The courtroom fell into a momentary silence, interrupted only by the echo of my bold statement. The minister of trade, visibly perturbed, demanded an explanation.
Minister of Trade - "What do you mean by NO?"
I maintained eye contact with the emperor and spoke with conviction.
Me - "I am aware of the value and importance of what we have created. We have hence decided that we will never reveal the process of creating steel, at least until we and our empire are strong enough to have no opposition and fear."
The minister of trade appeared angered by my defiance. I continued addressing the emperor, reinforcing my decision.