As everyone chatted and laughed, the servants of Zhuang Mansion carried steaming dishes and wine out one after another, setting them steadily on the two large tables in the courtyard.
"Everyone, make yourselves at home and dig in! The head chef at Zhuangyu Restaurant is no ordinary cook!"
At that moment, Chen Jing rose to his feet, a hearty smile on his face as he raised a hand to greet everyone.
The dishes on the tables were a feast for the eyes. The sweet-and-sour fish gleamed with color, and the braised pork knuckles glistened with oil... A few plates of fresh vegetables added a crisp touch. The moment the food hit the tables, mouths began to water.
At his invitation, everyone took their seats and picked up their chopsticks.
Before long, the courtyard held nothing but the crisp clatter of bowls and chopsticks, mingled with wave after wave of praise.
"This fish is so tender! It melts in your mouth, and the sweet-and-sour flavor is just right!"
"These braised pork knuckles are incredible! They're tender without being greasy, and the spices have soaked right in. Delicious!"
The Fist Academy brothers were enjoying themselves. They raised their wine cups, standing to toast Chen Jing or clinking cups with one another. As they drank and made merry, the atmosphere grew livelier by the moment.
At that moment, several junior disciples from Xiang Lingfei's school had him surrounded, toasting him. After a few cups of strong liquor, his cheeks had turned noticeably red, and his gaze had begun to wander.
Hearing the praise around him, Xiang Lingfei glanced instinctively toward the seat of honor.
Chen Jing was surrounded by Zhuang Tao, Fei Feng, and the others, chatting and laughing cheerfully.
Everyone around them looked at Chen Jing with approval and respect. He had