“Devonte, what's going on here? These people..."

Barth looked visibly perplexed and alarmed at the scene.

The elderly men looked at him, their faces showing no emotion.

Devonte casually inquired, “Barth, are you absolutely sure you're not part of this?"

The three old men prayed it wasn't Barth.

Barth immediately grasped the seriousness of the accusation and swiftly dropped to his knees. "I may not be as strong as Lilah, but I've never considered harming her. I swear on my life!"

His gaze was intense, showing sincere determination.

Devonte's expression softened slightly. He instructed Xavier to fetch a stool for Barth. "Sit down. Last night, these thugs sneaked in, attempting to kill Lilah. I thwarted them. Now you'll assist us in questioning them."

Devonte spoke quietly, but each word resonated deeply, touching Barth to the core.

Barth was momentarily stunned, his eyes brimming with relief. It took him a moment to collect himself, and then he promptly stood up, expressing profuse gratitude to Devonte as he cautiously took a seat beside him.

“Devonte, I wasn't part of this, but whoever did it clearly aimed to eliminate Lilah to force me into the league leader role," Barth stated after a pause, cutting to the chase.

Devonte nodded, feeling a sigh welling up inside.

They hadn't planned on giving Barth another opportunity, but going against Barth and his supporters under these circumstances could lead to more trouble than they bargained for.

Perhaps it was wisest to give Barth a chance to prove himself. If he was sincere about changing his ways, they might reconsider welcoming him back, especially considering his past decency.

"You make a good argument," Cyrus remarked, his voice carrying weight.

"So, who do you reckon is behind these hitmen?"

A murmur spread through the gathering as many exchanged cautious looks, suspicion hanging heavy in the air.

“cyrus, I have my doubts but no solid proof. I request you all to investigate," Barth stated respectfully.

Kyler rose, drew a polished dagger, and sliced through the ropes restraining the captured attackers. "Kneel," he ordered sharply.

Their legs buckled immediately, and they dropped to their knees, drenched in cold sweat.

“Whoever comes clean first will be forgiven," Kyler declared, twirling the dagger in his hand, his smile sending chills.

The captives exchanged nervous glances, seeing suspicion and doubt in each other's eyes, too frightened to speak, knowing their families were still under their employer's control.

"If no one's talking, then let's get to business. I'll castrate this man first," Devonte remarked casually, pointing to one of the captives. "We're all adults here, no need to shy away. Anyone who dares harm our student clearly wants trouble."

His voice remained unnervingly composed, causing the captives to tremble in fear.