Chapter 23 The first section of the war against soldiers Ying Zichu's fame rises

Every year, the beginning of autumn is the most prosperous day in Handan. The cool breeze comes, the white dew falls, and the chilly cicadas sing, it is Meng Qiu.Mencius, the ranking is the highest. In terms of seasons, it is the first month of the four seasons.The first month, April, July, and October are all Meng months.July is the month of mengqiu, and the first solar term is Liqiu.The Yinyang family said: "On the day of the beginning of autumn, the virtue is in gold. The heaven and the earth will be suppressed, and you can't win." That is to say, from July onwards, the atmosphere of the heaven and the earth will turn to chill (shrink), and people's words and deeds should also be in line with the sky. At this time, it changes from full and stretched to contracted and introverted.As a result, the state judged meritorious deeds by judging prisons, farmers harvested grains and put them into warehouses, merchants cleared warehouses for receipts and payments, and scholars discussed knowledge and promoted talents.All the words and deeds of the government and the public are all centered on the theme of big harvest and big convergence, and they are in full swing for the last big busyness of the year.

The beginning of autumn is the annual ceremony of Zhao Guoshilin, and it is also the biggest event of Meng Qiuyue in Handan. In the Warring States period, scholars lead the trend, use long-term strategies to lobby the princes, do not seek camps, do not live in trouble, do not make opinions that go against their hearts, do not act against their hearts, stay if they agree, leave if they do not agree, states choose scholars, scholars choose Bangguo, its independence of personality, and its freedom of spirit are fascinating even through the ages!The same is true for famous scholars who govern the country, and the same is true for famous scholars who study—either go to a school to establish a career, or live in the mountains and forests to accept disciples and teach others, or travel around the world to spread the faith, or specialize in art and practice. Inherited from generation to generation, it becomes everyone.Such as the skills of a craftsman, such as the art of farming, such as the way of medicine, such as the study of camping the country, such as the debate of the investigation of things, such as the art of geomancy, such as the rhythm and instrumental music, such as private learning and educating talents, it has become an ancient and magnificent peak!Therefore, there is a consensus in the world: whether a country can be strong or not depends on gathering scholars and talents.

There is a proverb in the Warring States Period: "He who wins the scholars wins the world." This is the trendy scenery of the scholars in the Warring States Period. The prosperity of scholars in the Central Plains was originally preceded by Daliang of the State of Wei and Linzi of the State of Qi.Word-of-mouth in the Warring States period said: "Many famous scholars from the Jing state came from Wei, and all the knowledge in the world is in Qi." This is the grand occasion of the scholars in Wei State and Qi State.Li Kui, Le Yang, Wu Qi, Bai Gui, Shang Yang, Sun Bin, Zhang Yi, Fan Ju, even if they were not from Wei, they first entered Wei and became famous and then left.The Jixia Academy in Linzi, Qi State, gathered almost all the schools in the world except Mohism, and everyone was a spectacle for a while: Mencius of Confucianism, Shen Dao of Legalism, Xunzi of both Confucianism and Law, Zou of Yinyang School Yan, Lu Zhonglian of the Strategist, Chunyu Kun of the famous scholar, Tian Pian, Song Ying, Yiwen, Huanyuan of the Huang-Lao School, Tian Ba ​​and Jiezi of the Miscellaneous School, and so on.It's a pity that the good times of the Wei and Qi families did not last long. Since the late Wei Huiwang, Wei Guoliang lost its status as the center of the Central Plains.Since King Xuan of Qi, the state of Qi has declined in an all-round way after the six-year war against Yan. The scholars of Jixia School have been lost, and Linzi has also lost its glory.

Today, the center of Shilin in the Central Plains has shifted to Handan, Zhao State. Zhao Guo has the strongest style of martial arts, and the style of soldiers was originally ordinary.However, since King Zhao Huiwen, Zhao State has become the only powerful country in Shandong that can compete with Qin State. In addition to the decline of Qi and Wei, celebrities rushed to Handan.In the past few decades, most of the civil servants in Zhao State's official office were replaced by Shandong scholars, the royal family and nobles had greatly increased their patrons, and various schools had sprung up all over Handan.After the defeat of the Qin Dynasty by the alliance of the six kingdoms, there was another change that added fuel to the flames, which made Handan's scholarly style unexpectedly spectacular, ranking first in the world for a while.

