Ask the Storyteller

Yes and no. The Assembly is still considered the highest authority by all, and is still composed of the eldest members of each township/city, but is only called for important matters. In daily life, there is a frequent schism between those whose families inherited knowledge of the truly useful runes and those who only recieved the more basic runes taught in schools.

For example, there is the healing rune. Many Firstborn find themselves having to pay good money for a healer, when that healer is likely already from a blessed family. The 'public policy' is that the healing rune is open to abuse, potentially being exploited for unnatural growth or poor use for minor injuries. While any form of magic can certainly be exploited, it is a sad fact that the lower classes are living much shorter lives (App. 250 years) while the more blessed are living twice or even thrice as long. It's a popular notion that the Assembly, or at least several of those with membership, are exploiting the situation for their greedy ends, intentionally maintaining the class system in their favor. After all, the Assembly is traditionally composed of the oldest, and what better way to achieve power than simply live longer than everyone else? This abuse of power was unheard of on the surface, when all Firstborn could be expected to live a good millenium.

Another example is the fact that the higher classes, possessing certain runes the others do not, have steadily lay claim to the most hospitable regions of the Hollow Earth. Ironically, this is the same attitude that drove humanity to desperation before the Long Storm, and drow society suffers for it. Many of the 'expeditions' sent to the surface are in fact drow prospectors looking for valuable minerals, knowledge, and the occasional lost rune. (Often found in old manuscripts in schoolhouses or homes) Ocassionally, something useful and interesting is found, but typically, the expeditions end in failure or disaster, as the surface is still mostly untamed.

There are no factions per se trying to actively oppose the new aristocracy, but there are more than enough discontent waiting for an inspiration to guide them.

It doesn't buy you anything. Absolute power + absolute power = absolute power.

But I have something quite special for you at 5 xp. It's so crazy awesome, I have difficulty containing my urge to discuss it. All I can say is, I think you'll be quite pleased.