"Clan Head Wang, what do you mean by this?"
Fang Zhongwu looked at Wang Jingtang, who was kneeling on the ground. He accepted the gesture without a hint of unease, showing little emotion.
A Golden Core True Lord could roam freely across an entire kingdom. It was only natural for nobles, great clans, and even members of the Royal Family to kneel before one.
"Some days ago, I was blinded by greed and made decisions that harmed your household and your son."
Wang Jingtang let out a long sigh. The confidence he'd once carried was gone. His back was bent, his hair had turned gray, and he looked decades older.
After careful consideration, he had decided that to protect his family and preserve his ancestors' legacy, he had no choice but to sacrifice himself.
Only his blood would be enough to make amends.
Fang Zhongwu narrowed his eyes and asked, "Please explain in detail."
"Duke Zhenyuan, do you remember the bandit uprising outside Prefecture City some days ago? Green Ridge Stronghold?"
Fang Zhongwu's gaze shifted. He nodded.
"The rise of Green Ridge Stronghold was something I orchestrated from the shadows," Wang Jingtang said without evasion.
"And that Mad Blood Daoist was originally an honored retainer of an aristocratic clan in the Royal Capital. He got into trouble, and I was lucky enough to take him in."
His words sent the elders in the Council Hall into an uproar. They stared at Wang Jingtang, eyes wide, as if they wanted to tear him apart.
Green Ridge Stronghold had killed countless Fang Family disciples and Stewards, and wreaked havoc on many innocent civilians.
It turned out the Wang Clan had manipulated and planned it all from behind the scenes.
Fang Yuan had already suspected as much. He showed little surprise, only watching