The founding monarch of the Qi State was Lu Shang. After King Wu of Zhou destroyed Zhou, he established the Western Zhou Dynasty and granted Lu Shang the title of Jiang Taigong. He established the capital at Yingqiu, later named Linzi.
After the Western Zhou and Eastern Zhou dynasties, the Qi State became a big country. It developed industry and commerce and benefited from fishing and salt, and the country prospered.
However, the key reason why Qi became the hegemon of the Spring and Autumn Period was that Duke Huan of Qi appointed Guan Zhong as prime minister and carried out reforms that could only be matched by Qin's Shang Yangshi. The country's national power increased dramatically and it became a major power.
Another key was to clear out the Lai Yi who were ravaging the border.
As early as when Taigong founded the country, the Lai Yi tribe, which occupied most of the Qi people's maritime territory, gave the Qi people a head-on blow. From then on, the struggle with Qi continued on and off until the Qi people destroyed Lai in 567 BC.
From then on, Qi State not only eliminated long-term border troubles and increased its territory by more than half; it also truly became a sea-facing country, unlike before when it only owned half of Laizhou Bay.
The people of Qi have always been known for their tyranny. They not only oppressed the neighboring state of Lu, but also continued to annex the surrounding small states. They also restrained the powerful Chu in the south. Therefore, they formed the Zhaoling Alliance to force the Chu people to withdraw from Zheng.
Because the Qi people blocked the way, the Chu people were unwilling to set their sights on the north and instead expanded to the southeast. The Qi people had no choice but to do anything.
The Zhaoling Alliance marked the pinnacle of the Qi people's hegemony and was also the pinnacle of Qi Huangong and Guan Zhong's careers.
After the death of the two, the five princes competed for the throne. Qi lost its center of gravity, and it was the turn of other great powers to come on stage.
During the Warring States Period, the Qi people appointed Sun Bin and followed his plan to encircle Wei and rescue Zhao, and marched straight to Daliang. The following year, the Wei army was defeated by Qi at Maling, making Qi the leader of the East in place of Wei, and all the monarchs of the three Jin Dynasties came to him.
The ambitions of the Qi people revived, and they took advantage of the civil strife of the Yan people to invade and occupy the capital of Yan for three years before retreating.
In the self-satisfied words of King Xuan of Qi, "With a country of ten thousand chariots, defeat a country of ten thousand chariots, and do it in fifty years." Not even the people of Qin have tried such martial arts.
When Chu turned from prosperity to decline, and the three Jins split, Qi and Qin became the two major forces in the east and west among the countries.
Just when the people of Qi were powerful, conquering the east and west, and losing their national power, the people of Yan, who had deep hatred against Qi, saw the opportunity and united with Qin, Chu and the three Jins to attack Qi.
Yan general Le Yi invaded Linzi and copied the atrocities committed by the Qi army in Yanjing thirty years ago. All the treasures of jewels, jade, chariots and armor were robbed. If Tian Dan had not turned things around and fled the Yan army, Qi would have been afraid of it sooner. Died.
However, the state of Qi has been ravaged to its core, going from great prosperity to sudden decline.
But when Xiang Shaoneng came to Linzi, it was more than thirty years ago, and Tian Dan had also entered his twilight years when his power was being challenged.
Linzi City is built on the west bank of the Zi River, close to the Shishui River in the west, and is composed of two large and small cities that are coincidentally connected. The total area is more than 60 square miles.
The buildings in the city are magnificent, and the transportation avenues are centered on the palace in the north of the small city. The ancestral temple, government offices and residences of officials at all levels are concentrated near the palace. The streets in the city are lined with towering ancient trees, but at this time they are all covered with crystal ice.
Although it has been affected by the war, Linzi is now prosperous, with a large population and a prosperous economy.
When the fleet docked in the east of the city, Linzi's dignitaries came out to welcome Feng Fei, a famous concubine who was famous all over the world.
When the honor guard waiting at the side played the welcoming music, Feng Fei, supported by Xiao Ping'er, walked down the shore in a graceful manner. Her grace, manners and appearance were so beautiful that everyone was amazed.
Then came Dong Shuzhen and other twelve singers, who were also dizzying.
Xiang Shaolong had already seen Tian Dan among the greeters, and hurriedly mixed among the family members to avoid being recognized by Tian Dan at a glance.
However, this is unlikely.
Under Xiao Yuetan's instructions, he put on the brown clothes of an ordinary attendant, plus a sheepskin jacket made of mixed dog and sheep hair. A cloth belt was tightly tied around the waist under the clothes, which not only covered up his waist, but also
It also made him look like he had a bulging belly.
Tian Dan and other dignitaries on the dock were all wearing furs made of deerskin, mink, etc., plus brown clothes to prevent the animal hair from being exposed and affecting their appearance.
People value clothes, but the change in clothes made Xiang Shaolong much more inconspicuous.
Moreover, through Xiao Yuetan's skillful hands, the skin on his face became thicker and darker, making him at least ten years older. When Xiang Shaolong saw the reflection in the bronze mirror, it was difficult to recall his former handsome appearance.
