Chapter 140: Regaining Freedom

Shortly afterward, the State of Qi immediately received a protest from the State of Lu, and a second envoy was already on the way.

Upon receiving this news, Gao Zhang felt a certain unease. Why was Yang Hu’s stance so resolute this time? His political acumen made him realize that there must be deeper reasons behind this matter.

However, the affair was escalating, and since Meng Di had been detained for some time, he remained remarkably composed—eating and drinking as usual, even knowing that Zi Su, the daughter of Guo Xia, was practicing swordsmanship, yet showing no hint of anxiety.

This was unexpected to Gao Zhang. He quickly realized that Meng Di was far more formidable than he had imagined. After careful consideration, he decided to heed Guo Xia’s advice.

He planned to arrange a meeting with the Marquis of Qi, but before that, he needed a thorough conversation with Meng Di to understand what was truly on his mind.

At last, Meng Di awaited the long-anticipated audience, though he was quite surprised that it took place in the study. Although somewhat unorthodox, it indicated that Gao Zhang intended to discuss something important.

Upon entering the study, Gao Zhang greeted him with a smile. After they both took their seats, he spoke.

“Recent affairs have kept me busy, so I apologize for the delay, Meng Zi. Last time, we were hindered by wine and missed the matter at hand. I have yet to ask—what brings you to Qi this time?”

A classic display of feigned ignorance despite knowing full well, Meng Di merely smiled softly.

“My purpose here is not what matters most. What truly matters is whether Qi can seize this opportunity to dominate.”

Speaking so bluntly unsettled Gao Zhang, who furrowed his brow.

“What do you mean by that, Meng Zi?”

“The meaning is simple. For Qi to dominate, it cannot afford a conflict with Fan Xianzi in these few years; he is no ordinary man. Now, I wonder if Zheng and Qi have prepared to ally? If I am right, Wei must be hesitant at this moment.”

Hearing this, Gao Zhang’s expression changed. He narrowed his eyes and snorted.

“If you have something to say, Meng Zi, speak plainly. I detest riddles and vague words.”

Meng Di straightened, confidence shining in his eyes as he replied.

“Very well. I dislike beating around the bush, too. As long as Fan Xianzi holds power, Qi’s chance to dominate remains slim—unless Qi wishes to emulate Chu and wage incessant war against Jin. But then, Qi would forfeit any hope of supremacy.”

“Having governed Qi for many years, Prime Minister Gao understands this: when external threats arise, the people unite to expel the foe for survival. Without external enemies, internal strife surely follows.”

“Jin remains strong. If Qi and Jin clash now, it would only aid Fan Xianzi greatly, uniting Jin’s six lords against outsiders. Would Qi still stand a chance then?”

Gao Zhang pondered this, frowning deeply before nodding slightly. He had to admit Meng Di’s reasoning was sound. The best course was to watch Jin’s gradual disintegration and swift decline.

When Jin gasps for breath, deliver the fatal blow. Only then could Qi rule the world at minimal cost. Understanding this, Gao Zhang’s gaze toward Meng Di grew wary.

So young, yet with such insight and vision—his future was undoubtedly limitless.

Sensing Gao Zhang’s gaze, Meng Di smiled quietly and spoke pointedly.

“Qi has enjoyed stability too long. Though some families have caused disorder, the overall strength remains intact. Under these conditions, Prime Minister Gao, if Qi wishes to dominate, it must first secure internal peace and forge alliances among the vassals.”

“When Duke Huan of Qi once sought hegemony, he fought the Battle of Changshao with Lu. Though Lu won, they wholeheartedly acknowledged Duke Huan’s supremacy. Why? Because he was magnanimous, inspiring willing allegiance among the states.”

“Now, Jin’s century-old hegemony has lost its grandeur; their conduct lacks the demeanor of a great power. Having broken trust with the vassals, they have been abandoned. Thus, whether Lu allies with Qi depends not on Lu but on Qi—because Qi is strong and Lu weak.”

Among these words, Gao Zhang was less concerned with grand principles and more struck by Meng Di’s emphasis on three words: internal peace. His heart skipped a beat.

Currently, Qi’s governance was held by the Guo and Gao families, with the Tian family ranked just below, behaving submissively. Yet, through frequent favors, the Tian clan maintained excellent relations with many minor families within Qi.

To Gao Zhang, this was a latent threat. Especially recently, Tian’s actions were no secret to him. It was clear there was some secret between Tian and Meng Di.

Now, hearing Meng Di’s words, Gao Zhang’s first thought was that the Tian family harbored ambitions. After a silent pause, he asked.

“What do you mean by internal strife, Meng Zi?”

“Prime Minister Gao, as Qi’s chief minister, why ask me? When Duke Huan of Qi sought hegemony, he governed diligently and reformed resolutely, securing internal peace. Do you not agree, Prime Minister Gao?”

Some matters are best left implicit. To explain too clearly would be to hand one’s own weaknesses to the other. Meng Di was no fool. If Gao Zhang could not discern the internal strife, then he was unfit to govern Qi.

The study fell silent for a time. Gao Zhang’s expression was unsettled. After a long pause, he spoke.

“Prepare yourself these coming days, Meng Zi. The Marquis of Qi will summon you to court at any time. I am unwell today, so forgive me for not escorting you. Safe travels.”

Meng Di understood he was being freed. He rose and bowed, while Gao Zhang stood to return the gesture but made no move to accompany him.

Once Meng Di left the study, Gao Zhang walked to the window, watching his figure disappear through the winding corridors. A grave expression darkened his face. Having governed Qi for so many years, Gao Zhang had his own strengths.

From their conversation, he keenly sensed Meng Di was sending a warning: beware the Tian family. This sparked deep curiosity in his heart. If Meng Di was linked to the Tian clan, why now would he warn him?

(End of chapter)