Chapter 10: Summoning Windsor Again

After assigning Henry new tasks, Sean left the residence alone. Guards offered to escort him, but he dismissed them with, "Just need air—I'll return shortly."The street was quiet at 8 a.m. Sean walked briskly, scanning for tails. Turning into an alley, he activated the system.Three seconds later, Windsor appeared mid-sentence: "… System?" His eyes widened at the sudden shift to a shadowy alley."Windsor, over an hour has passed in the real world," Sean explained."Absurd." Windsor surveyed the alley, hand drifting to his sword.Over the next five minutes, Sean recounted his encounter with William, the Gnoll invasion, and the refugee crisis. As they spoke, a trio of thugs eyed them—then fled upon seeing Windsor's armor.…"A dire situation," Windsor concluded. "Even with tax exemptions, Riverside's recovery will be arduous.""We adapt. I need your help." Sean outlined his plan:Mercenary Guild: Investigate Yorn's Four Great Mercenary Companies, prioritizing Flame Cross.Refugee Camp: Infiltrate south gate refugees. Pose as a volunteer, then join Sean's retinue when he recruits guards."Consider it done." Windsor nodded."Wait." Sean tossed him a coin pouch. "Buy civilian clothes. Bring food to the camp—prevent starvation before my arrival."…As Windsor departed, armor clanking, Sean noted the [Dismiss] button grayed at 10 meters. No long-distance recall. His hopes of using minions as teleportable assets shattered.…Back at the residence, Sean reflected. The early-morning thugs hinted at crumbling security. Without Windsor's protection, venturing alone was risky.Time to rely on guards. He closed the system, mentally preparing for the day's challenges.