When the banquet concluded, Chen Ping'an walked toward the main gate, surrounded by a throng of Mu Family Clan Elders. These elders, renowned within the Mu Family for their stern, unsmiling authority, now appeared exceptionally cordial and enthusiastic, every one of them beaming.
As the group made their way out, the Mu Family's servants and stewards hurriedly parted to create a path. They remained rooted to the spot even after the party had passed, many of them watching the scene unfold with unconcealed astonishment in their eyes.
"Lord Chen, please forgive us if our hospitality was lacking in any way!" Mu Tianxiong said, his face wreathed in smiles as he and the Mu Family Clan Elders stood at the gate to see Chen Ping'an off.
"Patriarch Mu, you are too kind." Chen Ping'an exchanged a few pleasantries before boarding the carriage under everyone's watchful eyes. A guard lifted the carriage's front curtain for him, lowering it slowly only after he was settled inside.
