Song Chongjin remained calm: "It's just idle rumors. If I were to explain or deny them, wouldn't that make people suspect something? Those who are clear remain clear, those who are murky remain murky. I stand upright and act honestly, let them say what they want! I am utterly loyal to the Imperial Court and His Majesty, with a clear conscience!"
As Song Chongjin said this, he did not lower his voice, and the people around him heard it. Soon, it spread among the officials in the negotiation team.
Quickly, the officials formed several factions.
One group believed that opening the trade route was originally proposed by Song Chongjin. Perhaps he and Queen Ah Lan of the Grasslands were colluding, and the trade route was meant to pave the way for Song Chongjin, increasing his influence and allowing him to seek personal gains.