This variable is that Wei Wuji, the leader of the "Four Great Princes of the Warring States Period", lived in Handan as a guest, and echoed each other with Zhao Sheng, the Pingyuan Lord, which made Handan prosperous.The four princes of the Warring States Period are Wei Wuji, Lord of Xinling (Wei State), Tianwen, Lord of Mengchang (State of Qi), Zhao Sheng (State of Zhao), Lord of Pingyuan (State of Zhao), and Lord Huang Xie of Chunshen (State of Chu).The four of them mediated with Su Qin and Zhang Yi in He Zong Lian Heng, and since then they have become men of power, known as the "Four Great Masters" by the world.Among the four sons, Mr. Xinling has the highest talent, he is good at fighting and government affairs.In the later stage of the confrontation between Qin and Zhao, Lord Xinling led the six-nation coalition to rescue Zhao and defeat Qin, which can be said to be famous all over the world.Due to various reasons, the remaining three people have already dimmed a lot at this time.Meng Changjun Tian was too chivalrous, not flexible enough, and it was normal to govern the country. After his resignation, his ambition was depressed.Chun Shenjun Huang Xie is good at mediating temples, but his military and political talents are all mediocre. With the decline of Chu State, he faded out of the Central Plains diplomatic relations, and carefully guarded his last fiefdom and power.Pingyuan Lord Zhao Sheng, although he stood upright as the leader after going through many crises, he had many flaws due to his lack of power in governing the people, the Changping War he agreed to go to Lian Po to use Zhao Kuo, and he was inappropriate for Xinling Lord Lu Zhonglian after he defeated Qin. , the reputation was greatly damaged for a while.

Thus, Mr. Xinling stood majestically in the Central Plains like a towering old pine. In midsummer, Lord Xinling and a group of disciples started planning for the grand ceremony.From the heart, Lord Xinling didn't want to make too much publicity in Handan.After all, Zhao State was too close to Wei State, every move he made in Zhao State would immediately spread to Daliang, causing all kinds of unpredictable discussions.The more famous and famous the discussion, the less likely it is to return to Wei.Taking stock of the situation, Mr. Xinling decided on a strategy: commoners live as guests, and they often communicate with scholars.As far as the former is concerned, in the state of Zhao, they are not entrusted with land or official titles, and they only live as tourists in civilian clothes.In this way, it can not only show Wei Guo that he is still the body of the old country, but also make Zhao Guo feel that he has no ambitions and schemes, and reduce his suspicion of himself.As far as the latter is concerned, normal contacts with scholars are to show the world that Lord Xinling is still Lord Xinling, and his true colors have not changed!In a time of crisis, he was able to steal the soldier talisman to kill the general and seize the soldiers to save Zhao. Didn't he rely on his usual prestige of faith?If he restrains himself too much and acts like a careless person, is Lord Xinling still Lord Xinling?

With a firm determination in his heart, Mr. Xinling continued to make friends with virtuous and capable people in many ways, went to the market, and found Mr. Xue Gong and Mr. Mao as his guest of honor.The disciples who were scattered in the past were trusted, and they also came to Handan from Daliang and the capitals of various countries to join the sect again.As for the many diners who left and returned, Mr. Xinling did not complain about Mr. Mengchang's "cold demeanor", and he accepted them all with generosity.Even if Lord Pingyuan's disciples changed their masters to vote, he accepted it without any scruples.In just three to five years, Lord Xinling had more than 3,000 disciples, surpassing Lord Mengchang, who had the most patrons in the past, and becoming the most patrons in the Warring States Period!

