Chapter 1623: 1620: Attempt

Chapter 1623: Chapter 1620: Attempt

Beirong is not a place without spirit; how could they truly submit to Great Chu?

Moreover, even though Great Chu won against Beirong this time, it doesn’t mean that Beirong has no strength left to fight.

Many officials are eager to watch a good show, especially those wary of Chu Heng, who is favored by Emperor Xuanming.

Envoys from other small nations have heard of Chu Heng’s renown and are now looking at him with curiosity.

Standing in the center of the grand hall, despite being watched by the burning eyes of many, Chu Heng showed not the slightest fear and remained composed.

Emperor Xuanming seemed intrigued: “Oh? Minister Chu, would you be willing to engage in a trial with Prince Zilun, each discussing pros and cons?”

Chu Heng bowed in salute: “It would be my honor.”

“Good, good, good,” Emperor Xuanming laughed heartily, clearly in high spirits, “Then, let the match begin.”

The Beirong Prince seized the opportunity to speak: “His Majesty of Great Chu, since it’s a competition, should there not be a wager? In our Northern Desert, a small bet always adds to the delight.”

Below, many people discussed fervently. Clearly, the Beirong Prince had intended this from the start, and now that there’s an opportunity, he naturally wouldn’t miss it.

“Oh? What is Prince Zilun’s wager?” Emperor Xuanming would not refuse; now that it’s a competition involving the honor of two countries, Great Chu must win. Furthermore, since the Beirong Prince dared propose a wager, it shows he has firm confidence. However, because the other party proposed it, Great Chu must agree. To not agree would indicate fear.

At this time, it’s crucial to establish authority over other small nations, and Emperor Xuanming naturally wouldn’t let such a good opportunity pass.

The Beirong Prince cupped his hands and looked at Chu Heng: “Lord Chu took me to see your country’s cloth this morning. I am very impressed. If I win, I hope Lord Chu will tell us how to make this Cashmere Cloth, to broaden our knowledge.”

“Then what if you lose?” Emperor Xuanming’s imperial majesty leaked out.

The Beirong Prince, straightforward, said, “I proposed a wager, so for fairness, Lord Chu may also propose a wager.”

Emperor Xuanming suddenly laughed, giving the opportunity to Chu Heng.

Chu Heng nodded: “In that case, I humbly propose a wager. If I win, I hope Prince Zilun can persuade your country to extend the peace treaty by ten years, and promote it to the people of Zhou State.”

‘Wow.’

Many officials present hadn’t expected Chu Heng to make such a request.

It’s known that whether the peace treaty can be maintained hinges on the promises of gentlemen. If Beirong refuses to abide by the treaty, Great Chu can only go to war. Besides, the one who came is merely a prince, not Beirong’s Emperor, so whether he can make such decisions is uncertain.

Indeed, the Beirong Prince, hearing this, paused momentarily, then smiled and said: “Lord Chu is indeed a skilled negotiator; not forgetting the goals you hadn’t achieved before shows your persistence.”

“However, such decisions require communication with the Khan; whether it can be decided, I can’t give a definite answer. If Lord Chu doesn’t mind, I can agree now, as I believe Beirong’s wool cloth is not inferior to your country’s Cashmere Cloth.”

The Beirong Prince laughed openly, his face bearing confidence, somewhat arrogantly dismissive.

But being close to him, Chu Heng could feel his resolute determination and didn’t find him too objectionable, as he wasn’t showing insult or hostility.

“If this is the case, then let’s settle for the next best option.”