National identification

Within the meritocracy of Nicandria, people are almost always hired based on their prior accomplishments such as grades and prior work experience. Although workplaces sometimes conduct interviews and test for applicants, the first step to getting that chance is through your national identification. The identification card each citizen receives at birth serves as both a personal record and a symbol of their achievements, marking their progress and contributions to society. The small wooden plate contains simple personal infomation like, age, race and name while also displaying up to three accomplishments. These acomplishments are a point of pride, a mark of standing, and a testament to one’s journey through the world.

The Identification and Accomplishment System

Each citizen’s identification card is issued shortly after birth and is updated over time to reflect their achievements. This card serves as a passport of sorts, granting access to certain privileges, guilds, and even social circles, depending on the recorded accomplishments. The limitation of three accomplishments makes the choice deeply meaningful. Individuals must decide which achievements best reflect their strengths, values, or aspirations, leading to careful and sometimes difficult selections. This restriction also creates a culture of constant growth and renewal, as citizens may choose to replace older accomplishments with newer, more relevant milestones. While you can create your own additions to your identification, it is commonly done by others in higher standing that act as ensurers for your actions. Some exapmles include:

• Merit Trial: Upon completing the your foundational years, each individual’s first Merit Trial is added to their identification. This trial reflects their preliminary proficiency and serves as their first major achievement.
• Guild Seal Endorsement: Some Adepts add a symbol or seal from a respected guild, validating their test results and indicating they’re recognized members of their craft.
• Engraved Titles: Many Adepts will engrave the name or title of a prominent project, product, or role they held, along with a date. For instance, a mason might inscribe “Architect of Stonetide Bridge” adding weight to their record.
• Mentor’s Mark: Practitioners and Adepts may have a symbol or sigil from a prominent mentor attached to their identification plate. For example, a young mage might carry the endorsement of a well-known wizard, which builds their credibility within magical circles.
• Seal of Recommendation: Endorsements from well-known figures can be as simple as an embossed symbol or wax seal, representing the reputation they have earned through association.
• Dragonslayer's Scale: A renowned warrior who once defeated a dragon might have a dragon scale hanging from their identification plate, marked with a carved note like “Defeated Yrasul the Flame in Year 2462.” The scale serves as both proof and a constant reminder of their accomplishment.
• Symbolic Charms: Novices often carry charms or small symbols that represent their aspirations or early achievements. A novice warrior might have a tiny shield charm, while a young herbalist might have a dried sprig of a rare herb.
• Illusionist’s Display: A Virtuosi illusionist might enchant their identification plate to produce brief, ethereal images that highlight scenes from their career—an enchanted battlefield, a crowd watching their magic, or flashes of their spellwork in action.

Caste System

In Nicandria, the society has evolved "interpreted castes"—unofficial, culturally recognized stages that reflect one's position and contributions within the nation. These stages aren’t rigidly assigned or enforced but are widely understood, with individuals often referring to themselves and others based on the level of skill, experience, or renown they’ve achieved. A person can move between them based on accomplishments, often moving us as they get older but sometimes moving down as their acomplishments remains unchanged.

1. The Novices
   
Role: Novices are those in the early stages of learning their craft, trade, or profession. Typically, they’re young people fresh from their foundational years, still exploring various paths and working to establish their first accomplishments.
Characteristics: This stage is marked by curiosity, experimentation, and potential. Novices may change directions multiple times as they find their footing.
Common Accomplishments: Novices usually display foundational Merit Trial results, apprenticeships, or initial projects. In magic, this might include basic spells or rudimentary crafting; in combat, it could be early combat training or participation in local defenses.
Social Perception: Novices are viewed with a mix of guidance and patience. They’re encouraged to learn broadly and try new things, as they haven’t committed fully to a single path.

2. The Practitioners
   Role: Practitioners are those who have settled into a chosen field or skill and are building proficiency. They have demonstrated ability and reliability in their area, having typically completed significant apprenticeships or training.
   Characteristics: Practitioners are known for their dedication, and their accomplishments reflect both skill and growing expertise. They are expected to contribute meaningfully within their area and start accumulating achievements.
   Common Accomplishments: Practitioners might display their Merit Trials but these are usually replaced, minor inventions or creations, successful project completions, or early battles fought. They may own small businesses, assist in important projects, or hold formal positions within a guild.
   Social Perception: Practitioners are respected as serious contributors to Nicandria’s society. They are given room to grow and refine their craft and are often paired with mentors to further their development.
   
3. The Adepts
   Role: Adepts are skilled individuals with proven expertise. They often serve as core members within guilds or professional circles, trusted with responsibilities and complex tasks. The Adept stage is one of mastery in progress; Adepts have moved beyond basic competence to achieve notable recognition in their field.
   Characteristics: Adepts have a balance of skill, knowledge, and reliability. They’re often leaders within project teams or trusted specialists. Adepts are sought after for both their contributions and their experience in guiding others.
   Common Accomplishments: Adepts’ identifications may include major projects, renowned creations, field-changing discoveries, or key battles won. They might own well-established businesses, hold prominent positions in guilds, or lead local militias.
   Social Perception: Adepts are regarded as accomplished and are held in high esteem. People seek them out for their expertise, and Adepts are often looked to for mentorship or leadership within the community.
   
4. The Virtuosi
   Role: Virtuosi are masters of their craft or discipline, known for exceptional accomplishments and contributions that stand out across Nicandria. They are recognized innovators, leaders, or champions in their field, having earned a place of prestige through exceptional skill or deeds.
   Characteristics: The Virtuosi possess unparalleled knowledge, skill, or influence, often setting standards within their profession. They contribute at a national level, shaping policy, innovation, or defense for Nicandria.
   Common Accomplishments: Virtuosi often display highly prestigious accomplishments: groundbreaking inventions, legendary battles, mastery of high-level magic, or transformative contributions in commerce or scholarship.
   Social Perception: They are celebrated as paragons in society, often honored in public ceremonies or within their guilds. Virtuosi may hold advisory positions, represent their guild or community, and receive privileges or accolades in recognition of their contributions.
   
5. The Exalted
   Role: The Exalted represent the pinnacle of achievement and legacy. Few reach this stage, and those who do are revered for their lifelong contributions to Nicandria. The Exalted are often retired champions, founding guild members, or elder statesmen who have left an indelible mark on society.
   Characteristics: The Exalted stage signifies a lifetime of exceptional service, mastery, and respect. These individuals are often involved in mentorship, governance, or are considered living legends who embody Nicandria’s highest ideals.
   Common Accomplishments: Exalted individuals display the most prestigious achievements of their lifetime. Their identifications might include records of leadership, monumental inventions or contributions, legendary victories, or the founding of institutions or guilds.
   Social Perception: The Exalted are respected as icons, consulted for wisdom, and honored in ceremonies. They often take on an advisory role, guiding younger generations and ensuring that Nicandria’s values and knowledge are passed on.