Thora's POV: Felix suddenly stepped forward and declared loudly, "Dad, Mr. Lawson. Thora's engagement was arranged by the elders of both families. Even if it's to be canceled, shouldn't it require the elders' consent?" I frowned. Why was he getting involved? But catching the hurt and indignation in his eyes, clearly upset they were publicly humiliating me, this kid had a good heart. Something inexplicably softened in my chest, and I couldn't bring myself to scold him. Still, I was determined to break off this engagement. "Even if my grandfather were here, I'd say the same thing!" Caleb shot Felix a cold glance, then turned to glare at me with disgust. "I want to cancel my engagement with Thora! I'd rather die than marry this woman!" "You little punk! Then I'll kill you myself!" A rough, furious roar exploded from the back of the crowd, carrying the distinctive commanding weight of a military man. The onlookers immediately scattered before him, and an old man in military uniform strode forward. He looked about 60 years old, with dazzling rank insignia on his shoulder boards. An active-duty general. A man who wielded military power in the Astralis Empire. The surroundings instantly fell silent. Even breathing became hushed, and everyone's expressions showed unmistakable respect. "Grandpa?" The arrogance on Caleb's face instantly froze, like someone had pulled out his spine.Marcus and Gabby also hurried forward, their voices tight. "Rio." Rio snorted coldly, sweeping his gaze over the three of them, his voice booming. "This engagement was arranged between me and Marlon. When did it become your place to decide? Cancel the engagement? I don't agree!" The entire hall fell dead silent. Who would dare to challenge a general? I'd just furrowed my brow when an aged but powerful voice rang out. "I agree." Those two words landed like a hammer blow, directly opposing Rio. The crowd stirred again. I turned to look, and people on the other side also stepped aside as an old man in a wheelchair was pushed forward. He wore a dark formal uniform, his body sitting upright. Even sitting, he radiated the intensity and commanding presence earned from years of battlefield combat. "Grandpa?" Felix's voice carried surprise and joy. "Dad?" Norman's hand unconsciously clenched the hem of his suit jacket, his expression uneasy. So this was the original Thora's grandfather, Marlon. I looked at those cloudy yet sharp eyes, and an instinctive awe surged in my heart. I unconsciously straightened even more, my feet coming together into the military stance I'd perfected in the apocalypse. Marlon's gaze swept across the hall, pausing on my face. That look held scrutiny, and there was also a trace of approval that vanished in an instant. Finally, he looked toward Rio and spoke, "Rio." Rio stepped forward quickly, his tone softening. "Marlon, how did you get discharged from the hospital? You didn't even give us a heads-up." Marlon didn't respond to that. He simply jerked his chin toward me. "Thora, come here." I walked to the wheelchair, lowered my head, and called out. "Grandpa." His rough palm suddenly grasped my hand. His palm was covered in calluses that felt rough and almost painful, yet carried a solid, reassuring strength. "Tell me, do you want to break off this engagement?" His voice was deep, but each word struck my heart. "Marlon, my grandson, was out of line in this!" Rio hurried to interject. "I've already chewed him out. Don't worry, I absolutely won't let your granddaughter suffer any injustice!" I glanced at Rio and suddenly understood why Marlon had arranged this engagement in the first place.He was a man of true character, someone who valued loyalty and honor. Marlon had retired due to injury, and the influence of both the Silverleaf Pack and the Greens had waned. Yet, he still treated Marlon like a brother in arms. A man like that was truly worth having as an ally. It was a shame that Caleb hadn't inherited even half of his integrity. "Rio." Marlon raised his hand to cut him off, his voice cold. "I won't let my granddaughter suffer even the slightest injustice. But she already has." Rio wanted to say something more, but Marlon turned his head to stare at me, his voice full of vigor. "Thora, answer me!" Meeting his gaze, something struck my heart. This feeling of being firmly protected by someone was so unfamiliar it made my nose sting. But my expression remained calm as I replied with conviction. "Grandpa, I want to break off the engagement with the Lawsons of Argenvale Pack."