Royals *should* be an issue. I don't foresee a mechanic being created to weaken that royal protection.
As far as dukes, it is intended that dukes be protested out. But it has not been implemented.
I do not think we will see any title able to be subjected to a popularity contest within their realm. It is intended that there be a balance of powers between different positions to encourage both cooperation amongst teammates and provide opportunities for conflict. Because both are important in BM, cooperation and conflict, and both make a poor game in overabundance.
