As Alpheo and his men navigated the bustling streets, his companions busied themselves asking for directions to the nearest tavern. Alpheo, however, was more preoccupied with studying the city itself. Having spent most of his life either confined within a household or marching through military camps, he had rarely taken the time to truly observe an urban landscape.
And, to his surprise, he was impressed.
The roads, paved with stone, were wide enough to accommodate both pedestrians and carts. Buildings stood at a reasonable distance from the streets—at least three meters away—which prevented the city from feeling claustrophobic. While the roads were far from pristine, littered with the waste of both humans and animals, at least the citizens could walk without having to constantly watch their steps.
The houses, all made of wood and reaching three stories high, were largely rental properties, accommodating multiple tenants. What intrigued Alpheo most, however, was the sight of black smoke curling from several chimneys. It was a small yet striking detail—he hadn't expected commoners to have such access to proper fireplaces, ones that funneled smoke directly outside rather than letting it collect within.
"Considering their level of technology and knowledge, this city is well-structured," he mused. "The only real downside is the stench... there's no proper sewer system here."
After about five minutes of wandering, the group finally came upon a small tavern. Alpheo's men turned to him expectantly, already knowing what they wanted. He let out a sigh.
"You can each have one drink," he relented, handing a silverii to each man. "That coin is more than enough for one drink—and for buying a few more for others. Go around, offer drinks, and get me news about the capital. Any questions?"
His words were met with eager silence. The men wasted no time, rushing into the tavern with enthusiasm.
All except one.
Asag stood outside, flipping the silver coin between his fingers, his expression troubled. Alpheo noticed the subtle change in his appearance—thin strands of hair growing back, an attempt to cover the old scar that marred his head.
"Something wrong, Asag?" Alpheo asked, watching him closely.
Asag exhaled slowly before tossing the coin back to him. "I'm not comfortable in places like this... with all the alcohol."
Alpheo caught the coin without breaking eye contact. "Are you sure?"
He had kept Asag close ever since their escape from the camp. The man had saved his life—Alpheo owed him for that. He had also noticed Asag's discomfort around alcohol before, but had never pried, sensing it was tied to his past and the scar he bore.
Asag gave a small nod. "Yes. I'll just walk beside you."
"Alright."
With that, the two of them stepped into the dimly lit tavern together.
As Alpheo and Asag stepped into the tavern, they were immediately met with a wave of sound and scent that assaulted their senses. The air was thick with the pungent aroma of ale, mingling with the stench of sweat and unwashed bodies. The tavern was crowded—patrons laughed boisterously, engaged in drunken debates, or sat hunched over their cups in quiet contemplation.
Alpheo wrinkled his nose at the overpowering mix of alcohol and filth. Scanning the dimly lit room, he quickly spotted his men, already holding drinks and striking up conversations with the locals.
Behind him, Asag moved cautiously, keeping his gaze downcast as if trying to block out the chaotic surroundings. Despite his discomfort, he remained by Alpheo's side.
Alpheo strode toward the counter and settled onto a stool. Asag followed suit, his eyes fixed on the worn wooden surface before him.
The bartender, a stout man with a genial expression, glanced at them as he wiped a dusty glass. "Can I get you something?"
Alpheo considered for a moment. "Do you serve food as well?"
The bartender nodded. "Aye. Got a few options. What'll it be?"
"One cup of ale for me, and your best dish for my friend here," Alpheo said, gesturing toward Asag.
The bartender raised an eyebrow. "No drink for him?"
"No drink," Asag replied quietly, keeping his eyes on the table
Alpheo tossed a silverii onto the counter. "Keep the change. And pour yourself a drink while you're at it. Join us—I have some questions."
The bartender grinned, pocketing the coin before disappearing into the back. Moments later, he returned with two cups of ale, sliding one to Alpheo before taking a hearty swig of his own.
"Food'll be out soon," he remarked.
Alpheo took a sip, only to grimace. "Tastes like water."
The bartender smirked, downing the rest of his drink in a single gulp before leaning in. "So, what's on your mind?"
Alpheo mirrored his posture, lowering his voice. "I need the latest news. Anything interesting happening in the capital?"
The bartender hesitated, his expression flickering with surprise. "You don't know?"
"Know what?"
The bartender exhaled. "The emperor is dead."
Alpheo's eyebrows shot up. "Dead?"
The bartender nodded grimly. "Happened about a week ago. Word came from a traveler out of the capital. Now the youngest prince has taken the throne, with his mother acting as regent. And if you ask me? We're all knee-deep in shit."
Alpheo chuckled softly. That explains why we haven't been pursued. Not only was the army defeated, but the emperor himself kicked the bucket.
"And with the eldest up north and the middle one off in the east, there's no one to contest it—yet."
Alpheo frowned slightly. "And they're just... letting this happen?"
The bartender let out a dry laugh. "Hell if I know. Maybe next time they swing by for a drink, I'll ask.If you ask me war will soon follow."
Alpheo smirked. "Fair enough. Thanks for the information. Bring me the same dish as my friend, and the rest of the coin is yours."
The bartender grinned. "Pleasure doing business."
As the man moved off to serve other customers, Alpheo stared at the wooden counter, a slow smile spreading across his face.
"Three brothers, one throne... and the youngest sitting on it with his mother as regent. What a time to be alive," he murmured to himself. "So many great men will rise. And so many more will be reduced to dust."