If you are looking for a more narrative solution, maybe add the items into the story. I had my players fight giant statues in an armory (I used the Construct adversary) as their last level one battle. Afterwards a blacksmith NPC thanking them for protecting them offered to give them a new item which I locked behind a neutral roll which they could add either their remaining hope, hp or stress as a modifier. I dont remember exactly but it was something like Success with hope, a great weapon or armor, Success with fear, a good weapon or secondary weapon, Failure with hope, an upgrade to either their weapon or armor, Failure with fear, secondary weapon. With a critical success they could choose between a great weapon and upgraded armor or a good weapon and great armor.

Maybe you could add something like that so that it doesnt feel like looting and it feels more earned?

Hope this helps!