Imperial Crown.

Chapter 562 A big gamble
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……

As the nobles left, most of those remaining in the meeting hall were Raven's people.

Raven stood up, glanced around, and said calmly, "You all wait here for a while. I'll have someone call you. Those whose names are called, come to my study for a face-to-face meeting."

"Respectfully seeing off the Marquis."

Everyone stood up and shouted in unison.

After Raven left, a heated discussion erupted in the meeting room. Thor scoffed, "The patriarch is too kind! Why waste time talking to them? Just arrest them, give them a good beating, and we'll have found out who's behind this already!"

"What do you know?"

Heyaz frowned and said, "These people are all nobles appointed by the empire. The case of Little Rascal had already made things very difficult for Father. If we were to take action against these nobles without a legitimate reason, wouldn't we become the enemy of the entire empire?!"

“You know, you know everything!” Thor retorted. “Who knows more than you?”

The two argued incessantly, their faces flushed and necks red. Since returning from the Orc Empire, the conflict between the local and outsider factions had intensified. Everyone knew that if it weren't for the current predicament, beset by internal and external troubles, the investiture of titles after the Orc Empire war would have already begun. However, Eagle Territory's overall territory was quite small. The ancestral Eagle Town was definitely ineligible for investiture. Snowmaple Territory already had Marquis Raven, Viscount Denise, Baron Eric… and the rest were merely knights. Including Simon, who was only a castle knight. Simon was first knighted 14 years ago in 1195. He was knighted a second time 5 years ago in 1204, his title not promoted, but his territory expanded threefold! This was why Broca mistakenly thought Simon was also a baron. This showed just how difficult it was to advance in rank! Therefore, the only remaining territories eligible for investiture were—the former Hudson's Mountain Territory and Holo Territory. Both territories were previously baronies. In other words, this war against the Orcish Empire would at most result in the granting of two barons. So how could Thor and Heaz not be nervous?
Regardless of who becomes Baron, Thor and Heaz will forever be superior to each other in status and position! If the other dares to speak so disrespectfully, the Baron can have them executed in public without any repercussions! In the continent of Middels, nobles are this domineering and unreasonable! Who wouldn't love that?
The conflict between the local and out-of-town factions was an open secret, and the people in the meeting hall were used to it. Many were simply watching with amusement. It wasn't just these young people; even the established nobles of Snowmaple County were scrambling for titles. Otherwise, why would Broca have publicly knelt and sworn allegiance to Raven? Wasn't he also eager to elevate his viscount to earldom?
"Tang San, I didn't believe those rumors before." "But now," Holmes' voice rang out from the corner, "I strongly suspect that you are indeed the Marquis's illegitimate son."

Judela, who was happily watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but prick up her ears and focus her attention on the two children in front of her.

"Why do you say that?" Tang San asked, puzzled. This was the first time he and Holmes had met Lord Raven.

“I observed him closely just now.” Holmes, mimicking an adult, lit his pipe. “When Marquis Raven looked at you, a surge of immense joy first welled up in his eyes, but then, for some reason, it vanished in the blink of an eye, replaced by an expression of extreme sadness and pity.” “I think he must have recognized you, knew you were his son, hence the joy.” “But under pressure, a father and son cannot acknowledge each other, hence the sadness.”

"Hahaha"

Jude couldn't help but burst into laughter. He reached out and patted Holmes on the shoulder. "Young man, you're truly brilliant!" "What's your name?" "Why were you invited here?"

“Uh…” “So it’s Mr. Judela.” “I’ve heard so much about you.” Upon seeing Judela, Holmes hurriedly put down his pipe and greeted him with a reserved expression. “My name is Holmes, and this is my companion, Tang San.” “We were summoned by Madam Denise, who said that we would be interrogating the people from the Finger-Severing Tavern in a little while.”

"Oh?" Judla nodded in surprise. "So it's the Detective Duo." "I've heard of you two brothers; you've solved quite a few major cases in recent years." "You've risen to fame within Hawkeye Guard." "So it's just you two kids." "I heard you have a special ability—to read people's micro-expressions?"

“Oh dear,” Holmes said modestly, waving his hand. “I don’t really have any special abilities. I just enjoy studying these things.”

