Of all the things to be possessive of, imaginary peasants are probably a bit much. There are thousands of them in each region. I can understand not wanting your soldiers, background nobles, or administrators who are more integral to your character's life being played by other players...but a small band of throwaway peasants? If you aren't willing to let a player use .05% of your entirely expendable population without first signing 4 forms in triplicate...that seems against the 'friends playing with friends' rule.
From my experience, EC is in desperate need of MORE RP. All this "these are my peasants and no one can use them but me" talks just stifle RP further. If people are willing to try and add interest and flavour to the game then work with them.
