Hunyadi (Old Exekian, "prince", "hero", or "champion") were the tribunes of the Old Exekian Empire. Originally these were exceptional individuals given high honors and social status due to their combat prowess and heroism. By the later years of the Empire, the connotations of the term had changed considerably and the title began to lose its original meaning. This was because elite families would groom their children to become highly educated "hunyadi" for the benefits and social status associated with the title, rather than being selected from among warlords and high-ranking soldiers.
The hunyadi was still expected to be a great warrior, but also to be sophisticated and refined, cultivating other enterprises such as business, agriculture, and academic pursuits. Accomplished scholars were included among them, as well as wealthy plantation owners, popular politicians, and admired figures in high society.