After stepping back into the vast world of Ikal, Yaxkin was greeted with enthusiasm and respect by his companions, administrators, and the warriors of his city. Each face held stories and updates, revealing the rapid changes that had taken place during his 28 day pass with absence.
Pacal approached first, her face a mixture of excitement and responsibility.
"Prince Yaxkin, the city has transformed in ways we hadn't anticipated."
"The population now stands at nearly one million."
"A million?" Yaxkin repeated, surprised.
He looked over the sprawling cityscape from his vantage point, taking in the bustling streets below.
"That's nearly doubled in the time I've been gone."
Noíl nodded, stepping forward.
"It's true. With this many people, we've had...….. well, small disputes among the adventurer groups. Fortunately, the city's guard has handled these swiftly."
"They're getting stronger every day."
Yaxkin's expression softened with pride.
"Their strength and loyalty are precisely why I chose them personally."
"I'm glad their dedication has helped maintain order."
Kuk added.
"Not only that, but your guidance has prevented many talented individuals from seeking opportunities outside the city."
"The people see the city as their home, a place worth fighting for."
Yaxkin nodded, then turned to Óotsil, his city's chief economic advisor, who had been waiting patiently with her usual calm but resolute expression.
"Óotsil, I can see there's a lot to discuss about the economy."
She offered a polite bow before speaking.
"Indeed, Prince Yaxkin."
"With the influx of people and resources, we're seeing a surge in activity."
"Many wealthy families, both from the capital and aristocratic origins, have submitted requests to purchase private land within the city."
Yaxkin raised an eyebrow, and she continued.
"After consulting with the council, we all agreed to allocate any private properties to the outer city rather than the core."
"This would maintain a balance between resources and the integrity of the inner city."
"That seems wise," Yaxkin agreed.
"Let's keep the heart of the city focused on essential services and community."
Óotsil's eyes brightened, sensing his approval.
She continued.
"There's another pressing matter, my prince. With so many adventurers bringing back rare resources and artifacts from their expeditions, we need a large auction house."
"Such a marketplace would allow us to control the trade of rare resources, keeping strategic items within our city and out of private hands that may not have the city's best interests at heart."
"An auction house?" Yaxkin mused, thinking it over.
"Yes, that could be invaluable."
"Not only would it generate revenue, but it would also establish a safe, centralized place for these resources to be exchanged."
Óotsil nodded, pleased.
"I suggest we place this auction house in the eastern part of the outer city, where we're also working on developing a more comprehensive commercial district."
"This should stimulate the economy and provide jobs for the ever-growing population."
"An excellent idea, Óotsil. This will help prevent disorder by offering work and a stable economy."
Yaxkin's mind was already formulating plans, the pieces falling into place.
As they discussed, one of his senior warriors, Teoch, reported on the progress of the secondary settlement.
"The city near the cave is now home to 150,000 people, Prince Yaxkin," Teoch stated, pride evident in his tone.
"We've also established a well-trained army there 12,000 strong, mostly Eagle Warriors specializing in the Átlatl technique."
"Átlatl…" Yaxkin repeated, remembering the ancient weapon.
It was a technique used by their ancestors during the age of exploration and one that had turned the tide in several battles.
"With such a force, they'll be able to defend the settlement against almost any threat."
Teoch nodded.
"And we'll be prepared to defend both settlements with equal strength."
Just then, one of Yaxkin's scouts stepped forward.
"Prince, there's another matter," the scout said.
"Our explorers discovered a new settlement along the southern coastline, approximately 25,000 kilometers away from the city."
"It appears to be populated by citizens of the Kingdom of Rehegua."
Yaxkin's eyes narrowed slightly.
"The Rehegua.....… interesting. That's uncomfortably close."
Kuk stepped closer, concern evident on his face.
"Should we establish a watchtower in that direction Prince ?"
"It would allow us to keep an eye on their activities."
"Yes," Yaxkin replied without hesitation.
"We must stay vigilant. Set up a watchtower and maintain regular patrols in that area."
"We can't afford any surprises."
As the day progressed, Yaxkin listened to the council's updates, engaging in brief, focused discussions with his advisors and leaders. The steady rhythm of their work reassured him, though the undercurrent of concern remained.
He knew that while they were growing and strengthening, so were the surrounding forces, all drawn by the opportunities and mysteries of Ikal.
After another meeting, Yaxkin found himself standing in the heart of his city, watching the people go about their daily lives.
The world of Ikal held immense potential, but it also demanded constant vigilance. For now, his city was safe, but in the back of his mind, he knew it was only a matter of time before the peace would be challenged again.