These three words are equivalent to not acknowledging John Benson as a father—this is to sever all ties with the The Benson Family!

In an instant, a flash of angry murderous intent flickered in John Benson's eyes. Yet within that killing intent, there was still a trace of reluctance, a hint of guilt.

However, when John Benson's gaze swept over his legitimate bloodline, Henry Benson, and the members of the Shi family, Henry Benson's maternal clan—

That trace of reluctance at the corner of his eye instantly evaporated.

“Edward Benson, since you call me the head of the The Benson Family, are you planning to cut ties with my The Benson Family? Very well, after today’s ceremony, you will no longer be a member of the The Benson Family. From now on, you are on your own!”

John Benson hardened his heart and announced coldly.

This is not merely exile, but a far crueler method. If it were exile, at least he would still be of Benson blood.

This is to strip him completely of his Benson bloodline status, making him no different from a wandering ghost!

Grace Benson cried out, “Father.”

“Grace, my mind is made up, say no more. From this day forward, this person is no longer your brother, and you may not shelter him under the family’s name.”

Grace Benson trembled all over, her eyes reddened, lips quivering, her face deathly pale.

John Benson laughed heartily: “Today we are surrounded by honored guests; a minor interlude does not spoil the mood. My son Henry Benson has had the good fortune to enter the Yin-Yang Academy. This is a blessing for my The Benson Family. I, Benson, offer this humble cup of wine to thank all of you for coming to celebrate. I will drink first as a sign of respect.”

As a generation’s family head, he truly had his shrewdness and skill. To expel his own son on the spot, yet remain unruffled, chatting and laughing as if nothing had happened.

In poor families, brothers are friendly and respectful. But in powerful families, it is rare to see fatherly kindness and filial piety, or harmony among brothers.

The reason is simple: the struggle for power inevitably brings blades and shadows, cold-blooded and ruthless.

Edward Benson stood alone, and aside from Grace Benson at his side, he could feel the hostility from everyone present.

Henry Benson looked at him with a cold, mocking smile, as if watching a fool.

Charles Benson bared his teeth at him with a ferocious expression, even making a throat-slitting gesture.

The other elders and young disciples of the The Benson Family, whether indifferent or sneering, were clearly waiting to see Edward Benson's miserable fate.

And among the guests, most were just there to watch the spectacle, eager for more drama.

Especially Yvonne Taylor, whose delicate brows were slightly furrowed, her expression showing a trace of sympathy, but even more indifference and contempt. Clearly, in her eyes, this Edward Benson was beyond saving.

In everyone’s eyes, this Edward Benson must have had his brain caught in a door.

Even if he was destined to be cut off from the The Benson Family, why do it in such a foolish way? Why even anger the head of the The Benson Family?

Edward Benson straightened his back, his expression unchanged.

He toyed lightly with the cup in his hand, then suddenly flung it, splashing all the wine onto the table.

“Head of the The Benson Family,” Edward Benson spoke.

“You take my glory and turn it into a halo for your legitimate son. Do you really think that by holding this so-called celebration, deceiving yourself and others, you can silence the gossip of the world?”

Edward Benson's voice carried a natural, resonant strength.

“For a mere academy spot, if you want it, you can have it. I no longer intend to pursue it. But you? Stealing my glory isn’t enough—you go even further, determined to destroy me!”

“As the family head, you are unjust—so you are muddle-headed; as a father, you are biased—so you are unkind. Tell me, what right do you have to make me stand up and salute you?”

John Benson's face turned cold; these words were like sharp arrows, piercing straight into his weakest spot.

“This child defies his father, defies the family, a crime worthy of death! Seize him, seize him!” Samuel Benson jumped up, repeatedly ordering, afraid that Edward Benson would say anything else to disgrace the family.

Grace Benson stood up with tears in her eyes: “Father, on this day of family celebration, are you really going to kill your own son?”

As the standoff continued, suddenly there came a hurried sound of footsteps from outside. A steward, looking grave, approached John Benson and whispered a few words in his ear.

John Benson was greatly shocked by what he heard, his expression instantly becoming extremely animated.

He took a deep breath, his face relaxing a little: “Grace, let’s put this matter aside for now. Senior members of the Yin-Yang Academy have arrived!”

When John Benson mentioned the senior members of the Yin-Yang Academy, his voice was slightly unsteady, unable to hide his excitement.

On this day of celebration, even the Yin-Yang Academy had come to show support—what an immense honor!

If word got out, it would bring prestige throughout the entire Qingluo Kingdom. Enough for him to boast for ten years.

“Edward Benson, you unfilial son, this matter ends here for now. If you are willing to admit your mistakes later, I, as the family head, can be magnanimous and pardon your crimes, allowing you a place in the family. But in front of the Yin-Yang Academy’s senior members, if you dare to act out, and the blade falls upon you, I will not even frown!”

Whether these words were sincere, or just meant to keep Edward Benson in check, was impossible to tell.

Two people from the Yin-Yang Academy arrived: an old man and a young boy.

The old man wore a black-and-white Daoist robe.

A long robe, divided by the yin-yang duality, appeared distinct and orderly. Yet this simple Daoist robe, when worn, seemed to be imbued with a sacred aura, inspiring awe in all who saw it.

On the old man’s black-and-white robe was embroidered the unique insignia of an elder, signifying his distinguished status in the Black-and-White Academy.