or moral followings. The eyes of an Efleim are often large and bright and many even have different, unnatural shapes within them. They may also have body modifications such as piercings or certain plants and colors to mark different accomplishments or display certain allegiances. The plants which they are adorned with are very representative of their personalities and sometimes even their physical traits as well.
The Efleim are generally youthful in appearance, ageing normally until aroun 18-25 and then slowing significantly through adulthood. They generally live to be around 2 thousand years old, though technically they have the potential to live even longer with the right conditions. Visibly aging at a greater rate is generally a sign of an Efleim’s life nearing its close, which they believe is either their own feeling to decide or an outcome decided and set into motion by their deities. In reality, major changes in their life or how they think about themselves and their experiences are usually the cause. Most Efleim choose to perform a special ritual to end their life just before they approach 2,000 years of age, which is considered the normal way to go. Others may expire from nothing but their old age, though this is not quite as common but is still perfectly acceptable. Those who live on beyond what is considered "acceptable" (2,000 years) are generally viewed very poorly, unless they are with a cause which is deemed worthy to remain on this plane of existence for.
With their heavy focus on their traditions and beliefs, most Efleim will dress and decorate themselves to reflect these openly and outwardly. Many are tattooed with floral patterns, markings, and insignia which affiliate them to their groups, families, and religious or moral followings. The eyes of an Efleim are often large and bright and many even have different, unnatural shapes within them. They may also have body modifications such as piercings or certain plants and colors to mark different accomplishments or display certain allegiances. The plants which they are adorned with are very representative of their personalities and sometimes even their physical traits as well.
The Efleim are generally youthful in appearance, ageing normally until aroun 18-25 and then slowing significantly through adulthood. They generally live to be around 2 thousand years old, though technically they have the potential to live even longer with the right conditions. Visibly aging at a greater rate is generally a sign of an Efleim’s life nearing its close, which they believe is either their own feeling to decide or an outcome decided and set into motion by their deities. In reality, major changes in their life or how they think about themselves and their experiences are usually the cause. Most Efleim choose to perform a special ritual to end their life just before they approach 2,000 years of age, which is considered the normal way to go. Others may expire from nothing but their old age, though this is not quite as common but is still perfectly acceptable. Those who live on beyond what is considered "acceptable" (2,000 years) are generally viewed very poorly, unless they are with a cause which is deemed worthy to remain on this plane of existence for.
Government and Military
The Efleim are ruled over by a Monarchy with a High Queen (and her King, if applicable) at its head. The main kingdom is also split into 4 lesser Sub-Kingdoms, organized by the differences in their beliefs and ruled over by a lesser royalty of their own. These four lesser rulers all meet at a Round Table under the High Queen to discuss issues and act as her advisors, though the final decision goes to the main monarch they all get to make their input.
Each of these four Sub-Kingdoms run something like their own smaller kingdom within Eflaim’s lands. Towns and groups within the kingdom all pledge their allegiance to the High Queen and the Eflaim people as a whole, however they also choose to align with one of the four sub-kingdoms as well. This leads to a (usually) friendly rivalry between Kingdoms and their members. Each sub-kingdom is named for one of the four card suits and, for the most part, sub-kingdoms of a matching color align with one another a bit more than they do those of the opposite.
The lands of the Efleim Kingdom are protected and watched over by and Order of Knights (or En'Ash) which, as one may expected, is highly structured and follows its own Code of Honor and Conduct. The En'Ash serve the High Royalty directly and the Efleim people as a whole. However, somewhat separate from these knights and considered a special honor, there are smaller orders who may serve the High Royalty personally or some who act to serve the lesser royalty as well. These small branches who serve personally are almost like a special, private branch and members are usually very carefully selected, often hand-picked to be offered their place. To the Efleim, the Knights are highly esteemed and, though those who have the honor of taking up this mantle still remain a part of their original caste joining the Order is a special status all its own.
Each of these four Sub-Kingdoms run something like their own smaller kingdom within Eflaim’s lands. Towns and groups within the kingdom all pledge their allegiance to the High Queen and the Eflaim people as a whole, however they also choose to align with one of the four sub-kingdoms as well. This leads to a (usually) friendly rivalry between Kingdoms and their members. Each sub-kingdom is named for one of the four card suits and, for the most part, sub-kingdoms of a matching color align with one another a bit more than they do those of the opposite.
