In Ares Kingdom nobility came down to the authority and power of mage. Nobility tended to express the magical background and capabilities of a family.
The families that were most proficient at magic particularly those who had produced strong mages, were prized and often rewarded with titles and rights. The most influential families came from families that could be traced back to powerful mages in particular Arch Mages and Grand Mages.
Such association with magic was both a boost to their reputation and standing in political life because their magic was viewed as a key to keep the kingdom healthy and intact. So the power of aristocracy was tightly entangled with magic and the relationship that it formed in the kingdom.
Thus, the hierarchy of nobility was intricately linked to the world of magic.
In Ares Kingdom, the traditional nobility titles, arranged in descending order, are as follows:
King/Queen
Grand Duke/Grand Duchess
Prince/Princess
Duke/Duchess
The titles of nobility in Ares Kingdom were not granted solely based on the power of the mages but also on the background and history of their families.
Noble status required a combination of magical ability and a prestigious lineage that ensured those who held titles came from families with a legacy of influence and responsibility.
This dual criterion emphasized the importance of familial history in the kingdom's social structure, as families with a rich history of powerful mages were often viewed as more trustworthy and capable leaders.
For example, neither a Grand Mage without a powerful familial background nor an Arch Mage with a powerful familial background would be given the title of Grand Duke.
The title of nobility was not entirely inherent and was rewarded in exchange of loyalty and contribution to the kingdom.
For example, A duke family that fails to produce any arch mages for over a period of time, might be demoted to lower prestige and nobility.
Julian himself will not be eligible for the title of duke unless he reaches the level of Arch mage and succeeds his father, Duke Alden Easvil.
This system created a loyal follower for the throne and thus, has hugely helped in the development and the dominance of Ares Kingdom in the vast continent.
This goes to show how cunning and powerful the ruler of the Kingdom was.