Life in Steamhaven

## Overview

*"Though, the days of the old Monarchy are gone...nobility still exists in the disguise of the greater and lesser houses. No longer do they call themselves barons, dukes, and kings. But they are so set in the forms of the caste, the ability to rise through the ranks might just be much more difficult than it was previously."*

*Lord Pierre Sarent, Chronicler of the Ovesian Imperium*

This page is to give a basic explanation to the life of the citizens of Steamhaven. It is subject to change as the role-play progresses. Everything from etiquette to fashion is explained at the best of our ability on this page.

## Life of the aristocracy

*"They may not call themselves nobility. But they are. They have all the privileges of the old world that they disguise in a faux democracy. The Great Houses may 'elect' their leader. But he is King in all but name."*

*Adrian rew'Cane, Citizen of Steamhaven.*

Whether they have earned their title through political or economic prowess -- they hold the abilities that the lower castes can only dream about. They escape most mundane crimes and are free to do as they please as long as it doesn't truly disrupt society. As a result, they tend to be pomp individuals that give little care towards the little folk of Steamhaven and this has of course added to the political turmoil in the city. While they are the few, they command the majority.

They live in decadent estates, feasting to their hearts content, living broad lives of sin, and demanding the respect from those lower than them. They follow a strict code of etiquette, never overstepping their bounds...at least not in public.

They may appear weak of flesh, thin skinned and far too privileged. This does not make them dangerous. Compared to the lower castes, they are educated. Spending much of their youth with expensive tutors and at prestigious overseas universities. They are also taught to command. Many excelling as military commanders, though untested, and a life of training in martial abilities. From swordsmanship to strategy.

The Aristocracy is also bloodthirsty -- vying for further power and political gain. Some dream to restore the old monarchy, others are content to live life of sin. They often do not hesitate to betray one another to further their ambitions.

## Life of the citizens

*Say what you want about the low castes. But this city runs because of them. This city was built because of them..and now this city survives on their tired backs." An Anonymous member of the **Ar** caste.*

It is difficult to explain the entire life of the citizenry. As it is broad, with many castes, and many different economic situations. To a **Rew**, it matters if you are the poorest or the richest **Rew**. But to the castes above you? It makes no different. A **Rew** is just that to an **Ar.** And no matter how rich a **Fo** is. The **Rew** will still look down on them.

In fact, the greatest accomplishment of the Aristocracy is the fact they convinced even the lower castes to divide themselves. Should any great change ever occur, it would require the Lower castes to tear down their own prejudices. And that will be difficult for anyone to do.

Many of the Citizens are stuck working in smog filled factories. Going home to smog filled tenements. And shopping in smog filled streets. The lowest of the low castes lack true healthcare in most situations and because of this their lifespans have dwindled.

While their children can go to school, for free, most don't because they can't afford to not have every hand working. So children often line up and go into these factories as well. It doesn't matter how young, as long as they can do as they are instructed.

## Dueling

Dueling is a staple of Steamhaven Society. It is how intense conflicts are resolved as well has created a sporting empire in the city where duelists keep track of their records. In fact, there has been a recent push in Steamhaven to create a professional sporting event out of dueling -- though -- it still awaits The Inner Chamber's approval.

Dueling is legal if it is done with the use of swords and the terms of the duel are agreed upon beforehand. A second must be present on each side. As well as an impartial judge that will oversee the duel. A duel can be to one of three things; 1.) First blood. 2.) Surrender. 3.) Death. Death being the most extreme and while legal -- it is frowned upon to be used for trivial matters.

One cannot be forced to take part in a duel. But they can face blemishes to their honor and status should they refuse.

## Societal Rings

Rings of different metals have been used in Steamhaven for as long as anyone can remember. Different types of rings showing different types of favors and appointments.. Each of these rings are engraved with the name of the person that is giving them to help individuals display who gave them what. The rings help show the world your status and many are often displayed in sitting rooms while the most prestigious of the rings are displayed one ones hand.

**Gold Rings**

Only the Heads of the Great Houses have access to Gold Rings. To be given a gold ring by one of the great houses is a show of great prestige and status. It means that you are seen in high graces to that house.

**Silver Rings**

To be given a Silver Ring by any of the houses, Greater or Lesser, is a display that the house sees you as equal to them. Of course, if a Lesser house were to give a greater house member a silver ring....the greater house may be offended.

**Iron Rings**

An Iron Ring is displayed to someone that you respect but is still below you.

**Bone Rings**

A bone Ring is given to someone you owe a great and lasting debt to.

**Emerald Ring**

An Emerald ring is given to a female you wish to court.

**Leather Ring**

You give a leather ring to someone that you are pledging your service to.

**Horn Ring**

A Ring of Horn is given to someone you show enmity to. Such as to a rival, etc.

**Wood Ring**

The Greatest of insults. To give someone a wood ring is to say that they are the lowest of the low. Showing that someone is inhuman and beneath contempt.