With the speed force accessible to everyone in the empire, things evolved rapidly; most problems were overcome using this cosmic force, such as unlimited energy and no pollution. However, this could potentially lead the empire to premature demise.
While the rest of the world would experience passing years, centuries would have elapsed for the empire. If Inmo couldn't extend the lifespan of his people, they might not live to witness the future of this world.
When all the researchers gathered, Inmo was precise in declaring his next objective: he would collaborate with them to attempt to halt aging.
While all the researchers excelled in their fields, hearing Inmo speak made them behave like children about to learn something new. Inmo might be perceived by all as the god of war and blood, but to his people, he was much more—the god of wisdom and intelligence. He laid the foundation of the empire, guiding beings not yet evolved to complete intelligence, bringing them here, and teaching them to live.
The empire's foundation was entirely built on knowledge, and all citizens prioritized studies and intelligence, thanks to the hierarchical structure created by the emperor, valuing intelligence.
After that, Inmo and Franky proceeded to the next research center.
"This center has been completely sealed since Merlin joined the research center; he created a pocket space, a location separate from this dimension. He said that when dealing with magic, one should be extremely cautious, in case something goes wrong during the research, it won't affect the rest of the city," Franky spoke non-stop, after all, a robot doesn't need air.
"Merlin didn't want to interfere by creating this space, but after a demon almost managed to escape the facility, the council reached a consensus to enhance security."
Upon hearing this, Inmo thought about the havoc a demon could wreak, but thanks to the speed force, damages and casualties would still be minimal. However, it's better not to take risks.
"Our magical research center is divided into six sections. This area researches elemental magic; next, we have black magic, conceptual magic like time, gravity, and space. In this part, we delve into blood magic, such as curses and counterspells," Franky walked through the corridors, pointing to different areas. At one point, Merlin joined them, accompanying the two this time.
Upon reaching a section displaying screens depicting various worlds and different realities, Franky stopped and glanced at Merlin. The wizard had mentioned earlier that he would like to explain this part to Inmo.
Merlin took the lead to guide Inmo in this part. "With the advancement in the use of the speed force, as well as the temporal restraint force, the empire kept an eye on other realities that could be dangerous. So, the council decided to research these other realities, employing both magic and technology to explore these other realms." Unlike Franky, Merlin seemed to be taking his time, not moving too fast but still delivering a smooth narrative that wouldn't overwhelm Inmo.
"Things weren't going very well, but after my arrival, they became smoother. One of my specialties is extracting power from other dimensions, so I've been imparting the necessary knowledge on how to deal with this matter."
Inmo was impressed by the council's choice not to be blinded by their achievements. They always seemed to seek improvement and remained vigilant to danger.
"Very well, Merlin. You can count on me. I owe you a favor for the help you're providing."
Merlin didn't seem to take Inmo very seriously; he had seen him as a friend for a long time and knew that Inmo was the kind of person who would help a friend as long as it didn't go against his principles and interests.
Inmo and Merlin spoke a bit more about the other realms and how some beings occasionally crossed into this reality. Inmo also took the opportunity to ask Merlin to separate the other laboratories so that each would have its own separate space, especially the weapons research area that Inmo had not yet visited, but he knew there could be many dangerous innovations.
Franky, realizing that Inmo had finished for now, decided to finish showing the last research point. "Here is where we research magic that improves everyone's lives—spells to help the empire's residents with everyday tasks, such as the cleaning spell and the underwater breathing spell. Here, we also try to bring fantasy into reality. Many scientists draw inspiration from the work you've done to create unique spells."
Inmo scratched his face lightly, thinking about the potential consequences. He had crafted many stories in his old world, so they must exist somewhere, making the probability of replicating those spells quite high.
After finishing the tour, Inmo gathered everyone and talked about the future. He decided not to interfere too much in this area; everyone was on the right track. The main difference was that now they would enter into collaboration with a new task force that would spread the empire's influence to the rest of the world. They would infiltrate emerging governments and establish a connection from the empire for when they decided to reveal themselves.
The magical researchers would be responsible for creating spells and devices to assist in this endeavor.
After that, Inmo and Franky left Merlin to work in peace and headed to the research center for weapons of destruction and defense.