Xue Zhong calmly took out the Xingyuan Marquisate's card and explained to the guards, "It's spring plowing season at the farm west of the Marquisate, but many tenants have fallen ill with colds, and we're short of manpower."

"This farming season cannot be delayed, so the palace has specially dispatched these strong guards to the farm to help for a few days. All personnel have been registered with the Marquis' Mansion, and there will be no possibility of them escaping without permission."

The guards at the city gate were no strangers to Xue Zhong. Seeing that he spoke with conviction and his explanations were reasonable, they conducted a routine inspection.

After confirming that the guards were not carrying swords or other sharp weapons, the general waved his hand and let the team pass.

At this time, Xue Zhongfu rode his horse at full speed and quickly caught up with the advancing team.

Since he had just hurried out of the government office and was still wearing his official uniform, he put on a dark cloak in order not to attract attention.

Seeing Xue Zhongfu riding up on horseback, the guard at the west gate stepped forward and bowed respectfully, "Master Xue, are you leaving the city? The gates will be closed in just one hour."

Xue Zhongfu glanced at the carriages in the procession and knew his mother was inside. He said to the guard at the city gate, "We've recently brewed a batch of fine wine at the farm, and I'm in the mood for some. If you get drunk, just stay here for the night."

As he spoke, Xue Zhongfu casually tightened his cloak to ensure that the guards could not see his official uniform underneath.

Upon hearing this, the guard smiled knowingly: "Master Xue, you are indeed in a very refined mood."

After saying this, he stepped aside, making way for the people from Xingyuan Marquis' Mansion to leave the city.