Chapter 18: Clan Leader Motive
Standing by the doorway, Wang Ming silently watched the retreating figure of the Sixth Elder as he exited the house, a line of servants trailing behind him. Seeing the elder leave, a smirk played on Wang Ming's lips as he thought to himself,
"The academy session has been postponed till tomorrow just so I won't miss it."
He chuckled lightly, the corners of his mouth curving in amusement.
"What a childish trick to make it seem like the clan values me."
But the laughter in his eyes quickly faded, replaced by a serious glint. Turning around, he stepped back inside his house. As his footsteps echoed softly through the hallway, his mind continued to churn.
"This isn't just about today. This isn't a tactic for the moment it's a move to slowly plant the idea in my mind that the clan cares for me. Subtly, patiently, they want me to start accepting their so-called affection. Because in their eyes, no matter how intelligent I may be, I am still just a child. An inexperienced one at that."
His expression darkened slightly as he recalled the events of his past life.
"But the position and behavior of the clan leader... that's what's truly strange. In my first life, I was too naive to notice. By the time I had matured, the clan was already destroyed. I only survived by pure luck, being out on a mission when it happened."
His fists clenched unconsciously.
"But now that I reflect upon it he has no children. He never married. His lifespan is nearing its end. Reaching Rank Five Formation Apprentice would be difficult now, yet rather than entering seclusion to break through, he remains entangled in a bitter conflict with the First Elder."
Wang Ming's brows furrowed deeply.