Ready for the hunt, Sean led his companions through Riverside's streets. Townsfolk knelt reverently as he passed—thanks to Henry and Anduin's propaganda, nearly everyone now believed he was the Holy Light Church's Son. Free grain and tax exemptions had turned him into a living saint in their eyes.
Sean nodded approvingly at the kneeling crowds, understanding the balance of "grace and power" in governance. A lord must be both merciful and authoritative.The Town Center MeetingReaching the town square, Sean found Anduin frowning at a group of 20 newly recruited guards. "Morning, Lord Sean," the viceroy greeted, his complexion tense.
"Troubles?" Sean asked.
Anduin sighed, launching into a litany of issues: former gang members and thieves had occupied empty homes, stealing furniture and sabotaging properties. Returning residents clashed with them daily, though the Blazing Cross Mercenaries kept violence in check.
Sean grimaced inwardly, grateful for Anduin's leadership. Without him, I'd be drowning in paperwork instead of grinding levels.Law and Order"First offense: warning and restitution. Repeat offenders: cut rations or exile," Sean ordered. "We also need laws—start with Laine's legal codes as a base. Lodin can help once he finishes that romance novel."
He paused, noticing the Dwarven Marksman at his side. "Take White for security. His musket can deter trouble—though keep it hidden for now."
"Thank you, Lord Sean. I'll manage the guards," Anduin said, gesturing to the recruits.The Mystery of the FlowersAs Sean turned to leave, he glimpsed Anduin's office—tables laden with roses, hyacinths, and unfamiliar blooms. "Since when do we spend gold on flowers?" he teased.
Anduin laughed, embarrassed. "The town girls picked them for me—said I needed 'color in my work.' Nothing to do with your perfume plans, I swear!"
Sean blinked, then grinned. So even the viceroy has admirers. "Just don't let the scent distract you from justice," he joked, clapping Anduin's shoulder.The Grind ResumesLeaving Anduin to his duties, Sean and the group headed for the south gate. The guards' disciplined formation and Anduin's calm authority reassured him—Riverside's order was in capable hands.
With law coming and security tightening, he thought, maybe I can focus on leveling without constant interruptions.
But as they exited town, a young girl shyly pressed a daisy into Anduin's hand before fleeing. The viceroy flushed, tucking the flower into his armor—a small reminder that even a bureaucrat could inspire loyalty… and floral tributes.
In Riverside, leadership wore many faces: Sean as the divine lord, Anduin as the steady administrator, and even a grumpy dwarf as a hidden enforcer. Together, they forged order from chaos—one flower, one musket shot, and one level at a time.