The craftsmen shuddered, their faces pale with shock.
Despite not voicing any objections, the craftsmen exchanged confused glances, as if unsure why they were being demoted.
"What? Do you have a complaint?" Justin asked sharply.
"N-No, sir!"
"No? Your faces say otherwise. You all look like you're wondering why you're getting dragged into this when it was the dead guy who caused the trouble."
Their silence was an answer in itself.
With a derisive snort, Justin addressed their unspoken question. "Do you think if that bastard's demands had succeeded, only he would've benefitted? Obviously, you would've been promoted to nobles as well. Don't pretend you weren't waiting to reap the rewards from afar. Just accept it."
One of the craftsmen tried to protest. "But that's—!"