The Rise Of An Empire In Ancient Europe-Chapter 175: Juleios’ Visit (Part 3)

The suggestion of building a bridge over the Lao River sent Juleios into deep thought. With a broader perspective stemming from his unique background, he tentatively asked, "Could we build a suspension bridge?"

"Suspension bridge?" Heraclides the Younger turned toward Juleios, his curiosity ignited. Heraclides, always eager to learn, valued Juleios’ unconventional insights, which often challenged traditional thinking.

Juleios began to describe the basic structure and principles of a suspension bridge. Though his understanding was rudimentary, he explained enough to spark Heraclides’ imagination. Heraclides’ eyes lit up as he contemplated the possibilities, frequently pausing to examine the riverbanks and cliffs. Beyond the river lay rolling hills and dense forests, not insurmountable obstacles, especially with the aid of such a bridge.

After walking some distance, Heraclides turned to Juleios and said, "From what you’ve described, I believe it would be feasible to build a suspension bridge across the Lao River. Of course, we would need to conduct experiments to confirm its viability. The critical material would be strong, durable ropes—at least 50 meters long to span the river."

"Rope is not an issue," Enanilus interjected confidently, his shipbuilding expertise coming to the fore. "We already produce sturdy rigging for sailboats. Extending and reinforcing it for a bridge would be straightforward."

"A suspension bridge would allow only limited traffic at a time," Juleios added, "but perhaps we could consider constructing multiple bridges along key points of the river."

Heraclides nodded, his mind racing with calculations and possibilities. He resumed his observations, his gaze fixed on the terrain.

As the group continued their march, Juleios carefully studied the surrounding landscape. To the right, the forest teemed with life. Occasionally, Lucanians herded livestock along the fringes of the trees. At the sight of the armed column, they became tense and wary, retreating to the cover of rocks and trees. Some remained hidden, watching nervously, while startled sheep ran into the marching line.

Juleios turned to Vespa. "Are they Lucanians from Neutum? Their livestock must be leased from the League."

Vespa approached the forest’s edge, carrying one of the sheep that had strayed into the group. In the Lucanian tongue, he called out to the hidden figures. After some hesitation, a few cautiously emerged to reclaim the sheep. Vespa spoke with them briefly before returning to Juleios.

Curious, the elders gathered around. "What did they say?" one of them asked.

"They are indeed from Neutum," Vespa replied, "but not all are Lucanians. One of them was a Greek slave who gained his freedom and married a Lucanian widow. He’s now a reserve citizen of the League. Another was a Lucanian freeman, also now a reserve citizen. And one of them married a Greek woman who had been a slave. All of them are now part of the League."

"How do they feel about the League?" Scombras asked.

"They’re grateful," Vespa said. "The League saved them, and now they feel free. However, they do have one complaint."

"What’s that?" Scombras pressed, his tone impatient.

"They’re upset that the League won’t let them lease more livestock," Vespa replied with a faint smile.

"That’s bold of them," Scombras grumbled. "If they take more, there’ll be less for others."

"And the 5% tax?" Massisacus asked. "Do they resent that?"

"They find it much lower than what they paid before," Vespa explained. "Now, they’re simply hoping their livestock will reproduce quickly, as the offspring will belong to them."

Juleios smiled. "It seems Sesta and Bagule have done excellent work in Neutum. The people here are beginning to accept us."

Even those elders who had once opposed integrating the Lucanians nodded in agreement, begrudgingly acknowledging the progress. freeweɓnovel~cѳm

By afternoon, the group reached the city of Neutum. Built on a small hill, the city bore similarities to Amendolara, though it was larger in scale and encircled by wooden walls. The surrounding terrain, gradually rising toward the north, gave way to the fertile lands between the Lao and Sinnis Rivers. While not perfectly flat, the soil was rich and ideal for agriculture—likely the reason the Lucanians had chosen this location for their settlement.

News of Juleios’ arrival had preceded him, spreading excitement among the inhabitants. Kxima, a young Lucanian, had eagerly volunteered to join the welcoming party. Stories of Juleios’ exploits had reached his ears—the fearless general, the "Son of God" who had brought victory and prosperity to the League. Now, Kxima would see him in person.

When Juleios and his entourage finally appeared, Kxima’s fatigue vanished. His eyes were drawn to the figure at the center of the group: a man young in years but bearing an undeniable aura of authority. His warm smile and sincere greetings to all he passed left a striking impression.

As the crowd gathered, Sesta approached Juleios with visible unease. "My lord, I admit I made a mistake. I disobeyed the Senate’s orders."

Juleios’ expression softened. "No, Sesta. We failed to fully grasp the situation here. Your actions have proven you to be an excellent city administrator. Both the Senate and I agree on that."

Relief washed over Sesta’s face. "Thank you, my lord!"

"Bagule!" Juleios called out, addressing the Lucanian leader. "You’ve accomplished the mission entrusted to you with excellence. Now, I’ve fulfilled my promise. Not only have I brought your father and tribesmen, but also a special guest. Can you guess who it is?"

Bagule looked puzzled. "I can’t guess..."

"Turn around," Juleios said, smiling.

Bagule turned to see Andrea standing behind him. "Andrea?!" he exclaimed.

"It’s a bit late to recognize her now," Juleios teased, laughing. "Andrea might punish you for forgetting her!"

Blushing, Andrea glared at Bagule, while the surrounding crowd burst into laughter.

Juleios continued greeting the people, ensuring every individual felt valued. He stopped to speak with Hermon, a local leader who had worked tirelessly to stabilize Neutum. "Sesta has praised your efforts," Juleios said warmly. "Thank you for your contributions."

Hermon, humbled by the acknowledgment, replied, "It’s nothing, my lord. I’m a citizen of the League."

"Exactly," Juleios said, his voice carrying conviction. "This League belongs to us all—Greeks and Lucanians alike."

Listening to these words, Kxima felt a surge of pride. At that moment, Juleios approached him directly. "You’re Bagule’s friend, aren’t you?" Juleios asked with a smile. "I’m his friend too. Can I be yours as well?"

"Of course!" Kxima replied, barely able to contain his excitement.

As Juleios moved through the crowd, he noticed a commotion near the city gate. Soldiers and locals had gathered to watch a spirited rugby match between the Second and Fourth Battalions.

"So, Thurii hasn’t even finished its stadium, and you’ve already started playing here!" Juleios remarked with amusement.

Sesta, slightly embarrassed, explained, "The soldiers play daily to pass the time. The locals have taken a liking to it."

Juleios laughed. "It seems rugby is becoming a League tradition." He turned to Kxima. "Do you play?"

"We’re learning the rules," Kxima said eagerly. "Soon, we’ll join the matches too!"

Juleios smiled, his heart swelling with hope. The League was more than a collection of cities; it was a shared vision—a union of people united by honor, ambition, and the promise of a brighter future.

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