Chapter 5: Meeting Count Rivers

Three minutes later, Sean sat in a carriage bound for Count Rivers' castle. His quarters in east Yorn City's commoner district had been chosen for proximity to the Holy Light Church. The castle loomed in west Yorn's affluent quarter, requiring a lengthy journey.

(Why locate the church in the commoner district? Faith energy is harvested per capita—densely populated areas yield richer rewards. The church also provides free healing and food to poor folk, solidifying its influence.)

Gazing at passing streets, Sean replayed his earlier conversation with Steward William. The claim that the bandits had "all committed suicide" felt off. Bandits—often desperate farmers—rarely chose such extreme measures. Unless they weren't bandits at all…

But why would Count Rivers lie?

Shaking his head, Sean accessed the system. A neglected prompt glowed:

[System Alert: First visit to [Minions] module rewards [Wisp] x2. Claim?]

[YES]

[NO]

[System Alert: Tier 0 minions do not occupy summoning slots.]

Opening [Minions], he found two green [Summon] buttons for Wisps:

[Wisp]

Rarity: Common

Cost: 0 Mana

Attack/Health: 1/1

Card Text: If enough Wisps attack an Eredar lord, he explodes. Why?

(Sean decided to summon them later.)

The carriage halted. "Lord Sean, we've arrived," William announced.

Stepping into the noble district, Sean gasped. Where the commoner district reeked of sewage and despair, this quarter boasted manicured lawns, armored patrols, and spotless cobblestones.

"Apologies for the commoner district's state," William misinterpreted his awe. "We placed you near the church because we couldn't command the bishop."

"I understand. Lead on."

The castle, a 20-meter stone colossus second only to the Holy Light Church in height, dominated the skyline. Inside, Sean finally met Count Rivers—a stout, authoritative man flanked by a golden-armored warrior and another steward.

"Count Rivers," Sean bowed formally. As a mere baron, deference was crucial.

"Sean! We've awaited you." The Count clapped his shoulder like a father. "How fares your health?"

"Thanks to the Light, fully recovered."

"Marvelous! The bishop's magic astounds. You were near death upon arrival… Anyway, allow me to introduce your companions."

The Count gestured to the golden-armored man: "This is Lucas, a peak-Gold rank warrior and Yorn's strongest. He lacks a surname—yet." Lucas nodded stoically