The laughter continued for a while, making Ralph feel puzzled. He wondered, "Did I accidentally say something funny or do something funny?" He started thinking about his own actions, trying to figure out where he might have messed up.
The man opened his eyes halfway and noticed Ralph's face wasn't happy or joking around like he expected.
That's when he realized Ralph was really serious, not joking at all.
He stopped laughing right away and looked at Ralph with a raised eyebrow.
"Wait… you're not joking? Like this isn't just some kind of act or a trick?" He was just as confused as Ralph.
Ralph shook his head, keeping the same serious look.
"I'm not joking, sir. I mean it. I'm the one who tamed and owns him, no one else. I'm ready to take the blame for his actions." He dropped to his knees, pressing his forehead to the floor.
Staying low as a sign of respect, he felt a pat on his back and then a voice.
"Stand up and lift your head high."
"Huh?"
