The Empire of Rodarr

The Empire of Rodarr was once five nations of its own, split along racial lines to the south and long-standing family blood feuds to the north. Centuries of internal conflict kept the massive subcontinent fractured until the Scarlet Throne seized control. Though the 5 rulers of each of the respective lands were granted the right to rule their respected provinces, there was no accounting for the emerging middle class of wealthy guild masters centuries later. Rodarr’s people, cowed and ravaged by the cruelty of the noble houses, turned against their old masters and joined the merchant lords in revolt. Empress Rhaenla finally opted to grant the right to elect provincial lords to the smallfolk of her empire so long as it meant she could remain on the throne. Arcane magic is illegal unless it's specifically authorized by the throne. Demi-humans are treated with suspicion and are not granted the right to vote. Half-humans can vote, but they cannot run for lordship.