Underneath The Moonlit Night

Chapter 54 - The Final Stand

King ChengLi exuded regal poise as he sat upon his throne, commanding the attention of the gathered lords in the resplendent imperial meeting hall of Khufu. Each lord, representing the formidable houses of the realm, awaited his words with bated breath, their eyes alight with anticipation for the matters to be discussed, especially the recent events unfolding in the Western Valley.

"In light of recent developments, it is evident that our kingdom stands at the precipice of greatness," declared the Chancellor, his voice ringing with reverence for his sovereign. "Under His Majesty's unparalleled strategic acumen, neighboring realms have willingly pledged their allegiance, eager to unite under the banner of our esteemed King."

The chamber buzzed with admiration and respect as all eyes turned towards King ChengLi, a symphony of congratulations and prayers for his continued success echoing throughout the hall. Each noble present recognized the brilliance of their ruler's diplomatic prowess, and they pledged their unwavering loyalty to his cause.

"However, the refusal of Xiao Yu to merge presents a delicate situation," the Chancellor continued, his gaze shifting to King ChengLi, awaiting his sovereign's guidance. "Your Majesty, how do you wish to proceed?"

King ChengLi remained composed, emanating an aura of authority as he contemplated the Chancellor's inquiry. With fingers laced together, he exuded an unwavering confidence, each moment steeped in calculated consideration.

"Xiao Yu holds a special place in our kingdom's history," remarked Lord Wu Xing, his voice carrying the weight of wisdom earned through generations of service to the realm. As the eldest son of General Wu Jin and the current leader of the esteemed Wu Family, his words carried considerable influence. "Not only is it the homeland of our late queen, but it has also demonstrated longstanding loyalty and support to our kingdom. We must carefully consider our response to their rejection. Your Majesty, I implore you to give this matter the serious consideration it deserves."

King ChengLi's gaze lingered on Wu Xing, a silent acknowledgment of the respect he held for all members of General Wu Jin's esteemed family. Throughout the years, the sons of General Wu had been groomed with utmost care and discipline, each understanding their place and responsibilities within the family hierarchy. Their unity and support for one another had garnered them great wealth and respect among the noble houses of the kingdom, earning occasional praise even from the discerning lips of King ChengLi himself.

Yet, beneath the veneer of familial harmony, an undercurrent of tension simmered, born from the shadow of their father's treasonous actions in support of Prince Kai Ze. Though no one dared to voice such grievances openly, the palpable strain between the Wu family and the Royal Family had not escaped notice. It was a delicate balance, one that required careful navigation in the face of current challenges.

The Loyal Adviser's voice cut through the air with a sharp edge of concern. "I've received word that King Ming Cheng of Xiao Yu is harboring our former prince Kai Ze, along with his accomplices, within his kingdom. If Xiao Yu still claims allegiance to us while sheltering criminals who have committed treason against our King, it is a direct affront to our authority."

Duke Feng Xian offered a counterpoint. "We have the option to demand the extradition of these traitors. However, considering that Prince Kai Ze is the grandson of King Ming Cheng, it is unlikely that we will succeed in retrieving him."

The exchange underscored the delicate nature of the situation, where diplomatic maneuvering and political considerations intersected with personal ties and loyalty. The fate of Prince Kai Ze hung in the balance, a symbol of the complex web of relationships that bound the kingdoms of Khufu and Xiao Yu.

Lord Chen Rui's suggestion injected a new energy into the discussion, shifting the focus from punitive measures towards a celebration of bravery and heroism. "Instead of dwelling solely on Xiao Yu's refusal to merge and the actions of the traitors," he proposed, "let us acknowledge the valor displayed by Prince Kai Ze and his band of soldiers. They valiantly vanquished the ancient beast that had plagued the towns of the Western Valley, risking their lives to protect our people."