The Rise Of An Empire In Ancient Europe-Chapter 103: The First Senate Meeting (Part 2)

The Senate Hall of Amendolara glowed with the soft light of oil lamps, their flames casting long, wavering shadows across the marble walls. Around the central circular table sat an assembly of men whose faces carried a mixture of curiosity, uncertainty, and ambition. Tonight marked the beginning of a new Chapter for Amendolara—a city that had risen from the ashes of defeat.

Juleios, seated at the head of the hall as the lifelong consul, exuded an air of authority far beyond his years. His sharp gaze swept over the gathering, his tone steady and resolute as he addressed the room.

"With the City Administrator’s position settled," he began, "we must now turn our attention to filling the remaining offices vital to the functioning of our city-state. These appointments are not mere formalities; they are the backbone of Amendolara’s governance. Let us begin with the role of Patrol Captain, responsible for maintaining order and enforcing the laws."

The room stirred at the mention. For the former mercenaries, the position was an opportunity to wield real power within the city walls—a shift from their lives of soldiering on distant battlefields.

"Who among you is willing to step forward for this responsibility?" Juleios asked, his voice ringing clear in the chamber. "I encourage everyone to consider it, for this is an excellent way to serve our city and gain invaluable experience."

Before Juleios had even finished speaking, Sesta and Xilos rose from their seats, their eyes filled with determination. A handful of others hesitated before joining them, but their confidence paled compared to the resolute stances of the first two.

Juleios allowed the silence to linger for a moment before addressing Sesta. "You are a veteran leader, Sesta, and I admire your courage. However, I must note that many of our new citizens—the veterans of the Persian Expedition—are adjusting to life as civilians. They bring with them the habits of war: aggression, discipline, and an occasional disregard for softer rules. The Patrol Captain’s role is not merely about force but about understanding and diplomacy."

He turned to Xilos, whose background as a respected and disciplined officer was well-known. "Xilos, you have demonstrated not only command on the battlefield but also fairness in judgment. Are you prepared to assist Cornelius in maintaining order and fostering trust among our citizens?"

Xilos straightened his posture. "Consul, I am ready. I pledge to ensure the city remains peaceful and just."

Juleios looked toward Cornelius, inviting his opinion. The elder nodded. "I agree. Xilos is well-suited for this role and can bridge the gap between the original citizens and the newly admitted ones."

The decision was made, and Sesta, though passed over, showed no outward disappointment. Instead, he stepped forward and requested, "If I cannot serve as Patrol Captain, then I apply for the position of Deputy Fire Brigade Captain. I want to contribute wherever I can."

Juleios smiled, pleased by Sesta’s pragmatism. "Your willingness to serve does Amendolara credit. Does anyone object to Sesta’s appointment as Deputy Fire Brigade Captain?"

The room remained silent, and the appointments were swiftly approved.

"Next," Juleios continued, "we must fill the position of Inspector—a role critical to ensuring the integrity of the Senate and the ethical conduct of our citizens. Inspectors will oversee Senate membership, monitor attendance, audit public expenditures, and manage public works. It is a position of significant responsibility."

Cornelius elaborated further. "The Inspector serves as a guardian of our city-state’s principles. It is not an honorary title; it demands diligence, judgment, and a keen sense of duty."

Juleios added, "Indeed, the role is not for the faint-hearted. Those interested must possess the ability to write reports, understand financial accounts, and analyze public expenditures. Inspectors must embody the highest standards of conduct."

Hearing this, many attendees hesitated. The weight of responsibility, coupled with the technical skills required, made the position daunting. Yet, a few still rose to the challenge. Antonios, Alexis, and two prominent citizens from Amendolara—Lafayas and Stromboli—nominated themselves.

Juleios surveyed the candidates, his sharp mind assessing their capabilities. "Let us proceed to a vote," he declared.

The result was decisive. Antonios, a charismatic leader and former commander of one of the most trusted squads, emerged victorious. His popularity among the former mercenaries, coupled with his reputation for fairness, secured him the position.

As the room erupted in applause, Alexis, who had also sought the role, laughed good-naturedly. "Antonios, don’t get too comfortable. I’ll be ready to step in when you falter."

Antonios grinned, responding with mock indignation. "Me? Falter? You’ll be waiting a long time."

The lighthearted exchange drew laughter from the assembly, momentarily easing the tension of the evening. Yet, Juleios’ sharp eyes noted the subdued expressions of Lafayas and Stromboli, reminders of the delicate balance he had to maintain between the old and new citizens.

"Now, we must appoint a Treasurer," Juleios announced, shifting the focus. "The Treasurer will oversee our finances, manage tax collection, and handle public properties such as quarries and farmland."

Melsis immediately stood, his confidence evident. Lafayas followed, his expression calm but resolute.

To lighten the mood, Juleios quipped, "Oliver, why not nominate yourself? A man with your wit would surely excel."

Oliver shook his head vigorously. "Consul, just the thought of arithmetic gives me a headache. If I miscalculate the taxes, the Inspector will have my hide!"

Laughter rippled through the room, but Juleios quickly regained control. "The Treasurer’s role is too broad for one individual. I propose creating a separate position—a Registrar—who will oversee population records, including citizens, families, slaves, and freedmen. This role will be especially critical as we integrate thousands of new citizens."

He paused, his gaze sweeping the room. "Lafayas will serve as Registrar, ensuring the orderly management of our population. Does anyone object?"

The room remained silent, and the appointments were finalized.

As the evening wore on, Juleios addressed the assembly one last time. "With these appointments, Amendolara’s administration begins to take shape. But remember, this is only the foundation. Each of you carries a responsibility not only to this city but to its future. Together, we will rebuild Amendolara, not just as a city but as a symbol of strength, unity, and prosperity."

The senators departed, their minds buzzing with the weight of their new roles. Juleios lingered in the hall, his thoughts a mixture of satisfaction and ambition. He had taken the first steps toward solidifying his vision for Amendolara—a vision that would redefine the city and its place in Magna Graecia.

In the quiet of the chamber, Juleios allowed himself a rare moment of reflection. The path ahead was treacherous, but he was undeterred. Amendolara would rise, and he would ensure its ascent.

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