The Empire
The Empire, as the paramount imperial power on the continent of Biplura, seeks not only to assert dominion over its native land but to extend its influence across all continents of Locus. Its professed aim is the eradication of intelligent deity worship, a mission that ostensibly serves to maintain public order and protect the populace from the potential tyranny of such beings. However, beneath this veneer of altruism, it is evident that the Empire harbors ambitions that extend beyond the mere prevention of worship; ambitions that suggest a desire for control and expansionism that is not entirely benevolent in nature.
Structure
The Empire’s governance is an intricate system characterized by its decennial elective monarchy. The House of Rule, a pivotal body within this structure, wields considerable power, with the leading house securing 49% of the vote, thus granting it near-autocratic authority barring unanimous opposition. This system ensures a dynamic yet stable leadership, albeit one that is deeply entrenched in the politics of its constituent houses.
Each house, irrespective of its noble origins, possesses a singular vote in the House of Rule's assemblies. Notably, the inclusion of houses such as Mageharth, Optinium, and Beinne Dachaigh underscores the Empire’s acknowledgment of meritocratic elements within its ostensibly aristocratic framework. The voting process is transparent to a degree, forbidding self-voting and demanding openness in the selection of the ruling house, thereby fostering a political environment of negotiation and alliance.
Culture
The Empire's culture is marked by its imperialistic ambitions and a complex relationship with capitalism and technological innovation. While it embraces capitalism for its efficiency in wealth generation, this economic model also poses a challenge to the traditional nobility, stirring unrest and resistance within the ranks. Technological progress is similarly viewed with a mixture of enthusiasm and suspicion, with factions such as the Luddites manifesting the nobility’s apprehension towards change.
This dichotomy reflects a broader cultural ethos that values advancement and power but remains wary of the social upheavals such progress can precipitate. The Empire’s culture, thus, is one of cautious progressivism, balancing between the old and the new, the traditional and the revolutionary.
Public Agenda
The Empire's public agenda is twofold: to prevent the concentration of absolute power in the hands of a single individual and to suppress intelligent deity worship through the efforts of The Inquisition. This dual aim is presented as a safeguard against tyranny and religious fanaticism, positioning the Empire as a stabilizing force within Locus.
While the Empire professes a preference for diplomacy, its history and military posture suggest a readiness to employ force to achieve its objectives. This pragmatism, coupled with its complex stance on internal policies and external diplomacy, paints a picture of an entity that is both guardian and aggressor, seeking to mold the world according to its vision.
Assets
The Empire commands an impressive array of assets, from strategic territories such as the entirety of Biplura east of the Murus mountains and the critical Port of Wavemeet, to a formidable military comprised of various regiments and naval forces. This military might, combined with strategic locations, underpins the Empire’s capacity to project power and enforce its will both domestically and abroad.
Furthermore, the Empire's relationships with entities such as The Tinkers Guild and The Four Seas Trading Company not only bolster its economic strength but also enhance its technological and logistical capabilities, ensuring its dominance in the realms of commerce and innovation.
History
Founded by the descendants of the "Non-Believers" who orchestrated the fall of the God-Kings, the Empire represents the culmination of their efforts to establish a new order from the ashes of the old. This origin story is foundational to the Empire’s identity, embodying a legacy of rebellion against tyranny and the pursuit of a more equitable system of governance.
Despite the transformations it has undergone, the Empire remains true to its foundational principles, utilizing its unique political structure to prevent the rise of another despotism. Its history is a testament to the enduring legacy of its founders, reflecting a commitment to a balance of power that has guided its evolution and shaped its interactions with the world of Locus.
Founding Date
1 ED
Type
Geopolitical, Co-rulership
Capital
Training Level
Professional
Veterancy Level
Experienced
Government System
Monarchy, Elective
Power Structure
Confederation
Economic System
Market economy
Currency
Official State Religion
Location
Controlled Territories
