Steel and Sorrow: Rise of the Mercenary king

Chapter 169: Improving the equipment

Alpheo strode purposefully through the bustling streets of Yarzat, his small frame passing through the sea of market stalls and merchants peddling their goods. Around him, the city thrummed with life—voices raised in haggling. But despite the lively chaos surrounding him, Alpheo remained focused.

Flanking him were twenty of his closest guards, their presence an imposing wall of steel that kept the curious at bay. Among them, at the head of the contingent, was Vrosk—the man who had saved Alpheo's life during his fierce battle with Arkawatt. Vrosk, a hulking figure with a scar tracing the side of his jaw, walked with the confidence of a man who knew his worth. After the attempt on his life during the siege of Confluendi , Alpheo had swiftly promoted him to the head of his personal guard based on previous achievements,as he seriously started to consider his safety.

The near brush with death had been a sobering reminder that his life—and the future of his newfound rule—could be taken in an instant if he wasn't vigilant. And so, Vrosk's promotion was more than just a reward; it was a necessity. The man was loyal and relentless,both traits Alpheo valued above all else in those entrusted with his protection.

Jarza, Egil, and Asag were all stationed in Confluendi, tasked with overseeing the camps of refugees that had swollen after the recent conflicts. Their absence left a palpable void, one Alpheo felt keenly as he no one to joke the way he did with them.

Meanwhile, Laedio remained in Yarzat, keeping command over the city's garrison. The trust Alpheo placed in him was well-earned; Laedio had proven himself capable of holding the city together while Alpheo dealt with other matters during his early campaigns while also mantaining order within the city . 

Clio, his ever-watchful overseer, had been dispatched to the workhouses where the production of soap and hard cider was well underway. Alpheo knew the potential that lay in these products; they were Yarzat's lifeblood, something that could stabilize their economy and increase their influence.