"In truth, Mazhou Island and its surrounding waters involve not only hundreds of billions or trillions in resources. More importantly, reclaiming Mazhou Island means that the Qi Kingdom is a whole nation. A whole nation can do the utmost to spare its citizens humiliation from outside forces, do the utmost to protect every person's vitality and spirit, and ultimately allow the entire country to flourish with each passing day. Only then can it truly display its strength and ensure its people's peace and well-being. No one disagrees with that, do they?"
"Indeed. The difference between fragmented territory and territorial integrity is immensely significant."
"On that point, you have my support," Leng Can said.
"Mazhou Island is the Qi Kingdom's territory. Whatever price we pay, it is worth it," Song Yanxue said.
Li Qingxian continued, "But the Tannan Kingdom and the Eastern Ding Kingdom are somewhat different. First, that is not the Qi Kingdom's land. Second, we all know that if we confront the Eastern Ding Kingdom head-on, the price we pay will be ten or even a hundred times that of the battle for Mazhou Island. No one denies that, do they?"
Jian Yuancang opened his mouth but offered no rebuttal.
Li Qingxian went on, "Next, let us calculate the gains. We say that our actions against the Eastern Ding Kingdom are meant to weaken it, but in reality, the Eastern Ding Kingdom is flourishing by the day, stronger than it was over a decade ago. That shows that, in this respect, our actions have done more harm than good, correct?"
Everyone fell silent.
"Next, let us calculate what the citizens gain. Daren Jian Yuancang and Daren Leng Can keep saying 'for the nation and its people,' as though everyone will make a fortune if we fight this war. First,