Rhomania

The Roman Empire, Senatus Populusque Romanus, or simply Rhomania, is a nation chiefly in Greece and Anatolia, with territories in Southern Italy and the western Mediterranean. The Roman Empire was founded on WD10 (November 12th, 2023).
The Roman Empire has one player, justryz_, who rules the nation.
This is a very , story-heavy article. just so you know! <3
== Geography ==
The Roman Empire is located in most of Greece and western Anatolia, with holdings in Southern Italy, Libya, and eastern Spain. The capital of the Roman Empire is Constantinople. Rhomania is mostly mountainous, with highly indented coastlines and numerous islands. Mount Olympus, the mythical abode of the ancient Greek Gods, is the highest mountain in Rome.
Extensive plains are primarily located in the historic regions of Thessaly, Central Macedonia, Anatolia, and South Italy. They constitute key economic regions as they are among the few arable places in the country.
== History ==
=== Pre-Independence ===
Under the suzerainty of the Fugkarzhritrish, the Free City of Constantinople was the precursor to the Roman Empire, housing much of its present institutions and led by Empress Elizabet I, who was then called the Duchess Eliza of House Chomatenos. The city of Constantinople itself was under construction for most of its existence pre-independence. As Constantinople developed, the Free City also gained the Peloponnese peninsula after diplomatic negotiations with the House of Palaiologos, who dubbed it Morea.
When Constantinople was finished, the citizenry and Duchess collectively decided to declare independence from the Fugkarzhritrish nation, naming their newfound nation the Roman Empire.
=== Establishment ===
The Roman Empire was founded on WD10 after the city of Constantinople was completed, with a largely-observed imperial coronation in the Hagia Sophia that saw the Four Popes crowning Empress Elizabet I, previously the Duchess of the Free City, as the first Augustus of the restored Empire. Thus, her Imperial title was dubbed: Imperatrix Caesar Flavius Ilizibet Valerius Augusta.
=== Reign of Empress Elizabet I ===
==== Initial Expansion & Negotiations ====
The Romans, who were eager for a renewed era of the old Empire, immediately embarked on a period of rapid expansion, quickly annexing much of Greece and parts of eastern Anatolia. Seeking only peaceful expansion, Rome negotiated for land with Bosnia and the Fugkarzhritrish. These negotiations concerned the Aegean islands and parts of Greece with all sides mostly satisfied.
The initial period of expansion continued well into the Anatolian . lands, with the Empire meeting polities such as Canaan and the Trimarium in the Caucuses. During this expansion into Asia Minor, a territorial misunderstanding occurred between Canaan and the Empire, which resulted in the peaceful cession of a Roman town to the Canaanite nation.The Roman Empire also expanded outside of Greece and Anatolia, establishing domains in South Italy, Spain, and eastern Libya. The holding in Spain, called Nagapoli specifically saw tensions rise between Baytika and the Romans. However, a round of negotiations led by Ireland resulted in a peaceful conclusion, with the Emirate of Baytika financially compensated in exchange for Rome keeping Nagapoli.
==== Infrastructure Development & the Athenians ====
Elizabet and the Roman Senate knew quite early on that to support such a vast empire, Rome would need infrastructure, cities, farms, and even walls. Cities such as Thessaloniki and Caesaria rapidly grew to become important centers in their areas. Wheat fields soon encompassed much of the outskirts of Constantinople , and many aqueducts were built to quench the thirsts of a million Romans.
The Athenians, a long extant group of peoples in Greece, flourished under Roman rule as Athens became an autonomous free city that rivals Constantinople to this day. The Athens region is considered the most politically influential in the Greek provinces barring the Imperial Capital.
==== Sack of the Dope Peoples & Withdrawal from NATO ====
As part of an international coalition, the Roman Empire sent a legion to the Dope People's Land nation on WD24 (November 26th, 2023) after it attempted to enslave a player. Expecting a high-stakes battle, the legion arrived to the homeland of the Dope Peoples with no violence or conflict anywhere. That was, until renegade Moravian soldiers were spotted setting the houses of the Dope Peoples ablaze, which resulted in Roman troops killing the renegades. Following this, a sack of the Dope Peoples' capital occurred, with the Roman legion bringing home riches.
