NOVEL NEXT Chapter 259: Alvaron's Visit
A week passed in the blink of an eye. During that time, the Austin family carried out a massive investigation into Rovert's actions.
Evidence was gathered from all corners, stirring chaos across the east.
Many wondered what had truly happened. Several heads of noble families even visited the Austin mansion, demanding an explanation from Alvaron.
But he had no intention of explaining anything, only stating that his actions were carried out under palace orders.
Naturally, the heads of the families didn't take his word for it. They launched their own secret investigation to uncover whatever truth the Austin family was hiding.
Unfortunately for them, their efforts were futile. Every result of the Austin family's investigation was guarded with extreme care, leaving no gaps. On top of that, the palace itself lent support, making the matter nearly impossible to uncover.
Meanwhile, in his room, Nolan sat back, relaxed, sipping his tea.
Across from him, Aston quietly enjoyed his own cup.
"Duke Alvaron will be here soon, Marquis Valmire. I hope you can execute our plan flawlessly," Nolan said softly.
Aston nodded confidently. "Don't worry, Your Highness. It's a simple task, and I'll handle it perfectly."
Nolan was referring to a plan they had discussed a week ago—steps to take full advantage of the current situation.
The Castellan family's power and wealth were being restrained by the Austin family because of Rovert's crimes.
Once the massive investigation was complete, a trial would be held to decide whether the Castellans would retain their status as a Marquis family.
The trial would take place behind closed doors, attended only by select parties.
Nolan intended to save the Castellan family, ensuring they kept their Marquis status.
His goal was clear—he wanted to use the family as Elina's supporters in the battle for the throne.
The Marquis family held high status, and it would be a waste if the Castellans suddenly disappeared.
Moreover, if the Castellans lost their status, a Count family would rise in their place, which would undoubtedly become an obstacle for Elina.
After all, eighty percent of the noble families in the eastern region were already under the control of the Red Obsidian Trading House.
That meant the new Marquis family would be loyal to Zarak.
Knock!
A servant's respectful voice followed the knock.
"Sorry to interrupt your time, Your Highness Nolan and Marquis Valmire. Duke Austin has arrived and is waiting in the living room."
Nolan and Aston exchanged a glance and gave a small nod.
"Then, let's go see him."
...
In the living room, Alvaron sat on the sofa with his eyes closed, his expression indifferent and cold, as if he wanted to keep everyone at a distance.
Suddenly, he heard footsteps approaching. Instinctively, he opened his eyes and saw Nolan and Aston.
A smile spread across his face as he quickly rose to his feet.
"Good morning, Your Highness," he greeted respectfully.
If it had been him in the past, he wouldn't have shown such demeanor. After all, he was a Duke, and his position carried great weight.
But now, things were different. His view of Nolan had changed—filled with genuine admiration. On the surface, the young man seemed lazy and indifferent, but beneath that was a ferocity and power that were terrifying.
All the chaos currently engulfing the eastern region was his doing.
Yet he remained in the shadows, unnoticed by anyone except Alvaron. That alone was enough to earn his respect.
Nolan smiled, waving his right hand. "Don't be so formal, Duke Austin. You're making me embarrassed."
The corner of Alvaron's lips twitched. The man who had caused chaos across the eastern region… was apparently shy?
Even the gods wouldn't have convinced him otherwise.
Still, he kept it hidden. He knew Nolan didn't want him to embarrass himself in front of Aston.
After the brief pleasantries, the three of them sat down in their respective places.
"So, how did the investigation go, Duke Austin? Did it meet your expectations?" Nolan asked casually, picking up a biscuit from the table and eating it without hesitation.
Alvaron and Aston were not offended by his casual manner—they were used to it, even relieved that he seemed relaxed instead of tense or serious.
"The investigation went smoothly, Your Highness," Alvaron replied quietly with a small nod. "All the evidence I gathered matches what you provided. To be honest, I'm still very angry, Your Highness. That bastard Rovert… he's disgusting. His crimes are grave and unforgivable."
His voice carried both anger and hatred. Over a week had passed, yet his rage toward Rovert had not diminished; if anything, it had only grown.
Unfortunately, Rovert was already dead, leaving him no chance to vent his fury.
Nolan simply smiled at his slightly flushed face. He picked up a grape and ate it. "Actually, there's something I haven't told you two."
Aston and Alvaron exchanged surprised glances, curiosity written across their faces.
"What is it, Your Highness?" Aston asked, leaning forward slightly.
"Actually… the original Rovert died a long time ago."
Both men froze, wide-eyed in shock.
"Your Highness, are you serious? That's not funny at all!" Aston said, swallowing hard.
Alvaron remained silent, but his expression clearly agreed with Aston's words.
Nolan rolled his eyes. "What am I joking about? I deliberately concealed this so my plan could run smoothly."
On second thought, there was no harm in telling Alvaron and Aston.
After all, they were both on his side. Of course, if they ever dared to betray him, they would have to face severe consequences.
Alvaron and Aston stayed silent, momentarily at a loss for words. It took them a moment to collect their thoughts and regain their composure.
"Then… who exactly is the Rovert we've known all this time?" Alvaron asked earnestly.
"He's someone else—or rather, a notorious criminal, the Fifth Cardinal of the Underworld Gate," Nolan replied casually.
"The Fifth Cardinal of the Underworld Gate?" Both Alvaron and Aston were stunned.
"Wait a minute!" Aston interjected, worry etched on his face. "The Fifth Cardinal you're talking about—isn't he one of the Seven Cardinals of the Underworld Gate?"
"Yes, that's him," Nolan confirmed with a brief nod. "That man killed the real Rovert long ago and pretended to be him for decades. On top of that, he also…"
Nolan went on to reveal the secrets he had previously kept hidden. The two listened intently, hanging on every word.
When Nolan finished, they finally grasped what had really been happening.
"So… that's it…" Alvaron muttered, silent and unsure how to react.
At first, he believed all of this was Rovert's doing. But it turned out someone else had been impersonating Rovert for decades, exploiting the Castellan family's resources to carry out crimes.
To make matters worse, that person was the Fifth Cardinal—one of the black mages who should have long been eradicated from the Empire.
Sensing the gloomy mood, Nolan waved a hand to ease the tension. "The most important thing is that he's dead. Our focus should be on what lies ahead."
His words pulled the two out of their reverie. They nodded in agreement.
"By the way, when does the trial start, Duke Austin?" Nolan asked.
"In three or four days, Your Highness," he replied. His expression shifted slightly as he added, "However, there's a small problem."
Nolan raised an eyebrow and gave a slight nod. "Go on."
"The trial will be presided over directly by the palace envoy…"