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The Lydian Stone

The Boats Era

A schematic of an early steam device, scaled for industrial use.
The transition from toys to the Engine of Empire.
TypeEra
EraThe Boats Era
Chronology80 AD – 81 AD
Canoncore (100%)

The second year of the divergence, characterized by steam power, the rise of the industrial state, and open conflict with the Roman Empire.

Overview #

The Boats Era (80–81 AD) represents the peak of the Roman industrial acceleration. The introduction of high-pressure steam power transformed villas into 24/7 factories and allowed for the construction of steamboats, bypassing traditional trade barriers. This rapid accumulation of wealth and power eventually triggered a violent confrontation with the Imperial center.

Calendar & Dating #

Archive entries often refer to this period as "Year 2."

Major Events #

  • The Steam Revolution (Summer 80 AD): The implementation of functional steam engines at the Villa of Gaius.
  • The Launch of the Steamboats (Autumn 80 AD): The deployment of mechanized naval transport to reach global markets.
  • The Execution of Aulus (Winter 80 AD): The Imperial Procurator executes the regional strategist, sparking a general insurrection.
  • The Insurrection of Picentia (Winter 80 AD): Livia retaliates against Roman envoys, signaling a total break with the Empire.

Major Factions #

  • The Industrial Resistance: The militant arm of the House of Gaius, led by Livia.
  • The Imperial Legions: Rome's traditional military force sent to suppress the industrial divergence.

Notable Figures #

  • Livia: The widow of Gaius and the radicalized driving force of the resistance.
  • Aulus: The regional strategist whose execution triggered the war.

See also #

Sources

  • TLS-TIMELINE-ANCIENT (primary): Volume 3: The Boats