The Senate and the People of Rome began to believe that being a member of NATO, a large military organization, could have detrimental effects for the Empire on the road ahead of them. Joining Bosnia, Ireland and Baytika, the Roman Empire withdrew from the North Atlantic Organization on WD31 (December 3rd, 2023), after some deliberation by the Empress.
==== Later Life, Heirs & More Aqueducts… & Even More Walls? ====
As the Empress of Rome grew older, so did her young heirs, eager and ready to rule the throne. Elizabet had two heirs: Justinian and Theodora. Justinian was a moderate, while Theodora was open to liberalizing Roman institutions. Though Elizabet enjoyed Theodora's openness, she felt that . Justinian would be more effective in keeping Rome strong and secure. And so, Justinian was named the successor to Elizabet's throne, and Theodora would be given the position of urban prefect for the Imperial Capital, where she could oversee and manage the city along with the Senate.
Constantinople grew to become a very large city, with Chalcedon recently absorbed into the greater area . The demand for water supply shockingly increased greatly. To address this, the Empress and Senate commissioned a new, large aqueduct that would service the Imperial Capital and neighboring cities. Shared between Thrace (formerly Fugkarzhritrish) and Rome, the Aqueduct of Theodosius was completed on WD31 (December 3rd, 2023), giving the Imperial Capital a surplus of much-needed water.
One of the very last things the Empress oversaw during her reign was the construction and completion of the Wall of Constantine XI. This wall in particular stretched the entire southern border of the Roman Empire. While there is apparently no record on why this vast wall was built, many agree it is invaluable for the territorial integrity of the Empire.
==== Passing & Succession ====
When the Empress passed away (reportedly of Ligma) on WD31, fifteen days of mourning commenced. The Empress was posthumously named Elizabet the Great for her efforts in restoring the . Empire. When this period of mourning ended , Justinian the heir ascended to the throne and was coronated in the Hagia Sophia. Thus, his Imperial title was dubbed: Imperator Caesar Flavius Sabbatius Iustinianus Dragases Augustus, or Justinian III for short.
=== Reign of Emperor Justinian III ===
==== Calm Yet Uncertain ====
The first months of Justinian III's reign was quiet, calm, and pretty good, if it wasn't for the worries that plagued many Roman citizens. These worries were mainly about the Persians and the Baytika Civil War that raged near the territory of Nagapoli. To address these concerns, Justinian met with the Senate to create a collection of infrastructure plans that would help calm the minds of those stressed about foreign powers & events. As a great wall was already built in southern Anatolia which the Persians bordered, Justinian looked westward. A defensive wall not too dissimilar to the Wall of Constantine XI was constructed on the border of the Roman township of Nagapoli, satisfying many concerned citizens.
==== Caesaria & Megarsos ====
After the Baytika Panic, Justinian III saw the completion of the cities of Caesaria and Megarsos, which have become important economic centers for the Empire. Aqueducts were built, roads were laid out, and the Emperor's nation had newfound wealth. For a time, Rome truly had peace. No political scuffles, economic depressions, or civil wars. That was, until intrigue and war laid on the horizon.
==== Corruption in the Senate ====
The Roman Senate is an ages-old institution, dating as far back to the reign of the Roman Republic thousands of years ago. As a legitimate political entity however , it ceased to exist for hundreds of years until its reestablishment on WD10. Regardless, no matter its status, there was always corruption. During the reign of Justinian III, this was no different. Senator Iordanis, a senator from Thessaloniki, was found to have been funneling important infrastructure funds towards the construction of his private properties, leading to his arrest. The aftermath was a scandal, with many citizens questioning the legitimacy of the Senate's current leadership. Justinian personally made it clear to his compatriots in the Senate that further tampering would result in harsh penalties.