The lands of the Efleim Kingdom are protected and watched over by and Order of Knights (or En'Ash) which, as one may expected, is highly structured and follows its own Code of Honor and Conduct. The En'Ash serve the High Royalty directly and the Efleim people as a whole. However, somewhat separate from these knights and considered a special honor, there are smaller orders who may serve the High Royalty personally or some who act to serve the lesser royalty as well. These small branches who serve personally are almost like a special, private branch and members are usually very carefully selected, often hand-picked to be offered their place. To the Efleim, the Knights are highly esteemed and, though those who have the honor of taking up this mantle still remain a part of their original caste joining the Order is a special status all its own.
Social Structure and Culture
The Efleim people believe firmly in their customs and traditions, rarely straying from them and seeing other ways of doing things as improper and, at times, even immoral. They are a highly religious people, and very superstitious.
Though the actual power of social status means less and less the lower down you move in the castes, the Eflaim still take their system of social standing very seriously. Manners and etiquette are a big deal to them as a people and so, despite not having very many reasons to pull rank on one another, it is important to note an individual’s status so that the proper formalities can be offered them.
While most of the people fit into one of these castes, there are some positions which are harder to fit into a set place on the scale. One such type of person are the Knights, who depending on their position and rank may answer to the likes of Lesser Royals and Nobility or else be sent to command them.
Following are the different castes of Efleim people in descending order, along with an explanation as to what their part in society is:
High Royalty ~ The Monarch (Usually a Queen) and their family are considered High Royalty. They are the absolute rulers over the Efleim Kingdom and hold the highest social standing. The only manner in which to achieve this status is to inherit it through the bloodline/family ties, acquiring it in the extremely rare occurrence in which the current family steps down (has happened only once in recorded history), or to usurp the throne….and be allowed to hold the place. (another highly unlikely possibility)
The High Queen is addressed by the people as “Her Royal Highest”, “Her Majesty”, and “The Highest” and it is expected that all stop and bow when she enters.Most High Royals also receive a title or descriptor more specific to themselves and their style of rule or accomplishments. It is considered improper to speak to her before addressed or invited to and initiating physical or eye contact before she does so is considered extremely rude.
Members of the High Royal family are addressed as royalty as well, though with a slightly lesser respect than the head of their family and of society, the High Queen. The High Queen’s heir is also afforded an extra bit of respect and care, treated almost equally to the High Queen herself.
The current High Queen is Minerva Seraphimia,”The Mysterious and Wise”, whose bloodline has held High Royal status for several thousand years.
Note that while extended family or branches off of the High Royal family will still usually be considered Royalty to some extent in caste, they are not afforded the same power or privilege, nor are they expected to be addressed in exactly the same manner.
Lesser Royalty ~ Also known simply as Royalty, this status denotes the rulers of the 4 sub-kingdoms which the Efleim people have divided themselves into. The heads of these families are members of Efleim’s Round Table and make up the High Queen’s court. They are treated like royalty but on a significantly lower tier than High Royalty. To the people, they are almost like major celebrities and support for them is shown in much the same way or like fans rooting for their favorite sports teams.
Lesser Queens and their Royal Families are expected to be the role models and display the peak performance and portrayal of the ideals their Lesser Kingdom and “House” represents. Should they be found to be out of line or contradicting any traditions and ideals, it is sure that the people will be displeased. That said, Royalty generally remains in the same bloodline unless the High Queen, or enough of their people, should find something offensive about them and have them replaced. In some rare cases, the High Queen may particularly favor a certain individual (or family) and reward them by demoting a Royal and allowing the lucky person and their family to take their place.
Regardless to their family name prior, once they become Royalty they are known by the suit used to represent their House/Kingdom (Those being Heart, Spade, Diamonds, and Clubs). However, most families choose to use their original family name along with the Royal Title name in order to differentiate between bloodlines.
Note that while extended family or branches off of a Lesser Royal family will still usually be considered Royalty to some extent in caste, they are not afforded the same power or privilege, nor are they expected to be addressed in exactly the same manner.
Nobility ~ Nobles are those who act as advisors to and serve the Lesser Royalty. Each city or town in the Efleim Kingdom has a Noble Family to govern it, and of course the majority of the populace of said town is sure to share allegiance to the suit which matches their Nobility.
Nobility is treated with great respect and usually addressed as “Your Grace”. Much like Lesser Royalty, those who support the suit a Noble aligns with will treat them much like celebrities, the excitement heightens even further for those citizens of their own town for which they are the Patron Noble.