Seeing that Judah merely nodded, showing no intention of continuing the conversation, Holmes pursed his lips and suddenly spoke, "For example, you—"Mr. Judah—"You deeply love Lady Denise, don't you?" "Because for the past few hours, your gaze has lingered on Lady Denise for most of the time." "Her every move has been observed out of the corner of your eye." "Your breathing, your expression, your body… almost everything has been affected by Lady Denise." "For example, when she laughs, your breathing quickens." "Your body relaxes, proving you are in a state of pleasure." "And when she speaks to Sir Simon, your breathing becomes rapid." "Your body tenses, clearly indicating jealousy and dissatisfaction." "And..."

Snapped!
Before Holmes could continue, Jude's large hand gripped Holmes's neck like an iron clamp, and he gritted his teeth, saying, "You little bastard! If you dare to spout any more nonsense, believe me, I'll rip your tongue out right now! I'm over 50 years old, older than your father, and you dare to insult me ​​like this! Didn't your father teach you to respect your elders?!"

"Lord Judela, let go!" Tang San, seeing Holmes's face turn ashen and his eyes rolling back, hurriedly pleaded, "He... he's just a child, he's just showing off!" "He didn't mean any disrespect to you!" "Please!"

"Humph"

Jude snorted angrily and released his grip. He certainly wouldn't dare kill Holmes, much less in front of so many people. If it weren't for their lowly status, confined to a secluded corner, he wouldn't have even dared to strangle Holmes. Clearly, these two children were extremely clever; Holmes had calculated that Jude wouldn't dare do anything to him here, hence his unrestrained speech. Tang San had only pleaded quietly, not making a scene. He was obviously certain that Jude just wanted a way out. But Jude, being so old, couldn't swallow his anger. He chuckled sinisterly, "Little brat, aren't you good at judging people?" "Want to make a bet with this old man?"

Holmes coughed and retched a few times, breathing in fresh air before calming down. He was still seething with anger, his eyes wide as he glared at Judela. "My words broke your nerve, didn't they?" "Only someone who's broken their nerve would get so angry!" "Let's bet!" "What's there to be afraid of?!"

"Hahaha," Judla laughed smugly, "Very good, very spirited. I admire young people like you." "Then tell me, how will Raven deal with those departing nobles later?"

Holmes paused, his eyes darting around a few times before he closed them again and fell silent. He was clearly carefully recalling Raven's various micro-expressions and subtle mannerisms. After a long while, he opened his eyes, gripping the binoculars around his neck tightly. "Earl Raven said before he left that he would give everyone a satisfactory answer this afternoon. And his tone was calm, his expression peaceful. I suspect he will definitely bestow titles upon a group of nobles to appease the discontent of the nobles."

Jude crossed his arms, leaned back, and gave a disdainful smile.

Seeing Judla's gesture, which, though silent, was extremely demeaning and humiliating, Holmes was immediately angered. "Then tell me, Mr. Judla, what do you think Marquis Raven will do?"

"I bet 1000 gold coins that these guys won't survive past the afternoon," Judela said in a completely calm voice, then looked at Tang San and Holmes with a provocative gaze and laughed, "Do you dare to bet?"

"Impossible!" Holmes immediately retorted vehemently. "How could this be?!" "Even if I'm wrong, at most the Marquis of Raven won't bestow any titles!" "It's impossible to kill anyone!" "Let alone kill so many nobles!" "You're a complete senile old fool!" "What wouldn't I bet on?!" "You're doomed, Lord Judela. I hope you won't go back on your word!" "I've carefully observed the Marquis of Raven. From his appearance to his departure, he didn't show the slightest hint of murderous intent!" "Only when he saw a very few individuals did his expression waver." "Do you think my telescope is just for show?" Holmes said, raising his telescope and shaking it.

"If I win, will you two little brats have any money?" Judela asked casually, too lazy to say more.

"Your Excellency Judela," Tang San frowned, "you mean—Marquis Raven will kill all the nobles of Snow Maple County?" "And today?" "I want to confirm this with you." "If so, I'm willing to bet 500 gold coins." "I guarantee with my integrity that Marquis Raven will at least not kill Viscount Broca." "You know, Viscount Broca just swore allegiance to Marquis Raven in front of everyone!" "Marquis Raven is not that kind of person!" "The Marquis is of noble character, kind and benevolent. Please don't impose your narrow-minded thoughts on him."

