Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 33 - Gifts of Aqua, Tears of Jade

As dawn painted the sky with hues of rose and gold, the kingdom of Rensha stirred to life. It was earlier that morning when Prince Ming Zhe and King ChengLi made port in Rensha, concluding a month-long journey from Luzhu Dao. This tropical realm, under the rule of Queen Mei Ling, had hosted the King and his son during their stay. Over the course of about a month, they were immersed in conference discussions with the queen, intertwined with leisurely days of sightseeing. These moments allowed them to relish the breathtaking scenery of the tropical island, fulfilling the queen's requests. With their diplomatic and pleasurable sojourn complete, King ChengLi and Prince Ming Zhe set sail for Rensha.

Situated an ocean away to the south of Khufu, Rensha mirrored its counterpart as a formidable and ambitious kingdom ruled by Prince Luzhoushan and his younger brother, Prince Shafeng. Diverging from other realms that embraced hierarchical structures with a single monarch overseeing the kingdom, Rensha uniquely had only princes and princesses as rulers. This distinctive approach stemmed from the belief that to ascend to the throne of Rensha, one must possess the qualities and abilities necessary to navigate and overcome responsibilities, ensuring the country's continual prosperity and strength throughout their reign, uncontested by any challengers.

After the demise of Rensha's previous ruler, the eldest son, Prince Luzhoushan, assumed the position of power. In adherence to tradition, the prince opted not to crown himself as king, considering the position unworthy of pursuit. Those who dared to challenge this decision risked ruthless termination or meeting their demise without question. Prince Luzhoushan maintained an unwavering stance on preserving the unique principles governing the kingdom. Under the leadership of Prince Luzhoushan, Rensha not only maintained its strength but became an unassailable force. Even the ambitious kingdom of Khufu refrained from making any moves against this potent nation. Consequently, a lasting peace treaty was signed between the two kingdoms, solidifying a political alliance through the marriage of Princess Feng Lan, the sister of both Prince Luzhoushan and Prince Shafeng, to Crown Prince Ming Zhe of Khufu.

Upon their arrival at the Rensha Palace, Prince Luzhoushan personally extended a welcome to the King and Crown Prince of Khufu. Prince Luzhoushan, of the same age as Prince Ming Zhe, possesses a well-shaped, commanding physique. His sleekly combed back, raven-feather-dark hair frames violet eyes as deep as the void. His facial features, including a finely shaped jawline and a high nose bridge, reflect his birthright to rule.

"The kingdom of Rensha extends its utmost honor to welcome His Majesty King ChengLi and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Ming Zhe of Khufhu," graciously intoned Prince LuzhouShan, bowing respectfully to the esteemed guests.

In a reciprocal display of courtesy, King ChengLi acknowledged the gesture with a courteous bow and gently intervened to pause Prince LuzhouShan's bowing, expressing, "It is indeed a privilege to return for the Annual Harmony Summit Conference, Your Royal Highness. Your gracious invitation is greatly appreciated."

Prince LuzhouShan responded with a genial smile, gesturing for the King to proceed into the palace while indicating to his attendants, "Please, allow us to alleviate any fatigue from your extended sea voyage. Our accommodations are prepared to welcome your arrival. This way, if you please."

King ChengLi smiled warmly as he strolled past Prince LuzhouShan, following the palace attendees to his designated guest palace.

Prince LuzhouShan gracefully matched his stride with Prince Ming Zhe as they trailed behind King ChengLi. With a calculated air of interest, he nonchalantly remarked, "How is my sister?"

Prince Ming Zhe, maintaining a composed demeanor, smiled and answered in a straightforward manner, "She's doing fine."

"I hope your personal interests don't divert you from fulfilling your role as a loving husband to my dear sister," Prince LuzhouShan retorted, injecting a subtle challenge into his voice.