Empire of Soga

FACTION

The Empire of Soga is the largest and northernmost of the four main factions. Its harsh environment and storied past have shaped it into a pragmatic, feudal society. Upholding the martial traditions of its ruling warrior clans lies at the heart of its identity, with the Soga clan bearing the legitimacy of rule.

Severed from foreign rule by a bloodstained blade, the realm soon became riddled with internal conflict. Grief scarred the land, and where misfortune loomed large, profane forces took root—plaguing and preying upon any who passed. The worst afflictions stemmed from dilapidated shrines and neglected places of worship, which became overshadowed by tormented spirits.

Through the esoteric practices of the disciples of Rishinkyo—who draw upon ancient scriptures, ascetic training, and deep understanding of spirits and wayward demons—the Empire’s land gradually became more hospitable.

To seal away misfortune, the Empire honors its alliance with the Kitsune tribes, known for their foxlike features and alluring rituals that appeal to the gods. By custom, the Grand Priestess, a descendant of the fox peoples, holds dual roles as both the First Empress and the Head Court Ritualist of the imperial Soga Court.

Yet despite these efforts, the roads and depopulated lands remain haunted by echoes of past failings. Matters of gods and ghosts are left to the few capable of handling them, while the general populace—sturdy and self-reliant—remain largely unfamiliar with magical doctrine. Hardened by constant threats, a sparse population, bitter weather, and war, they tend to favor physical strength and martial discipline.

In particular, the northerners are famed for their brawn and resilience. Every winter, demonic ogroids known as Oni emerge from hibernation and descend from the boreal mountains, ravaging the snowy domains. It is against these threats that the true might of Soga is tested—year after year.

THE IMPERIALS

The Empire of Soga boasts the largest territory and population among the four great factions, as well as the most diverse landscape. Its terrain ranges from the mild coastal climate of the Inner Sea in the south, through fertile midlands, to the harsh, freezing mountains in the far north.

The imperial population is predominantly human—descendants of colonists from the bygone Crimson Ages, who once allied with the native Kitsune chimera tribes to drive out foreign invaders.The people of the Empire are hardy and industrious. While the land is densely populated and settlements are more numerous than in other regions, towns and cities tend to be smaller in size compared to those of the other great factions.The Kitsune have remained a cornerstone of imperial culture, though they often choose to live in seclusion, apart from the general populace. As a result, their Shinryuu faith and cultural practices are largely confined to the highest courts and elite circles. Meanwhile, the general population primarily follows the more human-centered Rishinkyo faith—an enduring legacy of the ancient colonial settlers.

GAMEPLAY

With few exceptions, the Empire of Soga is predominantly human. As such, what they lack in innate magical ability, they more than compensate for with martial discipline and some of the finest military equipment among the four great factions. This makes them the most resilient and durable force on the battlefield.While players may need to be cautious of more unconventional threats—such as special magical attacks or supernatural effects—the empire’s superior armor and sturdy units allow them to face most challenges head-on. Their playstyle tends to be more straightforward, relying on strength, defense, and formation tactics. Under the guidance of a skilled commander, the Empire can become a formidable and unyielding force, capable of weathering even the fiercest opposition.