Xiao Yuetan and Feng Fei were the first people to disembark, and they had some polite greetings with the greeters.
Since there was still light snow falling in the sky, Feng Fei immediately boarded the carriage and entered the city immediately with the troops leading the way.
Xiang Shaolong didn't dare to ride a horse, so he got into Xiao Yuetan's carriage and said with a smile: "It seems you are quite respected here."
Xiao Yuetan said a few words modestly, and then said: "This is called calculating with intention but without intention. I paid close attention to Tian Dan just now. Except for Feng Fei, this guy seemed to be unable to see anyone else. Alas, he looked much older than when I saw him last time.
Already."
The carriage drove out with the group and slowly entered the city.
Xiao Yuetan said: "There are eight city gates in the city. The two avenues that run from east to west are East Street and West Street. There are also two avenues that run from north to south, called South Street and North Street. They are very easy to remember."
Xiang Shaolong looked out the window, thinking to himself that he had finally arrived in Linzi, hoping to leave alive.
In the wind and snow, there were not many pedestrians, and they were all passing by in a hurry, casting curious glances at the convoy.
Xiao Yuetan said: "The intersection of two east-west avenues and two north-south avenues. It is called Little Linzi. It is the most lively and prosperous place. It is a must-visit place for anyone who comes here. I will take you there tonight to take advantage of the excitement."
Xiang Shaolong smiled bitterly and said: "I shouldn't be so public."
Xiao Yuetan said: "The more you shrink back, the more people will become suspicious. Even if outsiders don't notice, there will always be suspicions about Zhang Quan and his men."
Xiang Shaolong could only say: "Then it will be as you say."
Xiao Yuetan has been excited since she found out that Lu Buwei was the instigator behind Zhang Quan. She was even more excited now. She pointed to the large mansions along the way and said: "These are the mansions of wealthy people. They have several courtyards, tiled roofs, white walls, and single-story buildings."
Courtyards are very different from ordinary houses lined up in streets and alleys."
Xiang Shaolong watched carefully and saw that the East Street he was walking on was two feet long, could pass four carriages, and there were shops on both sides.
The alley is a secondary road, which is a residential area for residents and is only for pedestrians.
The streets throughout the city are neat and tidy, and most of the houses you see are high-walled houses with very elegant facades, worthy of the appearance of the capital of the People's Republic of China.
Suddenly, he felt that his trip was worthwhile.
Xiao Yuetan pointed out: "There are many shops in Xiao Linzi. You can find everything you can think of to buy and sell here, and the fortune tellers here are even more famous in the world."
Xiang Shaolong thought of Jixia swordsman Cao Qiudao because he was "famous in the world" and asked: "Where is Jixia Academy?"
Xiao Yuetan happily said: "Just outside Jimen in the west of the city, there is a breathtaking and magnificent building. Those who come here to give lectures and show off their knowledge are respected as 'Mr. Jixia', and their disciples are called 'Jixia Bachelors'."
Thousands of them."
After a pause, he continued: "I was also invited there to teach music and medicine, so I was respected like a prince."
Xiang Shaolong whispered: "Has Zou Yan arrived there?"
Xiao Yuetan frowned and said, "I'm not sure about this."
Xiang Shaolong suddenly thought of Shanrou again, it would be great if he found her.
Xiao Yuetan said: "It is no small matter to be able to become a Mr. Jixia. Those who are particularly outstanding are regarded as senior officials. They can discuss politics without governing. Zou Yan is one of them. I can tell you the answer just by asking."
Xiang Shaolong asked: "What kind of person is Cao Qiudao?"
Xiao Yuetan showed respect, but lowered her voice and said: "This man has a high status in the Qi State. He is the master of the King of Qi. When the ministers see him, they all kowtow to say hello. He lives alone in a small room outside the Jixia Academy, drinking tea.
"Dan Danfan. I'm afraid he should be fifty years old this year, but he only looks like someone in his thirties. It's not easy for most people to see him."
Xiang Shaolong originally wanted to inquire about Shanrou's whereabouts from others, but now that he heard this situation, he had to give up the idea.
Xiao Yuetan continued: "This man's swordsmanship has reached a state of perfection. In recent years, he has rarely fought with others because there is no one who dares to challenge him."
Xiang Shaolong asked: "Did people often challenge him in the past?"
Xiao Yuetan said: "Whoever can defeat him can ascend the throne of Jixia Sword Master and become famous all over the world immediately. However, this man's sword has never been humane, and the loser will either die or be injured, so now no one is willing to compete.
.”
Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that if he had the sword of hundreds of battles in his hand and was not afraid of revealing his identity, he would try to see how powerful its swordsmanship was. Of course, he only wanted to compete with each other, not a life and death fight.
At this time, the carriage convoy drove into the "Tingsong Villa", one of the sixteen hotels built specifically for receiving distinguished guests on East Street, and stopped one after another.
Xiang Shaolong knew that it was his time to do something, so he got out of the car in a hurry. Accompanied by Zhang Quan, he contacted the steward in charge of the annex and arranged for everyone to check in. After working for a long time, by the time they all settled in, they had arrived at Feng Shaolong.