"Hahaha" "Hahahahahahahahaha"

Judela laughed so hard he was breathless, his cheeks flushed red, and tears streamed down his face. "You're absolutely right!" "It's a pity that Raven isn't here to hear your flattery." "Do you know why Raven didn't take me with him on this expedition to the Orc Empire?" "Because I know him too well!" "From the first day he arrived in Eagle Town, I've been dealing with him." "I've suffered more losses at his hands than you two have eaten rice combined, you know?!" "That's why he didn't dare take me, because he knows that others can't see through his act of feigning old age, but I can see right through it!" "You two just wait and see. If even one of these people is still alive this afternoon, I, Judela, will cut off my head and give it to you two to kick around like a football."

With that, Jude sneered twice, “Politics is the most complex and darkest thing in the world.” “You two little brats, you think you can fight me?” “Here’s a piece of advice for you two that will benefit you for a lifetime—don’t look at the world with your naive mindset and perspective.” “Otherwise, you two will suffer the consequences later.”

After saying that, Jude crossed his arms, closed his eyes, and said no more.

"Hehe," Holmes said, still unwilling to admit defeat. "Don't worry, Tang San, we're sure to make those 1500 gold coins!" "Haha," Holmes replied. "I've already decided what I want to buy." "I plan to buy my own house first."

Tang San remained silent, a strange unease creeping into his heart. It was as if something bad was about to happen.

"Tang San!" "Holmes!" Suddenly, a loud shout came from outside the meeting hall: "The Marquis summons you. Please come with me immediately."

Tang San looked up and saw it was Lord Link. He quickly got up and followed Holmes outside.

Following Lord Link on the magical elevator, Tang San arrived at the study on the sixth floor. Although it was a study, the space was vast, and the decor was incredibly luxurious. A wall was covered with a dazzling array of artworks, and the carpet underfoot was as soft as cotton candy. Even the cheapest magical lamp was something Tang San couldn't afford in several lifetimes. Moreover, on the enormous desk were many figurines that Tang San greatly admired. These figurines were long gone, impossible to find elsewhere. Tang San's heart itched with desire; he even entertained the despicable thought of secretly stealing them. He really wanted them!
Across the large desk, Marquis Raven sat in a chair, hunched over, writing something. Tang San and Holmes stood obediently in place, not daring to disturb him. Tang San secretly observed him and noticed that Marquis Raven was really young, looking only a few years older than himself at 18. He didn't look like he was approaching forty at all. And like himself, he had a head of black hair. However, Marquis Raven's black hair was short, while his was long. The more Tang San looked, the more he felt the two looked alike. "Could I really be Marquis Raven's illegitimate son?" Tang San thought to himself. But he quickly dismissed the idea! Although his father, Jack, was very irritable towards him, he still loved him deeply at heart. He could feel the blood bond between himself and his father, Jack, and it was very clear.

"The mistress is here? Have a seat."

The words "The mistress is here" pulled Tang San back to reality. It also brought him a warmth he had never felt before, a warmth like a heartfelt greeting from "true family." It was like igniting the gentle light deep within his heart while he was in this strange world. In that instant, his soul, lonely for 18 years, almost burst into tears! He desperately wanted to ask about his deepest secrets. But he held back. His previously chaotic heart also calmed down. It seemed Judea was indeed talking nonsense. Marquis Raven couldn't possibly be the kind of executioner who would indiscriminately kill innocent people. He didn't understand why Judea would slander the Marquis for no reason. It was highly likely that the malice had twisted from being imprisoned by Marquis Raven for many years!
"Greetings, Your Excellency Marquis."

Tang San and Holmes bowed to each other.

"Sit down, sit down." "Don't be so formal." Raven smiled. "I heard that while I was away, you two little ones solved quite a few cases, greatly improving the security of the territory." "You even earned the title of 'Detective God.'" Raven said, taking out a small box. "There are 500 gold coins in here, my reward for you two." "I hope you two will continue your efforts and contribute even more to the territory." "If you encounter any difficulties in the future, you can come to Eagle City to find me. I've already given the word that you two are now qualified to see me directly."

"This……"

Despite their best efforts to suppress their emotions, Tang San and Holmes couldn't help but reveal expressions of ecstatic joy. "Thank you, Your Excellency Marquis."

“Alright, go down.” “Interrogate the people at the Severed Finger Tavern thoroughly for me.” “Remember,” Raven said calmly, “Don’t wrong any innocent person, but absolutely don’t let any bad one go.” Then, his tone shifted, “Anyone connected to the Razor Gang, better to kill the innocent than let the guilty go free!”

