https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-396-Lanchi-s-Visit-and-the-Unspoken-Rules/12584572/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-398-Lanchi-is-a-Man-of-the-World/12584574/
Chapter 397: Lanchi's Dual Maneuvering
Chapter 397: Lanchi's Dual Maneuvering
Meanwhile, at another location...
On the third floor of the Redmond Building, north of the Protoss Royal Magic Academy, lies a meeting room within the walls of the grand structure.
The walls were adorned with dark walnut paneling, intricately carved with exquisite woodwork, each groove telling a tale of a craftsman's meticulous attention to detail. At the heart of the room rested a set of sophisticated leather sofas, their deep brown hues and sleek, fluid lines striking a balance between modern aesthetic appeal and the solemnity of classical furniture.
Seated on the sofas, Cardinal Lanchi and Chief Warden Bakas engaged in pleasant conversation.
"My presence here today is not merely as an administrator of a prison, but also as an advocate for a more just, efficient, and humane prison system. Helrom Prison is not just a place of incarceration; it is a complex microcosm of society, intricately tied to the safety, rights, and future of every Protoss individual. Therefore, I strongly resonate with your perspective, Mr. Lochi Maccassi. We are kindred spirits; it's a pity we haven't met sooner."
"Indeed," came the reply.
Scattered around the sofas were a few delicately crafted small tea tables, their surfaces bearing a deep, aged texture. Porcelain tea sets rested upon them, occasionally being picked up and put down, their movements speaking to the unspoken elegance shared between the two individuals.
Cardinal Lanchi, with a slight tilt of his shoulders and a smile playing on his lips, listened intently to Chief Warden Bakas, his eyes sparkling with intelligence.
Power and desire interwove in the air, creating a harmonious yet subtle ambiance within the VIP meeting room, as if an important decision for the imperial capital of Helrom was about to be seamlessly reached.
Anticipation for the outcome of the discussion shone in Chief Warden Bakas's eyes.
"As administrators, we are also committed to ensuring safety and order. We maintain stability within and security without through advanced surveillance systems, professional guard teams, and stringent rules and regulations. However, merely maintaining order is not enough. Our modern prison aspires to something greater—I envision a place of reformation and education. Essentially, we are striving for the same goal..."
However, as Chief Warden Bakas passionately elaborated on his viewpoint, Cardinal Lanchi's gaze suddenly froze, his eyes fixed on a single point as if he had plunged into a complex train of thought.
Chief Warden Bakas noticed this change, his words gradually slowing, and a hint of confusion began to crease his brow until he eventually fell silent. The entire meeting room was enveloped in a brief hush.
The only testament to the passing of time in that moment was the shimmering crystal chandelier and the steaming cups of tea on the tables.
Bakas was unsure if he had inadvertently touched upon a sensitive topic or suggested something inappropriate.
He could only stare intently at Lanchi, searching for clues in his expression.
"Lochi?"
Chief Warden Bakas felt a mix of concern and caution. His mind swiftly replayed the conversation, seeking any potential loopholes.
Just as he was about to voice a probing question, Cardinal Lanchi seemed to snap out of his reverie.
"My apologies, Bakas. I've been incredibly busy with work lately, and I tend to forget important matters."
Cardinal Lanchi's gaze regained its clarity and determination. He slowly turned toward Chief Warden Bakas, his expression regaining its calm, even bearing a hint of an apologetic smile that was barely perceptible. With a resigned sigh, he continued, as if remembering something he had to address.
"While listening to you just now, I suddenly recalled an issue that had been brought to my attention by a student. It appears that the bribery situation in the basement level of Helrom Prison is quite severe. For instance, there's a warden named Colantan who allegedly said that even if Lochi Maccassi came, he'd expect a couple of cigarettes as a token. I wanted to ask if there's any truth to this matter?"
Cardinal Lanchi inquired with a concerned expression, his tone conveying his dedication to upholding discipline and integrity within the prison system.
"Is that so?"
Chief Warden Bakas's eyebrows shot up in surprise, and he asked, incredulous.
But then understanding dawned on him, and he realized why Cardinal Lanchi had been deep in thought.
Those words lifted the veil of confusion in Bakas's mind, steering the conversation back on track, and he was relieved that it was a manageable issue.
While it was fine for such words to be spoken casually within the prison walls, should they reach the ears of Lochi Maccassi, the nature of the situation would be entirely different!
Even if he were to dispose of that good-for-nothing idiot, he must not, under any circumstances, offend Lochi Maccassi and jeopardize their friendship and collaboration!
"I will immediately—right now—launch an investigation into this matter. May I borrow the communication terminal device in this meeting room?"
Although Chief Warden Bakas had not anticipated this twist, he quickly adjusted his expression.
Sincerity was of the utmost importance at this juncture, and handling the situation well could further endear him to Lochi Maccassi, allowing them to continue their enjoyable discussion about today's cooperation plans, along with various current political intelligence and predictions regarding the Protoss Empire.
"Of course."
Cardinal Lanchi nodded, rising to his feet and adopting a peaceful yet considerate stance as he led Chief Warden Bakas to the side of the meeting room.
There, a unique mechanical device rested—a terminal that blended Helrom's latest communication magic with traditional craftsmanship.
Chief Warden Bakas stood before the device, swiftly inserting his encrypted communication magic card from his inner pocket into the terminal. His expression turned solemn, his brows furrowed, and a hint of displeasure flickered in his eyes.
Soon, the communication terminal successfully connected to the basement level lobby of Helrom Prison.
"Get me Warden Colantan from the basement level," Chief Warden Bakas instructed through the communicator.
Cardinal Lanchi stood by, observing Chief Warden Bakas.
His face maintained its composure, but his eyes occasionally reflected a deep thoughtful gleam.
"Yes, please hold!"
The communication was hastily transferred from the foundation level to the basement level. After about ten seconds, Warden Colantan's slow, authoritative voice finally came through: "Who may I ask is calling?"
"It's me."
Chief Warden Bakas's voice was cold and hard, his words carrying a hint of gritted teeth.
"Chief Warden Bakas? What can I do for you?"
The mere mention of Chief Warden Bakas's name caused Warden Colantan's speech to quicken, and the sound of his office chair creaking indicated that he had abruptly adjusted his posture. He now sat upright, fully attentive to the communication from the chief warden.
"I heard that you said even if it was Mr. Lochi Maccassi, he'd have to bring you a couple of cigarettes?"
Chief Warden Bakas's voice was laced with deadly intent as he questioned.
(End of Chapter)
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