The empire's future was now in hands beyond his own, and that thought stirred a mix of emotions within Lucian. Relief, knowing that he could begin to step back from the weight of responsibility. But also a lingering anxiety, as no leader could ever completely let go of their creation. Would Liora truly be able to carry on his vision, or would the forces conspiring against her overwhelm her before she could fully rise to the challenge?
He took a deep breath, his eyes drifting over the bustling streets below. This was no longer a fragile kingdom on the brink of collapse, no longer a vulnerable realm scraping for survival. The empire had transformed into a thriving hub of power, commerce, and culture, its influence stretching far beyond its borders. But the forces of change were inevitable. Even the greatest empires had fallen when they failed to adapt to new challenges.