Nobility is almost always noted with their surname, some mention of their suit, and noting which town or city they are the Patron of.
Note that while extended family or branches off of a Noble family will still usually be considered Nobility to some extent in caste, they are not afforded the same power or privilege, nor are they expected to be addressed in exactly the same manner.
Vassals ~ Owners or controllers of different properties or land, Vassals don’t hold any true power other than over those who rent from them. Generally, they seem to have control over a certain district. Some are rather heavy handed while others choose to be kind and protect those under their unspoken jurisdiction, both methods in the hopes that they will remain loyal and remain in their area. Needless to say, they are fairly rich people and may rival or form alliances with one another. Whether they are disliked or loved, those who they allow to rent their spaces or who work for them are expected to afford them respect.
Coven Heads ~ Coven heads are practically of the same status as Vassals, only they generally have power over a smaller group of people. A branching bloodline (a family), or multiple bloodlines coming together to combine and share their traditions and beliefs is known as a Coven. Most of the current covens formed a long time ago, and thus the meshing of their traditions has been a long time ago and now they act as one singular unit in a way. Those in a coven answer to their Coven Head, which is like the head of their family, and it is expected that they are treated with a great familial respect.
Common Folk ~ Those with no other special rank or title are referred to simply as the Common Folk, which make up the majority of Efleim Society. In general, they don’t have power but they are expected to treat one another with good manners and respect. There are some variations in status among common folk which may change how they interact even among themselves, but these are far more fluid changes and not ruled by any official caste system. Often times, these statuses are determined by personal or popular opinions. Common Folk make up most of the Efleim race. { Please note that without prior permission, most player characters are expected to be Common Folk
Unofficial Castes ~ As previously mentioned, some shifts in status among Common Folk occur which change interactions between even those within that same caste. While most are hardly worth noting or pointing out directly, some people who would technically be considered Common Folk may have reason to be even more separated from the herd by their own unofficial caste due to their affects or contributions to society. Unlike true castes, it isn't as obligatory to follow these special cases to specific displays of acknowledgement of them or even at all, though it may cause others to question why one wouldn't and, in some cases, even lead to being judged.
Some of the more notable of those who may garner some extra respect includes celebrities, heroic or legendary adventurers and people, and especially Knights. Knights are often defined by their role so much so that even those of higher castes or important features are regarded as Knights first and their other roles second.
Not all of those who get labelled under an unofficial caste are positive examples, though. Many are ostracized and treated as "Lesser Folk" or even "Culled" because of their negative actions or particularly deviant behavior.
Though the actual power of social status means less and less the lower down you move in the castes, the Eflaim still take their system of social standing very seriously. Manners and etiquette are a big deal to them as a people and so, despite not having very many reasons to pull rank on one another, it is important to note an individual’s status so that the proper formalities can be offered them.
While most of the people fit into one of these castes, there are some positions which are harder to fit into a set place on the scale. One such type of person are the Knights, who depending on their position and rank may answer to the likes of Lesser Royals and Nobility or else be sent to command them.
Following are the different castes of Efleim people in descending order, along with an explanation as to what their part in society is:
High Royalty ~ The Monarch (Usually a Queen) and their family are considered High Royalty. They are the absolute rulers over the Efleim Kingdom and hold the highest social standing. The only manner in which to achieve this status is to inherit it through the bloodline/family ties, acquiring it in the extremely rare occurrence in which the current family steps down (has happened only once in recorded history), or to usurp the throne….and be allowed to hold the place. (another highly unlikely possibility)
The High Queen is addressed by the people as “Her Royal Highest”, “Her Majesty”, and “The Highest” and it is expected that all stop and bow when she enters.Most High Royals also receive a title or descriptor more specific to themselves and their style of rule or accomplishments. It is considered improper to speak to her before addressed or invited to and initiating physical or eye contact before she does so is considered extremely rude.
Members of the High Royal family are addressed as royalty as well, though with a slightly lesser respect than the head of their family and of society, the High Queen. The High Queen’s heir is also afforded an extra bit of respect and care, treated almost equally to the High Queen herself.
The current High Queen is Minerva Seraphimia,”The Mysterious and Wise”, whose bloodline has held High Royal status for several thousand years.
Note that while extended family or branches off of the High Royal family will still usually be considered Royalty to some extent in caste, they are not afforded the same power or privilege, nor are they expected to be addressed in exactly the same manner.
