Imperial Citizen

The Empire of Man is sustained and enriched by the toil and ingenuity of its regular citizenry - the working and mercantile classes. These individuals, from the humble farmer to the shrewd merchant, are the lifeblood of the Empire, their daily labours ensuring the flow of goods, services, and prosperity throughout its territories. The Empire's social fabric is a complex hierarchy where these classes, despite their critical economic roles and recent social reforms, navigate a world largely dictated by the upper echelons of nobility and wealth. Yet, it is within this very stratum that the true spirit of the Empire is found - a spirit of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to community and craftsmanship. Though life can (and often is) grim and hard, they greet it with strength and resilience. 
== Description ==
Most Imperial citizens present a robust and hardy visage, moulded by a life of toil and industry. Men and women alike bear the marks of their labour; their skin is often at least somewhat tanned or weathered from long hours spent working, especially those in predominantly outside professions like farmers and dock workers. Their hands are usually calloused, a testament to their daily endeavours, and their physiques range from sturdy and muscular among those engaged in more physically demanding tasks, to more slender frames found within the ranks of shopkeepers and tradesmen. Hair is often kept practical, with shorter lengths or kept out of the way by tying it up or donning a hat of some kind.
Clothing among Imperial citizens is a mix of necessity and personal expression, leaning heavily towards the former. Garments are predominantly made from durable materials like wool, linen, and leather. Colours tend to be muted, favouring earth tones and greys, though splashes of brighter hues may be seen in accessories, on special occasions, or among those in professions like tailoring or millinery that allow for, or even require, a certain sartorial flair. Footwear is sturdy, often heavy boots or solid shoes. Despite the practical nature of their attire, personal touches of style emerge through small, handcrafted accessories or subtle embellishments, reflecting the personal identity and pride of each citizen.
== Society ==
Within the societal structure of the Empire of Man, the working and mercantile classes form the backbone of its economy and functionality. These individuals occupy a wide spectrum of roles, from farmers and craftsmen to merchants and small business owners, each contributing indispensably to both the local and wider imperial economies. Their labour ensures the production and distribution of goods essential for daily life, as well as the advancement of commerce and trade routes that connect the Empire internally and with distant lands. Despite their crucial roles, these citizens often find themselves with limited political power or voice, their lives and livelihoods subject to the whims of the nobility and the wealthy elite who own the majority of the land and resources.
Social mobility for these classes is constrained, yet not entirely unattainable. Skilled artisans, successful merchants, and those who have mastered a particular trade can achieve a degree of wealth and influence, occasionally rivalling that of the lower nobility. However, such cases are the exception rather than the norm, with most individuals remaining within the social stratum into which they were born. Community and solidarity are strong among these classes, with guilds, trade associations, and mutual aid societies often stepping in to provide support where the state or church does not. These organisations, at the very least, offer a semblance of protection and bargaining power for their members.
Education and literacy vary widely within these classes, largely depending on occupation and location. Thanks in large part to the Common Education Programme the majority of citizens possess basic literacy and numeracy skills, essential for trade and daily transactions, as well as an understanding in subjects like history. Higher education, however, remains largely inaccessible, reserved for those of wealthier means. Despite these challenges, the working and mercantile classes exhibit a remarkable resilience and adaptability, their innovations and hard work driving forward the Empire's progress and ensuring its continued prosperity.
== Combat ==
Imperial citizens might find themselves drawn into conflict for a myriad of reasons. For many, conscription or voluntary enlistment in the military offers a means of earning a livelihood and gaining some semblance of honour and recognition, albeit often at great personal risk. Others might be compelled to defend their homes and communities against bandit raids, territorial disputes, or even incursions by rival nations. Additionally, personal vendettas, disputes over trade, and the defence of one's honour in a society where reputation can dictate one's fortunes are common catalysts for duels and skirmishes. Beyond these, the burgeoning ideas of nationalism and civil rights, occasionally spur citizens to take up arms in rebellions or protests against perceived tyranny and injustice, fighting for a cause greater than their individual plights.
When it comes to the manner of combat, citizens of the Empire, lacking the formal training and resources of the nobility or professional soldiers, rely heavily on pragmatism and resourcefulness. Many are familiar with basic weaponry such as swords, daggers, and the occasional firearm. These weapons, alongside tools repurposed for combat like farming implements or craftsmen's tools, form the arsenal of the common fighter. Combat style among these citizens is less about finesse and more about effectiveness, utilising guerrilla tactics, ambushes, and the element of surprise whenever possible. In more organised conflicts, such as rebellions or large-scale battles, they may band together under the leadership of a charismatic figure, forming makeshift militias that compensate for their lack of formal training with sheer numbers and determination. Their fighting spirit is bolstered by a deep connection to their homes and communities, driving them to defend what is theirs against any odds.
=== Loot ===
Loot taken from most Imperial citizens is modest, yet practical. Among the common items one might find are coins of varying denominations, often hidden in well-worn pouches or sewn into the linings of clothing for safekeeping. Personal effects such as pocket watches, simple jewellery made from less precious metals, and utility items like knives or tools are also common. These items not only serve as mementos of daily life but also hold practical value, either for personal use or for trade. Additionally, one could expect to find various trade goods, depending on the individual’s profession—rolls of fabric, leather goods, spices, or even homemade alcoholic beverages, which could fetch a fair price in the right market.
Documents, particularly those bearing seals or signatures of some authority, can be especially valuable, either for the information they contain or as items of blackmail and negotiation. In a more rural setting, agricultural produce or livestock, though more challenging to transport, might also be considered valuable loot.