...while Niselur's count has pretty much remained the same. This is a big wtf for me and not what I expected.
Astrum is beset on all sides. I saw the same thing happen in Perdan when 4 different realms declare war on one, people flock to the center of the heat. I'm sure you've seen a noble or two join you, but you are losing potential nobles to Farronite, Asylon, Luria, and Libero. Astrum only has to contend with sleepy Morek and Corsanctum.
