Editing Arket (section)

==== Social Classes ====
Arketian society is broken down into five distinct classes. The lowest is the Akuta class. These individuals are untouchables, scorned by society, and worth nothing. They are a legacy from the rule of [[Nation of Zell|Zell]] still held by the people of Arket. Despite the [[Ark|Flower Mother]]’s best efforts, the Akuta are still poorly treated amongst most settlements. Above the Akuta are the merchants. Merchants, for not making anything with their own hands, are the lowest besides the Akuta. Next are the farmers. Although despite being in the middle of the hierarchy, farmers are held in high regard in Arket. Their closeness with nature is praised by [[Ark]] and her Saints.

Above the farmers are Makers. In the Maker class resides many important jobs from blacksmiths, to carpenters, artists, and even clerics. The Makers possess tangible skills that add to society. Only above the Makers are the Daimyos. A member of the Daimyos has administrative authority in Arket. Noble families, a leader of a village, or even the Shogun themself is a part of the Daimyo class. It is difficult but not impossible to move between social classes. While an individual born into a class will usually stay there all their life, there are rare stories of individuals cultivating a new path. These stories usually involve a Saint or Daimyo raising an individual up or down in rank. There is limited segregation among the classes. While not mandated, many of the same class congregate together. Certain restaurants serve distinct classes. This has led to distinct cultural traits that are exclusive to only one class. For instance, the Maker class in general prefers food that is more savory while the Farmer class enjoys spicier food.

One of the greatest barriers between the classes is marriage. To marry into a class lower than your own is viewed as a devaluing of the family. Overall, if a family’s prestige is lowered too greatly, there is a risk of all members in the family dropping a class. Therefore, those who marry lower face banishment from their family often.