Outside the Capital

Once outside the capital, the sun started to set. The envoy slowly made its way north along the main avenue, under the gazes of willow and poplar trees.

The accompanying city guards returned after about nine kilometers. Guard duty for the rest of the journey fell on the Commander of Defense. For this diplomatic mission, the most important vehicles were horse-drawn carriages. There were dozens of them; other than carrying people, many were carrying gifts as well.

Xiao En was still in shackles, locked in the second carriage. In it with him was an official of the Overwatch Council who took care of his daily necessities. That official was all smiles as he carefully wiped the prisoner with a towel. The towel was very soft, it wouldn’t cause any harm to Xiao En’s already withered face.