In my setting, I’m exposed to a lot of people day by day, and sometimes I meet people who are celebrating things I’ve never heard of before. It sometimes feels like a Spongebob episode, I’m talking to them and they might say something like “we’re observing national hat day today” or “we’re celebrating Hiawatha Day” (apparently that’s August 22nd). How many of you can relate? Have any non-conventional observances (for a lack of a better way to ask)?
It also matters what you’re building an empire on top of. Is it barren, full of warlike tribes, or peaceful people? Even after 1000 years or even after sixty-five million years, the question “was it worth it” (or “was it deserved”, sometimes the same question) will always be valid to ask.