==== Early Warning ====
As Justinian began to wind down his regal duties as he got old (and sick of Ligma) , imperial scouts in the frontier of Persia and the Fertile Crescent reported that Iranian ragtag militaries were gathering in the ancient region of Media, which was near the Roman border. These Iranian legions rallied under the Sassanid banner, and had a leading figure: Denag the Great. The Roman imperial government didn't really think much of it. Natural disasters had been rocking the Persian region for quite some time, so it was likely that these armies were consolidating to restore order in chaotic areas. In addition, encounters with these legions were reported to be rather friendly, with Roman scouts welcomed in for occasional dinners and resupply as they circulated the Middle East and neighboring regions.
==== Death & a New Emperor ====
Justinian III died on WD54, due to Ligma-related health complications. He reigned for many years, and brought about new cities, peace treaties, and expansion for the Empire. Just like for his mother, 15 days of mourning commenced. Justinian had a sole heir: Constantine. When the mourning period ended, Constantine had ascended to the imperial throne, coronated in the Hagia Sophia like his predecessors. Thus, his Imperial title was dubbed: Imperator Caesar Flavius Constantine XII Novus Tiberius Augustus, or Constantine XII for short. He was energetic and ready to take Rome to new heights. Little did he know, his reign would decide whether Rome would live, or die.
=== Reign of Emperor Constantine XII ===
==== Calm before the Storm ====
When Constantine became Emperor and Autocrat of the Romans, King of Kings and Ruler over Rulers ., he sought to uphold the legacy of his father's powerful influence over Rome, domestically and abroad. He was : a people's person and greatly hailed military exceptionalism. When his reign began, the Roman Imperial Army was good, sure, but not good enough for Constantine . The Invasion of the Dope Peoples Land did not give the army many lessons of war. 
However, Constantine was not deterred. He directed both the Imperial Navy and Army to start hitting the books on newer doctrines, and sent out parties across Europe and Africa to research other standing armies and how , they operated. There was also a focus to transition the ground forces into a more artillery - based army. These early decisions were key to Rome's future survival, even if none knew. 
Apart from military, Constantine oversaw major projects, such as the rebirth of Neapolis (Naples). Southern Italy had become a prized possession of Rhomania, with the Eternal City itself just at the border between Rhomania and then-Roma. Neapolis was a city in decay, after decades of no public investment. When the Empire acquired the city, there were immediately plans to revitalize the city. This was realized during Constantine's reign, and has made the city become an important economic center for the Empire. 
==== The Approaching Storm ====
Meanwhile, as Constantine XII was busy revitalizing Neapolis and strengthening the Roman military, the situation on the eastern frontier was growing increasingly tense. The reports of Iranian forces massing in Media were not just idle rumors. Denag the Great, leading the Sassanid legions, had a far more ambitious agenda than simply restoring order in chaotic regions.
Despite the initial friendly encounters between Roman scouts and Sassanid forces, tensions were simmering beneath the surface. Denag the Great had been marshaling his troops with a clear objective in mind: the annexation of Roman territories in Anatolia and beyond. As the months passed, the Iranian forces continued to consolidate their strength and prepare for a full-scale invasion. Constantine XII, however, remained largely unaware of the imminent threat looming over the eastern borders. His focus on military reforms and infrastructure projects had consumed much of his attention, leaving little room for him to heed the warnings of potential conflict from his advisors.
It was a cloudy day in the small border Anatolian town of Mas. The sun sometimes peaked , through the clouds, and it began to set. Children played in the surrounding forests. Greek farmers took a look at their bountiful grape trees: the harvest was near. All the houses had smoke coming out of their chimneys . the public bath full of folks : locals , and hikers, and scouts lounging. On the eastern side of the town , a Roman soldier sat on a chair with his pike aside . He drank wine and spoke cheerfully to a local, cracking jokes. 
