"Pass the order: the armed forces are to enter Level One combat readiness. All leave is canceled, and every unit is to remain on standby where it is.
Furthermore, have the Foreign Ministry issue a statement:
If the Western Continent's combined fleet dares enter Great Xia's territorial waters, we will regard it as an act of aggression and strike back resolutely."
The ministers in the hall all bowed in unison.
"Order the Southeast Navy and the Nanhai Navy to enter Level One combat readiness immediately.
Recall all officers and soldiers on leave. All fleets are to put to sea at once and assemble in the Nanhai waters to await orders."
Chen Jingming stepped forward and clasped his fists. "This minister obeys the decree!"
"Order all coastal provinces to enter a state of war readiness immediately.
Keep air-defense radar operating around the clock. Coastal missile units are to move into firing positions. Strengthen protection for key coastal targets."
Another minister stepped forward. "This minister obeys the decree!"
"Order the strategic missile forces to enter pre-combat readiness.
Set missile targets and prepare at any time to strike the Western barbarians' homeland and overseas military bases."
Li Yanbang raised his head. "Your Majesty, isn't this... a little too aggressive?"
Zhao Zhao looked at him. "Aggressive? Minister Li, remember this: before true strength, all schemes and tricks are paper tigers."
Kyoto, Ministry of War Building.
The conference room was brightly lit, and several high-ranking generals sat solemnly upright.
Military Affairs Minister Chen Jingming sat in the main seat, with a newly signed military order spread out before him.
The contents of the military order were simple—every branch of the armed forces was to enter Level One combat readiness.
"Minister Chen," a general lifted his head, concern in his eyes, "if war really breaks out,