Shang Shuqing smiled through her tears. She was merely an ordinary mortal—how could she possibly remain forever young? But having him say those words was enough.
Niu Youdao released her chin and reproached himself. "It's all my fault. Let's not talk about this now. County Princess, just wait and see whether I can do it."
He gave up, realizing that he had indeed become too domineering without noticing. He had not considered Shang Shuqing's feelings in the slightest, nor had he considered her worries, so he no longer pressed her to make a choice.
Thus, Shang Chaozong and his wife failed to learn the outcome from Shang Shuqing. She hemmed and hawed, unwilling to say anything, and did not know how to answer.
This made Shang Chaozong rather anxious. Fortunately, when Niu Youdao departed, he still arranged for Zhao Xiongge to remain at Shang Chaozong's side as protection. That meant Niu Youdao was still supporting him, which reassured him somewhat.
Before parting, Niu Youdao asked, "What does Prince intend to do about Han Kingdom?"
Shang Chaozong said, "Han Kingdom's overall situation is lost, but the intentions of some forces over there are obvious. Relying on their own strength, they want the best possible terms of surrender and wish to bargain. Some want to retain the troops in their hands and be granted lands and titles, to become regional lords. My view is that we cannot indulge them. If we agree to one side's demands, there is no guarantee the others will not harbor the same ideas. We absolutely cannot compromise at a time like this. Extermination is the best course!"
Niu Youdao said, "Once this war begins, I fear countless more families will be ruined and people will perish."
Shang Chaozong said, "Daoist Master, without destruction, there can be no