The moment when Fei went to the palace for a dinner.
Tian Dan came to pick up Feng Fei personally, and Xiao Yuetan also accompanied him.
Xiang Shaolong deliberately came out to take care of things and had a slap in the face with Tian Dan and his two bodyguards Liu Zhongxia and Liu Zhongshi brothers, but the three of them didn't take him seriously as a "servant".
After sending Feng Fei away, Xiang Shaolong felt great. If even a shrewd and powerful person like Tian Dan couldn't recognize him, others didn't have to worry.
After dinner, Dong Shuzhen and the other girls rehearsed singing and dancing in the hall according to Fengfei's instructions, while he went to the east courtyard to find Zhang Quan. After closing the door, Xiang Shaolong said: "I have obtained precious information. If Brother Zhang is willing to
Pay the deposit and I can tell you the truth."
Zhang Quan said happily: "That's the best. But our master hasn't arrived yet, and the deposit will be delayed for two days, but Brother Shen, can you reveal a little bit first?"
Xiang Shaolong pretended to be mysterious and said: "It turns out that the person who agreed to help him is the Prime Minister Tian Dan who just came to pick her up for the banquet. This person has the most power in the country and is very difficult to offend."
Zhang Quan actually knew the answer, but he just used it to test his loyalty. Hearing what he said, he naturally didn't take it seriously and said calmly: "I have my own sense of responsibility in this matter, so there is no need to be afraid of him."
When Xiang Shaolong saw that he had spent enough money, he was amused in his heart and said: "But besides Tian Dan, our master's opponent also has a very important person named Zhong Sunlong. Brother Zhang, have you heard of it?"
Zhang Quan's expression changed: "What?"
Xiang Shaolong added salt and jealousy: "This is what the lady told me personally. Brother Zhang should have known that when he was in Daliang, Zhong Sunlong came to find her and forced her to marry. After being rejected, he claimed that he would do anything to get her." Got it."
Of course Zhang Quan knew about this, and he no longer dared to doubt that Xiang Shaolong's information was false. He frowned and said, "This news is very important. I must inform the master as soon as possible, otherwise I'm afraid there will be complications."
He let out a breath of cold air and said: "This man is a vampire who specializes in loan sharking. He is so ruthless that even the ministers dare not offend him. The biggest headache is that he has countless capable people under his command, and it is very difficult to deal with them."
What Xiang Shaolong thought of was Feng Fei's precious kiss he had received under half-force last night. He didn't know why he acted with desire, and he quickly concentrated his mind.
Zhang Quan pondered to himself, and then said after a while: "Brother Shen Liang, you are very capable. You have obtained so much useful information. I wonder if you have found out who Miss Ren's lover is."
Xiang Shaoneng smiled and said: "I am willing to reveal a few things because I trust Brother Zhang. As for the rest, Brother Zhang is a sensible person. Please forgive me for keeping secrets."
Zhang Quan had no way to deal with him and sighed: "We'd better cooperate sincerely, otherwise if one of us fails, not only will he be unable to complete the task ordered by the master, but he will also die without a whole body. Alas, I would rather offend King Qi than offend Zhongsun." dragon."
Suddenly there was a knock on the door.
Zhang Quan opened the door and saw that there were more than a dozen famous generals standing outside the door, saying they wanted to see Deacon Shen.
Xiang Shaolong walked out of the room, led by his former roommate Lei Yun'er, a young boy who looked like an ape. He said: "We have nothing to do and want to go shopping on the street. Please ask the deacon for permission."
When Xiang Shaolong saw the daylight that everyone was looking forward to, he knew that if he did not approve it, he would immediately arouse dissatisfaction. He smiled and said: "How can I stop you from having fun, but remember not to cause trouble, and you must be back before dawn."
Everyone was overjoyed and went away in joy.
Zhang Quan, who was standing next to him, said: "How can you agree to them? Zhongsun Long is watching with eager eyes, and he might take it out on them."
Xiang Shaolong sighed: "Being on guard all the time is not a solution, but before the eldest lady performs the couplet song and dance, Zhong Sunlong will not cause any trouble. Why should he give some face to King Qi and Tian Dan?"
Zhang Quan said: "King Xiang of Qi is old and confused. He appointed the eldest prince Tian Sheng as the crown prince, but he deposed him because of trivial matters, which made people panic. Now Zhongsun Long is trying his best to recommend the second prince Tian Jian as the crown prince, and he is fighting with Tian Dan. I am very happy. This trip to invite three famous concubines, including the eldest lady, to celebrate Qi Tu’s birthday is Tian Dan’s way of pleasing King Xiang, so maybe Zhongsun Long will deliberately sabotage it.”
This was the first time Xiang Shaolong heard about this, and he immediately felt something was wrong, so he apologized and left in a hurry.
When I walked to the gate, I asked the guard the direction in which Lei Yuner and others had left, and hurried after them.
As the rain and snow fell, he stepped onto the streets of Linzi with the lights on. He clearly felt that in some strange way, he was deeply involved in the vortex of the struggle for the throne of the King of Qi.