Chapter 129: Neil showed great respect for the man in the black robe, smiling as he quickly replied, "Yes, that's Derek." He then prompted, "Derek, cover and meet Mr. Warren." Unfamiliar with Mr. Warren, Derek approached and offered a polite greeting. "Mr. Warren." The man in black scoffed, his words dripping with disdain. “Is he truly worthy of Melinda? It's unfortunate that my grandfather chose him for her!" At that moment, Derek realized the man in the black robe was Aelfric Warren, Melinda's brother. Trenton, Melinda's grandfather, was the nominal leader of the Warren family, but the real authority lay with Aelfric. Having spent many years training at Doomsday Base, Aelfric had left the day-to-day management of the family affairs to Trenton. Aelfric had risen to becthe deputy chief instructor at Doomsday Base, making him one of the most formidable figures there, second only to King and Black Mallow. Being associated with Doomsday Base granted one considerable influence, akin to commanding a formidable military force. This fact alone secured the Warren family a lofty status in Blebert, surpassed only by the Daniels family. Hence, Neil's deep respect for Aelfric was understandable, despite his younger age Aelfric had been immersed in Doomsday Base training from a young age, returning sporadically after completing his training. His leadership of the Warren family's affairs was often conducted from afar. His habit of disguising himself while at Doomsday Base, coupled with his anonymity during his visits to Blebert, meant that aside from his close associates, few knew his true appearance Derek's meeting with Aelfric today was due to his upcoming engagement to Melinda. Aelfric, deeply devoted to his sister, had returned to evaluate the man she was to marry. From Aelfric's initial cold reception, Derek gathered that he was not pleased. Intent on preserving his engagement and earning Aelfric's respect, Derek bowed deeply and spoke earnestly. "I cfrom humble beginnings and lack formal education. I apologize if I've fallen short of your expectations today. However, I assure you, I will strive to emulate your example, diligently improving myself and ensuring Melinda's happiness." Every journey starts at galnovsAelfric paused before responding with a slight smile, "You're quite articulate." Encouraged by the softening in Aelfric's demeanor, Derek eagerly responded, “I look forward to your guidance." "Very well," Aelfric said with a sigh. "The engagement has been widely publicized, and it would be problematic to cancel it now. I will monitor your conduct closely. Should you cause my sister any distress, be warned—I will not hold back." "I promise to care for Melinda with all my heart," Derek assured him, relief washing over him. Since his unnerving conversation with Neil, Derek understood he had no other choice but to follow Neil's every order and remain vigilant around Foley. Foley, having married Della from the Brock family, had secured their influential backing. But Derek was alone, lacking the power to stand against Foley Luckily, Neil, seeking to gather more allies against Connor, had arranged his marriage with the Warren family. Thus, regardless of whether Melinda was beautiful or plain, intelligent or otherwise, Derek needed to seize this opportunity and marry her. Now recognized by Aelfric, the true power behind the Warren family, Derek could finally feel secure. With Aelfric's backing, he would have the support of Doomsday Base, and Derek knew his stature would rise. People would respect him, and Foley would hesitate before crossing him
As Derek pondered these prospects, Aelfric interjected with a sudden Get query. "Perek I heard you were engaged before. Who was she?"