The city of Aetheria was no longer just a city. It was a dominion, a beacon of power that stretched across the land, infiltrating every trade route, military structure, and religious system. And now, it was time to expand even further.
Jack stood atop the highest balcony of his citadel, overlooking his empire as it thrived beneath him. The air was alive with movement. Soldiers patrolled in tight formations, their armor gleaming in the sun's light. Merchants flooded the market districts, conducting business under the ever-watchful gaze of his priestesses. Temples dedicated to him rose from the cityscape, each more extravagant than the last.
But it wasn't enough.
Not yet.
Jack's golden eyes burned as he turned to the far horizon. Beyond the borders of his lands lay kingdoms that still believed they were free, nations that had yet to bend the knee to his will. He had allowed them their illusions of sovereignty for long enough.
The next phase of conquest was upon them.
