Writing.Com General Discussion

Before I ask my question, I wish to apologize if this is not the most appropriate location to ask my question. I still am not adept in the ins and outs of this website, if someone can recommend a different place to post questions like this, please let me know and I will follow suit. Anyway, my question for everyone reading this is: when writing a fantasy-genre (medieval) short story/novel, how do you handle government and politics? I am considering two basic options for this piece of work, either to use traditional medieval government as a basis or template, or to completely rework the entire political system of the world I am creating. I am somewhat ready to create entire government systems, but it might be much less taxing to use more traditional ones (even as a foundation). I could put more focus on characters and storyline that way. I am wondering how other writers would handle this situation and if they could offer some insight, suggestion or advice with it. Any help is appreciated! Thanks so much, everyone!