When Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji re-entered the Discussion Hall, the air felt heavier, the silent anticipation palpable. All eyes turned toward them as they approached the center of the room. Jiang Cheng leaned slightly forward, a mix of curiosity and exasperation on his face, while Jiang Fengmian remained calm but attentive. Lan Qiren, however, watched them with a barely concealed frown.
Wei Wuxian stood awkwardly, glancing between the elders before clearing his throat. "So, uh… we talked."
Lan Qiren raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "And?"
Wei Wuxian rubbed the back of his neck. "And I… still don't know what I think about all of this. It's a lot to take in."
Jiang Cheng let out a snort, folding his arms. "Of course, you don't. When have you ever known what you were doing?"
"Jiang Cheng," Jiang Fengmian admonished gently, giving Wei Wuxian an encouraging look. "Take your time, Wei Ying. No one is demanding an answer now."
Lan Qiren's frown deepened. "With all due respect, Clan Leader Jiang, indecision only delays what should already be a clear matter. Either Wei Wuxian agrees, or this entire proposition ends here."
Wei Wuxian opened his mouth to retort, but Lan Wangji stepped forward before he could.
"Uncle," Lan Wangji said, his tone respectful yet firm, "Wei Ying requires time to consider. He has agreed to think about the matter, and I believe we should respect his wishes."
Lan Qiren's lips thinned. "Lan Zhan, your personal feelings—"
"This is not merely personal," Lan Wangji interrupted, and the sharpness in his voice made the room fall silent. "Wei Ying's acceptance or refusal must come willingly. Anything less would lack the integrity we Lan uphold."
Wei Wuxian blinked, caught off guard by Lan Wangji's uncharacteristic boldness.
Lan Xichen chose this moment to interject, his voice soothing. "Perhaps we should consider this a step forward, Uncle. Hanguang-jun's sincerity is clear, and Wei-gongzi has shown willingness to discuss. Rushing the matter would be unwise."
Lan Qiren gave a frustrated sigh but nodded begrudgingly. "Very well. But do not mistake this delay for acceptance. The longer this matter drags on, the greater the risk to the integrity of both clans."
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. "Integrity? You're acting like this is the end of the world. It's just a marriage proposal."
"Jiang Cheng," Jiang Fengmian said quietly, giving his son a warning glance.
Lan Qiren looked like he wanted to argue, but instead, he stood. "Let us adjourn for now. There is no use discussing further until a decision is made." He turned sharply and left the room, followed by the other elders.
Lan Xichen rose gracefully, offering a small smile to Jiang Fengmian. "Forgive Uncle Qiren's bluntness. He means well, even if his words are harsh."
Jiang Fengmian inclined his head. "I understand. We appreciate the Lan Clan's patience as this matter is resolved."
As the elders dispersed, Wei Wuxian leaned toward Jiang Cheng, his voice low. "Did you see that? Lan Zhan actually defended me."
Jiang Cheng raised an eyebrow. "Enjoy it while it lasts. You're probably going to mess it up somehow."
Wei Wuxian grinned, nudging him playfully. "Always so supportive, Jiang Cheng."
Lan Wangji approached then, his steady gaze settling on Wei Wuxian. "Wei Ying."
Wei Wuxian blinked, straightening. "Uh, yes?"
"I will wait," Lan Wangji said, his voice as calm and resolute as ever.
Wei Wuxian hesitated, then gave a half-smile. "You're really something else, Lan Zhan."
Lan Wangji gave a slight nod before walking away, his robes trailing silently behind him.
Jiang Cheng groaned, rubbing his temples. "This is going to be a disaster."
"Disaster or not," Jiang Fengmian said, his voice quiet but steady, "the outcome may be more significant than any of us realize."
Wei Wuxian didn't respond, his gaze following Lan Wangji's retreating figure as the weight of everything settled over him once more.