The bright moon rose high, its radiance flowing like water. Sishui Royal City bustled with noise and prosperity, voices boiling through the streets as starlike lamps lit the city as brightly as day.
In the council hall of the Huan Kingdom's residence, Hua Qiandai and Xiao Dieyi silently guarded Jian Shang on either side. Since his arrival, Jian Shang had kept his eyes closed without a word, as though his spirit were wandering the boundless void. He refused all visitors, and even when an important matter occasionally arose, he never opened his eyes.
Several hours later, the silent Jian Shang's aura grew ever stronger, his King's Might ever denser, suffused with an inviolable dignity and nobility.
"Reporting to Your Majesty! It is time for the city lord's evening banquet!"
Seeing the bright moon high overhead, an attendant hurried inside to report.
Jian Shang remained silent. Hua Qiandai took it upon herself to give the order. "Prepare the royal carriage! To the City Lord's Manor!"
The attendant was actually one of the men carefully selected by the Secret Division to serve temporarily as the Huan King's personal guards. Hearing the Evil Consort's words, he froze for a moment, then glanced in surprise and confusion at the silent Huan King with his eyes closed before respectfully acknowledging the order and withdrawing.
This attendant had joined the Huan Kingdom and been selected for the Secret Division several years ago, so he knew a fair amount about the Huan King's character and deeds. The Huan King should not have been someone who cared so much about pomp. Otherwise, he would not have come to Sishui Royal City with only the Evil Consort and Princess Dieyi!
Still, whatever his doubts, no one could object if a man of the Huan King's standing chose to display