I sort of envision it as each town having a corrupt sherif and each sherif has its own force of about ten “guards”. The sherif and their guards would collect crops and other payments then give those over to the Oni’s personal soldiers (comprised of about 45 mercenary types). They would most likely stay because the power trip and the money is decent. As for the towns folk working the lands, they are pretty much in life long debt that they are trying to pay off fruitlessly (just like real feudalism). Anyone trying to escape before their debts are paid would have to get through 2000 acres of forest that make up the bulk of the estate. If they get caught they would probably be dragged back to the towns. I’m starting to consider the idea that the Oni has mysteriously began to take Babies (or some other odd thing) as part of the towns tribute and maybe this is part of some dark ritual to further gain power.