Before Su Ziji could even speak, he already sensed that at this very moment, the eyes of all the civil and military officials and the princes and dukes in the hall were fixed upon him.
Yet Su Ziji seemed utterly unaware, declaring in a clear voice, "Courtesy before arms is the etiquette of a great state. Though Ning Kingdom is small, it is still a vassal state of our dynasty and must be appeased. Its daughter is also a princess of a state. Prince Shu may elevate her to a secondary consort and personally write a letter to soothe Ning Kingdom, ordering it to withdraw."
"If Ning Kingdom refuses, then its crime will stand plain for all to see, witnessed by every realm beneath heaven. It will not be too late to sweep them away with thunderous force."
The moment this proposal was voiced, the great hall erupted. The officials whispered among themselves, their discussions buzzing like flies. Clearly, Su Ziji's answer had dissatisfied some of them.
It was not that the punishment he suggested was too severe. Quite the opposite—it was far too light.
Prince Shu's expression improved somewhat. Though he still resented Su Ziji's actions today, more than half his anger had dissipated.
Prince Qi had originally watched the spectacle with a cold sneer, but now he was no longer smiling. The corners of his mouth drooped, and that violent, gloomy air rose again in his expression.
What exactly was wrong with this Su Ziji?
Since he had already taken the initiative and gone head-to-head with Prince Shu, he should simply fight it to the bitter end!
Their faces had already been torn apart, yet he still would not seize the chance to beat the man to death with one blow. A heavy shout, then a light tap—was