In the Leonhart Kingdom, the noble hierarchy was what made it's governance and higher society, shaping both its strengths and flaws.
At the base of the hierarchy, also know as lower nobility were Knights and Baronets/Baronetesses, who earned their titles through acts of loyalty, Ingenuity and Valor. Knights protected their liege's lands and Baronets acted as advisers and administrators.
Unlike Knights, the title of Baronet can be passed down to one of the Baronets' children.
Above them were Barons, rulers of towns or smaller territories. Barons report directly to higher-ranking nobles.
Next came the Viscounts, tasked with managing multiple baronies. They served as overseers, mediating disputes and ensuring stability across larger pieces of land.
One rank higher were the Counts and Countesses, who governed vast regions that included multiple viscount territories. These nobles wielded significant political and economic power, commanding large armies.
The Marquises and Marchioness, who ranked the same as the counts, held the responsibility of defending the kingdom's borderlands. These regions often faced external threats, making the marquises' role both perilous and prestigious.
Dukes and Duchesses, second only to the royal family, ruled entire provinces.
Finally, there were Archdukes, often siblings of the ruling monarchs or nobles who had ascended through extraordinary means. They, along with ministers personally select by the monarchy, formed the Royal Court—a body charged with making important decisions for the kingdom.
At the pinnacle of this system were the King and Queen, wielding ultimate authority. Their decisions shaped the fate of the kingdom, and their word was law.
Kael sat quietly, absorbing Lady Seraphina, the countess of Raven towns' words as they lingered in the air.
"We will reward you, Kael Reed," she said, her voice steady and resolute. "And it will be worthy of what you've done."
The ministers exchanged glances, their murmurs a mix of agreement and curiosity.
Evelyn, ever so composed, leaned forward slightly. "You've already turned down land and a title as a knight, Which are rewards that can only be given by counts and above. But we must honor your contributions in a manner that befits their magnitude."
Kael shifted in his chair, unease creeping over him. "I don't need anything more. You've given me a fragment weapon and a chance to enter the Interstellar Academy. That's more than enough."
"Nonsense," Alden interjected, his sharp tone cutting through the room. "You've saved this town, possibly the entire region. Refusing further reward would be an insult to the sacrifices made."
Lady Seraphina raised a hand, silencing the discussion. Her gaze rested on Kael, warm but firm. "Kael, this is not just about you. This is about setting an example for the people. They must see that bravery and selflessness are recognized. It gives them hope."
Kael's jaw tightened. "I understand that. But I can't stay here. My sister is out there, and I have to find her."
The room fell silent, Kael's words sinking in. Seraphina nodded slowly. "Very well. If you are determined to leave, then we will ensure your journey is as smooth as possible."
Neo's spoke in Kael's mind. "This is your moment, Kael. Speak wisely."
Kael took a deep breath, glancing at the fragment weapon at his side. "I'd like to focus on preparing for the academy. I need to learn more—about fragments, about this world, and how to be stronger. If the academy can give me that, then that's what I want."
Evelyn smiled faintly. "You are practical and focused. Both admirable traits."
Alden, however, remained skeptical. "And what will you do when you're surrounded by nobles who view you as less than dirt? The academy is no place for a commoner, no matter how skilled."
Kael met his gaze confidently. "Let them think what they want. I'm not going there to make friends—I'm going there to learn and to shape this world for the better."
Alden scoffed but said no more.
Lady Seraphina rose gracefully from her seat. "Then it is decided. I will personally write your recommendation for the Interstellar Academy and provide you with transportation."
"But be warned—the road ahead will not be easy. The academy's tests are rigorous, and its culture can be... harsh to outsiders," She continued.
"I'll manage," Kael said, his voice trying to remain firm.
Later that day, Kael found himself in the estate's grand library, the weight of his decision settling over him. He sat at a large oak table, his new weapon, which he found out was named Ignis, resting beside him.
"Neo," he murmured with his voice low, "why did you suggest the academy?"
"Because knowledge is your greatest weapon," she replied. "There are things I can't tell you—Secrets you need to discover on your own. The academy is a steppingstone in your journey. If you survive it, you'll emerge stronger and more prepared for what lies ahead."
Kael frowned. "What exactly lies ahead?"
Neo's voice softened. "A path only you can walk, Kael. But you won't walk it alone."
Kael sighed, his fingers brushing the Ignis's hilt. The warmth of its energy was comforting.
"Do you think I can do this, I mean... defeat a God?" he asked.
"You wouldn't have been chosen otherwise," Neo said simply.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting Raven Town in a warm, golden light, Lady Seraphina summoned Kael once more.
The meeting was brief, but its purpose was clear. She handed him a sealed envelope bearing her personal crest—a phoenix surrounded by a pattern of flames.
"This letter will serve as your recommendation," she said. "Present it to the academy's admissions council. It won't grant you automatic entry, but it will open doors that would otherwise remain closed."
"The Forest surrounding Raven Town won't be cleared of corrupted, and fragment-powered beast by the main guards till 3 weeks later, it will take a week and a half to get to the capital by carriage. The academy will only begin in one week and two months." Seraphina said.
"In the meantime, you may explore the town and prepare for you time in the academy," She added.
Kael accepted the letter with a nod of gratitude. "Thank you. I won't waste this opportunity."
"By the way Kael," Seraphina added. "The Royal capital is to the south. You know... The opposite direction you came from. "
Kael looked at her, shocked. "What?!!"