As the meeting began, Yun Ming's deep eyes slowly swept over the Sea God Pavilion elders seated on either side.
The hall was brightly lit, yet a heavy pressure hung in the air.
The gloom brought on by several successive setbacks in their external affairs still lingered over everyone's hearts. Nothing good could possibly come of this meeting.
Yun Ming sat upright in the seat of honor, his expression solemn. "Everyone, let us begin. First, let us discuss the matter concerning the Star Luo Continent."
As his words fell, the faint murmurs in the hall instantly died away.
All the elders straightened in their seats, their gazes focused as they awaited the discussion.
Yun Ming swept his gaze over them and continued gravely, "Before we formally begin, I must remind you of something."
"Surely none of you are naive enough to believe that Star Luo merely wants an academic exchange?"
The elders below exchanged glances, and quite a few nodded slightly.
Undercurrents had always surged through the relationship between Star Luo and the Federation, and Star Luo had been keeping its eyes on the Federation's every move.
For them to take the initiative now and ask Shrek to send an exchange delegation, they must have other calculations hidden beneath the surface. This was certainly no simple academic exchange.
Still, it was better not to say too much. Nearly every suggestion made at the previous meetings had become a laughingstock, and the Inner Court was still waiting hand and foot on three little overlords.
Cai Yue'er's name had practically become another word for a joke. Every time she made a suggestion, Shrek lost face. They might as well let her speak.
Just as everyone remained silent, a shrill voice rang out, as expected.
"Pavilion Master, let me lead the team this