The Rise Of An Empire In Ancient Europe-Chapter 102: The First Senate Meeting (Part 1)

The evening air in Amendolara was filled with a palpable sense of purpose as the newly assembled Senate convened for its first meeting.

The Senate Hall, brilliantly illuminated by oil lamps, cast a golden glow over the circular chamber. Seated in the center, in the place of authority, was Juleios, the newly appointed lifelong consul. Around him sat a mix of seasoned citizens and former mercenary leaders, all prepared to deliberate on the city-state’s reconstruction.

Juleios’ gaze swept over the assembly. His calm demeanor and commanding presence belied his youth. Despite being barely twenty, his words carried the weight of experience and vision.

"Citizens," Juleios began, his voice resonating through the hall, "the reconstruction of Amendolara demands our immediate and focused attention. There are countless tasks before us, but none more urgent than completing the formation of our Senate."

His tone was measured, but his words carried an air of solemnity. "The Senate is the cornerstone of Amendolara’s governance. It must be composed of the most experienced and wise among our citizens. Its responsibilities are vast: advising the consul, nominating candidates for key administrative roles, reviewing finances, overseeing laws, and safeguarding the morals and customs of the populace."

Juleios paused, his sharp gaze meeting the eyes of those before him. "We are a city reborn from the ashes of hardship. For this reason, I urge you all to learn from the experienced citizens among us, like Cornelius, and approach this task with humility and dedication."

As Juleios spoke, Cornelius found himself marveling at the young leader’s depth of knowledge about Amendolara’s political structure. It was as if Juleios had lived and breathed the city’s traditions for years, despite being an outsider. The thought unsettled Cornelius, as he recalled whispers of Juleios’ divine enlightenment by Hades.

Juleios continued, "To begin, I propose the following citizens as members of the Senate: Cornelius, Tritodemos, Stromboli, Scombras, and Lafayas."

Cornelius nodded subtly. As the sole remaining senator from Amendolara’s original council, he appreciated the gesture of inclusion. Meanwhile, the other four men—each of whom had been steadfast supporters of Juleios and the mercenaries—could not conceal their elation.

"Agreed!" the former mercenary officers chorused, raising their hands. Their support wasn’t born merely of loyalty to Juleios but also a sense of justice. They had taken the city; some restitution to its original citizens was warranted.

"Sesta, Adrianx, and Drakos, as senior leaders of the mercenaries, are also appointed to the Senate," Juleios declared.

"Agreed!" The voices of assent were even stronger this time, bolstered by the gratitude and pride the former mercenary officers felt for their leaders.

At this, Sesta rose, his expression solemn yet tinged with emotion. "Honorable consul, esteemed citizens," he began, his voice firm, "Adrianx and Drakos have entrusted me to express their gratitude on behalf of us all. We came to this land seeking nothing more than survival, yet you have granted us citizenship and now the honor of serving as senators. This is a debt we can never fully repay, but we pledge to dedicate our lives to Amendolara’s prosperity!"

The hall erupted in applause, the sound reverberating off the chamber walls. Juleios watched Sesta closely as he returned to his seat, impressed by the man’s composure and eloquence.

Turning back to the assembly, Juleios continued, "I propose the following additional appointments: Felicius, Antonios, Kapus, Amyntas, Alexis, Xilos, Hieronymus, Agacia, Epitenes, Zipit, Alpons, Laidus, Melsis, and Herpus. These individuals, through their leadership and contributions, have proven their worth."

"Agreed!" The approval was resounding, driven by both respect and relief among the officers.

Juleios’ gaze shifted to the younger subunit leaders seated at the back of the hall. Their anticipation was palpable, but as Juleios spoke, their hopes dimmed.

"As for the remaining subunit leaders and other personnel," Juleios said, his tone even, "I do not currently intend to recommend you for Senate positions."

A few quiet sighs were audible, but no one dared challenge the decision.

Juleios’ voice softened. "Most of you are still young. Only months ago, you were soldiers. You lack the experience necessary for managing a city-state. However, this is not a condemnation but an opportunity. Participate actively in the affairs of the city-state, strive to learn and improve, and your chance will come."

The subunit leaders nodded, their spirits buoyed by Juleios’ encouragement.

Shifting his attention back to the newly appointed senators, Juleios addressed them with gravity. "Although senators do not receive salaries, their status in Amendolara is one of great honor. I expect you to uphold the dignity of this role. As Cornelius and I have agreed, senators will serve for life. However, those who violate the laws of the city-state must resign or face removal by this body."

The weight of responsibility hung heavy in the room, silencing even the most jubilant voices.

Juleios turned to Cornelius, his tone respectful yet firm. "Deputy Consul Cornelius, do you have anything to add?"

Cornelius cleared his throat. "Honored citizens, I must remind you that serving the city-state is a duty, not a privilege. No position in Amendolara, not even that of consul, carries a salary. It is an honor to serve, and I urge you all to treat it as such."

His words were met with nods of agreement, though Cornelius couldn’t help but notice Juleios’ calm, measured gaze—one that hinted at a deeper understanding of power.

Cornelius added, "The Senate traditionally has a capacity of one hundred members. We are far from that number."

Juleios interjected smoothly, "We will leave the remaining seats vacant for now. Quality must take precedence over quantity. When suitable candidates emerge, we will fill them."

Cornelius hesitated, but seeing the firm resolve in Juleios’ eyes, he relented.

"What administrative positions currently exist in Amendolara?" Juleios asked, shifting focus.

"The City Administrator," Cornelius replied. "This official assists the consul in maintaining order, overseeing legal proceedings, and managing various departments such as patrols, fire brigades, and prisons."

Juleios nodded thoughtfully. "The position is similar to that of a Roman praetor," he murmured, almost to himself.

Turning back to Cornelius, Juleios spoke decisively. "Given the City Administrator’s broad responsibilities and established authority, I propose that you, Cornelius, assume this role. As for the position of Deputy Consul, I believe it is redundant and can be eliminated."

Cornelius froze, stunned by the audacity of the proposal. Yet, as the hall awaited his response, he realized that Juleios had already taken control of Amendolara’s destiny.

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