Although Lilah was capable of holding her own, she was no match for armed adversaries.

“I agree to cede the position. Just let them go," Gerard stated, his voice colder than ever. "That's the last concession I'll make. If it's still not enough, then come and face me."

The room fell silent.

Ever since Gerard had assumed the role of clan leader, the Harris family had secured an impregnable standing in Eleywood.

Several years had passed, and though many members desired to dethrone him, none possessed the capability.

Now, he was surrendering so easily-it was like a gift from the heavens.

Jameson was the first to recover, his face twisting into a cruel smirk. "Is the position of clan leader worth more than your mother's life? We demand your expulsion from the family, and that you never return!"

With a dark frown, Gerard fixed a steady, unyielding gaze on Jameson.

The latter stood defiantly among the other members of the Harris family.

"Expel!" Jameson bellowed, urging the others to join his call.

The room fell into a tense silence. Although many thought the accusation was severe, no one dared advocate for Gerard again, fearing the repercussions of defending him in light of such grave accusations.

"Expel!" echoed another voice from the crowd.

Tears welled up in Lilah's eyes. She shook her head vehemently, pleading silently with Gerard not to consent.

But at that moment, Gerard saw no alternative.

"Okay," he conceded with a bitter, ironic smile.

"Then leave this place now. We're going to deal with the murderer."

Jameson seized the moment to stir up more trouble.

Others began to glare menacingly at Lilah.

"Lilah..."

Just as despair threatened to overwhelm Lilah, a hoarse, elderly voice cut through the tension.

Frozen with shock, Lilah thought she was imagining things. She rushed into the room.