The Eldraeverse

From the earlier – which is to say, closer to the fervor of the revolution – days of the Empire’s history:

“Congratulations on your polity’s recent annexation by the Empire of the Star!”

“Whether we have come as the result of a war with your previous government, or merely to put an end to the oppression and anarchy of its former rule, we do so with good will to all who have not, and do not, act against us.  Please accept our assurances that we do not come to plunder, enslave, or exploit.  All your personal freedoms and property rights will be respected.  Nothing will be taken from you – any goods that we require will be purchased openly – nor will any forced labor be required, and no legionaries will be housed in your homes or businesses.  Any crimes committed against you by our forces will be punished most severely.”

“Furthermore, our requirements are few.  We have little interest in regulating your lives and culture; we demand only that you refrain from practicing violence or compulsion, against Imperial citizen-shareholders or against each other, respect the property of your fellows, adhere to any agreements which you voluntarily make, and pay the same minimal tax as Imperial citizen-shareholders for the maintenance of public works.  Such restrictions under which you may have previously labored are hereby abolished.”

“While it may be necessary to continue to maintain a military government in your region for a short while, until the public safety can be assured, we look forward to establishing a civilian government as soon as possible, at which time weapons restrictions will be removed, freedom of travel throughout the Empire restored, and full sharing of technology and upgrading of public infrastructure will commence.  Also, at this time, any of you will be able to take up Imperial citizen-shareholdership on the same terms as the Imperial-born, and we hope that many of you will exercise this option.  For more information on the new order of the world, please consult the remainder of this publication.”

“If we all cooperate and work together, we should soon be able to bring this new province, your home, out of the darkness and into the new era of enlightenment and civilization.”

- Authoritative Guide to the Empire for the New Peripheral,
Ministry of Civic Information, 1480