Twilight neared,. Suddenly, a loud boom startled all the birds in the forest around the soldier and man. They flew away in shock. The soldier picked up his pike, and both listened for a few minutes. Silence at first, but suddenly, a rumbling ever-so got louder. The rumbling of a hundred thousand horses. It was too late for the two Roman men: Persian soldiers on horses came out of nowhere from the dark pines, steadfast and stampeded the two Romans. An hour later, Mas was left ablaze, houses on fire and their church collapsing. The vineyards, shriveled and destroyed. Enter Denag the Great, who peered out from the horde. He told his legion on top of a hill: 
"Men, Cyrus and Darius look down upon us and give us strength as an act of Providence! We shall destroy Rome, and the Queen of Cities will be ours again!" 
=== The Great Sassanid Invasion ===
==== The Anatolian Campaign ====
The Iranian legions, under the command of Denag the Great, launched their long-awaited assault under the cover of darkness. With swift and coordinated movements, they surged across the borders of Roman Anatolia ., catching many Roman garrisons off guard . The initial strikes were devastating. Sassanid forces, well-trained and equipped, energetic too , full of morale, overwhelmed smaller Roman outposts and fortified positions with ease. Communication lines were severed, supply routes disrupted, and villages along the frontier fell into chaos as the invading legions pressed deeper into Roman territory.
Constantine XII was quick to mobilize the Roman Imperial Army in response to the sudden onslaught. However , the effectiveness of his military reforms and preparations for such a scenario were put to the test as the Sassanid forces proved to be formidable adversaries. Battles raged across the countryside as Roman legions clashed with their Iranian counterparts. The echoes of war reverberated through the land, signaling the beginning of a conflict that would define the reign of Constantine XII and the future of the Roman Empire.
==== The Thirty-Seventh Siege for Constantinople ====
Their advance seemed relentless. However, their momentum was halted when they reached the ancient walls of Chalcedon and more importantlt Constantinople, the jewel of the Roman Empire. Constantine XII, realizing the strategic importance of defending the imperial capital, had fortified the city and amassed a formidable force of battle-hardened Roman legions within its walls. As the Sassanid forces laid siege to Constantinople, the stage was set for a clash of titans that would echo through the annals of history.
The battle that ensued was nothing short of epic. The mighty walls of Constantinople stood as a bulwark against the onslaught of the Sassanid siege engines and battering rams. Roman , archers rained down arrows upon the besieging forces, while catapults and ballistas unleashed devastation upon their ranks. Outside the walls, the open field became a battleground where Roman and Sassanid warriors clashed in a desperate struggle for supremacy. Cries of the fallen filled the air as the fate of Constantinople hung in the balance. The Imperial Navy unleashed . hell upon the Neo-Sassanids with their ancient Greek fire technique . from the Bosphorus.
In the end, it was the indomitable spirit of the Roman soldiers that carried the day. After a fierce and bloody conflict that lasted for days, the Sassanid forces were repelled from the walls of Constantinople, their dreams of capturing the imperial capital dashed upon the rocks of Roman resilience. As the dust settled and the sounds of battle faded into the distance, both sides licked their wounds and regrouped for the next phase of the conflict. For Constantine XII and the Roman Empire, the victory at Constantinople was a testament to their strength and determination in the face of overwhelming odds. But the war was Not Yet over,. and greater challenges lay ahead as they prepared to face the might of Denag the Great and his Sassanid legions once more in the fields of Nicomedia . 
==== Battle of Nicomedia ====
Tension hung heavy in the air like a shroud. The Roman legions, bolstered by reinforcements and supplied with the latest weaponry, stood ready for the impending confrontation with Denag 's Neo- Sassanid horde. Constantine XII, clad in his imperial armor and wielding his sword with determination, addressed his troops with a resolute gaze. "Gather around, my fellow Romans," he proclaimed, his voice ringing out across the encampment. "We stand on the precipice of history, facing a foe that seeks to tear down everything we hold dear. But we are Romans, heirs to a legacy of triumph against adversity. Today, we fight not just for ourselves, but for the future of Rome!"
As his words echoed through the ranks, a renewed sense of purpose swept through the legionnaires, steeling their resolve for the battles to come. Constantine and an elite legion soon gallopped into , the dark forests . The Battle of Nicomedia , the Battle for Rome, was beginning.
