The Rise Of An Empire In Ancient Europe-Chapter 106: The First Senate Meeting (Part 5)

The dim light of the oil lamps in Amendolara’s Senate Hall cast long, flickering shadows across the walls. Juleios’ piercing gaze swept across the gathered assembly, his words weighing heavily in the air. Though his tone was measured, the impact of his plans reverberated deeply among the senators and officers.

"Discipline and unity," Juleios declared, "are the lifeblood of any great city-state. Let Amendolara’s army be known not only for its strength but for its integrity. Through our military code, we will instill a new standard for all citizens, both old and new."

Hearing this, the new citizens ceased their murmurs. Their eyes gleamed with resolve, their spirits buoyed by Juleios’ unwavering confidence. They all voiced their agreement to embrace the new military code, pledging to lead by example.

Sesta and Adrianx exchanged glances, recalling the discipline of Juleios’ mercenaries during their shared campaigns. Tales of their strict code, filled with countless regulations and expectations, had intrigued them before. Now, they realized they would soon experience it firsthand.

For the older citizens, including Cornelius, the notion of a comprehensive military code was novel. In the past, Amendolara had relied on customary rules for coordinating troops, mostly during temporary alliances with neighboring city-states. Cornelius, apprehensive about how this new system might disrupt daily life, voiced his concern.

"I trust Phelicius to balance training with the citizens’ labor needs," Juleios replied confidently. His smile softened as he turned to the officers. "Phelicius, as the Military Officer, will need capable subordinates—training instructors to guide our troops. I invite all of you to discuss these roles with him."

No sooner had the words left his mouth than a crowd surged around Phelicius. The officers clamored for the chance to prove themselves, each eager to showcase their leadership and contribute to the city-state’s transformation.

"They’re like eagles circling prey," Juleios said with a wry smile. "Their enthusiasm is commendable."

Cornelius, watching the scene unfold, couldn’t help but feel uneasy. He thought, These restless newcomers, accustomed to the chaos of war—will they truly adapt to the rule of law?

As the commotion subsided, Juleios took a more somber tone. "The primary public positions of our city-state have now been settled," he announced, prompting a sigh of relief from Cornelius.

But just as the older citizens began to relax, Juleios’ expression darkened, and his voice grew heavier. "Now we must address an issue of utmost importance," he continued, his words commanding their full attention.

"The settlement and land distribution for our new citizens."

At this, the room stilled. The officers, who had been pestering Phelicius moments before, turned their eyes to Juleios, their gazes filled with anticipation.

"To maintain harmony in Amendolara and avoid unsettling the citizens who have only recently been freed from Lucanian captivity, our new citizens will continue to stay in temporary tents in the square for the next two nights."

The officers exchanged glances, understanding that this arrangement was non-negotiable. While they would have preferred more immediate accommodations, none dared challenge Juleios’ decision.

"This is neither a fair nor long-term solution," Juleios continued. "Our new citizens fought valiantly, securing the peace we now enjoy. Their sacrifices must be honored with the land and rights they have earned as citizens of Amendolara."

Cheers erupted from the officers, their pride swelling at Juleios’ words. But among the older citizens, faces grew solemn, reflecting their unease about the rapid integration of the mercenaries.

"How many widows are there among the original citizens of Amendolara?" Juleios asked Cornelius, turning the discussion to a sensitive yet practical matter.

Cornelius hesitated. "Likely over a thousand. I’ll need to consult Lafayas for an exact count." frёeweɓηovel_coɱ

Lafayas, the newly appointed Registrar, rose swiftly. "I’ll begin tallying the numbers as soon as this meeting concludes," he promised.

Juleios nodded. "Good. Tomorrow morning, we will gather the widows in the square. Officers, bring your unmarried warriors to meet them. Let the men and women choose their partners freely, without interference from elders or coercion."

The announcement sent a wave of excitement rippling through the officers. Among the mercenaries, more than 2,000 were still unmarried, and this plan offered them a path to not only companionship but also a stake in Amendolara’s future.

"What about the young women of Amendolara?" Juleios added. "They should also participate. Our city’s future depends on forging bonds that unite all its people."

Laughter and banter erupted among the officers.

"This is fantastic!" Matonis exclaimed. "Finally, my men have something to look forward to besides drills!"

"Don’t get too confident, Matonis," Oliver teased. "If you think women will choose you just for your muscles, you’re sorely mistaken!"

"And you think they’ll prefer you, with that sour face?" Matonis shot back, drawing more laughter.

Juleios watched the camaraderie with a smile, but his tone grew serious as he addressed the group once more. "After these unions are formed, I expect every man to treat his new family with honor. Accept the children as your own, care for the elderly, and treat the women with respect. Whatever hardships they endured at the hands of the Lucanians, remember—they are not to blame. Instead, prepare yourselves for the day we march into Lucania and exact justice for their suffering!"

The hall erupted in cheers.

"That’s the leader we follow!"

"Show the Lucanians no mercy!"

Buoyed by their enthusiasm, Juleios continued. "Once the pairings are complete, I propose we hold a grand collective wedding. Let it be a celebration of Amendolara’s rebirth—a union of its people, symbolizing our shared future."

The officers roared their approval, and even the older citizens, though initially hesitant, couldn’t help but feel moved by the vision Juleios painted.

"Leader Juleios, will your wedding also be part of this grand event?" someone shouted from the crowd.

Juleios smiled, unbothered by the teasing. "Yes. Cristoia and I will join the ceremony. This wedding isn’t just for us—it’s for the future of Amendolara."

Turning to Cornelius, Juleios asked, "Do we have a priestess of Hera in Amendolara?"

Cornelius shook his head. "No. Our city primarily worships Zeus. The nearest temple of Hera is in Metapontum."

"Then send an envoy to invite Hera’s priestess," Juleios commanded. "This wedding is no ordinary event. It represents the rebirth of our city-state. May the great goddess Hera bless these unions, ensuring they are fruitful and enduring."

Cornelius hesitated, knowing this was an unconventional request. But under Juleios’ piercing gaze, he relented. "Very well," he said reluctantly.

With that nod, Juleios had claimed not only Amendolara’s political leadership but its sacred religious authority as well.

In that moment, Cornelius realized that Juleios was no ordinary consul. He was reshaping Amendolara in his own image, uniting its people under a vision that combined ambition, tradition, and unshakable resolve. The city-state would never be the same again.

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