Francois had amassed a fortune by assassinating Spencer's political enemies and used the opportunity to expand into five streets in the Outer City. That raised a question: why had a City Guard Officer greedy enough to work with a Free City People stood by and let him rake in all that wealth?
Realizing he might be next, Francois went to the City Guard's headquarters himself.
"Tell Spencer, Olmedo Just Right wants to see him."
The Gatekeeper sent word, then soon led Francois to the office.
The fire in the hearth blazed bright. Spencer lounged in his chair and spread his hands. "Look who's here! I don't have any more jobs for you, but you're welcome to bring me money."
"Fair enough. Here's the 'Ransom' for the next ten days..." Francois started politely, taking a Money Chest from his Magic Ring and opening the lid.
Spencer could barely tear his eyes from the Money Chest.
"Five days," he said.
"What do you mean?"
"It's getting colder. Covering for you will take more work."
"Doesn't cold weather make the nobles in the city less inclined to go out?"
"But my City Guard has to run around in the bitter wind."
Francois did not budge. "You won't be sharing this money with them, will you?"
Spencer's patience wore thin, and his tone turned threatening. "Do you know how much trouble it is to cover for you? If you keep paying the old rate, I can't guarantee other people won't find out."
"Why? Hasn't our cooperation been going smoothly?" Francois feigned alarm.
"Haven't you seen how much prices have gone up out there? Hmm? Better hurry. Everything's only going to get more expensive." For the sake of the five hundred Gold Coins, Spencer even extended an olive branch. If Francois left promptly, he would