"READY!"
"AIM!"
"FIRE!"
The clash at Nicomedia was a symphony of chaos and carnage, with the thunder of hooves, the clash of swords in a cacophony of war. Ballistas hurled deadly projectiles through the air, while archers unleashed volleys of arrows upon their foes. Roman and Sassanid warriors fought tooth and nail for every inch of ground, their blood staining the earth crimson as they clashed in a desperate struggle for supremacy.
Flames licked the sky as the forests surrounding the battlefield burned. In the midst of this inferno emerged Constantine XII, his presence like a thunderclap amidst the storm of war. With a resolute gaze and sword in hand, he led a daring charge that caught the Sassanid horde off guard. As the flames of war danced around them , Constantine and Denag found themselves face- to- face on the battlefield, the clash of their swords ringing out amidst the chaos. Their duel was a whirlwind of steel and fury, each blow struck with deadly precision as they sought to best their foe.
Constantine, fueled by righteous fury and the determination to defend his empire, fought with unmatched ferocity. With each swing of his sword, he pushed Denag back, driving him towards the edge of defeat. Denag, however, was no less formidable. His skill with a blade was matched only by his cunning, and he fought with a determination born of desperation. Blow after blow, he sought to break through Constantine's defenses and strike a decisive blow.
But in the end, it was Constantine's resolve that proved to be the difference. With a mighty roar, he unleashed a flurry of strikes that left Denag reeling, his defenses crumbling beneath the onslaught. In a final, decisive moment Constantine seized the opportunity and delivered a devastating blow that struck true, piercing Denag's heart and bringing him to his knees. As the Sassanid warlord fell, mortally wounded, Constantine stood victorious, his sword held high in triumph. 
But victory came at a cost. As the flames of battle raged around them, Constantine too felt the sting of battle, a grievous wound inflicted by Denag's dying breath. As he stood over his fallen foe, he knew that his own time was running short.
And so, amidst the smoke and flames of Nicomedia, two titans of war met their end in a final, climactic duel. Their names would be remembered in the annals of history, their deeds immortalized in the tales of generations to come. And as the sun set on the blood-soaked fields, the legacy of Constantine XII and Denag the Great lived on, a testament to the enduring spirit of courage, valor, and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds.
The motives of this Great Invasion by the Persians are still not known to this day . Scholars attribute unfettered Iranian mysticism and cataclysmic natural disasters in the Iranian homeland as likely reasons , but the Sassanid intelligentsia part of the invasion either died or retreated with the remnant armies when the Invasion ended. Captured soldiers refused by- and- large , to give information.
=== The Death of Constantine ===
News of Constantine's passing spread swiftly throughout the empire like a fire , there was sorrow over the land. From the bustling streets of Constantinople to the farms of Nagapoli in Hispania, the people of Rome mourned the loss of their beloved Emperor.
In the imperial capital, preparations were made for a funeral befitting a ruler of Constantine's stature. The streets were lined with mourners as the funeral procession made its way through the city, the somber sound of funeral dirges filling the air. At the heart of the procession, draped in the purple robes of state, lay the Emperor's body, surrounded by the symbols of his reign. Behind him walked his grieving family, including his daughter Irene, who would succeed him as Empress of Rome.
Irene, she was distraught , but her resolve was unwavering, stepping forward to address the gathered crowd. With a voice choked with emotion, she vowed to carry on her father's legacy and lead Rome into a new era of prosperity and strength. The funeral pyre was lit and Constantine's body consumed by flame , the people of Rome bowed their heads in solemn reverence, honoring the passing of a great leader and mourning the loss of a beloved Emperor.
