The dissolution of the Mage Covenant had thrust the entire island into an abyss of trepidation. The once-mighty Kingdoms of Serathel and Arland, witnessing the indomitable force that was Lucius, sent their envoys forthwith bearing peace proposals. An offer to cede half their territories and cities, complemented by a hefty annual tribute, was the price for their survival. Lucius, ever the strategist, acquiesced. His immediate focus wasn't on conquest but consolidation. The extensive lands of the bygone Lysandria Empire, combined with the territories of the subdued kingdoms, placed 2/3 of the island firmly under his dominion.
It was an age of unprecedented growth. The vast empire boasted twenty major cities, complemented by a myriad of towns and hamlets. Every city, regardless of size, was woven into a sprawling network through teleportation arrays. As arcane crystal mining towers pierced the skies and other essential structures mushroomed across the lands, the empire's economy experienced a meteoric rise. The war's shadow began to wane, and within a span of a year or perhaps a little more, Lucius envisioned the economic scars healing and prosperity reigning.
Lucius's ambitions weren't merely confined to territorial and economic dominance. He was resolute in molding an army that mirrored his own strength and grandeur. The armor of his soldiers was to be the embodiment of his very essence in this world. With this vision, Lucius commissioned the creation of three distinct armors.
The new dark ore armor, worn by the rank from Privates to Sergeants, was a confluence of artistry and utility. The design, dominated by hues of black and silver, exuded both majesty and menace. The helmet's unique crest, reminiscent of avian wings, crowned with a fiery red gem, set it apart. The chestplate, with its phoenix emblem, hinted at the empire's ever-renewing strength. Every component of this armor, from the burgundy cape to the emblems on the waist, was a testament to Lucius's attention to detail.
For the higher echelons from Lieutenant to Colonel, the Field Officer Armor was crafted. This armor was a proclamation of one's authority. The helmet, crowned with a lavish crimson plume, was the armor's crowning glory. Its golden embellishments and the radiant red gem embedded on the forehead showcased the wearer's stature. The phoenix, a recurring motif, was prominent on the chest plate, its heart a glowing red gem. This armor wasn't merely protective gear but a symbol of rank, with every aspect, from the wing-like shoulder guards to the regal burgundy cape, oozing grandeur.
Lastly, the General's Uniform was reserved for the crème de la crème. The design epitomized both opulence and command. The deep black hue, punctuated with red and silver, made for a striking ensemble. The white chestplate, adorned with a vivid phoenix, showcased the wearer's prominence, while the silver collar and epaulettes echoed their unparalleled authority. By closely examining the emblem adorning the belt, one can discern the hierarchical distinction within the military ranks: the lustrous silver emblem is emblematic of the Brigade General, the opulent gold signifies the esteemed Division General, while the radiant red crystal is indicative of the distinguished Army General.
This era of growth and prosperity also saw the rise of General Tryn, previously a general of the Lysandria Reformation Council, now conferred the esteemed rank of Marshall. With this new position, he stood as the linchpin of Lucius's military strategies.
As the empire marched forward, each city saw the appointment of a governor, ensuring that Lucius's grand vision came to fruition. In the ensuing two years, the Eternal Empire rose to unparalleled heights. Magic and technology converged to shape cities that thrived on potions, food, and arcane innovations. However, not all was idyllic. The Ministry of Arcane Affairs ruthlessly clamped down on unregistered magic users. Countless innocent souls found themselves confined to the dungeons beneath the Veleria Emperor Palace. Their bleak fate was sealed as they were sentenced to death, their very essence consumed by Lucius.
The might of the Imperial Army now stood at 700,000 - a force of 70 divisions. Many new Generals arose who mostly were seasoned veterans from Clavis, but there were fresh faces too, all bound by a common purpose and clad in the General's Uniform. The Veleria Palace underwent a transformation, resembling a formidable black fortress. The Empire's coastlines buzzed with activity as dockyards sprung to life, heralding the rise of the Imperial Navy. The phoenix emblem, set against a stark black backdrop, became a ubiquitous symbol, fluttering high and proud in every city.
As Lucius surveyed his vast empire, he felt that the time was ripe for expansion and conquest. His gaze turned towards the territories that lay beyond his current dominion and even towards the enigmatic main continent. And as a prelude to his next grand strategy, he summoned his generals, including Marshall Tryn, to Veleria.