Society and Governance in Atraeleon

In Atraeleon, society and governance are structured in a feudal system reminiscent of contemprorary medieval times. At the top of the social hierarchy sits the imperial family, the Solaris Clan, who holds supreme authority over the empire. They are revered as the embodiment of divine right and are considered the unquestionable rulers.
Below the imperial family, the noble class wields significant power and influence. Noble families, known as noble clans, own vast estates and hold hereditary titles and lands granted to them by the emperor. These nobles serve as regional lords and are responsible for maintaining law and order within their territories. They also oversee the collection of taxes and the administration of justice. The noble clans often vie for favor and influence at the imperial court, engaging in political maneuvering and alliances to secure their positions.
Not quite nobility but certainly not serfs, a new class is slowly forming around the empire. This small section of the populace is represented by individuals who have risen above their station in some way, usually involving trade, art, or adventure. They are obviously beholden to the empire's governance as all people are, but they emjoy more relative freedom when compared to their lower class counterparts.
Beneath the nobles and new class are the commoners, who are further divided into different strata. The serfs, also known as vassals, are bound to the land they work on and owe various obligations and services to their noble lords. They are granted protection and a small plot of land in exchange for their labor and loyalty. The serfs form the backbone of the agricultural workforce, toiling in the fields to provide sustenance for the empire.
Below the serfs are the peasants, who have even fewer rights and freedoms. They are typically impoverished laborers who work as farmers, artisans, or servants in the service of the nobility. Peasants often live in small villages or hamlets, struggling to make ends meet and subject to the whims of their local lords.
Religion plays a significant role in society, with the Divinitas Concordia serving as the only allowed faith. The clergy, including priests and priestesses, hold positions of spiritual authority and influence. They perform religious ceremonies, provide moral guidance, and often serve as advisors to the nobility and the commoners alike. Temples and shrines dedicated to the various deities dot the empire, serving as centers of worship and community gathering. The Imperial Inquisitors ensure that no heresy goes unpunished in the empire, no matter how insignificant.
Overall, the governance of Atraeleon is a blend of imperial decree, noble rule, and traditional hierarchies. The society is characterized by a stark division between the ruling elite and the commoners, with a strong emphasis on loyalty, duty, and adherence to the established social order.