Let's take a step back.

Even if the harm from nuclear radiation doesn't show up immediately, what about future generations?

Is someone really just focused on the present and themselves?

Alright.

Living in the moment and seizing the day doesn't seem wrong either, after all, with Dongying's unique geography, whether it will still be on this planet in several decades or a hundred years is unknown.

"If no proper remedial plan is presented for this nuclear leak accident, Jiuding Group will completely withdraw from Dongying."

Jiang Chen couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, looking at the calm CEO Cao.

Yingdong Electric Power is certainly not Jiuding's only investment in Dongying; a full withdrawal is no small matter.

But with Cao Jinse's personality, she always follows through and doesn't make empty boasts.

"Wouldn't the losses be a bit too much?"

"Long-term pain is worse than short-term pain, and Jiuding isn't the only one suffering losses."

Cao Jinse said calmly.

Peace brings prosperity, and in today's broader context, past grievances can be set aside for mutual cooperation. But if you are unjust, then don't blame me for being heartless.

"If you really want to pull out, let me know if there are any good assets. You can bundle them up for me."

Boss Jiang seizes an opportunity.

Cao Jinse said nothing, just gave him a look.

When Jiang Chen looked back out the window, he noticed the street outside seemed a bit familiar.

"Where are we going?"

"Dongying Imperial Palace."

Just as expected.

Jiang Chen unconsciously rubbed his fingers together.

It seems he underestimated their prestige.

No wonder the Imperial Family wasn't present earlier; they were preparing.

The motorcade successively stopped in the square in front of the Imperial Palace.

Not only was the crowded and noisy protest crowd nowhere to be seen, but even the tourists had inexplicably vanished.

It's quite evident.

The Imperial Palace is closed to visitors today.

Within half a mile radius centered on the main entrance of the palace, not a single idle person was in sight. Guards were lined up in formation. Apart from them, at the end of a red carpet stood a figure at the entrance of the palace, waiting to receive guests.

Jiang Chen checked several times to make sure he wasn't mistaken.

It wasn't the Emperor.

But that Prince Wataru Tetsuya he'd met once before.

They were indeed granting him the highest honors.

The reputation of the American Dad is well-deserved.

"You probably won't enjoy this level of treatment, right?"

Jiang Chen teased.

Since they weren't the main guests, they naturally weren't in a hurry to get out of the car.

CEO Cao, accommodating as always, didn't mind, "Last time you couldn't have a meal at the palace, this time you can make up for it."

Jiang Chen never thought he'd be here for a meal at the palace, perhaps the Emperor might even make an appearance later?

He wondered if Prince Wataru Tetsuya still remembered him; of course, with so many people, they probably wouldn't have a chance to notice him.

The motorcade had departed from the airport at about the same time, so delays should not have been significant, especially since no car dared—or could—cut them off.

Until the main guests arrived, everyone had to wait.

Cao Jinse's phone rang.

"I know."

After hanging up, she said, "Let's switch locations."

Jiang Chen felt confused, "What do you mean?"

"Cynthia's convoy changed direction, they won't be coming."

Jiang Chen was startled.

The Imperial Family had made such a grand display, even the Prince personally came to greet them at the door, yet they weren't coming?

Even if the Japanese Imperial Family might be in decline, they remain a national spiritual leader.

And just like that, they were stood up?

Besides, there were so many dignitaries and elites present.

Jiang Chen couldn't help but think of those deep blue eyes, rendered speechless.

This was publicly slapping everyone from Dongying top to bottom in the face.

While he also got stood up, Cao Jinse's lips curled into a small smile.

Jiang Chen understood her feeling.

Indirectly, a bit of satisfaction was found as well.

"Are we not eating either?"

"If the main guest doesn't show, what's the point of eating?"

CEO Cao was resolute, also giving no face to the Japanese Imperial Family, instructing the driver straightforwardly, "Drive."

The Rolls Royce started up. Jiang Chen looked out the car window; at the door of the Imperial Palace, that Prince Wataru Tetsuya was looking at the departing convoy, destined to wait in vain.

