Chapter 25: The Black Hand Brotherhood

"500 gold?!" Windsor feigned astonishment, wide-eyed.

"You heard correctly," Sean replied, impressed by Windsor's acting. "Additionally, I offer you the role of captain of the guard—20 gold monthly. Will you serve me?"

"Y-yes! It's my honor!" Windsor knelt, pretending ecstasy.

Sean helped him up. "Henry! Attend us!"

Henry snapped out of his daze, rushing over. "Your Highness! Are you harmed?" He scanned Sean for injuries.

"Unharmed, thanks to Windsor. He is your new captain."

Grasping Windsor's hands, Henry exclaimed, "Without you, I'd beheaded for failing my duty!"

"I acted for Riverside," Windsor declared. "A lord who abolishes taxes and feeds his people deserves protection."

The crowd erupted in agreement:

"Never met such a benevolent lord!"

"Tell our city relatives to return!"

"Long live Lord Sean!"

"Henry, assist Windsor in recruiting guards—4 gold monthly for rank-and-file. Windsor gets 20."

Henry sighed. "Lucky man. Even my salary is 20." John, overhearing, nodded—he'd earned his 20 gold after years of service.

Matthew returned, holding the assassin's vial. "Black Hand Brotherhood suicide potion. Dissolves douqi in 5 seconds. Their assassins carry these."

"Black Hand Brotherhood? They want me dead?"

"Possibly. They're neutral but profit from chaos. Killing a ducal heir… leaders) likely approved."

"I'll investigate. Consider it free service—they disrespected me by attacking you."

"Thank you, Matthew." Sean memorized the name, reluctant to lose his EXP source but respecting Matthew's urgency.

With the assassins' bodies retrieved, Sean felt drained. "Henry, manage here. I'll visit the Magic Guild."

"Rest first—"

"I have plans." Sean boarded the carriage.

Departing the camp, Sean reflected. Black Hand Brotherhood. Why target me? He resolved to consult the Magic Guild's archives for answers.