@ Premier:

I will definitely be asking around at Dragonsfoot for advice. Thanks for the recommendation!

In the meantime, more questions!

How does the game handle the possibility of PCs being rulers of nations or merchant princes?

Are hirelings and henchmen meant to stay at the PCs' "home base" or can they fare well following them on adventures?

How dependent are PCs on wealth and equipment to effectively contribute to adventures? Can a high-level fighter make do with substandard armor and weapons?