Duke

Variations by Country

Forstur

A duke is directly below a prince in rank, and directly above a lord. A dukedom is appointed by the king or his spokesperson and the title is passed down the male line unless revoked by the king. The duke can petition for the line to pass to a daughter or other relative but the request is not guarenteed to be approved. The wife of a duke is a duchess, regardless of her social class before marriage.   Forstur has anywhere from 12-20 duchies, each covering cast regions of the kingdom. The duke is responsible for all fortifications and defences of his land; maintaining a standing army as well as annual training of militias raised by the lords of the duchy; levying taxes and keeping the economy moving through trade and labor. At any time the king calls up men for war, the duke is responsible for making sure his army is provided with clothing, weaponry, training, food, and salaries, among many other administrative tasks.   A duke may also hold the title of Lord if the smaller estate has been passed down to him through blood or marriage. With the king's permission, a duke may pass his title and responsibilities on to a legitimate son while still alive, just as at any time he can forfeit the tile, responsibilities and status.