Matthew stared silently at Ambassador Li Sheng, his mind rapidly sorting through the magnitude of what he'd just been told. China and Russia, unified against Amerathia and its allies. He had prepared for this eventuality, but the sudden confirmation still left him unsettled. He took a moment to steady himself, knowing clearly where such an escalation might lead.
He exhaled slowly, his eyes remaining steady on Li. "Ambassador Li," he finally began, his voice controlled and quiet, "this decision by your empire surprises me greatly. It seems entirely contrary to China's interests—especially considering the progress our two nations have built together."