[quote=Lucius Cypher]
That would imply the ursurpers are of nobility. Those who get to lead is whom ever kills the previous holder; while nobility is most likely, but even a peasant and his family could become the new leader if he's smart enough to kill off all others who challenge him.Plus, election is a bit of a stretch when the means to chose new leaders are basically controlled rebellions.
[/quote]

Only in IGNIS. Yes, families are in control, yes I guess it would be an aristocracy. But calling it such would lead to aesthetic differences that I could not tolerate. i.e, that tends to remind people of the victorian era, of which there is nothing in RUNE influenced by such. UMBRA's aesthetic is more akin to an odd combination of Russia, with uniforms borrowed from nazi germany. it may be the case that the family rules, but generally only the most useful members ever get anything resembling power.