Kardian Count

In a given Barony, there is an average of four Counties, each ruled over by a Count. Lyrosia has the most Counties (9) while Kardathos has the fewest (3). Baronies are divided in Counties based on both size of the Barony and relative wealth and power. For example, although Maranes and Ormethay are both fairly weak politically and economically, they are much larger than some of the older Baronies like Kardathos and Eldweil and may have an equal or even higher number of Counties. If a Barony increases its social and political standing, the number of Counties may increase further to represent that. Should it lose the social and political standing, the Baronial family may not be able to afford to keep so many Counties and the number will decrease. Lyrosia has a high number of Counties to act as sinecures for the royal family.

Each Count is responsible for the Shires in their direct control, and is answerable to their Baron if something should go especially awry in their territory. The County they hold is hereditary, and a Count may only be removed from power with proof of treason or by express permission of the King. They are the second highest peers of the realm; their ranks are generally composed of the younger offspring of Barons or closely related members of the royal family. There is always the possibility that a Count may receive the title of Baron if he is a direct descendant of a Baron who died without heirs. Upon receiving a Barony, the Count must grant control of his County to another. Only the Kings of Kardia may act as both Baron and Count. Two Counts cannot marry and maintain control of their Counties; one must give up all claims to his or her County before they wed.

A newly landed noble takes his name from the land he has received. Thus, the Count of Feymorra's family has taken the name Feymorran, though he can trace his lineage back to the Lyros Dynasty. This minimizes confusion, otherwise it would be impossible to refer to one Count Lyros without getting him confused with six or seven others. Families do keep extensive genealogical records to prove their heritage and descent. Should an individual become the Count of a newly created County, he may grant his name to the County as long as there is not another another Count of the same name in the Barony. Also, should he choose to use the same familial name as a Baron, he must be a direct descendent of that Baron. For example, should Count Feymorran's son receive the gift of a brand new County, he may not name the County Feymorra, nor may he keep the name Feymorran for himself, as there is already a Count Feymorran. Nor may he style himself Count Lyros, even if there were no others, unless he were also a direct descendent of the Baron Lyros.