Harold slowly stood up and said calmly, "I've seen everything that's happened, and here's what I propose—if Nolan and his family are willing to kneel before everyone and apologize, then maybe we can still resolve this matter amicably. After all, we're all family, aren't we? It's best to show some leniency when we can."
The demand—to have Nolan's entire family kneel and beg for forgiveness—was delivered with such arrogance that it stirred up a deep sense of disgust in Nolan.
Nolan turned and cast a glance at Harold. He then laughed coldly and said, "You old fool. I wasn't planning on dealing with you, but since you're so desperate to throw yourself into this mess, don't blame me for what happens next. They say with age comes wisdom, but in your case, it seems age is all you've got!"
When Harold heard that Nolan not only showed no respect but even dared to insult him, he was instantly furious. He slammed his hand against the table with a loud thud.
"You ungrateful brat! How dare you? I've tolerated you because you're young, and you've contributed to this village in the past, which is why I even bothered to speak on your behalf. Yet you dared insult me? It's clear you're vile to the core, with no sense of propriety or manners. Why, you're no better than an animal!"
Animal?
A flash of murderous intent crossed Nolan's eyes. He was about to turn and tear into Harold, but before he could move, Wayne stepped in front of him with a face filled with rage.
"Uncle Harold, I've always respected you as my elder and acknowledged all you had done for this village. That's why we've kept silent and endured your insults. But now? Now, you've really gone too far!"
Harold let out a cold, mocking laugh. "Gone too far? I have ruled the Northern State for years, and no one has ever dared accuse me of going too far. Do you know why? Because they simply dare not. They fear me.
"They know that if I truly crossed the line, they wouldn't live to see another day. You puny bugs—what do you know of my power? The fact that I even deign to sit here and speak to you is a privilege, one you should count yourselves fortunate to receive."
The arrogance! The oppressiveness!
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