Imperial Government

The Realm is republic in theory, and a dictatorship in practice.

The Imperial Senate (divided into greater and lesser chambers) technically creates the law of the land, but the Empress retains veto power over all decisions. The Empress can also order the removal of senators she is particularly displeased with, and it is she who appoints the members of the greater chamber in the first place (members of the lesser chamber are voted in by the greater chamber).

The Thousand Scales

The Imperial Civil Service is generally referred to as The Thousand Scales. Its ministries oversee all aspects of daily life in the Realm, from taxation to healthcare.

The Defenders of the Imperial Realm

The "Black Helms," as they are called, are the police force of the Realm. They suppress serf revolts, and combat bandits and theives along the imperial roadways. There are no Dynasts among them, as their work is beneath the talents of the Dragonblooded.

The Imperial Magistrates

Hand selected by the Empress, the Magistrates are the enforcers of her will among the populace. They travel the length and breadth of the Realm, seeking out and destroying serious threats to the Empress's interests, including Dynasts. They are all Dynasts of no small skill, though they make use of mortal retainers.

The Empress's All-seeing Eye

The All-seeing Eye is the secret police force of the Realm. They do not take an active role, like the magistrates. Rather they collect information and disseminate it to the Black Helms and the Magistrates for enforcement. They are greatly hated by the Great Houses.