Empire Conquest

Chapter 652 - 3 Meeting at a Critical Juncture_3

Additionally, if the Liangxia Empire were to repeat the mistakes of the Boi War, they could perhaps take back the Howay Islands without shedding blood.

During the late stages of the Boi War, in an effort to improve relations with the Newland Republic, the Liangxia Authorities had once wavered on the issue of returning some of the islands in the Alas region, or rather, there was a similar willingness. Unfortunately, the Newland Authority wanted to reclaim the entire Alas region.

Even if another outcome emerged, Boi Country, closely allied with the Newland Republic, could grow stronger.

Clearly, covertly supporting Iraq to wage war was all benefit and no harm for the Newland Republic.

Considering these factors, expecting the Iraq authorities to pull back from the brink was undoubtedly a fool’s dream.

Of course, face-saving efforts definitely needed to be thorough.

"I just heard as well, your cousin, Li Mingyang has gone to the other side of the lake."

"If that’s true, I’m afraid it’s really going to lead to war this time."

Noticing Lian Mingyang’s complicated expression, Bai Huawei said with a smile, "Whether we fight or not, and when we fight, is not for us to decide. I just want to know, that initial suggestion of yours, about the Land Air Force leading the charge—was that just a joke, or do you have great confidence?"

"You don’t believe me?"

Bai Huawei glared at Lian Mingyang, looking ready to physically chastise his distant nephew.

"To say I have full confidence would definitely be a lie. But to say I have none would also be impossible." Lian Mingyang had no intention of joking with Bai Huawei. "After the Boi War, we’ve undergone military reforms for more than a decade, enduring hardships, and whether these reforms are effective we won’t know until we’ve fought."

"If you ask me, you are the Grand Marshal’s true grandson. This ability to jest, you’ve mastered it."

"Everyone’s the same."

When Bai Huawei gestured to flick him, Lian Mingyang swiftly dodged to the side.

Though only a few years younger than Bai Huawei, in a real dispute, Lian Mingyang as the junior would undoubtedly be at a disadvantage.

Moreover, Lian Mingyang was just a major in the Land Air Force, two ranks below a Navy colonel.

"According to General Shi, tonight will definitely be lively." Bai Huawei paused briefly before continuing, "Just watch yourself, think before you speak. If we really are preparing to fight, we’re not discussing who leads the vanguard first, but ensuring a triumphant start!"

"That’s certain." Lian Mingyang nodded thoughtfully, with a knowing look.

"Do you understand?"

"Of course, who do you think I am?" Lian Mingyang chuckled, then sheepishly added, "Telling me all this, do you have reliable inside information?"

"It’s your sister’s inside informa..."

"Right, isn’t your sister just..."

After being fiercely glared at by Bai Huawei, Lian Mingyang quickly shut his mouth and noticed an officer approaching them.

They knew each other, and had been childhood friends.

The man was Liu Zunshan, a Major in the Marine Corps.

Like Lian Mingyang and Bai Huawei, he also came from a distinguished family; his father was Liu Xiangdong, the Navy Marshal of the Empire, although he did not inherit Liu Xiangdong’s humility.

Before joining the military, during their childhood, Liu Zunshan often bullied the then frail Lian Mingyang, though he was mostly put in his place by the older Bai Huawei.

This guy was also tough, always swallowing his broken teeth rather than complaining to his parents.

As a result, their friendship was forged through fights.

Although Lian Mingyang’s relationship with Liu Zunshan wasn’t particularly good, both he and Bai Huawei felt that he was quite a manly figure.