Chapter 489: New Plan.

Chapter 489: New Plan.

‘That’s quite the sum, not something you’d offer to just anyone. Could the Count be desperate to resolve this quietly? or does he just wish to build a new bridge to the institute?’Roland stood before his current enemy, Count Graham De Vere. What he saw was unexpected but not unusual. Bribery from nobles was nothing new; it was just part of how they operated. However, even though the stack of royal coins was there, Roland didn't expect to receive any of them directly. Graham was a shrewd man and was likely just testing the waters. They were there to provide him with a taste of what could be gained if he cooperated.

Count Graham De Vere's sharp eyes studied Roland as he stood in the grand hall, surrounded by layers of protection and wealth. The silence between them was thick, only broken by the faint crackle of the knights' armor. Graham picked up one of the royal coins and started playing around with it and finally began to speak."You understand, Professor Wayland, that situations like these can be... delicate, but they can be resolved through other means. I apologize for the rude welcome and for what you saw in my dungeon but... I think we can resolve this issue, without the institute getting involved any further.”

Roland's eyes flicked to the coins, but his gaze went unnoticed thanks to the mithril helmet he wore. He was less interested in the wealth the man possessed and more focused on the layers of magical defenses. The enchantments were expertly crafted, similar to those he had studied at the institute. He knew he could break through them if he wanted, but with all the knights gathered around, he would likely be stopped before he could act. "I'm aware of the complexities, but I’m not sure what you are getting at. Do you wish me to retreat after seeing that young man be mistreated without a proper trial?”He replied in a somewhat neutral tone while trying to keep up his righteous professor persona. To these people, most of their problems would go away if he wasn’t here. Normally, they would probably remove him with force, but this option was risky due to the Arch-Magus ties.

“I see, are you sure?”“Yes.”“Mmm... Then I’ll go make the preparations on my end, try to relax for the next few days...”Roland was about to hang up on his brother but before he could go, Robert called out to him in a somewhat apologetic tone.“Wait before you go, I need to tell you something.”“Sure, what is it? Need to know more about the case?”“No, it’s not about that, it’s more about you and me... I... Just wanted to thank you again and apologize for doing this to you, if it wasn’t for you...”Roland let Robert speak without interrupting. He was a denizen of another world, not the real owner of this body but this didn’t mean that he wasn’t feeling a connection there. It felt like he was helping his younger brother in a time of need, a feeling that wasn’t too bad.“I understand, Robert.” Roland said quietly. “It’s strange to think of us as family, I still remember hiding from you at the estate and feeling proud when you couldn’t track me down.”Robert blushed a bit as he recalled the past when he was always trying to confront his younger brother who was an eyesore.“Sorry, I was immature back then...”“I know, don’t worry about it, once you’re out of here, I’ll think of a way you can repay me... it might cost you a lot though.” “Hah, Fair enough. Just get me out of this mess first, and I’ll be ready for whatever you throw at me.”Roland smiled slightly, though he knew Robert couldn’t see it.“I’ll hold you to that, then see you in a few days.”“Will do. And Roland...”

“Yes?”

“Thanks. For everything.”Roland cut the connection and stood for a moment in contemplation before activating his communication device once again. It was around ten in the evening but luckily the person on the other side was still awake.“Boss, is something wrong?”“No, but I need you to do something for me...”