"Do you know the fundamental difference between a small state and a great nation? Let me tell you."
"A small state is relaxed but disorderly, free but unrestrained. It has no strict laws, no authority, no governance, and no dignity."
"A great nation is ordered and unified, with everyone in their proper place and working as one. It has strict laws, authority, governance, and dignity."
"As the ruler of a nation, how could I not understand what is at stake? Unfortunately, I have no choice. Without manpower and resources to strengthen the nation, it would be nothing but a great paper tiger, torn apart by the slightest jab of an enemy's dagger. It would become a laughingstock. So without uniting people's efforts and their thinking, how could I achieve this?"
"If I truly governed through inaction, treating the country like a small fish to be cooked with a light touch, all that awaited the Qin Kingdom would be the annexation of its territory by its neighbors."
With that, he stood and turned his teacup upside down, signaling that their conversation was over. "I still have many urgent matters to attend to. If you intend to remain in the Royal City, let Qin Mu and the others know. But I think you would do better to leave as soon as possible. Out of respect for your sincerity, I will not kill you, but some among them may act."
Ying Zheng was about to turn and leave when Zeng Mu stopped him. "Please stay, Your Majesty. I have only said half of what I came to say."
"If the remaining half is more of the same, there is no point in hearing it. I did not come here merely to debate Confucian and Daoist theories of governance with you. I already have