Returning to the city, Yaxkin was greeted with enthusiasm from his warriors. The recent expedition had sharpened their skills and increased their confidence, but it was not only the warriors who were growing stronger.
The entire city seemed to be flourishing as if energized by the abundant Ch'ulel in the air. Yaxkin decided to visit the craftsmen and artisans who had contributed so much to Chichen Itza's growth and infrastructure.
His first stop was the forge, where he was met by a group of skilled artisans, their faces smudged with soot and hands calloused from hours spent molding metal. The master smith, a burly man with a thick beard named Tizoc, welcomed him with a respectful nod.
"Prince Yaxkin, it's an honor to have you in the forge," Tizoc said, bowing slightly.
"We've been working hard to create weapons worthy of the Empire."
Yaxkin smiled.
"From what I've seen, you've done more than that. Show me your work."
Tizoc led him to a table lined with various weapons gleaming spears, intricately carved macuahuitls, and bows reinforced with newly discovered materials.
"With the Ch'ulel here, even the metals respond differently. Our strength has increased, allowing us to work with adamantium and mithril in ways we couldn't have imagined in Gracea."
The smiths nodded in agreement, one of them adding.
"It's almost as if the Ch'ulel enhances not only us but the metals themselves. We're able to forge stronger, lighter weapons."
Yaxkin picked up a spear, feeling its balance.
"The weight is perfect, and the edge..... sharper than I expected."
"You've all outdone yourselves."
"Thank you, my prince," Tizoc said, pride evident in his voice.
"We're also working on black iron. It's incredibly durable and makes excellent blades."
Another artisan chimed in.
"And silver, which we're melting alongside adamantium. The silver is softer, but it holds value not only as currency but as an ornamental metal."
"We're crafting jewelry, ceremonial pieces, and fine cutlery."
"The Pre-Imperial Maya once worked with silver, but it was rare. Here, it's become more plentiful, though still precious."
Yaxkin nodded thoughtfully.
"Maybe we can make silver coins, perhaps, to mark our journey into Ikal. A currency of our own."
Tizoc grinned.
"We've already begun. A small batch of coins has been produced, ready for circulation once we hit the one-year mark here in Ikal."
"A commemoration for the arrival of Viatori with face of the Emperor's and this beautiful city."
Yaxkin raised an eyebrow, impressed.
"You all think ahead. I trust you'll ensure these coins are worthy of our people."
A younger smith, eager to join the conversation, spoke up.
"And the weapons, prince. We have enough stored to supply the Imperial army, but we'll also begin selling to guilds and adventurers soon."
"The funds will support the city's growth."
Yaxkin nodded approvingly.
"A wise plan. Keep the best for our warriors, and let the rest strengthen our allies."
After thanking the artisans for their hard work, he went to the neighboring workshop where women crafted intricate goods for trade.
The air was filled with the scent of clay and fibers, and each woman was engrossed in her work. He stopped by a table where delicate terracotta figurines, small warriors frozen in time, were displayed, reminders of the glory days of the ancient Aztec Kingdom.
An elderly woman looked up from her work, smiling warmly.
"Ah, Prince Yaxkin, you honor us with your presence."
Yaxkin grinned, admiring a miniature figure in her hands.
"These are beautiful. They capture a piece of our history."
She chuckled, holding up the figure proudly.
"We honor those who fought for us, those who came before. Every figure tells a story."
Nearby, another woman was shaping a ceramic jar with intricate designs, vibrant colors beginning to bloom on its surface.
"We call this Mayólica," she said, catching his gaze.
"It's a craft passed down through generations. It's our way of remembering home, even here in Ikal."
Yaxkin nodded.
"I can see the love in each piece. You're preserving our past, even as we build our future."
Moving on, he noticed a young artisan weaving a bright, sturdy hammock from thick fibers. He ran a hand over the material, noting its strength and texture.
"That's jarcia," she explained, looking up at him.
"We make it from a plant here similar to maguey. It's tough, reliable, and good for all sorts of things hammocks, bags, whatever you need."
Yaxkin nodded, impressed.
"Seems like you've found ways to make every piece here essential."
She blushed, laughing.
"We do what we can, Prince. It's honest work."
Finally, Yaxkin reached a section where artisans wove baskets and mats from various fibers that resembled palm, mimbre, and bamboo. An older man with a focused expression was carefully braiding strands of grass.
"Prince, this is cestería," he explained, his hands never stopping.
"These plants are abundant here, just like in Gracea."
"With these, we can create anything strong baskets, mats, you name it."
Yaxkin watched as the man worked, each twist and knot precise and deliberate.
"Your hands carry the knowledge of our ancestors," he said quietly, awed by the artistry.
The man smiled.
"It's an honor to pass it on."
After spending hours in the workshops, Yaxkin's heart swelled with pride. These artisans, warriors, and craftsmen had taken the best of Viatori and brought it to life in Ikal, adapting and flourishing with each new resource. As he left, he addressed the gathered craftsmen with a grin.
"Looks like I'll have to visit the market often to see what you all come up with next."
"Just promise me one thing don't let me get too rich buying all your fine wares."
The artisans laughed, one of the younger smiths calling out.
"We'll make you a special deal, Prince, only the best prices for our finest customer!"
Yaxkin chuckled, waving as he stepped out. His heart was lighter, the pride of his people and their resilience rekindling his purpose.