Here's a multi-post question for you, are you willing to accept single characters like an assassin? I don't mean a super god powered one, but one who is worth hiring and can kill high ranking people, since you did state "characters can die".

Alternatively, is there room for a Mercenary group?

I ask because I, like Aristo, prefer creating narrative and will certainly find it easier without a nation to contend with.

Thanks!