"Yuying is right, if we are to speak of merit, it all belongs to Brother Han Yan alone. We are just burdens, and it’s already commendable that we did not cause him trouble," Mu Ze added in agreement. Thɪs chapter is updated by NovelHub(.)net
"Yes indeed, it’s all Brother Han Yan’s merit. If we do not properly reward Brother Han Yan, it will only dishearten the descendants of the Mu Family," Mu Cheng also said, nodding and shaking his head.
If it was understandable for Mu Ziqing to stand up for Han Yan, seeing Mu Ze speak for him surprised the other younger members of the Mu Family. Mu Ze was known for his arrogance among his peers, rarely submitting to anyone, and it was even rarer to see him actively defending someone. Today must have been the first of such occurrences.
Upon seeing even Mu Cheng lobbying for Han Yan, nodding and shaking his head as one desperately eager to please, all the siblings were stunned, their eyes nearly popping out.
It was one thing for others, but his own grandfather was clearly out to find fault in Han Yan. Was he out of his mind to speak in favor of Han Yan ?
"What are you all doing, are you trying to defy your superiors?" the Great Elder, who had never imagined that the trip would result in Han Yan gaining such prestige among the Mu Family youths, scolded furiously.
"The Great Elder exaggerates our intent. We are merely voicing the injustice for Brother Han Yan. If such great contributions to the family are not rewarded, who would then dare to risk their lives for the family in the future?" Mu Nan said calmly and assertively.
True to his future role as the head of the Nanyan Chamber of Commerce, even though he was still young, his demeanor was imposing. Facing the furious Great Elder, Mu Nan remained unflappable and fearless, his words even carrying a hint of threat.
"Exactly, others might be Sword Masters, but Brother Han Yan rescued Uncle from one such master. If such a great merit goes unrewarded, who then would dare to put themselves in danger for the family?"
"Even if you find someone disagreeable and seek to make their life difficult, you must have a valid reason. How can we respect decisions that blur the lines between personal grievances and official justice?"
It must be said, Mu Ziqing and Mu Ze, among others, were popular and respected among the younger generation. Hearing their words, the younger family members couldn’t help but whisper among themselves in dissatisfaction, clearly disgruntled with the elders’ conduct.
Their voices were soft, but not soft enough to escape the Great Elder’s ears. Hearing their comments, he felt a stinging discomfort, as if needles were pricking his heart, and he was thoroughly unsettled.
Although the older generation kept silent throughout, they couldn’t help but shake their heads discreetly. Two elders, handling the situation so poorly against a mere teenager, was truly disappointing.
Seeing their disappointed gazes, the Great Elder felt even more frustrated.
"Fine, fine, Mu Han Yan has made great contributions and, according to our family rules, should be well rewarded. Anything you desire in the Treasure Vault, take what you select," the Great Elder, his face flushed with shame, said as he swept his robe and left abruptly.
The Second Elder shot Mu Cheng a sharp look and also hurriedly left the council hall.
"Great!" Only when the two elders had gone far did Mu Yuying cheer.
"Brother Han Yan, congratulations," Mu Nan said, smiling broadly at Han Yan.
The other younger members of the Mu Family also gathered around, curiously inquiring about their journey. Due to the change in attitude from Mu Ze and others, they were noticeably less hostile towards Han Yan than before. While they were more curious than awed, they were certainly much friendlier than before.