One thing I really like about the era is that, ultimately, all the Great Houses are in a precarious position.
Marik is just reformed and on shaky ground, existing pretty much only because the Wolves are letting them
Liao is at risk of being dangerously over-extended. They have never held this much territory before, and one
goof can cause a death spiral.
Kurita...well, frankly, considering the need to have a Kurita on the Throne, and Yori not having an heir..all she
needs to do is, say, decide to stand up the Kanrei at the wrong moment... Also, with the Ravens taking
worlds, and the Bears restless on their border...
Steiner is alive pretty much because Alaric out-politiced Malvina, and Malvina hasn't gotten done reasserting
her dominance yet to finish off the Steiners.
Davion is pretty much one big push from either(or both!) Liao and Kurita from being rolled.
Frankly? This is very interesting times.