Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 11 - Bonds of Duty and Desire

Kai Ze, a smile playing on his lips, began to elaborate on the matter at hand. "A couple of weeks ago," he began, "I issued an order to expand our nightly patrols to the small towns near the military camps. One such town, located near the valley to the west of the Military Training Camps, goes by the name of Serpent's Shade. It is currently grappling with a severe case of missing children."

Qing Yi exchanged concerned glances with Kai Ze as Ming Zhe, the Crown Prince, crossed his arms and nonchalantly voiced his opinion.

"Serpent's Shade lies to the west of Khufu, near the valley, correct? That area belongs to the region of Xiao Yu. Why should we involve ourselves in their matters? Let them manage their own affairs." Ming Zhe said dismissively, his tone carrying an air of indifference.

Kai Ze, resolute and undeterred, retorted, "Xiao Yu is my mother's kingdom, and they've been a loyal ally to us in the West for years. They've aided us in dealing with barbarian tribes and resistance groups opposing our Kingdom. Moreover, our Military Training Camps rely on supplies and water from the small towns nearby, most of which fall within Xiao Yu's jurisdiction. Assisting them in investigating these mysterious child disappearances is the least we can do." Kai Ze locked eyes with Ming Zhe, his determination clear.

Qing Yi chimed in, supporting Kai Ze's stance, "Indeed, and we've also provided substantial assistance in repelling foreign invasion threats from neighboring regions. The entire kingdom of Xiao Yu falls under our protection. It's not a matter of whether they can handle a missing children case; it's our duty to help them. Besides, Serpent's Shade is in close proximity to our military camp, making it more practical for us to take action rather than waiting for them to send their own military group."

Ming Zhe's gaze turned sharper, his stare locked onto Kai Ze's unwavering gaze. The tension between the two brothers was palpable.

Kai Ze continued, "That's why I was hoping you could use your influence with father to grant me permission to lead a small group of soldiers to investigate the western valley."

Ming Zhe appeared taken aback, casting another glance at his younger brother. It had been a while since Kai Ze had approached him with a favor. Ever since Kai Ze's mother's death, such requests had become exceedingly rare. Now, for the first time in a long while, Ming Zhe found himself being approached for another favor by his little brother.

"Father has already granted you authority to issue orders to the royal army. Why would you need his permission to lead a small group on your own?" Ming Zhe inquired, puzzled by Kai Ze's request.

Kai Ze sighed and explained, "Yes, I can issue orders, but when it comes to mobilizing the army, even a small unit, I lack the authority to do so without father's approval. General Wu Jin advised me to approach father and request his permission. However, given his busy schedule, it's been challenging to get a moment with him. Since you're often in his presence. It would be much easier for you to ask father on my behalf."

Ming Zhe remained silent, his hesitation evident in the furrowed lines on his forehead and the way he lightly clenched his hands into loose fists. While it was undeniable that he spent a significant amount of time in the king's presence, the truth was that the king had never truly valued his opinions, insights, or requests. Each time Ming Zhe accompanied his father to conferences with their allies, he received advice to observe quietly how his father conducted these diplomatic gatherings. It was a method employed by the King to teach his eldest son, the Crown Prince, how to become a successful ruler in his own image – where everything had to go the king's way, and no alternatives were considered.

On the other hand, Kai Ze had undeniably proven himself as an exceptional soldier and a capable general. His years spent in the military training camps had not only honed his skills but also earned him the respect and unwavering loyalty of many soldiers within the army. Kai Ze had marched as a common soldier under the command of General Wu Jin, helping conquer numerous lands in the king's name. As a prince, he had displayed astute strategic acumen, orchestrating troop movements and battles against resistance groups with remarkable success, even when physically absent from the front lines. In recognition of his service, the King had granted Kai Ze complete authority to issue orders to significant army units, allowing him to command them without personal leadership. Ming Zhe was acutely aware of the underlying reason behind his father's decision to bestow Kai Ze with this power, yet refrain from granting him permission to lead or mobilize the royal army. The king's fear that Kai Ze might eventually challenge his authority, should he possess excessive freedom and power over the Royal Army, was a palpable concern.