The Untamed Series 3: Love Affair

Chapter 12: Deception

Third Person POV

A week later, within the serene confines of Lanshi in Cloud Recesses, the gathering of Lan elders commenced. Lan Qiren, Lan XiChen, and Lan Wangji were present, though Wangji chose to remain silent, unwilling to engage with their discussion about the indoctrination that would soon commenced.

However, one elder, Heiling, decided to broach the topic of the marriage alliance requested by Jin Guangshan.

Lan Qiren let out a weary sigh, attempting to explain to the elder that such an alliance was unnecessary for their sect. Yet, elder Heiling persisted, pushing for their compliance.

Lan XiChen looked at his brother with a mixture of sympathy and determination. He clenched his fist and faced the Lan elders, his voice filled with unwavering conviction.

"The decision regarding Wangji's marriage is his and his alone. He has the right to choose when and whom he wishes to marry. It is not for you, Elder Heiling, or anyone else to dictate," Lan XiChen declared, his words carrying the weight of authority.

"Clan Leader Lan speaks the truth," Grandmaster Lan Yi interjected.

"Moreover, we cannot simply trust Jin Guangshan's intentions in insisting on this betrothal. We must exercise caution and not place our sect's future in the hands of someone whose motives remain unclear."

Wangji let out a weary sigh, grateful for his grandmother's support in this trying time. The weight of their expectations and interference weighed heavily upon him.

Elder Heiling, with a smug smirk, decided to delve further into the matter.

"If you are so vehemently against this marriage alliance, then why did Jin Xuanyu visit Cloud Recesses? And what about the rumors of your relationship with him? Is this merely a game to you, a way to pass the time? You must address these issues promptly, Your Highness, for they have the potential to tarnish your reputation."

Wangji's gaze remained emotionless as he absorbed their words. The frustration and anger simmered beneath the surface, threatening to spill over.

"You all seem to take great pleasure in meddling in my life, in sticking your noses where they do not belong," Wangji spoke, his voice laced with a mix of weariness and defiance. "I do not owe you any explanations. However, if it is the only way to silence your incessant prying, then I shall answer."

He stood up, his presence commanding attention.

"Jin-gongzi and I are indeed together. But do not dare compare our relationship to your own trivial dalliances, Elder Heiling. My connection with Jin-gongzi is not a joke," Wangji stated firmly, his words cutting through the tension-filled air.

"From this moment forward, your group is no longer needed within Lan sect. I hereby dissolve this group," he declared, his voice resonating with authority.

With that, Wangji turned and strode purposefully out of Lanshi, leaving behind a stunned silence in his wake.

As Wangji's bold declaration echoed through the halls of Lanshi, a tidal wave of shock and disbelief crashed upon the Lan elders, leaving them dazed and disoriented.

Their attempts to control and manipulate Wangji's life had backfired spectacularly, shattering their illusions of authority and leaving them grasping for answers in the wake of his departure.

Lan Qiren, though initially taken aback by his nephew's actions, couldn't help but feel a stirring of pride deep within his heart.

He had witnessed Wangji's unwavering dedication and unwavering sense of righteousness, and this audacious display of strength only served to solidify his belief in his nephew's indomitable spirit.