Leaving the Imperial Palace.

Cao Jinse took Jiang Chen to a Chinese restaurant.

"Where's Mao Tu?"

"Sleeping."

It's unsure if the Taoist nun sister hadn't gotten up, but that girl Mao Tu was truly asleep.

Indeed.

On such a trip, there's no need to worry about Cao Jinse's safety.

Bodyguards stood guard outside the private room.

There was a TV in the private room too.

"What do you want to eat?"

Cao Jinse looked at the menu.

"Anything."

Jiang Chen, who thought he might score a meal at the Imperial Palace, turned on the TV and deliberately switched to Tokyo TV.

The protest crowd in front of the Imperial Palace surely wouldn't leave on their own.

However, to his disappointment.

Even Tokyo TV, known for daring reports, had no news coverage on this matter.

What's the point of deceiving the public?

The crucial question is whether they can even deceive themselves.

Undoubtedly.

Dongying suffered a humiliation today.

Of course.

One could also say they brought it on themselves.

"Want a drink?"

Jiang Chen withdrew his gaze from the TV, smiled, "It's too early to celebrate."

Cao Jinse handed the menu to the waiter.

"Yingdong Electric Power's president, Horinae Takao, is holding an emergency press conference to discuss the Fukushima nuclear leak accident. Please stay tuned for the live report."

The voice from the TV suddenly drew their attention.

Jiang Chen and Cao Jinse simultaneously looked at the TV screen.

The scene changed.

Not long ago, the powerful figure from Dongying, Yingdong Electric Power's president Horinae Takao, appeared on the screen amidst a throng of media reporters.

Seeing this, Jiang Chen and Cao Jinse exchanged a glance.

"You didn't know?"

Jiang Chen asked.

Cao Jinse shook her head silently.

It was quite evident.

This was truly an "emergency press conference."

But how did they get it organized on time?

The efficiency was astonishing.

Moreover, according to the original schedule, everyone should have been dining at the palace right now.

On the screen, Horinae Takao, who had never been seen in public after the incident, stood solemnly, offering a sincere 90-degree bow, then expressing remorse and admitting his negligence with a face full of guilt.

Although apologies are of little use, at least it shows an attitude of taking responsibility.

Unlike before, providing weak announcements or letting subordinates take the spotlight.

Jiang Chen couldn't understand Japanese, but he could guess what the president of Yingdong Electric Power was roughly saying.

The scene was filled with media reporters; no suspicious individuals were visible, but the president stepping forward to admit fault was undoubtedly not by choice.

He didn't blink or show any sign of coercion, whether it was an impromptu speech or powerful PR team, he delivered what was likely a hastily prepared speech for a good twenty minutes, even as dishes began arriving on Jiang Chen's table.

Neither Jiang Chen nor Cao Jinse rushed to eat.

Now that the president had spoken, it must have more substance than mere formalities; Jiang Chen twitched an eyebrow.

Someone brought a glass of water up, and in plain view, handed it to Horinae Takao.

Perhaps from prolonged speaking, the over-fifty Horinae Takao's hands noticeably trembled, yet he took the glass.

The media reporters quieted down.

Horinae Takao's face flushed red as he firmly held onto the glass, then confidently shouted something, then closed his eyes, tilted his head back.

"Gulp, gulp..."

The whole glass of water.

Approximately 250 milliliters, was swallowed down cleanly in one breath.

Whether it was too hastily ingested or not, this president of Dongying Electric Power, when setting the glass down, appeared unsteady, his body noticeably swaying.

Jiang Chen was amazed.

One must admit.

This kind of PR tactic is extreme.

And its effect is immediate.

After drinking the water, the reporters at the scene were appeased, their emotions and voices no longer so agitated.

Horinae Takao diligently did not step down for a break, continuing to capitalize on the moment to make further speeches.

Jiang Chen didn't watch anymore, maybe out of reluctance, picked up the remote, and turned off the TV.

"People aren't always as they seem."

He sighed, not quite understanding.

Cao Jinse remained serene, picking up her chopsticks.

"Let's eat."

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