Chapter 1125
Ralph's comment swayed the elders; most agreed. Heads nodded. "That's true," they murmured. "Who would willingly raise another's child?"
"Exactly," someone added. "If someone told me to raise someone else's child, I wouldn't."
"And the purity of our bloodline? Does this mean adultery within the family? Who is it?" The room erupted in a cacophony of hushed, accusing whispers; the topic was deeply sensitive. Suspicion hung heavy in the air as everyone exchanged pointed glances, wondering who Ralph targeted.
The elders believed the individual had lived within the family for years, despite lacking blood ties.
The Russell family was no ordinary clan. Vast and influential, even distant branches reaped the benefits of the prestigious name. Immense wealth and power accompanied it; why should an outsider enjoy such privileges? This was no trivial matter. Though suspicion simmered, no one dared to voice an accusation.
Amidst the heated debate, Ralph quietly regarded Alexander, who met his gaze with unwavering silence.
Finally, someone demanded, "Who are you talking about? Don't leave us hanging! You started this; you must explain."
"Yes," another chimed in. "Isn't this why you called us? The Russell bloodline is important; you can't leave this unresolved."
Ralph turned to his questioners—precisely the reaction he sought. A satisfied smile played on his lips as he shifted his gaze back to Alexander. "Look at their reactions! How can you deny the importance of bloodline? Where did you unearth such a ludicrous notion? If this person isn't a Russell, why should they enjoy Russell privileges?"
Most agreed, though some remained hesitant, unsure of Ralph's target.
"Is a bond forged over years of care and affection less significant?" Alexander calmly countered. "If someone is unaware of their true identity from birth, raised and nurtured by the Russell family, is it truly their fault? Isn't it kinder to keep the truth concealed?"
"I disagree," Ralph insisted. "Maintaining the bloodline is a family tradition. How can we ignore it? We must remove anyone not of Russell blood. How else can our ancestors rest in peace?" His determination masked a burning desire to destroy Alexander. He'd forgotten Margaret's plea for second chances; greed had clouded his judgment.
This family meeting served his ambition: to disgrace Alexander. He aimed not only for Alexander's downfall but also to deny him any redemption. Removing Alexander from the family would leave him powerless, unable to retaliate.
Opinion was divided. Some agreed with Ralph, others with Alexander. After all, if someone were unaware of their true parentage, the fault lay with their parents, not the child.
"In my view," one elder declared, "anyone disrupting our bloodline should be held accountable. But if it's not the outsider's fault, the parents are to blame."