"Yes," Tang San nodded to Holmes. Holmes added, "I guarantee I will fulfill your request, sir!"

Raven waved his hand and continued writing the letter in his hand.

“Uh…” “My Lord Marquis…” “There’s something I really want to ask.” However, after Tang San stood up, he couldn’t suppress his curiosity and impulse, and spoke somewhat hesitantly.

“Oh?” “Go ahead,” Raven asked, putting down his quill.

"Holmes, go outside and wait for me for a moment," Tang San suddenly said, turning around.

Holmes' eyes darted around, he smiled mysteriously, nodded in agreement, and left the study, thoughtfully closing the two large wooden doors behind him.

“My lord, you…” “Why are you taking such good care of me?” “Is it because you also come from…” Tang San mustered his courage and looked at Raven.

However, before he could finish speaking, Raven interrupted him. "Tang San," Raven said, "everyone in this world is unique. The reason I've taken care of you is because of your mother. Your mother was kind to me in the past. She specifically begged me to take good care of you."

"You!" Tang San was even more shocked and speechless upon hearing this. "You've seen my mother?!" "What does she look like?!" "How is she now?" "Where is she now? Why has she never looked for me all these years?!"

"Don't get agitated." Raven came out from behind the desk and patted Tang San on the shoulder. "Your mother is a pure-blooded elf. She's currently in the Elf Empire. I met her in the Forbidden Zone. As for why she didn't look for you, it's because she had no choice; she had her own reasons!" "That's all I can tell you."

Tang San's eyes were already red, clearly he was trying hard to hold back tears. What child in the world wouldn't miss their mother? Especially those who have endured hardship from a young age. The word "mother" carries an irreplaceable weight. "I will definitely cultivate diligently and go save her!"

Raven sighed softly, "Now you know why I didn't tell you on my own?" "The Forbidden Zone is really dangerous, but I can't stop you. I hope you succeed."

"My lord." "I want to know, did my mother leave anything behind?" Tang San lowered his head, wiped away his tears, and asked earnestly.

“No.” Raven shook his head calmly.

Tang San nodded dejectedly. "I... I want this figurine." He pointed to the object on the desk with a mix of embarrassment and shyness.

Raven looked down and was stunned. It was a Gul'dan figurine. The runner-up in the first Raven Tournament.

“It’s yours,” Raven said without hesitation. “Also, don’t worry about the divine potion. Once it’s made, I can reward you with one.”

"Really?" Tang San exclaimed in utter surprise. The reason he hadn't been able to become a transcendent being, relying solely on his hidden weapons to capture people, was because he simply couldn't afford the expensive and rare divine-given potion. His earlier act of betting against Judela, so contrary to his usual composed nature, was also partly driven by his desire to raise the money for the divine-given potion.

"Haha," Raven couldn't help but chuckle. "How could this be fake?"

Tang San scratched his head awkwardly. He had truly lost his mind. How could Marquis Raven joke with a child like him? Holding the Gul'dan figurine in his palm, Tang San solemnly bowed to Raven and said, "Marquis Raven, I will never forget your generosity and kindness. I swear, I will be more loyal to you than Viscount Broca is today." "Please accept my oath and loyalty! It will be with my heart."

Raven nodded with a look of satisfaction, appearing quite pleased with Tang San's loyalty.

Seeing the satisfaction on Lei Wen's face, Tang San was also very happy and turned to leave the study.

Watching Tang San leave, Raven's expression changed, and he stood there, his expression slightly complicated. Actually, Tang San's mother, Ruvita, had given Raven something: three fifth-tier Netherworld Silk Flowers. Their effect was to help cultivators fuse their internal battle qi and magic power, thus forming a battle-magic primordial energy. However, this stuff was completely useless against ordinary extraordinary beings and magicians. It was even more useless against Tang San in his current state.

Even if it were useful, Raven wouldn't give it to him.

If this were just a dream, a novel, a movie... then Raven could be portrayed as greater, more glorious, and more righteous than anyone else. He could occupy the moral high ground in everything he did and consistently demonstrate impeccable positive energy.

Unfortunately, this is the stark reality: Raven is not noble, nor does he ever claim that he is not a selfish, stingy, and greedy person.

……

(End of this chapter)