Social Hierarchy
1st: Imperial Family
2nd: Grand Ducal Families = Kings
3rd: Ducal Families = Queens, Princesses, Princes
4th: Marquis Families = Ducal Families within a Kingdom
5th: Count Families = Marquis Families within a Kingdom
6th: Viscount Families = Count Families within a Kingdom
7th: Baron Families = Viscount Families within a Kingdom
8th: Baron Families of a Kingdom
9th: Lower Nobility (Illegitimate children of high nobility or children of noble sons who did not inherit the title)
10th: Commoners
Entities the Imperial Family cannot touch: Tower Master, Temple
Kingdoms cannot act recklessly toward the Empire's nobility.

Naming Conventions by Status
Imperial names consist of a given name, a middle name (derived from appearance or achievements), and the Empire's name.
All others use their family name.

Temple Hierarchy
1st: Pope
2nd: High Priest (Even the Pope cannot treat them lightly)
3rd: Priest
Though lower in rank than the Imperial Family, they are beings who cannot be treated disrespectfully.

Using nicknames or pet names is only permitted between lovers and family. Doing so otherwise is a clear insult. Sending items like accessories, dresses, or shoes (or handkerchiefs and watches for men) to someone is a sign of romantic interest. If a nobleman attaches 'Lady' or 'Mademoiselle' after a request to a noblewoman, it is effectively a confession. If he adds a complimentary adjective (beautiful, dazzling, jewel-like, etc.) before 'Lady' or 'Mademoiselle', it is essentially a public confession.