Chapter 64: The First Test
The morning air hung heavy with anticipation as Lucian stood on the balcony overlooking the heart of his capital city. Below, the streets bustled with activity—merchants setting up stalls, craftsmen hauling materials for the reconstruction, and citizens going about their daily routines with a renewed sense of hope. His empire was finally beginning to heal, and Lucian could see the first signs of progress everywhere he looked.
The academy he had established was thriving, and the alliances he had carefully forged were starting to yield benefits. Valira's trade routes had bolstered the economy, Solarin's agricultural surplus fed not just his people but the growing military, and Dalora's naval strength protected the coasts from any potential threats. The innovations his council had introduced—new fortifications, improved magical barriers, and enchanted weaponry—seemed like they were finally starting to come together, solidifying his empire's defenses.