Chapter 175 - 174: Unusual
Master Chu gestured, and a servant brought forth a tray. On the tray sat a sculpture of a jade horse trampling over a swallow, a Reishi mushroom, and two pairs of calligraphy brushes, ink, inkstones, and brush washers.
He said, "Thank you, Ms. Chen, for you’ve instructed Yan’er exceptionally well. As her elder, nothing brings me more joy than seeing her healthy and happy. Now, she is both. This child... has endured it all."
The old Marquis also nodded, "Yan’er owes her goodness to Afu. We, the Chus, will forever remain grateful."
Chu Lingxuan did not speak, but merely nodded in agreement. The three generations of the Chus have all highly praised her work.
Chen Afu laughed, "Honorable old Marquis, Mr. Chu, you are too kind. I also adore Yan greatly and hope that she will always be healthy and happy. Time was short today, so I apologize for any shortcomings in my hospitality."
Master Chu chuckled, "No need, everything was simply perfect. Thank you for your generous hospitality. I am leaving in haste today, but I shall return another time for some mutton hotpot created by you. Based on what Xuan’er said, it’s even more delicious than what they serve in the Capital City’s Hongyun Restaurant."
What a charming diplomat, a few words of his left Chen Afu feeling warm inside. She curtsied to show gratitude. Accepting the tray, she handed it to Zeng Xiaoqing standing behind her.
Master Chu said a few more words before he stood up to take his leave.
The Chu and Chen families escorted him out of the courtyard, watching him and his band of horsemen disappear into the vast night.
The old Marquis then invited Dabao and Alu to bring Qi Qi and Hui Hui to visit Tang Garden the next day. He also extended an invitation to Chen Ming to join them for drinks at Tang Garden at a later time.