Feudalism is a system in which noble lords hold lands called “Fiefdoms” in the name of the Crown in exchange for military service. These nobles are also responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the crown, and pass their duties and titles on to their children. In this system the government and military are one and the same. At the bottom of this hierarchy, serfs are obliged to live on and work these lands, as well as pay a share of anything they produce to their lords in exchange for military protection.
A nobles family and retainers are called a “House.” Nobility itself is divided into numerous ranks and tiers, with great houses commanding the allegiance of lesser houses and lords called “Vassals.” A vassal is pledged to a higher ranking noble known as their “liege lord." A vassal must remain loyal to their liege lord above any other noble, in exchange for that liege lord acting as a patron, advocate and protector.
Knights are the lowest rank of nobility, sometimes even elevated from the commons. Knights are often well armed and outfitted, but rarely hold anything greater than token estates. Unlike other other nobles, Knights do not necessarily have the authority to deliver law and justice on their lands themselves. Instead, they may appeal to their liege lord, often a Baron, who may at least delegate some autonomy in this regard. Knights are chiefly responsible for maintaining order in their holds, and gathering bannermen to serve in their lord’s armies.
Wars between the Feudal states of Antora are frequent and usually brief. When a King goes on campaign, they call upon great lords, who call upon lesser lords to gather up their knights and their bannermen. Cautious to avoid unnecessary expense, most of these conflicts consist mostly of small raids and posturing, with both sides aiming to gain face as much as territory. These wars will often end after a single decisive battle, or after one or two significant holdings change hands. Wars over succession or civil war on the other hand, are another matter entirely, and will often rage until one side is utterly obliterated.
The most common ranks of nobility are listed below, although they vary from nation to nation.
King/Queen
Duke/Duchess
Count
Baron/Baroness
Knights