Vassal

Uncommon card · No. 101890

A vassal or liege subject is a ruler in a position of mutual obligation (subjection) to a superior lord or monarch, often in the context of the feudal system in medieval Europe and elsewhere. While the subordinate party is called a vassal, the superior party is called a suzerain. A vassal is semi-independent, meaning they can rule their country as they wished as long they met their obligations. The rights and obligations of a vassal is known as the vassalage. Whereas, the rights and obligations of a suzerain is called the suzerainty. The obligations of a vassal often include paying tribute or providing military support with knights. In exchange, the vassal got certain privileges, such as commerce, military protection, and land held as a tenant or fief. In contrast, fealty (fidelitas) is sworn, unconditional loyalty to a monarch.

Read on Wikipedia · Image Myrabella, Public domain