Golden League

A loose alliance of some of the richest merchant cities of the continent, dominating the trade in the west of Aegeron.

History
The cities along the Golden Bay have always been prosperous and had an outsize influence in the matters of Aegeron. Their wealth made them an appealing target for the expanding Imperium, but instead of putting up a futile defense the cities willingly joined the Imperium, in exchange for certain trade privileges.

These privileges allowed the cities of the Golden Bay to dominate trade in the Imperium, making them even more prosperous. When the Imperium fell, it became clear to them that their wealth would soon attract the attention of their neighbors, so they banded together, forming the Golden League.

Outsiders often make the mistake of thinking of the Golden League as a unified realm of the wealthy who are plotting against the poor of the continent. In reality the League is merely a defensive alliance against outside threats (combined the League cities have the largest navy in the world, many of them are old imperial galleons outfitted with cannons), the member cities are actually more rivals than allies. They are constantly plotting against each others and waging proxy wars through mercenary companies and spies, which means lucrative opportunities for adventurers.

Life
Most member cities are merchant republics ruled by an elected consul or doge (not the meme, see here). The cities of the Golden League are some of the few completely capitalistic societies on Aegeron, where social status is determined by wealth, noble titles have little meaning if not backed up by lands or fortunes.

The city folk of the Golden league enjoy many freedoms not afforded to those living in feudal realms, including freedom of movement, freedom of enterprise (as long as taxes are paid) and freedom of speech (within reason). In rural areas things tend to be more similar to the other human kingdoms.