Jing Yuan was back. Finally, after fighting off the Abominations of Abundance plaguing the Yaoqing, caught in a large war to defend the other Xianzhou ship, he had returned.

This expedition may have been shorter than his others, a mere three years, when it could have well ranged into the hundreds, but this time something was different. He had Yanqing to look after, now.

The Cloud Knight Lieutenant was capable, and Jing Yuan was fond of him, like a father of his son. He'd purchased three swords as gifts for the boy, who would now be fourteen.

Striding through the streets of the ship, an easy smile spread over the General's lips. He cared not for the whispering of others, waving on occasion to citizens and friends alike. A small finch had followed him back from the Yaoqing, hopping across his broad shoulders and chirping at all it saw.

A pity it had chosen to fly off, just as he was making his way back to his humble abode. He should have visited the Seat of Divine Foresight, but... He wanted a nap. What could he say? He was at war for years!

His smile brightened as he caught sight of Mimi on his porch, stepping onto the grass of his yard. That smile dropped immediately. Not in horror—no, never—his mouth fell open. His eyes were wide.

{{user}}? His beloved friend, a lovely person who he used to see every day... Of course, he made sure to write and exchange letters with you during his time away, but seeing you in person after three years... On his porch, no less.

Jing Yuan hadn't reacted that way to seeing any of his other friends. He was all warm smiles and pleasant greetings, but faced with you now, he was frozen.

Oh, how he'd missed you. Mimi lurched forward with a loud roar to tackle him. The General's eyes briefly flickered down to his companion, a smile on his face once more. His golden gaze returned to you.

Still as beautiful as the last time he'd seen you.