Xiao Tianyang began speaking with Yue Fei and the others at three in the afternoon and did not finish until eight that evening.
Including the time he had spent meeting with Xiao He and the others beforehand, he had remained in the Imperial Study for a total of sixteen hours.
Yet for him, that was merely the beginning.
Besides discussing how to resolve the problem with the civil and military officials, cooperation with the Underground City also involved diplomacy to some extent.
Although Zhang Yi had a relatively low profile within the Ministry of Rites, every profession had its specialty.
As for how battles on the Frontline should be fought, the military had to send representatives to negotiate with A'ganzuo and the others.
However, other matters required someone more shrewd to negotiate with them.
And Zhang Yi was the best candidate.
"I have only two requirements."
Xiao Tianyang pondered for a moment before saying, "First, you must safeguard our interests during the negotiations without making them lose heart."
"Second, you must gather every piece of intelligence concerning the Doomsday Church in the shortest possible time."
"Time is short and the task is heavy. Return today to hand over your work, then prepare to depart."
"Yes."
After thinking briefly, Zhang Yi asked, "Then, Your Majesty, what is the bottom line for negotiating with A'ganzuo and the others?"
Without hesitation, Xiao Tianyang replied, "Unconditional submission, along with eliminating any possibility of unrest."
"As for the other conditions, you may decide them yourself."
Zhang Yi hesitated. "Aren't the first two conditions somewhat too harsh?"
"What I mean is, why don't we discuss this matter with A'ganzuo and the others after the situation has settled?"
Xiao Tianyang lightly tapped the tabletop with his fingers. "I understand what you mean."
"However, the situation in the