In the days that followed, a period of mourning gripped the empire as tributes poured in from across the realm. Statues were erected, monuments built, and poems penned in honor of Constantine's memory, ensuring that his legacy would endure for generations to come. Constantine XII was posthumuously named:
Constantine the Persian Slayer, Guardian of the Eternal Empire and King of the Universe
=== Reign of Empress Irene II ===
==== Constantine's Legacy ====
Irene was coronated soon after in the Hagia Sophia, her Imperial title Imperatrix Caesar Flavius Claudius Irene II Augusta. Support for the imperial monarchy was fervent , with the Senate and Five Houses (which will be mentioned later !) loyal to her in absolution . With all these and her own indomitable spirit, she would lead Rome with wisdom, strength, and grace, ensuring that the legacy of her father, Constantine XII, would endure for generations to come.
==== Anatolia Abandoned ====
The Great Sassanid Invasion left Rome strained, depleted even . Much of her Anatolian holdings were eviscerated, and the prospect of reconquering Rome's lost lands didn't seem worth it to Irene and the Senate . The people agreed to an extent , but there was still those who needed help in the western frontiers. 
Initiatives were made to support those in need in the abandoned territories , and those who desired to move into what lands Rome still had were given the opportunity. Five million migrated from the wrecked frontier into Aegean Anatolia. Many are still settling into this day. 
==== The Turkish Move-In ====
the
==== Government Reform in The Senate ====
Irene soon saw it fit to transfer some of her powers as the Empress to the Senate in an effort to liberalize Roman institutions. This saw the establishment of the Chancellor, which would be an elevated position in the Senate and would serve as head of government alongside Irene. The creation of the Chancellorship marked a significant departure from traditional Roman governance, granting the Senate a greater role in decision-making and administration. Under Irene's leadership, the Roman government evolved to adapt to the changing needs of the empire, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and representative system of governance.
==== Mages & Discovery of Firebending ====
During the reign of Irene, she spearheaded a policy to open up to the world and take in their ways of life. One such example of this was sending aspiring mages and studious professors from the University of Constantinople to the then-Vekmadori Magisterium, a nation highly regarded for its ways of magic. 
The groups sent to the Magisterium soon returned, and with them: Magic . This newfound ability in literally bending reality interested the Senate, Imperial Family, and the . Five Houses altogether.. especially after the accidental discovery of firebending.
During a routine experiment on magic, Roman mages stumbled upon an extraordinary and likely ancient art: firebending. The magical community of Rhomania buzzed with excitement as practitioners explored the newfound abilities, raising questions about the potential for a new age in magic for Rome, and perhaps for the rest of the world. During the experiment, as student mages delved into the arcane, an unexpected surge of power manifested, resulting in flames dancing at the fingertips of the mages. astonished and intrigued, they soon realized that they had inadvertently unlocked the secrets of firebending.
Such an event prompted Irene and the House of Chomatenos to train their young in the ways of firebending, with close and clandestine cooperation with the mages who spearheaded the firebending effort. Irene herself could firebend at a point later in her life, though it was never refined as royal duties took up most of her life.
==== Twilight Years & Heirs ====
Irene got old, and like any Roman imperator did, caught Ligma in her last years of her life. In her final years, Irene's health deteriorated, and the empire braced itself for the inevitable passing of its beloved Empress. As her reign drew to a close, discussions turned to the question of succession and the future of the empire. Irene had three children: Olympia, Maximus, and Cassandra. Olympia was.. crazy, Maximus was somewhat liberal, and Cassandra was . anxious and introverted. 
The Empress, even as she was sick, kept guiding the Senate to work on public works projects, and revitalizing Anatolia to accommodate for millions of souls that arrived in the wake of the Sassanid Invasion. Despite the uncertainties of the future, Irene's legacy endured, a testament to her strength, wisdom, and dedication to the welfare of her people. And as the sun set on her reign, Rome mourned the loss of a great leader and looked to the dawn of a new era, one that was under the guidance of the Senate for awhile, for Irene did not choose a heir.
=== Regency of the Senate ===
As Empress Irene II's health continued to decline and passed away, the Senate assumed the role of governing in her stead. With Irene unable to designate a clear heir from among her children – Olympia, Maximus, and Cassandra ., the responsibility of guiding Rome through this period of transition fell to the esteemed members of the Senate.
