In the dimly lit chamber of the forbidden area,
Feng Jianguo: "Tianlong, there is something you must consider regarding Feng Yuxin's engagement to Yun Tianhai."
Feng Tianlong nodded respectfully and said : "Yes, Grandfather. The Yun family seems eager to strengthen ties, and the engagement would solidify our alliance."
Feng Jianguo shaking his head and said :"Rushing into this alliance is not wise. Yuxin's marriage can wait. Let's give it at least three years. There's no need to send her to the Yun family right away."
Feng Tianlong looked surprised: "Three years, Grandfather? Would delaying the marriage cause tension with the Yun family?"
Feng Jianguo said : "If they truly wish for an alliance, they will respect our terms. The Yun family is ambitious; we must ensure this engagement serves our interests, not just theirs."
Mei Ling placed a gentle hand on her son's shoulder, supporting Feng Jianguo's suggestion.
Mei Ling said : "Your grandfather is right, Tianlong. Sending Yuxin now would make us look too eager, even dependent. Three years is enough time to see if the Yun family remains as loyal as they claim."
Feng Haoran nodding in agreement :"Yes, waiting will show the Yun family that we are not desperate. If they respect our family, they will honor the delay."
Feng Tianlong thoughtful said : "I understand. If we wait, we can see how the Yun family behaves over time."
Feng Jianguo continued, his voice calm yet firm.
Feng Jianguo: "For now, only send Ming Yue. Her skills as a healer will show our goodwill, and it's enough to honor the alliance. Let her go to the central region, but make it clear that Yuxin will remain here for now."
Feng Tianlong nodding slowly said:
"That makes sense, Grandfather. Ming Yue's presence will keep the alliance strong, and delaying Yuxin's marriage will protect her. But what if the Yun family questions the delay?"
Feng Jianguo said : "Then remind them that an alliance built on respect cannot be rushed. Make it clear that Yuxin's well-being comes first, and that you will not compromise on this."
Mei Liang supporting Feng Jianguo said: "Yes, make them understand that we value our family. Letting them think Yuxin is at their disposal would weaken our standing."
Feng Haoran placed a firm hand on Feng Tianlong's shoulder and said:
"Remember, Tianlong, our family's strength is our loyalty to one another. Ming Yue will fulfill the Yun family's request, but Yuxin's marriage should be on our terms."
Feng Jianguo: (nodding) "Exactly. Watch the Yun family closely, and see if they truly respect our decision. If they react poorly, it will reveal their intentions."
Feng Tianlong feeling determined said :"Thank you, all of you. I'll make sure the Yun family knows our terms. Yuxin's marriage will wait, and Ming Yue will travel to the central region alone, representing our family's goodwill."
Mei Ling smiling said: "That's the right decision, Tianlong. Protecting Yuxin and maintaining our dignity should always come first."
Feng Jianguo: "Very well. Go forward with caution, and remember, the Yun family may want power, but our family's unity will always be our greatest strength."
Xuan secretly observes Sect Leader Feng Tianlong and his family's conversation about the Yun family, using the Mask of Uncertainty.
Xuan thought to himself:"They're uncertain about the Yun family too. It seems this engagement is more complex than I thought"
As the discussion continued, Xuan noted the protective stance the family took toward Feng Yuxin.
"So, they don't want to send Yuxin right away. Interesting. They're cautious—rightly so, given the Yun family's reputation"
Xuan remained hidden, absorbing each word.
He learned about Ming Yue's role in maintaining the alliance through her healing abilities.
The family was placing their trust in her to establish goodwill, and he could sense their protective instincts toward both Ming Yue and Feng Yuxin.
Xuan felt a sense of satisfaction hearing this.
As the conversation wound down, Xuan carefully took a few steps backward, ready to leave .
He glanced once more at Sect Leader Feng Tianlong and his family, who were deep in discussion.
Xuan turned, slipping out of the chamber as quietly as he had entered. Moving through the misty path, he removed the Mask of Uncertainty once he was safely out of sight.