When Lophicus first gazed upon the land that would become the foundational seat of the Aurum Imperium, it was no more than a strip of unfruitful, blighted earth. The people, as fractured as the land itself, sought refuge but found none. Repose, unity, and purpose were nowhere to be found in the remains of a broken world. But where others saw ruin and devastation, Lophicus saw hope and a bright future. With nothing but his ideals and his firm will, he set forth to create a realm where inequality and oppression are but words in a history book. A realm where honour and purpose are paramount and where wealth is expressed in wisdom and loyalty.
First he built houses of white marble with golden accents and hanging flower baskets that carried all the colors our mortal eyes can see. Now, the tired and broken could finally find repose. The streets quickly filled with sounds that had become exotic; children running and laughing after a kaleidoscope of butterflies, entire families dancing to the jolly tunes of the many minstrels that could be found everywhere and the harmonious sound of fresh water dripping from newly built wells.
Secondly, he built squares, where people could come together and commune. This, he did not do alone, for word spread quickly and tired there were many. The idea, the thought, the possibility of an Elysian Paradise inspired all who heard about it. Elves, Dragonborn, Humans, Half-Elves,Half-Orcs and even the most exotic of races set aside their past differences and work together. Even the Dwarves, who retreated into the mountains early in the Unknown, were intrigued by this ambitious dream. Welcomed as guests, they aided with their masterful skills in craftsmanship and helped create the foundations on which the Imperium was built. Now, with bustling streets and filled squares, there was a sense of unity that would bring everyone closer together.
Thirdly, he built market halls, where people could practice and present their craft. Lophicus would often walk amongst the people and listen to the sound of masons, smiths and lumbers practicing their trade as if it were a symphony. Equality was not merely a word spoken in the Aurum Imperium it was its foundation. Everyone was free to be or do as they wished, to pursue their own path without fear of persecution. Goods from across the realm changed hands in these grand market halls, not for exploitation but for mutual gain. All was equal, no man, woman or else stood above another. Purpose was given to the people once more.
Lastly, he built edifices, to maintain the beauty of his Imperium. Nobility was earned by honour and contributions. The people elected their representatives and leadership was a duty, not a prize. Those in power were not of inherited wealth, but of experience, dedication and wisdom. Debates were not riddled with insults and threats, but served as exchanges of profound wisdom and critical philosophy.
When all was built, and Dissonance seemed but a fading memory, Lophicus spoke to his people: “Free people of Elisi, thou had once chosen me as your king. A heavy duty, which weighed heavy on my shoulder and which I took with honour and consideration. In thine name I have fought, in thine interest I have acted and now I hath given you what was lost. Repose, unity and purpose have returned to us and we have found our place in this wretched world. Let it be heard that the Aurum Imperium is a realm of equality and freedom. Let it be heard that we have created an Elysian Paradise.”
What once was a war-ridden land, devoid of hope, was now the pinnacle of civilization. The Imperium flourished, not because of what it could be, but because of what it was; a symbol of Unity and Justice. Lophicus had given his people more than a realm, he had given them a home.