But even ordinary scholars, let alone these officials, knew what a catastrophe it would be for a nation to cede both its sea routes and waterways.
After a long deliberation, Pang Jue declared with ironclad resolve, "Even if it costs me my life, I will never agree to cede three prefectures and the lands along a river!"
The Qing Kingdom officials present immediately regarded Pang Jue with solemn respect, but their hearts grew even more desolate. Such an outstanding man, yet now he could only come to Jing Kingdom and bow his head in negotiations.
The officials on Jing Kingdom's side also looked respectfully at this Great Scholar of the Miscellaneous School, Jing Kingdom's Left Prime Minister.
Fang Yun said slowly, "Then go die."
The air in the conference room froze.
Not only the Qing Kingdom officials, but many Jing Kingdom officials also stared at Fang Yun in astonishment.
Pang Jue stared at Fang Yun in grief and indignation, his body trembling slightly.
"Your Jing Kingdom has gone too far!" Pang Jue rose in fury, swaying on his feet. The people beside him hurriedly supported him.
Cao Dean hurriedly stood up. "Void Sage Fang, Lord Pang, please calm down. These are peace talks between two nations. We must not act on anger. Attendants, bring tea. Let us take a short break before continuing."
Pang Jue snorted coldly and slowly sat down.
Hearing Cao Dean's words, some officials began to understand. This had to be a negotiating tactic devised by Fang Yun and Cao Dean.
Fang Yun played the villain, using every means available to pressure Qing Kingdom. Once its officials could no longer bear it, Cao Dean hurriedly stepped forward as the peacemaker.
Moreover, the more aggressive Fang Yun became, the happier Pang Jue and the other senior officials were.