Chapter 11: Forging Alliances
The long night gave way to dawn as Ciro and Ri-hyun finally crossed the border into the southern reaches of the Altaria Empire. The air was dry but not unpleasant, and the pebble roads beneath their horses crunched faintly with each step.
"This is larger than Beleville Kingdom's central city," Ri-hyun thought aloud, surveying the bustling scene around them.
Massive stone walls towered on either side of the road, manned by vigilant knights dressed in polished armor. Dozens of towers lined the perimeter, each bristling with archers and watchmen.
"This is Valeheart County," Ciro said, his tone light yet proud. "Also known as the Gate City of the South. It's the first checkpoint into the empire's inner territories, heavily fortified to deter bandits and foreign spies."
Ri-hyun narrowed his eyes at the towering gates ahead. "The design still amazes me," he murmured. Foreign architecture surrounded him—tiled rooftops sloped steeply, and archways were adorned with sigils he didn't recognize. The people wore bright sashes and embroidered tunics, starkly different from the muted, practical garments of the western regions.
As they rode through the city's interior, Ri-hyun glanced at the covered carriage trailing behind them. "Are we selling it here?" he asked.
Ciro shook his head. "We've entered the empire, yes, but Valeheart isn't our final stop, my lord. Our true destination lies east, near the imperial palace. We're heading to the Trade Capital, the heart of commerce in all of Altaria."
Ri-hyun nodded, satisfied. "Still, if opportunity knocks, we should consider dealing with the rulers of this land."
Ciro smiled. "Of course. If a worthy deal presents itself, I'll act."
To avoid unnecessary attention, Ri-hyun personally adjusted the cloth concealing their cargo—star iron ore and the crystalline veins of Arcanite discovered deep within the Mara High Mountains. With their load secured, they continued through the southern road until a distant clanging noise filled the air.
When they arrived at the Cindergarde duchy, Ri-hyun's eyes widened. The city they had entered was unlike any he'd seen before. Massive forges spewed out plumes of smoke, and the scent of molten metal hung thick in the air. Hammers rang in rhythm, echoing through the valleys.