The smile on Leo's face froze slightly. In all his years, he had never seen Mr. Kenzi lose his temper like this, let alone swear.
It was clear—this matter had truly enraged the old man.
Kenzi's sharp gaze fell on Jack, his voice deep and cutting. "So, young man, from what you're saying, I'm to understand that you're the embodiment of justice? A patriotic, virtuous soul with a deep sense of duty to family and country? While I, Hiran Kenzi, am a heartless old fool who neither respects the emperor nor understands the very foundation of this nation?"
With his final words, Kenzi slammed his crutch against the ground. The dull thud echoed loudly in the now-silent living room, making everyone freeze in place.
Jack opened his mouth to respond, but Leo quickly stepped forward, trying to defuse the tension.
"Jack didn't mean it like that. He just—"
"Silence!" Kenzi barked, his voice cold and unyielding.