LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 95
Episode 95: The Cardinal
“This is the financial report from Galvate this time.”
Carlisle Sainhal glanced through the documents handed to him by his secretary.
“Hmm, it seems the profits in Galvate have dropped due to the ongoing crackdowns.”
Carlisle’s voice carried a hint of displeasure.
Carlisle Sainhal, aged 38, had a sharp and intelligent appearance, easily mistaken for a high-ranking official by those unaware of his true position. Having risen to prominence at a young age, he had achieved the rank of Cardinal by 38, with only the Pope above him. Carlisle was widely regarded as a future candidate to become the youngest Pope in history.
“This… is truly unacceptable.”
“Who is leading the crackdowns?”
“It is Lord Giorg of House Zarfing.”
At the secretary’s words, Carlisle shot a sharp glare, causing the secretary to shrink back.
“Zarfing? That bumbling Marquis who almost got usurped?”
Carlisle’s voice dripped with blatant disdain.
“Yes, from that very House Zarfing.”
The secretary’s tone also carried a hint of mockery.
During the meeting between Giorg and King Jilvol, Giorg’s true nature had been exposed, but the information had only spread among a select few. This was largely due to Giorg’s efforts to control the narrative. The Rizerutus Church, however, believed that Giorg had used intelligence gathered by spy agencies to establish diplomatic relations with the Zabeil Kingdom.
“Hmph, how dare such an incompetent fool get in my way.”
“Indeed. What shall we do? Shall we eliminate him immediately?”
Carlisle pondered for a moment at the secretary’s suggestion.
“No, let’s leave him be for now. If the Marquis were assassinated, it would trigger a large-scale investigation. That wouldn’t be wise. Besides, Giorg Zarfing is likely a favorite of either King Alzeis or Ilzam. Any investigation would be thorough.”
“Understood.”
The secretary responded quietly to Carlisle’s words.
If Giorg had heard this conversation, he might have been disappointed. If Carlisle had tried to deal with Giorg directly, Giorg would have cut off his hand and gleefully slit Carlisle’s throat. That would have been much quicker.
“Tell Lord Hawkins to increase the profits. And don’t forget to bring more nobles into the fold.”
“Understood.”
The secretary bowed and left to relay the instructions.
“Honestly, the world is full of fools. Disgusting.”
Carlisle spat out the words.
To become Pope, one must be elected from among the thirteen Cardinals, with votes also coming from Archbishops and Bishops. Carlisle’s secret trade of Eald was part of his campaign for the Papal election. He felt no guilt about it, genuinely believing that becoming Pope would allow him to guide foolish humans toward a better existence. This was why he couldn’t suppress his contempt for Galvate, which stood in his way.
“If only those worthless scum could quietly work for me instead of failing to understand my noble ideals.”
Carlisle’s voice grew noticeably harsher.
Unbeknownst to him, a dangerous presence was preparing to hunt him down.
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