Count
A Count is noble rank that holds power over a county. The country they hold rank in depends on their respective power, generally of middling rank. They can also be considered provincial officials, either military or administrative. This is not a hereditary rank, but are usually appointed by a Duke or the King of the country.
This rank can be an honorific title for special services rendered, without a feudal estate being attached. It can also be a courtesy title for the eldest son of a Duke or marques. In rare circumstances, they could pass this rank on to their heirs. Their wife is called a Countess as well as a female that inherits this rank instead of a male.
Duties
They were give the authority to maintain the public peace in the county under their control. The judge, tax collector, census takers, and sherif are appointed by them.
When called under the rank of Earl or Earldorman, they are usually under control of important cities and the surrounding lands. Another version of Count is called a Marques or Marcher Lord, they are in charge of large border towns, forts, trade towns, etc on the frontiers. These are buffer areas for the kingdom.
Responsibilities
Counts are also in charge of raising the levy (militia), in charge of taxes and census yearly. When the counties are small, one Count might be in control of several of them.
History
This rank was created as a reward for certain war heros during the Chaos Wars.
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