However, the relationship between him and Jiayao was truly far too complex. Emperor Wen now viewed everything from the perspective of an observer, but both he and Jiayao were players in the game. Once one becomes a player, even if one understands certain truths, it is not always possible to act upon them.
Seeing that Yun Zheng remained silent, Emperor Wen asked again, "How do you intend to treat Beihuan in the future?"
"Total integration, of course!" Yun Zheng replied without a moment’s hesitation. This point would never change, regardless of the nature of his relationship with Jiayao. Even if Jiayao truly laid down all grievances and submitted in earnest, this would not change. Furthermore, once Da Qian became strong enough to strike fear into the hearts of its neighbors, national integration would become inevitable. This was simply not something anyone could stop—unless, of course, one were to resort to total isolationism. But he would never do something so foolish.
Chapter 380