As a liege, you have certain obligations to your vassals, and they, in turn, have obligations to you. Understanding these feudal contracts is key to a harmonious relationship and a strong realm. Your vassals will expect you to uphold your end of the bargain, and failure to do so can lead to discontent and instability.
Levy and Tax Contributions
The most fundamental obligation of your vassals is to provide you with levies (troops) and taxes. The amount they contribute is determined by their feudal contract, their opinion of you, their development in their domain, and their culture and religion. You can view the details of these contributions in the "Realm" tab by clicking on a vassal.
Protection and Warfare
Your vassals expect you to protect them from external threats and internal rebellions. This means you will often be called upon to lead your armies in defense of their lands. Conversely, you can also call upon your vassals to join you in your own wars. The success of these wars directly impacts their opinion of your leadership.
Justice and Dispute Resolution
Vassals expect you to act as a just arbiter. This includes resolving disputes between vassals, ensuring fair trials, and upholding the law. If you fail to address grievances or act unjustly, their opinion of you will suffer. You can often initiate "Resolve Dispute" interactions from the "Realm" tab.
Demands from Vassals
While you have obligations, your vassals also have the right to make demands. These demands are often tied to their opinion of you and the strength of factions within your realm. Common demands include:
- Lower Crown Authority: Vassals may demand a reduction in your power, especially if they feel you are too overbearing.
- Granting Titles: A vassal with a strong claim might demand a specific title.
- Independence: In extreme cases, a powerful vassal or faction may demand independence.
You will be presented with options when these demands are made, and your choice will have significant consequences for your relationship with the vassal and the stability of your realm. Refusing demands can lead to opinion penalties or even war, while accepting them can weaken your position.
Feudal Contracts
The specific terms of your relationship with each vassal are outlined in their feudal contract. You can view and, in some cases, modify these contracts by right-clicking on a vassal and selecting "Modify Contract." However, modifying contracts often requires the vassal's consent and can lead to opinion penalties if you attempt to impose unfavorable terms. As your Crown Authority increases, you gain more power to enforce certain aspects of the feudal contract unilaterally.