Lesser Royalty ~ Also known simply as Royalty, this status denotes the rulers of the 4 sub-kingdoms which the Efleim people have divided themselves into. The heads of these families are members of Efleim’s Round Table and make up the High Queen’s court. They are treated like royalty but on a significantly lower tier than High Royalty. To the people, they are almost like major celebrities and support for them is shown in much the same way or like fans rooting for their favorite sports teams.
Lesser Queens and their Royal Families are expected to be the role models and display the peak performance and portrayal of the ideals their Lesser Kingdom and “House” represents. Should they be found to be out of line or contradicting any traditions and ideals, it is sure that the people will be displeased. That said, Royalty generally remains in the same bloodline unless the High Queen, or enough of their people, should find something offensive about them and have them replaced. In some rare cases, the High Queen may particularly favor a certain individual (or family) and reward them by demoting a Royal and allowing the lucky person and their family to take their place.
Regardless to their family name prior, once they become Royalty they are known by the suit used to represent their House/Kingdom (Those being Heart, Spade, Diamonds, and Clubs). However, most families choose to use their original family name along with the Royal Title name in order to differentiate between bloodlines.
Note that while extended family or branches off of a Lesser Royal family will still usually be considered Royalty to some extent in caste, they are not afforded the same power or privilege, nor are they expected to be addressed in exactly the same manner.
Nobility ~ Nobles are those who act as advisors to and serve the Lesser Royalty. Each city or town in the Efleim Kingdom has a Noble Family to govern it, and of course the majority of the populace of said town is sure to share allegiance to the suit which matches their Nobility.
Nobility is treated with great respect and usually addressed as “Your Grace”. Much like Lesser Royalty, those who support the suit a Noble aligns with will treat them much like celebrities, the excitement heightens even further for those citizens of their own town for which they are the Patron Noble.
Nobility is almost always noted with their surname, some mention of their suit, and noting which town or city they are the Patron of.
Note that while extended family or branches off of a Noble family will still usually be considered Nobility to some extent in caste, they are not afforded the same power or privilege, nor are they expected to be addressed in exactly the same manner.
Vassals ~ Owners or controllers of different properties or land, Vassals don’t hold any true power other than over those who rent from them. Generally, they seem to have control over a certain district. Some are rather heavy handed while others choose to be kind and protect those under their unspoken jurisdiction, both methods in the hopes that they will remain loyal and remain in their area. Needless to say, they are fairly rich people and may rival or form alliances with one another. Whether they are disliked or loved, those who they allow to rent their spaces or who work for them are expected to afford them respect.
Coven Heads ~ Coven heads are practically of the same status as Vassals, only they generally have power over a smaller group of people. A branching bloodline (a family), or multiple bloodlines coming together to combine and share their traditions and beliefs is known as a Coven. Most of the current covens formed a long time ago, and thus the meshing of their traditions has been a long time ago and now they act as one singular unit in a way. Those in a coven answer to their Coven Head, which is like the head of their family, and it is expected that they are treated with a great familial respect.
Common Folk ~ Those with no other special rank or title are referred to simply as the Common Folk, which make up the majority of Efleim Society. In general, they don’t have power but they are expected to treat one another with good manners and respect. There are some variations in status among common folk which may change how they interact even among themselves, but these are far more fluid changes and not ruled by any official caste system. Often times, these statuses are determined by personal or popular opinions. Common Folk make up most of the Efleim race. { Please note that without prior permission, most player characters are expected to be Common Folk
Unofficial Castes ~ As previously mentioned, some shifts in status among Common Folk occur which change interactions between even those within that same caste. While most are hardly worth noting or pointing out directly, some people who would technically be considered Common Folk may have reason to be even more separated from the herd by their own unofficial caste due to their affects or contributions to society. Unlike true castes, it isn't as obligatory to follow these special cases to specific displays of acknowledgement of them or even at all, though it may cause others to question why one wouldn't and, in some cases, even lead to being judged.
Some of the more notable of those who may garner some extra respect includes celebrities, heroic or legendary adventurers and people, and especially Knights. Knights are often defined by their role so much so that even those of higher castes or important features are regarded as Knights first and their other roles second.
Not all of those who get labelled under an unofficial caste are positive examples, though. Many are ostracized and treated as "Lesser Folk" or even "Culled" because of their negative actions or particularly deviant behavior.