Capturing a criminal and directly attacking a Great Xia Empire warship were fundamentally different matters.
At the very least, they needed sufficient justification before launching an attack.
But even the Minister of Defense could not provide that justification.
He could only glance at his stunned subordinates before helplessly contacting the Director-General.
"Director-General, Elvis has taken refuge in the Great Xia Empire fleet. We need to negotiate with His Highness Qin first."
The Director-General wanted to curse too. If they could capture him first, this would be a whole level easier.
But now... this was the worst possible outcome.
"I understand. I'll speak with His Highness Qin. You should prepare as well."
"Understood."
After ending the call, the Director-General adjusted his expression before contacting Qin.
By now, both sides had received the news, yet neither had spoken directly to the other.
This was a means of maintaining restraint. At a time like this, it meant there was no longer any chance of reconciliation.
But Qin was not worried about his own safety.
"Director-General, it seems Elvis has taken refuge aboard my flagship."
Qin put it bluntly. One look at the Director-General's expression was enough to guess the outcome.
The Director-General did not deny it. There was no point in lying at a time like this.
"Your Highness Qin, I believe the Great Xia Empire is a civilized nation. You should understand our actions."
"Yes, I understand." Qin readily agreed, but did not give the other man a chance to be pleased. "So you should also understand the culture of the Great Xia Empire."
"That can be discussed, but His Highness Elvis must be handed over first." The Director-General was extremely firm.
"Impossible. We possess Extraterritorial Jurisdiction." Qin refused just as decisively.
Then came silence. Extraterritorial Jurisdiction was nothing but bullshit.
Unless