An Introduction to the Empire
The Empire of Adana has stood for six centuries, spanning the eastern part of the continent of Elthos. In truth, it is scarcely an empire, but more of a broad alliance. All within it nominally owe their allegiance to Empress Koline II Otrese, Duchess of Firstbridge, Countess of Aten, Thalund and Zaina, Inheritor of the First King, and Guardian of the Empyreal Gates, who reigns from her throne in the capital city, Sanctuary. The reality of the situation is rather different. House Otrese has a firm hold on the Imperial Territories, once the Realm of Adana, but it exerts only loose control over the rest of the empire. The Realm of Hadash, the Realm of Dyria, the Commonwealth of Hana and Lonin and to a lesser degree the Grand Republic of Thasen have their own interests, operate their own policies, and may not always agree with the imperial house.
Still, the empire holds together, for a few reasons. Many nobles deem it a moral or even religious obligation to ensure their part of the empire is well ruled and secure. Even for the most cynical, the security of association with the empire is enough by itself to prevent any one constituent realm or even minor vassals from rocking the boat too much, since the world beyond is an often perilous place. Inside the empire exists a web of alliances. Disturbing one strand in this web through use of military force might lead to a cascade of treaties coming into play. Internal politics require a deft and subtle hand. Open war is exceedingly rare.
Imperial high society is focused on the city of Sanctuary. It is a long-established tradition that the high nobility spend significant time in the imperial capital. Such nobles are said to be "at court", although not all care to make a habit of attending the palace itself to stand in the great chamber before the imperial throne other than for major occasions. Rather, the city sits at the heart of the political web which keeps the empire together. Virtually every major noble house in the empire maintains a mansion or townhouse. Soirées, balls and all manner of other gatherings abound. Negotiations between houses happen in the many establishments around the city more than happy to act as neutral ground for suitably wealthy customers, or behind closed doors of mansions. Factors of major mercantile concerns attend the capital to deal with the nobility and with each other. Exceptional artists, artisans, courtesans and performers of all sorts can become the sought-after darlings of high society. The city is a major hub for adventurers and explorers. Great warriors and knights congregate for tournaments or to find the next place to be.