Utterly Baffling

When Tian Dan came to his senses, his expression shifted. He was about to reprimand Tian Mang, but caught the Huan King's faint, knowing smile. His mouth worked several times before he forced the words back down.

In theory, Tian Mang's rash interruption was a grave taboo when two states were discussing matters of consequence. Tian Dan knew his wretched son was honest and straightforward, almost to the point of being simpleminded.

But what if His Majesty had instructed Tian Mang to speak?

Three breaths passed...

Ten breaths...

For dozens of breaths, silence held.

As the silence stretched on and the Huan King said nothing, everyone grew more convinced that Tian Mang had spoken at his bidding. Otherwise, the Huan King would have rebuked him at once, not remained silent.

"Your Majesty, please see the truth of it. Everything I've said comes from the bottom of my heart. Perhaps it sounds cruel and selfish, but such is reality, and we have no choice. As a ruler yourself, you must know the hardships of governing a state and its people. Besides, though our people suffer under my king's rule, they are still far better off than they would be beneath Great Qin's brutal yoke!"

Han Guang had expected a round of scheming debate and rebuttal. Instead, Huan Kingdom's response had been so direct that countless prepared arguments died before they could leave his lips. In the end, he could only steel himself and sigh helplessly.

Jian Shang studied Han Guang for a moment, then said simply, "Facts speak louder than words. To my mind, tomorrow is the best time to strike back. If our forces suddenly charge out of the gates, we can deal the enemy a heavy blow. What do you think, General Han?"

Han Guang's brows knitted. The Huan