Cottars are low in status, above only the thralls and stickpickers. They farm a small plot of land, but don't own any cattle (and hence don't have their own plough team). They don't own a lot of anything else either--such as weapons, shield, or helmet--so generally don't join the fyrd. (They may have some sheep, but the Orlanthi don't value sheep much above their immediate utility)
Carls are the substantial farmers, who not only own land, but also own cattle. A good portion of your carls will join the fyrd.
There is mobility between the two--a cottar who maks good will become a carl. It is a measure of economic status, not a caste.
About the god-talker versus priest thing. God-talkers are anyone with a very close relationship with their god. Priests have a formal position within a cult. Most god-talkers aren't priests, they are just farmers, hunters, or whatevers who are more than usually devout and gifted.
--Bryan
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