Feudal Empire

What players would know #

The Empire is vast, feudal, and uneven. Imperial edicts arrive late, if they arrive at all, and enforcement depends on who benefits. Most people experience “the Empire” as a set of tolls, a calendar of levies, and the occasional parade meant to remind everyone who owns the map.

Day-to-day power is local: lords, guilds, churches, mayors, caravan captains. The center claims authority; the edges negotiate it.

Common rumors #

• The Throne is weaker than the caravans.
• Provincial keeps follow the emperor only when convenient.