Chapter 18: The Promise of Roads and Soldiers

The morning sun bathed Asher's territory in a golden hue, but it was not just another ordinary day. A wave of soldiers and workers flooded into his lands, setting up camps and beginning construction on new roads. It was a sight that left the nobles and ministers in utter confusion.

"How did he manage this?" one minister muttered, staring at the disciplined troops and laborers who had arrived with materials and tools.

Another noble scoffed. "No one builds roads or deploys soldiers for free. What deal did that boy make?"

Rumors spread like wildfire through the courts. Some speculated that Asher had blackmailed a powerful figure, while others whispered that he had found a secret treasure that allowed him to pay for such luxuries. But when they confronted him about it, Asher simply smirked.

"That's none of your concern," he replied, walking past them without a hint of explanation.

The nobles fumed at his arrogance, but they couldn't deny the truth—his territory was changing. The dusty, uneven roads that once made travel difficult were being replaced with sturdy stone pathways, and the presence of trained soldiers ensured a new level of security.

Asher, however, had no interest in wasting time arguing with the aristocracy. Instead, he turned his attention toward the people who mattered most—the common folk of his land.

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At midday, Asher made his way to the bustling market square. The air was thick with the scent of freshly baked bread, sizzling meat, and the rich aroma of exotic spices. Vendors called out their prices, children weaved through the crowds, and weary farmers unloaded their goods. But the moment Asher arrived, silence fell.

The people, who had heard of his recent exploits, looked at him with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. What was their lord doing here?

Then, with a clap of his hands, his guards began unloading massive crates onto the ground. The people gasped as the containers were opened, revealing sacks of rice, fresh vegetables, cured meat, and thick woolen blankets.

A murmur of disbelief ran through the crowd. "Is this… free?" a frail old man asked hesitantly.

Asher nodded, his voice loud enough for all to hear. "Today, everything here is free. If you need food, take it. If you need supplies for winter, take them. No cost, no debt—just take what you need."

For a moment, there was stunned silence. Then, as if a dam had broken, the people surged forward. Mothers clutched blankets to their chests, weeping as they realized their children would no longer have to shiver through the night. Starving beggars filled their pockets with dried fruit and bread, their eyes shining with gratitude.

Even the merchants, who had expected Asher to be just another noble who only cared about wealth and power, watched in amazement.

A young boy, no older than ten, tugged at Asher's sleeve. "M-My lord… why are you doing this?"

Asher crouched down, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Because a ruler is only as strong as the people who stand behind him. And I refuse to let my people suffer."

The boy's eyes widened, and soon, cheers erupted from the crowd. They called Asher's name, chanting their gratitude, their voices filled with a hope they had not felt in years.

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The Nobles' Growing Fear

From a distance, the nobles and ministers who had followed Asher watched in horror.

"This… this is dangerous," one of them muttered.

Another noble clenched his fists. "He's winning their loyalty. If this continues, the people will see him as more than just a noble—he'll become a leader they would die for."

Minister Varren, a shrewd and experienced politician, narrowed his eyes. "It's worse than that. He isn't just gathering favor—he's securing power. The roads, the soldiers, and now the hearts of the people… he's playing a long game. And if we don't stop him soon, he'll rise beyond our control."they did not know that Asher had sent Selena to spy on them

But even as they plotted, Asher stood among his people, smiling as he watched their happiness. He had no interest in explaining himself to the nobles.

His actions would speak louder than any words ever could.

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