Discussing Strategy

At Jiang Ziya's words, the tension in Ji Chang's heart instantly eased, and a relieved smile appeared on his face.

At first, he had been secretly uneasy, fearing that this great sage might make excessive demands such as ceding land or sharing power. Never had he imagined that Jiang Ziya's condition would be so simple—merely to ride in a carriage down the mountain.

"Sir, you honor me too much!" Ji Chang stepped forward, his tone earnest and delighted, his gaze brimming with sincerity. "If Western Qi can gain your aid, it will be Western Qi's great fortune—and mine as well! Let alone allowing you to ride down the mountain in a carriage, even if I were to gift this carriage to you, what of it?"

Hearing this, the smile at Jiang Ziya's lips deepened slightly as he slowly asked, "Marquis, are you truly willing to let Poor Daoist ride down the mountain in a carriage, without the slightest reservation?"

"Of course!" Ji Chang nodded without hesitation, his smile gentle yet resolute. "Sir is a sage without peer. I thirst for worthy talent, and to earn your favor is already the blessing of three lifetimes. How could such a trifling matter be worth mentioning?"

"Good!" Jiang Ziya laughed heartily, a glint of approval flashing through his eyes. "Then I hope the Marquis will keep his word today and not break his promise."

Ji Chang hurriedly raised a hand in a respectful gesture of invitation, his manner growing ever more humble. "Sir, please!"

Jiang Ziya gave a slight nod and sat opposite Ji Chang.

Ji Chang then put away his smile and spoke with earnest solemnity. "I have long heard that you live in seclusion at Pan Creek, with the warp and weft of the world stored in your breast and fine