Summoning Kaveez Lodin, Sean returned to camp with his new hero, Anduin, and Windsor. His EXP stood at level13 121/400—enough to level up soon if he hunted the Black Iron Monster in Riverside's vicinity.
…
Lucio greeted them. "The necromancer fled to the Elven Forest," Matthew reported. "Riverside is deserted."
Sean's heart sank. The captives… likely turned or killed.
Lucio reassured him. "I've sent word to Yorn. My garrison will guard here until orders arrive." He winked. "And to sample more'Lane royal cuisine.'"
Sean laughed. "As long as spices last."
Matthew interjected: "I'll stay to protect you" His kitten scratched his neck, drawing blood.
…
The garrison marched over Thorn Ridge. Riverside sprawled below:
West: Lake Viscount's castle.Center: Holy Light Church.East: Manor (one third of the town).South: Collapsed stone wall—Gnoll entry point.
"Before the Plague, 20,000 lived here," Windsor murmured. "Now… a ghost town."
Sean surveyed the ruins. Rebuilding will be costly. But with Anduin's healing and Lodin's business,maybe…
Sean smiled. Time to turn this ruins into a fortress.