Southern Empire

November 21, 2025

Rhagaea's claim through lineage.

Empress Rhagaea, leader of the Southern Empire

The Southern Empire is one of the three splinter factions of the Calradic Empire, led by Empress Rhagaea. Following the death of her husband, Emperor Arenicos, Rhagaea claims the throne not for herself, but for their daughter, Ira. This faction represents the dynastic legitimacy of the Empire, arguing that rule should pass down through the family line rather than be determined by the Senate (Northern Empire) or the Army (Western Empire).

For many players, the Southern Empire is the first choice for a playthrough, not only because of its central position but because of the unique political opportunity it presents: marrying into the ruling family.

Geography & Economy: The Heart of Calradia

The strategic position of the Southern Empire

The Southern Empire controls some of the most prosperous lands in Calradia. Its territory stretches from the shores of the Southern Sea to the borders of the Khuzait Steppe.

Key Cities

  • Lycaron: Often considered the de facto capital, it is a central hub for trade coming from the north and west.

  • Danustica: A massive trade city that acts as the gateway to the Aserai Sultanate. Caravans constantly flow through here, making it a goldmine for workshop owners.

  • Onira: Situated near the eastern border, Onira is rich but vulnerable to Khuzait raids.

Because of its high prosperity, the Southern Empire can field large armies. However, its geography is a double-edged sword. It shares borders with the Western Empire, Northern Empire, Khuzait Khanate, and Aserai. This often leads to multi-front wars that can drain even the deepest coffers.

For tips on managing these wealthy towns, check out our Economy & Trade Guide.

Troop Roster Analysis: The Might of the Cataphract

The Imperial Elite Cataphract, the backbone of the Southern army

Like its rival imperial factions, the Southern Empire utilizes the Imperial Troop Tree. This roster is known for its versatility and heavy armor.

The Crown Jewel: Imperial Elite Cataphract

The Imperial Elite Cataphract is widely considered one of the Best Cavalry Units in the game. Encased in head-to-toe lamellar armor, both horse and rider are incredibly durable. Unlike the shock cavalry of Vlandia, Cataphracts are slower but much tankier, allowing them to grind through enemy infantry formations without taking significant casualties.

Infantry & Archers

  • Imperial Legionary: A rock-solid shield unit. They don't have the throwing power of Sturgians, but their armor makes them excellent at holding a line.

  • Imperial Palatine Guard: While not as deadly as the Battanian Fian Champions, Palatine Guards are heavily armored archers who can survive a melee skirmish better than most ranged units.

Strategy: Defending the Center

Imperial infantry holding the line against Eastern invaders

Playing as a vassal or ruler of the Southern Empire requires constant vigilance. You are surrounded.

The Khuzait Threat

The biggest existential threat to the Southern Empire is usually the Khuzait Khanate. Their horse archer armies can devastatingly kite your heavy infantry. To counter this:

  • Bring more Cavalry: You need Cataphracts to catch and pin their horse archers.

  • Use Terrain: Fight in village scenes, forests, or sieges where their mobility is limited. See our Siege Warfare & Engineering guide for defensive tips.

The Aserai Front

The Aserai to the south will often declare war when you are busy elsewhere. The choke points leading into the desert (near Danustica) are excellent places to set up defensive ambushes.

Civil War

Your wars with the Northern Empire and Western Empire are inevitable. Focus on taking castles that consolidate your borders rather than overextending into their territory early on.

Diplomacy: Marriage and the Throne

One of the unique draws of the Southern Empire is Ira, Rhagaea's daughter. For male characters, marrying Ira is a popular roleplaying path. It positions your clan to potentially inherit the leadership of the faction upon Rhagaea's death.

  • Marriage: Requires high relations with Rhagaea. Consult our Marriage & Family guide for the mechanics of courtship.

  • Succession: If you plan on Starting Your Own Kingdom, marrying into the ruling family gives you immense legitimacy.

The Southern Empire is a faction of wealth, tradition, and constant conflict. If you can manage the chaos of the central map, the riches of Calradia are yours for the taking.