Chronicles of Elyria is unique in that players can run all levels of government, so you aren't just following along in an already-written NPC world. Initially each server's world map and land boundaries will be predefined, but conflicts, alliances, and conquests will cause these borders to shift over time. Leaders can be assassinated, coups plotted, and wars waged, all by players against other players.
Prior to launch, players will have a chance to earn Influence Points (IP) as they work to make the game successful. IP can be earned in many ways including highly valued posts on the forums, posting videos to YouTube, certain sales, and using your Friend Code when someone buys a package. Influence Points will then determine how the nobility will choose their domains before the launch of the game. In descending order of IP, the nobility will have an opportunity to go on and select which region they want within their dominion.
Because the Nobility will want only their supporters to own land and titles in their domains, groups are already establishing Kingdoms on the forums in what is known as the Dance of Dynasties. Kingdoms are being set up and the players are organizing themselves with meaningful diplomacy between kingdoms. Guilds and organizations are being created. Trade and military alliances are discussed daily. So head over to the forums to learn more about the current Kingdoms on each server and how you might get involved.
Vying for power, fame, and influence doesn't end once the game launches. We've already established ways to continue the Dance of Dynasties within game. In Chronicles of Elyria, the nobility, aristocracy, gentry, and best craftsman of a continent all get together every 16 in-game years (approx. 4 real-life months) to hash out the land boundaries and trade agreements, to arrange marriages, and to purchase and sample wares from the best craftsmen.
Furthermore, each Sedecim is hosted by a different Kingdom and Duchy, with a bid being submitted by each of the interested nobles at the preceding Sedecim. Having the nobles, craftsman, and tourists within your Duchy and County, even for a real-life week, can result in a dramatic increase in wealth and production. But you can bet that festivities are just the start. The Dance of Dynasties will be in attendance as well!
Sound exciting? Can't wait for your first royal gathering?! There is also the Tournament of Champions to consider. Gifted warriors will gather every four in-game years for the honor to be named realm's greatest champion! Like the Sedecim, the host of each Tournament of Champions is a bid presented at the preceding Tournament by the interested Dukes.
In Chronicles of Elyria, going to war or attempting a coup requires getting the support of other Nobles called Casus Belli. Invading without first gaining Casus Belli is illegal and will open the invader to counterattack from anyone. It will be possible, but difficult! This legal system both protects the owner and discourages griefers.
Conflict is natural in this world where alliances and favor are traded back and forth. So watch your back, for while you are plotting with a peer it may be that an underling is gaining favor with your liege lord and rising in the ranks.