Nobility

The city-states of Shem are governed by aristocratic families, whose lineages may sometimes stretch to the very foundations of the city. Eruk is no exception.

Lineages
The following noble houses currently hold the most influence in Eruk:
 * Aghase
 * Djamasp
 * Halim
 * Mehret
 * Nabbtu


 * Sattar

Inner Workings
The aristocracy function as administrators, working for the king. There are no wealthy, lazy idlers living off the work of others in the manner that one might find a prince of Nemedia or an Aquilonian baron. Those who are aristocrats work as scribes and functionaries in the service of the king.

Social mobility is not all that difficult in Shem when compared to the social structure of Aquilonia, Stygia or Vendhya. Wealth can move one up the ladder fairly easily – but acquiring that wealth is rarely a simple road to undertake. Cunning slaves can accumulate wealth and purchase their freedom. Successful merchants may buy an education at the temple and become a priest or they may buy estates and, in managing those estates, be made into a government functionary, earning them a place in the aristocracy. Soldiers who are successful may be granted great estates and be able to join the aristocracy.