In the Warring States period, the most important thing to support a scholar was the foundation of the fiefdom of the powerful officials.Without fiefdom, scholars came to vote without food and clothing, so naturally they couldn't talk about accepting diners.There are three thousand disciples, but the cost of food, clothing, housing and transportation is several times higher than that of the same number of soldiers!Ordinary nobles who don't have fiefdoms of more than a hundred miles are powerless.This is also the difficulty of raising a teacher. Lord Xinling doesn't have a fief in Zhao State, so he can't afford to support soldiers normally.However, all the difficulties were resolved as a matter of course.At that time, Lord Xinling rescued Zhao and defeated Qin, and his credit and reputation were well-known in Shandong.Because King Zhao Xiaocheng did not dare to fulfill the original promise to save Zhao's hero, the world has already caused a lot of discussion. At this time, he made an extraordinarily generous gesture, not only allocating the largest palace garden in Handan to Lord Xinling as his residence , the name is "Xinling Yuan", and the monthly branch is a thousand pieces of gold for food and clothing.The countries in Shandong were afraid that they would not be able to make friends with such a famous official who saved the country like Lord Xinling. At this time, they heard that he was recruiting talents, and they gave money and gifts one after another.To show their righteous deeds, giant businessmen and merchants from all over the world also donated generously.In a short period of time, Mr. Xinling's financial resources were actually more abundant than those in Daliang, which was enough to attract three thousand guests.

Naturally, Xinlingyuan has become the only venue for the annual Liqiu Ceremony. Whoever picks the wood chooses the wood. "Zhou Li·Di Guan" regulates the responsibilities of its mountain and forest land officials, saying: "Every state worker can't help but pick up wood when he enters the mountain forest." That is to say, it is legally allowed for state craftsmen to enter the mountain forest to select wood in specific seasons.Entering the Spring and Autumn Period and Warring States Period, the term "草条" became a special term for selecting talents in examination schools.Although there are rumors and actions in all industries, what attracts the most attention from the people of the country is the grand ceremony of the scholars.

This kind of talent gathering is not for the actual selection of talents in a certain country or county, but in the form of a big gathering and a big debate to discuss and explore the general trend of the world. There is a theme topic every year, and all schools and factions speak freely, and the best among them will become the world in one fell swoop Celebrities, traveling around the world is worth a hundred times.With such an effect, not only the scholars regarded it as a grand ceremony of instant fame, but also all the countries paid close attention to it, and sent secret envoys or various forms of scouts to visit the meeting in order to find useful talents.

