Ling Jia, Her Path to Freedom

The next day, in the Main Territory of the Ling Clan.

The Ling Clan's Mansion had a traditional architectural style with a spacious layout, making it a large and impressive residence. 

The exterior was adorned with elegant decorations, and the interior featured well-appointed rooms and comfortable living spaces. The mansion exudes an air of wealth and importance, reflecting the status and influence of the Ling Clan. 

Ling Yan, the patriarch of the Ling Clan, sat in his study, lost in deep contemplation. Although he was the father of Ling Jia and Ling Ming, he carried the weight of responsibility for the clan's future. 

His furrowed brows reflected the dilemma he faced.

Beside Ling Yan, his wife An Ruolin stood with a concerned expression on her face. She understood the weight of the decision they were facing and the potential consequences it could have on their relationship with the Zhou Clan.

"I know that dissolving this engagement will strain our ties with the Zhou Clan," An Ruolin spoke softly, her voice filled with empathy. 

"But we cannot force our daughter to be with someone against her will, especially considering her exceptional talent and the potential opportunities that lie ahead for her."

An Ruolin, a woman of grace and wisdom, had always been a pillar of support for Ling Xiu and their children. She understood the importance of nurturing their daughter's happiness and allowing her to make choices that would shape her own future.

Ling Xiu sighed, his gaze fixed his wife. He knew that An Ruolin's words held truth, but after all he was the patriarch of the Ling Clan not all of his decisions can be based on his own emotions alone. 

Last night Ling Ming had already sent a message to him regarding the incident that occurred at the auction hall. 

After hearing that the Saintess of the Purple Cloud Palace publicly denounced Zhou Yuan's engagement to his daughter in front of countless people, he knew that it was time for him to come to a decision whether or not to dissolve the engagement or continue with it before it was too late. 

"The clan's elders are all convinced that the engagement is no longer necessary. However I still feel very uncomfortable since it was our Lin clan that first asked for this engagement." 

Years ago, when Ling Yan first suggested the engagement it was the elders that supported it more than they did, however now their attitudes were reversed. 

"Haaa..." Ling Yan sighed heavily as he was thinking of a way to navigate the situation as best as possible. 

A servant arrived at the door of his study. "Master, the eldest miss has returned." 

Hearing this, An Ruolin was extremely happy, although similarly excited to see his daughter Ling Yan also felt somewhat troubled. 

He knew that his daughter arriving now would complicate the situation further.

As Ling Yan and An Ruolin stepped out of the study, they were greeted by the sight of their daughter, Ling Jia, standing in the grand entrance hall of the mansion. 

Ling Jia's presence commanded attention, her graceful demeanor and confident aura reflecting her noble lineage.

"Jia Jia," Ling Yan called out, his voice filled with a mix of relief and concern. "It's been a while since you last visited. We have much to discuss."

Ling Jia approached her parents, her eyes filled with a mixture of determination and apprehension. She knew that her return would complicate matters, but she couldn't bear to stay away any longer. 

She had made up her mind and was ready to face the consequences. 

Ling Jia met her father's gaze with unwavering determination. "Dad, I understand the gravity of my decision," she replied, her voice steady. "I have carefully considered the potential consequences, and I believe that it is the right choice for my own happiness and future."

An Ruolin stepped forward, her expression filled with a mix of concern and support. "Ling Yan, our daughter has grown into a strong and independent woman," she said, her voice filled with conviction. "We must trust her judgment."

Ling Yan sighed, his worry evident in his eyes. "I want nothing more than your happiness, Jia Jia," he said, his voice filled with paternal concern. 

"But I also worry about the repercussions this decision may have on our clan and our relationship with the Zhou Clan. Have you considered the potential backlash?"