Caste System

Tau society is divided into several groups known as castes; movement between the castes is impossible, and membership in a caste is determined by birth. The castes are a formalized version of the political divisions that once segregated the Tau on their homeworld of T'au during the Mont'au time. The Shas, or Fire Caste composes the majority of the Tau Empire's ground-based military assets. The Fio, or Earth Caste, provide for the manufacturing, agricultural, and engineering needs of the Tau Empire. The Kor, or Air Caste, is charged with holding the Tau Empire together through the Kor'vattra, the Tau Empire's merchant and warfleet. The Por, or Water Caste, serve as the Tau Empire's diplomats, ambassadors and traders. Finally, the Aun, or Ethereals, serve as "philosopher kings" and guide the other castes as well as Tau Empire member-races towards the enlightenment of the Greater Good, or Tau'va.