Becoming the scapegoat was almost inevitable.
How could Mei Meng not know that?
"If she really does find a scapegoat to shift the blame for the defeat, that proves she isn't completely stupid. The allied forces suffered heavy losses in this battle. If Qi Country truly reaches the brink of life and death, then as its Sovereign, facing questions from its allies and doubts from its ministers and subjects at home, she'll naturally prioritize protecting her position and her life, and make sure no outside force can drag her from the throne." Mei Meng's answer went beyond what Qi Cang had expected. Under his surprised gaze, she smiled with quiet resignation. "How is that not a way to protect herself?"
Better a friend die than oneself.
That saying could be applied anywhere, anytime.
Of course, Mei Meng had hoped for a ruler and subject who understood one another. She had hoped that the person she served would firmly choose her and trust her. But that hope was a luxury that went against human nature. Once Mei Meng realized that her Sovereign wasn't walking the same path as her, she stopped hoping.
And once she stopped hoping, there was no true disappointment.
"She can protect herself. What about you?"
"Between ruler and subject... how can both sides come out whole?"
As if something had crossed her mind, Mei Meng sighed with self-mockery.
The Sovereign and Mei Meng shared the same affliction. They had once endured similar circumstances, and each should have looked at the other as if gazing into a mirror. They should have been ruler and subject, as well as close friends who supported one another.
Mei Meng had underestimated the allure of power.
It could change a person beyond recognition more than time ever could.
She had also underestimated