The distant palaces of Jiang Capital remained as imposing as ever. Terry Mao, riding on horseback and escorted by Jiang Territory soldiers, slowly entered the city. After five days, he had finally arrived at Jiang Capital.
It was said that King Jiang was ill, and now all major affairs in Jiang Territory were handled by his twenty-year-old son and a few clan elders. Although Terry Mao had only stayed here briefly before, the bustling scene all around filled him with a deep sense of desolation.
Grant City had once been just like this—lively markets, crowds everywhere. But now, such scenes were nowhere to be found.
Suddenly, passersby in the distance cried out in surprise. A white horse galloped toward them, drawing startled exclamations from the crowd. Terry Mao quickly recognized the rider—a handsome man with flowing silver hair, dressed in a white beast-skin robe with black stripes. It was James Grant.
"King Jiang sent me to welcome you, General Mao."
It had been many years since they last met, but James Grant was exactly as he had been—unchanged, except the youthful innocence in his face was gone. He was even more striking now, his every gesture exuding elegance without losing masculine strength. Terry Mao found himself captivated, staring for a long moment before regaining his composure.
"Thank you, James."
Terry Mao did not stand on ceremony with James Grant. During his brief stay in Jiang Capital years ago—just over half a month—they had become friends. That was why Yuna Ji had sent him this time. Besides, Terry Mao was reserved and mature, always reliable in both speech and action.
James Grant smiled and nodded. His smile was truly captivating.
"Let's go."