Maximus, with his somewhat liberal inclinations and experience in matters of governance, emerged as a prominent candidate for the regency. His vision for the empire aligned closely with Irene's progressive reforms and commitment to the welfare of the people. Moreover, his reputation for fairness and pragmatism earned him widespread support among the senators and the populace alike. Thus, he was chosen as the next Emperor of Rome . He was crowned in the Hagia Sophia, and was given the Imperial title Imperator Caesar Flavius Nerva Traianus Maximus Augustus.
=== Reign of Emperor Maximus I ===
=== Reign of Emperor Lucius III ===
=== Reign of Empress Cassiopeia I ===
=== Reign of Empress Artemis I ===
== Government & Politics ==
=== Imperial Government ===
Rhomania is often described as an impartial autocracy , blending ancient traditions with modern political structures to create a unique form of governance. Rhomania , known formally as the .Senatus Populusque Romanus, maintains a semi-constitutional monarchy where the Emperor or Empress holds significant power, balanced by the legislative authority of the Senate.
==== Emperor & Senate ====
Composed of two entities both headquartered in Constantinople, the imperial government is regulated by both written document and precedent. 
The head of state is the Emperor or Empress , who holds considerable executive power, overseeing national defense, foreign policy, and major legislative initiatives. The monarch's role is both ceremonial and functional, embodying the unity and continuity of the empire while also actively engaging in governance. 
The Senate serves as the primary legislative body. It is composed of elected representatives from the provinces of the empire. The Senate has the authority to propose and debate laws, oversee budget, and hold the executive branch accountable. The reforms introduced by Empress Irene II have granted the Senate greater decision-making powers, establishing a Chancellor to act as the head of government alongside the Emperor or Empress. This position is currently held by the esteemed Senator Licinius Aurelianus. 
The imperial government operates on principles of impartiality and autocracy, ensuring that the central authority remains strong while allowing for significant legislative input and regional representation. The establishment of the Chancellorship marked a significant departure from traditional Roman governance, granting the Senate a greater role in decision-making and administration. Under aforementioned . Empress Irene 's leadership, the Roman government evolved to adapt to the changing needs of the empire, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and representative system of governance. 
==== The Five Houses ====
Influential noble families that play a significant role in the political and social life of the empire. These houses, loyal to the crown, provide support and counsel to the Emperor or Empress and are involved in various aspects of governance.
===== House Chomatenos =====
Humble origins . Took the stage of Pre-Roman Greece politics by storm. Faced much intrigue , and always was forced to be two steps ahead of the rest. They rule Rome today .
===== House of Palaiologos =====
Ruling dynasty of Rome that preceded the House of Chomatenos. Much of its history after the Great Calamity was marked by constant fighting, from both within and outside . Their days of warfare are over. For they lounge like true kings and queens in Morea, their homeland.
===== House of Olympus =====
Alien is best describing them. Often act as zealots with ideas rooted within ancient Hellenic religion . Always bit more bark they can chew, ruling just Athena & bits outside, fighting local lords and hired mercenaries for power projection in their heyday. Today, they are the least powerful of the five relevant houses
===== House of Argead =====
Similar to Olympus in terms of religious zealotry, but not as isolationist. Once believers of the Makedon Way, they have grown accustomed to Roman culture. The House of Argead is the oldest house, laying claim to Alexander the Great of being part of the House. Currently subservient to Chomatenos and assimilated into Roman ways after the War of Atreides .
===== House of Atreides =====
Once Cappadocians, they have now assimilated in Western Anatolian culture. Biblical scale natural disasters wrecked all they had in their homeland, and a migration began. In Anatolia, there they discovered tales of ancient Greece and Rome, subsequently forming death cults in their respected ranks . the War of Atreides is their defining characteristic, for nearly slaughtering the other four houses . Though they lost and went back to hiding for an extended period of time, they have re-emerged following the refounding of the Roman Empire. They are a mysterious house in nature, and lack political power, though this is compensated by a very elite paramilitary that has saved Western Anatolia from Denag and other invaders .
== Demographics ==
== Culture ==
Category:Season Three
Category:Countries of Europe (Season Three)