Chapter 10: 『Ongoing Peace』
10 Years Later…
Since the eradication of the Diabolos Sect, the world has remained peaceful for an entire decade.
The Roman Empire has fully transformed into the Tech-Roman Empire, a vision entirely realized by Emperor Eranius. In other words, the Roman Empire has become the center of the world—of power, innovation, technological advancement, and influence.
Other kingdoms still exist, but they are far outmatched by the Tech-Roman Empire. This transformation is not a minor change but a monumental and unprecedented evolution.
The changes are most evident in the Empire, which has expanded significantly by conquering other regions. The Empire's territory has grown so vast that it now borders what was once the distant Kingdom of Midgar.
The Roman capital has also undergone a dramatic transformation. It has become the Global Center for various fields, including technology, governance, and military strength.
Such massive development has led to global instability, as the Tech-Roman.
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Empire is the only region experiencing such rapid progress. However, this disparity doesn't concern the Emperor and Empress in the slightest, as they remain indifferent to the struggles of other kingdoms.
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To ensure the Empire's continuity, the Emperor and Empress have secretly created new homunculi, not for personal reasons but for military purposes.
These homunculi are designed to be soldiers, warriors, and guardians of the Empire, each with a unique appearance to blend seamlessly into society.
The Empire's forces are equipped with Tech-SFF Armor (Technology-Soldier Freedom Fraction), symbolizing the freedom and equality of all species living under the Empire's protection.
All races and species coexist peacefully within the Empire, their safety guaranteed by its military might.
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Approximately 80% of the Empire's soldiers are homunculi, a secret known only to the Emperor, Empress, and a select few commanders and officers, who are also homunculi.
Even within the Imperial Palace, 75% of the high-ranking officials are homunculi. This strategy ensures loyalty, prevents betrayal, and eliminates the risk of espionage or rebellion.
The Emperor and Empress implemented these measures to ensure that the Empire continues to thrive in glory, even in their absence.
Interestingly, these homunculi can reproduce, and their offspring are naturally bound to the Empire by an unshakable oath of loyalty. They also possess extraordinary lifespans, ranging from 300 to 1,000 years.
To prevent suspicion, the Emperor and Empress have established a public Longevity Research Company, which produces and sells life-extending pills.
The cost of these pills is extraordinarily high, with a single pill priced at 3.2 million Aureus, adding only three years to a person's lifespan. Pills that extend life by 10 years or more are exponentially more expensive.
This innovation has been thoroughly tested and proven, fueling public demand. However, the steep cost limits access to only the wealthiest individuals.
Due to this, the value of the Aureus, the Empire's currency—has skyrocketed, becoming the strongest currency in recorded history.
Within the Empire, poverty has been entirely eradicated. Citizens live peacefully, their basic needs met by the Empire's comprehensive welfare system. Any signs of corruption or criminal activity are swiftly dealt with by Imperial overseers and enforcers.
In this time of peace, the Emperor and Empress's children have grown into highly competent heirs, imbued with ambition and excellence.
The Crown Prince and Princess have received unparalleled education directly from the Emperor and Empress, mastering fields such as sociology, politics, advanced sciences, and even combat. Their prowess is feared and respected, as they are the direct descendants of the Empire's two most powerful figures.
After completing yet another set of responsibilities, Eranius sighed in his office, deep in thought. Time seemed to slow down as his mind wandered.
"Ohh... No, huh... This world is no longer strong enough to contain my power, even when I think of time even though there isn't anything.
It's affecting the world, it seems like it's time for the 101st reincarnation, well... Let's talk to Nero." he muttered before returning to work.
That evening, Eranius and Nero convened in their private chambers, a place known only to them.
When Eranius broached the topic of their next reincarnation, Nero appeared pleased yet grew somber at the thought of leaving their children, who were still only 10 years old.
The two deliberated deeply and ultimately decided to wait until their children turned 15 before disappearing from the world. To ensure a seamless transition, they planned to leave behind a single letter for their heirs.
Having made their decision, they rested together, awaiting the dawn of a new day.
The next morning, Eranius awoke alongside Nero as their bed shifted gently.
They shared a brief intimate moment in the bath before donning formal attire and stepping out, despite no significant events scheduled.
While Nero visited their children's chambers, Eranius returned to his office to continue his duties.
Shortly after he sat down, a knock echoed through the room.
"Enter," Eranius commanded.
The door opened to reveal the Commander of the Palace Guard Division, whose duty was to ensure the Emperor and Empress's safety.
The Commander delivered a report on the border situation, as instructed by Eranius. After the briefing, the Commander left, and Eranius resumed his work.
"I suppose it's time to give this life a memorable finale," he murmured to himself, focusing on his tasks.
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To Be Continued...!!!