The tier ranking in the reference sheet is only for the top swordsmen in Formaroth. While we are on this subject if anyone thinks their characters should be on the list somewhere let me know (that also includes the magic list as well). I have also decided to put Duncan's swordsman skills from adept to apprentice as it seems more realistic that Duncan's combat skills would be lacking.

My own personal system is like this:

Master: Among the best in Formaroth
Expert: Better than near everyone
Adept: Skilled
Apprentice: Knows the basics
Novice: Still in training

If this were to translate to skill in combat/magic

Master: Legenary swordmen/High Magisters
Expert: Generals/Magisters
Adept: Professional soldier/Circle Mage
Apprentice: Trained Militia/New mage
Novice: Untrained Militia/Circle Student

And right at the top is Claus ;)