GATE: Thus Democracy was Called [DISCONTINUED]

Chapter 5: The Two Forces

World Building: The Saderan Empire

The Saderan Empire, a formidable force in the continent of Falmart, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of imperial conquest and power. Its roots, steeped in a history of warfare and expansion, stretch back centuries, mirroring, in many ways, the ancient Roman Empire of Earth's history. The empire's reach extends over half of Falmart, a landmass larger than the entire Eurasian continent, the empire's territory rivals the vast expanse of the Mongol Empire.

At the heart of the Saderan Empire is its capital, Sadera, a grand city that is the epitome of pre-industrial sophistication. Architecturally magnificent, the city is a maze of marble and stone, with grand plazas, imposing statues, and a central forum where the political and social life of the empire converges. The empire's ruling class, a mix of nobility and military elite, governs with an iron fist, ensuring that the Saderan way of life is preserved and propagated.

The empire's ideology is deeply chauvinistic and imperialistic. It views itself as the pinnacle of civilization, a beacon in a world of lesser nations. This belief is ingrained in every facet of Saderan society, from education to the arts, and is the driving force behind their relentless expansion. The Saderans see it as their duty, to bring their version of order and civilization to the rest of Falmart.

Throughout its history, the Saderan Empire has engaged in numerous campaigns of conquest, assimilating neighboring territories and peoples into its fold. These territories are diverse, home to Elves, Demi-Humans, Orcs, and Dwarves, each with their own rich cultures and histories.

Despite their might, the Saderans have faced challenges in maintaining control over such a diverse populace. Rebellions and uprisings are common, particularly in the newly conquered territories, where the memory of independence is still fresh. The empire's response has always been swift and brutal, quelling dissent with military might and making examples of those who dare to defy its authority.

The empire's military is a formidable force, well-trained and equipped with the best weapons and armor of the age. The legions, structured in a manner reminiscent of Roman cohorts, are the backbone of the Saderan military machine. They are supported by auxiliary forces composed of conscripts and mercenaries from the conquered territories, although these forces are often viewed as inferior by the Saderan elite.

In the empire, magic and the arcane arts are closely regulated and controlled. While magic is acknowledged as a powerful tool, it is also seen as a potential threat to the established order. As such, only those sanctioned by the empire are allowed to practice it, and any unsanctioned use of magic is met with severe punishment.

Culturally, the Saderan Empire is a blend of its original traditions and the assimilated customs of its conquered peoples. While the ruling class maintains a strict adherence to Saderan customs, the common folk often mix their traditions with those of their neighbors, creating a rich tapestry of cultural practices.