Chapter 81: Testing Each Other

Tian Chang’s concern was straightforward: if the “Sima Code” were in Meng Di’s possession, then a direct action would suffice. Yet now, he needed to find Guo Yuan first, so as to maximize the benefit. For a moment, indecision plagued him, and his mind grew restless and uneasy.

The following noon, Tian Chang hosted Meng Di once again. After several cups of wine, Tian Chang smiled and asked, “Last night, during the banquet, you spoke enigmatic words. Did you mean to hint at some news?”

Meng Di, turning the bronze wine goblet in his hand, fixed Tian Chang with a keen gaze. “Before I answer, may I ask what it is, exactly, that you seek, Master Tian?”

The question caused a subtle shift in Tian Chang’s expression, but before he could respond, Meng Di continued, “Today, the Tian clan ranks just below the Guo and Gao clans in Qi. If you wish to rise further, it will prove difficult. Even if discord arises between the Guo and Gao clans, and Tian takes advantage of the situation, you would remain subordinate to them.”

These words stunned Tian Chang. He had not expected Meng Di to perceive matters so clearly. If so, then his plan to deal with Meng Di had likely been laid bare. Embarrassment flickered across his face, and he forced a smile. “What do you mean, sir? Under the governance of Guo and Gao, Qi’s strength increases daily. My Tian clan is content to follow in their wake.”

Meng Di drained his wine, set the goblet heavily on the table, and said, “Since you say so, let us forget my earlier words. Farewell.”

He rose to depart, but Tian Chang hurriedly reached out to stop him. “Wait, sir!”

Within Tian Chang’s heart, conflicting emotions battled fiercely. Since Meng Di saw so clearly, perhaps he had some useful method; if Tian Chang missed this chance, it would be a great pity.

Meng Di’s lips curled in a slight smile as he slowly turned back. “Is there something else you wish to discuss, Master Tian?”

Tian Chang calmed himself, then gestured politely. “There were things left unsaid; let us sit and talk in detail. If you can aid my Tian clan, we will reward you handsomely.”

Once seated again, Meng Di’s expression changed. “What I say today is for the Tian clan, but also for my own life. The day when Master Tian offered two thousand mu of salt fields for my service, surely you had other arrangements in mind?”

When Tian Chang tried to explain, Meng Di raised a hand. “No need, Master Tian. I’ve heard the King of Qi favors the Tian clan lately. This is a golden opportunity. Why, then, do you curry favor with Gao, neglecting the chance at hand?”

Tian Chang’s heart stirred. “Please, advise me.”

His tone was deferential, and Meng Di silently praised him. Tian Chang was indeed a figure capable of assessing the times and treating others with courteous respect—a true contender.

Meng Di spoke again, “Years ago, the Guo, Gao, and Bao clans united to suppress the Tian clan. Now, Guo and Gao rule, but Bao is neglected. Is this not your opportunity?”

These words startled Tian Chang. He had not expected this cold and mysterious guest to possess such knowledge of Qi’s affairs. This insight was rare, and Tian Chang felt inclined to recruit him.

He rose and bowed deeply to Meng Di. “You are indeed a great talent. If you would remain in Qi and serve the Tian clan, we would offer you the rank of minister.”

Meng Di stood and declined directly. “To be frank, I am a vassal of Meng Zi in Lu, and have sworn a lifetime of loyalty to my lord. Your offer is appreciated, but I cannot accept.”

Tian Chang’s expression changed. “You speak of the new master of Meng City in Lu?”

Meng Di nodded, and Tian Chang’s face showed disappointment, though he said aloud, “It seems I must visit Lu someday, to meet this Meng Zi who inspires such loyalty. Truly enviable.”

Meng Di replied candidly, “Meng City is not far from Qi. If the Tian clan should one day hold power, I hope you will look after us. Before I left, my lord predicted the Tian clan would eventually rule Qi, and I agree wholeheartedly.”

Thus, another figure, Meng Zi, entered the conversation, leaving Tian Chang somewhat surprised.

Yet befriending the Bao clan now was not the best option; it could attract attention from Guo and Gao, bringing trouble to the Tian clan, though it was a reasonable strategy.

After much thought, Tian Chang asked, “Is now truly the right time to ally with Bao? What do you suggest?”

Meng Di became cagey. “As I said, I speak these words to preserve our lives, so I ask you to be sincere with me.”

Tian Chang’s cheeks flushed slightly; it was clear Meng Di had already seen through his intentions and was using these words to secure his own safety.

Since matters had reached this point, Tian Chang felt little need for further pretense. After all, Meng Di and his companions were within Langya city, under Qi’s jurisdiction, so Tian Chang need not worry.

He considered carefully, then said, “I asked you to kill that river pirate’s leader because it concerns matters within my Tian clan. That leader was once a servant of ours, who stole the ‘Sima Code’; after years of searching, we finally found him.”

This was merely a cover for those unaware of the true situation; Meng Di would never believe it. He smiled. “From what I know, the ‘Sima Code’ was left by Tian Rangju. When he served as Grand Marshal, why did he not fight back, but choose to live quietly in Langya?”

Tian Chang’s expression shifted slightly, and he sighed. “The Grand Marshal could not bear to see Qi plunged into turmoil once again, so he chose to retire in Langya. His intentions were noble.”

Meng Di immediately understood. Now he could be certain—the Tian clan had acted against Tian Rangju, for Tian Chang had revealed the cause: Tian Rangju chose not to let Qi descend into chaos, withdrew, and paid for it with his clan’s power stripped away.

Clearly, this did not accord with Tian Qi’s strategy. After repeated persuasion failed, Tian Rangju grew wary, moved his kin to Langya, and ultimately met his end.

Having learned this, Meng Di’s next move would be to seek the trade routes.

Meng Di slowly sipped his wine. “So it is. The Grand Marshal is truly admirable, willing to sacrifice his family’s interests for the stability of Qi. A true statesman.”

Tian Chang’s face twitched, and he forced an awkward smile. “You are quite right, sir.”