Chapter 1124

Alexander nodded, glancing around. "Where's Grandma?"

"Your grandmother will be out soon, don't worry. We should begin," Ralph replied.

Alexander briefly considered the significance of his grandmother's absence. He stepped forward, turning to Lily, who withdrew her hand slightly, remaining near him.

"Good afternoon to the elders. Today, we're gathered here…" Alexander paused, turning to Ralph. "Since you summoned us, do you have an announcement?"

Ralph smiled smugly. "Indeed. Something crucial concerning the Russell family bloodline."

The announcement sparked immediate interest. One of Ralph's uncles joked, "Bloodline? Ralph, planning a family?" Laughter rippled through the room.

Ralph remained unfazed. "Don't worry, Uncle. That will come. But this announcement affects our family's bloodline—its purity." He raised his voice to ensure everyone heard.

The laughter ceased. The room's atmosphere shifted.

"Ralph, what is it?" someone asked.

Ralph stepped back, his gaze fixed on Alexander. Alexander, usually the family's leader, held the most power. But that was about to change. Ralph would assume that position.

Alexander's unwavering gaze hinted at his unawareness. A smirk played on Ralph's lips. Alex, you’ve reigned so long, you never expected this, he thought.

Ralph cleared his throat. "Alex, this concerns the Russell family's reputation. What if someone falsely claims to be a Russell? How do we handle that?"

Alexander met his gaze. "While our bloodline is important, it's the twenty-first century. I'm unsure who you mean, but if someone isn't of our bloodline, how would they become one of us?"

"What if it's hidden, or they're unaware?" Ralph pressed.

"Then there are two possibilities. Intentional deception warrants expulsion. Unawareness, already integrated into the family, changes nothing. Our bloodline is vital, but so are our relationships," Alexander reasoned. "Our family is large. Perhaps there's a reason. As long as it doesn't harm the family, it's not a pressing issue."

Ralph hadn't anticipated this response. He'd planned to use this against Alexander, but it backfired. Alexander was cunning, but Ralph wouldn't be outmaneuvered. He would force Alexander's hand.

Stepping forward, Ralph smiled. "That's not entirely true. Our family is quite conservative, wouldn't you agree? Most elders here would concur. Could you remain impartial if you discovered a grandchild, loved for years, wasn't yours?"