Ming Tao had earned illustrious merit while defending the eastern gate of Zhengyang City during its war with Cang Wu Kingdom.
The man seated at the head had jet-black hair and beard, and his brows and eyes made him appear all the more imposing.
This man was Ke Ye, the foremost figure in Gu Mu Kingdom's military—the Great General.
Seeing the guests ascend the stairs, Ke Ye and Ming Tao rose to their feet.
"Several honored guests from Cang Wu Kingdom have come from afar. Owing to the circumstances, I was unable to welcome you properly. Please forgive any breach of etiquette!" Ke Ye said solemnly, his voice ringing like a great bell.
"Great General Ke Ye is too courteous. We understand and need not mind it!" The elderly man at the front said with a smile. "This old man is Gu Ming!"
"So it is the renowned State Preceptor Gu Ming of Cang Wu!" A look of realization appeared on Ke Ye's face. With a bold and forthright air, he clasped his hands in greeting.
Ming Tao beside him also returned the salute.
The two then exchanged greetings with the two other highly placed figures from Cang Wu Kingdom standing beside Gu Ming.
"I heard earlier that His Majesty of your kingdom had also come along on this journey. May I ask where he is?" Ke Ye asked, looking at the group.
Gu Ming smiled and stepped aside. The others also moved to either side.
This revealed a figure who had remained quietly at the very back.
He wore a black robe, with a large hood over his head. His face was completely hidden in shadow.
As everyone before him moved away, he slowly raised a hand and removed his hood, revealing the face of a middle-aged man. He