So at one point, big "chains" will have to rely exclusively on "cannonfodder" avatars for their fighting unless the players controlling the higher-ups are willing to put themselves at risk...

What I wouldn't like to see is a case where I want to have a go at an AI army or city and be forbidden to do it by my Lord on the grounds that my death could ruin his position... This without having to resort to oath-breaking or civil war, my avatar in that case being loyal to his "chain" nevertheless...

This is where the fun would go for me...