Dawn lineage and species attitudes

Any lineage is generally considered a mark of distinction in Dawn and individuals of every lineage, particularly the changeling and cambion are common in many noble houses. Lineage clearly identifies an individual as being special, and great things are assumed of those who possess any amount of lineage. As a result, the Test of Mettle are often significantly harder for those with lineage, not because of prejudice but simply because their "magical blood" is assumed to give them an edge.

The naga lineage prospers in Dawn, especially in the ranks of the troubadours. Their instinctive understanding of passion and the drives of their blood synergize well with the priestly calling of the troubadour they follow the historical role played by Lord Cien in the founding of Dawn. Naga troubadours have an especial knack for, or interest in, arranging and nurturing romances between noble and yeoman alike, and many ensure that the tales of tragic romantic love that underpin many more glorious legends are not forgotten. There is a tacit understanding and acceptance in Dawn that naga troubadours play an active part in match-making between nobles and those seeking to arrange lover's trysts will often seek out their assistance.

A small number of noble houses are pure-bred, setting their Tests of Mettle such that only Knights-errant that share their Lineage can pass them. These houses compete for the attentions of Lineaged individuals who are seeking to become nobles, and are often engaged in complex games with their children, fostering their human-born children to human houses, and trading Lineaged children among themselves. Such houses prefer to foster Lineaged children, but will occasionally take human-born children who they deem to possess a "hidden Lineage" although such children find it almost impossible to become nobles in their adoptive household. They are generally equally accepting of yeomen children with lineage, and some actively seek them out.

Weaver's cabals by contrast often adopt those with lineage, in the belief that they will possess great magical strength, but it is rare for them to pursue a single heritage prefering a reasonable mix of Lineage and human.

Imperial Orcs are a difficult question for the Dawnish. They seem worthy of a measure of respect, and seem to understand the concept of glory, but no noble house would consider offering one a Test of Mettle. They are not human, and consequently while they may be valued allies, they are never likely to be accepted alongside the humans of the other Nations of the Empire..