Nobility and Bloodlines

Origins of Nobility

To further reward their most loyal and faithful followers, Quintra and Denday granted noble titles to select families from different races who contributed greatly to building civilization. These noble families were given new responsibilities, often formalizing roles they already fulfilled, and enjoyed heightened status and privilege among all races. With the introduction of nobility, bloodlines and family reputation gained significant importance across Eonil.

The Role of Bloodlines

As nobility was established, the reputation of families—whether for wealth, skill, or trustworthiness—became increasingly important. Bloodlines were carefully recorded, usually from both mother and father. Being born into a respected family opened doors, such as easier access to apprenticeships, business, or advantageous marriages. Reputation and noble blood became key factors in social mobility and alliance-building.

Shifts in Power and the Age of Darkness

The banishment of first Denday and then Quintra led to dramatic changes in society. With the goddesses gone, people had the power to determine their own leaders. Some noble families took advantage of their status, while others lost influence or wealth. Poverty became more widespread, and divine protection was no longer assured for the nobility.

The Rise of the New Faiths

The arrival of the New Faiths brought further upheaval. Bloodlines quick to align themselves with the new religions often survived, but others were nearly wiped out as heretics because their nobility was granted by the old gods. Eventually, new laws were established allowing noble families to be investigated and stripped of their status if found guilty of abuses. Some families lost their homes and fortunes as compensation to those they had wronged.

Modern Nobility

Today, the importance of nobility and bloodlines varies across Eonil’s races. Some races have their own unique rules, while others no longer regard noble status as significant. It is now possible for a family to gain noble status through acts of heroism or by acquiring it through wealth and influence. Conversely, noble status can still be lost through legal action and investigation.

Marriage and Inheritance

Marriage on Eonil is a legal contract between two individuals—regardless of gender—detailing the sharing of possessions, land, and finances. Inheritance is typically determined by a written will, with property often divided among children. If no will exists, the next of kin determines the division. Legal documentation and signatures are required for inheritance to be recognized under Xaverion law.

Family Names

Eonilian tradition gives each person a first name and two family names: the first from the parent of higher social status, the second from the other parent. Parents can agree on the order, sometimes alternating for each child. In same-sex marriages with children via donors, the child’s family names may differ from their parents, reflecting biological lineage. Children born outside marriage may be given one or two family names, depending on consent and legal contracts. Family names and lineage play a major role in inheritance, status, and social expectations—especially for noble or status-focused families.

Birth, Bastardy, and Consent

The treatment of children born outside marriage depends on the family’s values. “Pure bloodline” families often frown upon bastardy and prefer arranged marriages. Legal consent is required for a child to bear a parent’s name. If there is dispute or uncertainty, the matter can be settled in court, resulting in a binding contract. The law ensures both parents have the right to acknowledge or contest parentage.

Reproductive Rights

Women have the legal right to choose whether to continue or end a pregnancy. Healers and doctors are available for safe termination of unwanted pregnancies. No one can be forced by law to carry a pregnancy to term. However, a father wishing to preserve a pregnancy may offer compensation to the mother, though she cannot be compelled to accept.

In Summary

Nobility and bloodlines have played a pivotal role in shaping Eonil’s society. From divine reward and reputation to modern legal codes, family history continues to influence status, marriage, and inheritance—though the rules and importance of bloodlines now vary across races and regions.