Although Yuan Shang had already rushed forward a few steps to greet him, Wan Yan didn't wait for him to speak and, from a distance, clasped his hands with a smile and said, "Today is a great day of joy for Master Guan, and originally the Prince wanted to come and join in the fun, but realizing his presence might make everyone uneasy, he sent this old man to offer his congratulations instead. I hope Steward Yuan and Old Master Qi won't take offense."
These words truly flattered Yuan Shang. The Prince was such a personage that not for all the courage in the world would he dare to harbor the slightest dissatisfaction.
He hurriedly stepped forward, bowed deeply to Wan Yan, and said, "This humble one has seen Old Master Wan. Old Master Wan shouldn't say such things. For your venerable self to grace us with your presence is already the highest honor for me and our Master. There cannot be any talk of taking offense. Please, Old Master, this way."
