Yu Lian paused, then couldn't help marveling. As expected of an old-school imperialist nation. With shamelessness like that alone, they could teach us shallow, foolish Earthlings for years.
"They were wrong?" he asked solemnly.
"Yes, they were indeed wrong."
"And what was the price they paid?"
"The hawkish faction, including Grand Duke Inota, has been relieved of their posts," Duke Fissu replied as if it were only natural.
Yu Lian could only marvel again. This was exactly the sort of thing he wanted to learn.
Perhaps his silence led Duke Fissu to think the negotiations could get back on track. The duke continued, "I can represent the Imperial Privy Council and the Chancellor's Office in making a solemn promise to you right now. In the name of the Empire's honor, if you turn your fleet around and head home, the Empire will immediately begin peace talks with the new Earth government you represent. As the highest-ranking official in the Empire's diplomatic service, I can tell you in advance that we will formally recognize your sovereignty over New Shenzhou, New Jade Gate, and even the Dawnstar Sector."
His manner was, for the most part, quite proper and sincere. At least, there wasn't a flaw in his expression.
Of course, with hundreds of light-years between them, Yu Lian couldn't use his spiritual perception to sense the other man's true state of mind. Even so, he could spot a few holes just from the things the man had said.
"You represent the Privy Council and the Chancellor's Office?"
But not the emperor? And since when had the Chancellor's Office been on equal footing with the Privy Council?
"I am indeed the highest-ranking official in the diplomatic service," the duke replied.
"And you're recognizing 'my' sovereignty?" Yu Lian emphasized one particular word.
Duke Fissu