Feudal Hierarchy of Gorundia

Feudal Hierarchy (Simplified)

• King / Queen – Sovereign ruler of the realm. Holds ultimate authority and grants duchies to powerful families.]



• Duke / Duchess – Ruler of a Duchy, the highest rank of nobility beneath the crown. Often governs multiple counties and commands substantial military and political power.



• Count / Countess – Ruler of a County, typically serving directly under a duke. A count governs multiple baronies and may serve as a regional governor or key advisor to the duke.



• Baron / Baroness – Ruler of a Barony, the foundational landholding noble. Barons typically swear fealty to a count and oversee a fortified manor or small castle with associated villages and vassals.



• Lord / Lady of a Manor (Intermediate Title) – Optional Title between Baron and Knight. Sometimes called a "Laird," "Squire Baron," "Free Lord," or "Minor Lord."
  
  Holds a manor, small fort, or estate under a baron’s authority. May or may not have hereditary title, often granted as a reward for service. Could be used for newly elevated nobility, lesser branch family members, or capable commoners rewarded with land. Sometimes has a “Serjeanty” or “Steward-Lord” role (e.g., military service in exchange for land).
• Landed Knight (Sir / Dame) – A knight who has been granted land (typically a small estate or manor) in exchange for service. Often subordinate to a baron or minor lord. May or may not pass their title hereditarily.



• Knight Bachelor (Unlanded Knight) – A knight without a fief, often a retainer, household knight, or military officer in another noble’s service. May rise to landholding status through service.