Dugu Jing stared at the two battle reports, his heart storming with turmoil. After Xie Xun reclaimed Zhongzhou, Sangnan stabilized, rendering him nearly invincible. Once the situation steadied further, Sangnan would inevitably become part of Beining. Xie Xun's dream of unification would be realized, and Beiman submitting to Beining was only a matter of time. Even Fengyu had recognized the reality and approached Dugu Jing for negotiations.
The first meeting ended in discord. Dugu Jing's stance was clear—he absolutely refused to surrender. Beiman would fight to the last man, never yielding to defeat.
Fengyu did not persist in persuading him but instead encouraged Dugu Jing to go out and see the lives of the common people. Surrendering to Beining was the fastest way to bring his people peace and stability.
