Every corner of the Song Family's estate was a vista of opulence.
There was a dedicated garden of a hundred flowers, where a myriad of blossoms unfurled, dazzling the eyes. Groves of lush greenery surrounded a crystal-clear river that flowed vigorously eastward.
The courtyard was dotted with numerous mountains, each about a hundred meters tall. Rare and exotic beasts could occasionally be seen, and alongside the jade stone paths, various spiritual herbs grew wild and unattended, as common as the weeds outside.
Looking ahead, a series of colossal palaces stood side by side, their splendor surpassing that of the mortal world's imperial palaces by a hundredfold. Many halls floated in the air, shrouded in clouds and mist, exuding a sacred aura that transcended the mundane.
The main hall was the most massive and magnificent, with dark red tiles and pillars like small hills, every inch meticulously arranged, a picturesque beauty.
Each palace had its unique shape, with laws and prohibitions spread throughout, and mist and clouds locked around them, creating a scene akin to a celestial paradise beyond the power of words to describe.
Inside the main hall, over a hundred of the Song Family's elite were seated according to their strength.
Upon learning of Song Ningyan's return with a companion, the Song Family swiftly investigated Chen Qingyuan's background.
A disciple of the Mystic Azure Sect from the Flow Star Domain, and also the personal disciple of the Vice Dean of the Academy.
For the Song Family, uncovering such information was no difficult task.
Given his status as the Vice Dean's disciple, the Song Family dared not neglect Chen Qingyuan.
A white jade avenue, about a hundred meters wide, led straight to the main hall.
On either side of the road stood guards in uniform, each with a proud and martial look on their face, exuding an extraordinary bearing.
"The Song Family truly lives up to its reputation as the strongest Ancient Clan in the Northern Wilderness, wealthy and powerful."
Walking along, Chen Qingyuan was astonished by the architectural layout of the Song Family.
Even the Academy was not as lavish, appearing much more understated.
"Speak less."
Song Ningyan reminded him, as this was not a place to be careless with words.
Chen Qingyuan glanced at Song Ningyan and noticed her pale complexion, guessing that the fear deep in her heart had not yet been overcome.
It was understandable, given that Song Ningyan had grown up in such an environment, it would be difficult to uproot the fear that had taken hold of her soul in a short time.
As the two crossed the threshold of the main hall, they were greeted by a scene of opulent splendor.
The vast hall was supported by over twenty white jade pillars, with exquisite tables and chairs arranged on both sides, ninety-nine seats on each.
The high-ranking members of the Song Family occupied more than half of the seats, their gazes turning towards Chen Qingyuan and Song Ningyan as they entered, their expressions solemn as statues.
The atmosphere in the hall was oppressive and heavy, causing Song Ningyan to feel a suffocating tightness, her delicate body trembling slightly.
Song Ningyan quickly steadied her inner turmoil, striving to remain calm as she walked forward.
At the deepest part of the hall was a raised platform with a chair symbolizing the highest authority of the Song Family.
A middle-aged man in a black robe sat upon it.
His features were sharp, his eyes abyssal, his skin slightly yellow, and his demeanor solemn and commanding.
He was the current patriarch of the Song Family, Song Xiufeng, and also Song Ningyan's father.
Song Xiufeng had cultivated for over ten thousand years, only marrying and having children after securing his position as patriarch. Song Ningyan was his only daughter and the legitimate heir of the main line.
"Father."
Reaching the center of the hall, Song Ningyan bowed in salute to Song Xiufeng, seated above.
"Junior Chen Qingyuan pays respects to the elders of the Song Family."
Chen Qingyuan bowed in greeting.
"Young Master Chen, please take a seat."
Song Xiufeng gestured to an empty spot, revealing a faint smile to Chen Qingyuan.
"Thank you."
Chen Qingyuan took his seat without ceremony.
Many curious eyes fell upon him, unclear about the purpose of Chen Qingyuan's visit to the Song Family and whether he represented any intent of the Academy.
Song Ningyan stood alone, the pressure mounting, her eyelashes fluttering, her hands hidden in her sleeves turning purple from the grip, her heart tumultuous.
"I heard you've become Elder Zhao's personal disciple, not bad."
Song Xiufeng's smile faded, his expression stern, his gaze daunting.
Song Ningyan's lips pressed tightly, her emotions tense.
Years ago, Song Ningyan had shown reluctance to comply with the family's arrangements and had been punished by Song Xiufeng. However, her grandfather understood her and secretly helped her, securing an invitation from the Academy so that Song Ningyan could attend the assessment ceremony.
Song Ningyan's performance was outstanding, securing first place in the assessment.
And through her relentless efforts, she passed Zhao Yichuan's numerous tests and officially became his disciple.
But this bargaining chip was still not enough.
If Zhao Yichuan were the Dean of the Academy, the Song Family would not dare to arrange Song Ningyan's future. However, Zhao Yichuan had not yet reached such a commanding height, and the Song Family need not be overly concerned.
"The old man sent you away from the Song Family, which I could overlook, letting you go out and broaden your mind. But now the time has come, and you should stop your foolishness."
Song Xiufeng made his stance clear, indicating that even if Song Ningyan was Zhao Yichuan's disciple, it would not affect the Song Family's plans.
"Father, I don't want to be a tool for marriage."
After a long silence, Song Ningyan mustered the courage to speak.
The elders of the Song Family twitched, aware of Song Ningyan's feelings but seeing her openly express them for the first time.
The girl's temperament was actually very similar to the patriarch's—stubborn.
Unfortunately, Song Ningyan was born a daughter. If she were a son, she would surely be favored by Song Xiufeng.
"In a few days, Young Master Changsun Fengye from the Sacred Ground will come to visit. You two will meet and get to know each other."
Song Xiufeng spoke as if he hadn't heard Song Ningyan's words, his tone leaving no room for doubt.
If possible, Song Xiufeng would have wished for Song Ningyan to live a life of freedom. But as the patriarch, he had to consider the future of the Song Family.
As a father, the best he could do was to find a good marriage for Song Ningyan.
Changsun Fengye of the Sacred Ground was exceptional in both talent and appearance, truly a match for the legitimate daughter of the Song Family.
The marriage alliance would exchange resources between the two families.
Whether it be an Ancient Clan or a Sect of the Sacred Ground, both needed good development, to form alliances, and to never stand still. Without progress, even the strongest forces would only be fleeting and could not last.
The Song Family had been able to maintain its position as the foremost Ancient Clan in the Northern Wilderness because it put aside personal emotions in favor of the family's interests.
"Father, give me a little more time, and I will prove that I am second to none."
Song Ningyan, facing the fear deep within her, looked up at Song Xiufeng seated high above and spoke out loud.
Proofreader & Editor: Lotas