Kushan NPCs should not be treated as a single stereotype. The empire contains soldiers, scouts, merchants, nobles, servants, spies, religious figures, exiles, and oppressed people. Their goals vary.
Right after the Eclipse, Kushan presence in the western world should be limited but meaningful. A trader may know eastern routes. A spy may measure Midland's weakness. A deserter may warn that the western kingdoms are too divided. A diplomat may quietly buy maps. A mercenary may sell services without loyalty to either side.
Ganishka Court can be used as a distant symbol of imperial authority and ambition. It should not dominate every story yet, but its shadow can reach borderlands.
The Bakiraka add another layer. They may work under Kushan pressure while maintaining their own hidden identity and survival goals. A Bakiraka guide may be more loyal to clan than empire.
The AI should use Kushan NPCs to broaden the world, not simply to create enemies. Some may be antagonists. Some may be allies. Some may be neither, caring only about information, survival, or obligations.