According to the tradition, the main topic of the meeting is decided by the host and recognized celebrities. During the summer solstice, Mr. Xinling was discussing with Mao Gong Xue Gong and a group of celebrities to discuss the issue of war, but a disciple reported that Master Xun Kuang had passed Zhao and was going south to Chu.Lord Xinling was shocked immediately, and immediately drove to the suburban pavilion in Handan, and welcomed Xunzi into the hotel in Xinlingyuan with a big ceremony.At this time Mencius had gone, and this Xun Kuang was the most famous scholar, and everyone in the world called him Xun Zi.This Xunzi is not only profound in knowledge and sharp in debate, he was Mencius's rival in debate when he was young.With Xunzi in charge, the grand ceremony will save a lot of trouble. That night, Lord Xinling hosted a banquet for the famous scholars in Handan to clean up Xunzi.When Lord Xinling accompanied Xunzi out of the hall, the eyes of the scholars all swept over - Xunzi was in his prime, tall and straight, neither fat nor thin, wearing ramie cloth clothes, short-waisted cloth boots, and a time-honored The bamboo crown that has turned green to white under the sun is pressing the gray beard and hair, the vicissitudes of life and the dust are engraved on the dark face in the ravines, and there is a deep and peaceful smile in the clear eyes. Zhao, I'm here to pay a visit to Lord Xinling, and to teach my colleagues." Just this one sentence shows Xunzi's modesty.Hundreds of scholars clasped their hands together and shouted: "Welcome Mr. Zhao to enter Zhao!" The banquet was set under the Populus euphratica forest beside the big pool, the bright moon hung high in the sky, the lanterns in the forest were tall, the evening breeze was gentle, and the sound of frogs croaked, creating a summer night scene.After drinking for three rounds, Lord Xinling stood up and bowed solemnly to Xunzi: "Your son is a master in the world, a leader of scholars. Don't be afraid to ask sir to come up with a topic for this autumn's gathering of materials, so that everyone can expect it." Xunzi cupped his hands and said with a smile: "Scholars in the world, eighty-nine times they are in Zhao, so how can they be trusted by everyone? I hope to hear your proposals first, so as to get rid of my arrogance." Lord Xinling knew that Xunzi was modest, so he slapped him and laughed. : "That's good too! Those who have a suggestion should speak up first, and the gentleman will make a decision." "We have a discussion." A scholar in blue stood up from a large case in blue, waved his hand and shouted to the circle behind him, "We all entered Zhao from Jixia Academy, known as 'Handan Jixia'. Yes. I thought: In the past, Mencius and Xunzi debated human nature in the Jixia Academy; but today, human desires are rampant, good and evil are not distinguished, and it is urgent to set the record straight; the topic of this autumn's debate should be: which of human nature is good and which is better? Evil? How to overcome evil and promote good?" "Okay! Exactly!" As the words finished, the blue-clothed scholar cheered loudly behind him.Lin Xia's eyes also focused on Xunzi, thinking that Xunzi would definitely agree with this issue.Unexpectedly, Xunzi just smiled lightly, but he had no intention of opening his mouth. "I'm waiting for a scholar of Zhao Guo." A person in the red-clothed case group who was far away from the main case stood up and said generously, "We are waiting for the topic: How to revive Hezong? How to revive the Central Plains? You just think: since ancient times, chaos Like, don’t be like today! Shandong is in danger, like today! Since the defeat of Zhao State in the Changping War, fortunately Lord Xinling rose up and united and defeated Qin State. However, the six kingdoms of Shandong have been in great decline after all. They will be swallowed up by the barbaric Qin! We, the scholars of the Central Plains, should take it as our duty to save the nation and seek a long-term strategy to revitalize the six kingdoms. Empty talk about the good and evil of human nature is completely irrelevant." "Cai—" The Zhao Guo scholars under the Populus euphratica forest cheered loudly. Xunzi looked at Mr. Xinling, still only smiled faintly. "I have a question, I'll teach you all." Dongshou Mao stood up next to the man's case. His wide and short black Chufu stood out under the wind lamp, and the scholars were amazed.The black-clothed man in plain clothes didn't realize it, and he bowed his hands to Lord Xinling and Xunzi and shouted loudly, "Stop the world, stop the wars of the nations! It turns into an issue, and it all boils down to one sentence: Can the way of eliminating soldiers save the world? What do I think?" : The source of disasters in the Warring States is war, and the root of unstoppable war is soldiers; if there is a long-term strategy to stop the war and stop the war, the world will be at peace; if there is no one policy after gathering everyone's opinions, we scholars should re-think the way out of the world." "Dare to ask who you are!" A Jixia scholar suddenly stood up. "In Xiazi Chu, there is only one old Qin scholar." The man in black Chu suit smiled leisurely. There was an uproar in the Populus euphratica grove, and the buzz of discussion was like the tide hitting the shore.In the rushing tide, one of the red-clothed scholars from Jixia Academy laughed loudly and said: "Old Qin scholar, I have never heard of it! He is so brave and uneducated, even his name has the word Chu on it, and he talks about mi soldiers saving the world." , I’m afraid it’s nothing to worry about.” When the words fell, the Populus euphratica forest burst into laughter. "It's a bad step!" The man in black and plain clothes said loudly, "A civilized man is not determined by the number of scholars and the style of study. The country's legal system, folk customs, agricultural work, wealth distribution, and people's rule of chaos, Fang is the root of civilization. Qin’s scholarly style is not as good as that of the Central Plains, but the root of civilization is stronger than that of the Central Plains! Zi Chu’s talent and learning are not as good as his feet, but why did he get his name from the word “Chu”? My mother was from Chu, and Zi Chu In the name of my mother, I just miss my mother, how could there be any other!" There was silence under the Populus euphratica forest, and the scholars were obviously surprised.In the past hundred years, when scholars gather, has there ever been a scholar from the state of Qin who came into the hall and talked loudly?Today, there are many famous scholars in the world, and there is a sudden appearance of a Qin scholar, which brings up such an important topic of civilization. How can we not surprise the scholars?In this moment of silence, Mr. Xinling looked around and said loudly: "Today is not the time for debate, everyone should recharge their batteries and listen to the gentleman's comments on the topic." Turning around, he solemnly clasped his hands and said, "Just now the three parties drafted the topic, What do you think, Sir?" Xunzi was looking at Zichu with great interest, turned his head and said with a leisurely smile: "The three questions just now, the theory of good and evil in human nature, is too empty if lost, and it is difficult to see the true talent and real learning; revive the vertical theory The theory is too true, but in fact there are many conflicts of interests, and it is difficult to see the mind of the world. In the opinion of the old man, the theory of eliminating soldiers proposed by the Qin scholars is relatively neutral. