Chapter 35: The Eternal Capital — Heart of the Empire
Subheading: "Where power is absolute, the heart beats strongest."
I. The Decision
The Emperor declared:
"To unify all lands, we must unite all hearts and minds under one roof — the eternal heart of our Empire."
The capital would move from its ancient, fragmented locations and settle at the very center of the Union of States, geographically and symbolically.
II. The Site
Chosen after careful study of trade routes, ley lines, and strategic defenses, the site was:
A sprawling plain surrounded by rivers and mountains
Accessible from every corner of the Empire
Rich in ancient magic and resources, ripe for construction
III. The Eternal Capital
Construction began immediately:
The Imperial Palace rose—vast beyond imagining, black obsidian and gold filigree shining under the sun and stars
Government buildings sprawled across miles, housing ministries, intelligence bureaus, and the Emperor's personal staff
The Citadel of Aeturnari, a massive tower, pierced the sky—gateway to other worlds and dimensions
Residential quarters for nobility, officials, and the Imperial Guard formed a protective ring
Lavish gardens, plazas, and monuments symbolized unity, strength, and eternal rule
IV. The Symbol
The Eternal Capital was more than a city:
It was the living symbol of the Emperor's vision —
Power centralized, unchallenged, eternal.
It drew people from all states—officials, merchants, scholars, and commoners—beckoned by opportunity and loyalty.
V. A New Era
With the Eternal Capital established, the Emperor's reach was absolute.
Every law passed here, every decree signed, echoed across every state and every home.
The Empire had a heart now.
And it beat only for the Emperor.