The Trade-Offs of War, the Conspiracy of Annihilation

Lu Song's remarks were fairly well received by Jian Cong and Su Qia of the Prefectural Soldier System, but Xie Zhuo and Shen Wenyuan of the City Defense System did not share as much of that agreement. Their different systems determined the essence of what they saw.

At the upper levels, however, it was precisely the opposite. Wei Chong cared about the actual state of the war, while the Cabinet cared about reputation and political repercussions. Conflict and disagreement were therefore inevitable.

No one else commented, in order to preserve the order of the meeting. This meeting was important, after all. Delaying serious business because of an argument would truly be a case of losing more than one gained.

Five minutes later, Wei Chong entered through the direction of the projected doors. Taking his seat, he looked around and said, "Since everyone is here, let's get straight to business."

"The Jade Whale Sect intends to break out. They are already carrying out prewar mobilization. The Cabinet's position is that they must be struck without mercy, and they have dispatched war observers."

As he spoke, he looked toward Jian Cong and Yang Wenqing. "They should be issuing documents to your command headquarters soon. Remember to receive them, then arrange for people to liaise with them. The people they have sent are not of high rank, but they cannot be ignored."

Both Yang Wenqing and Jian Cong frowned. No one liked such observers, and naturally, neither did they.

"But there is no need for you to worry. We only need to do our own work properly. They are here merely to record what happens on site."

Wei Chong continued, "Now, let us discuss the Jade Whale Sect's breakout. According to the intelligence we have received, a small portion of them will head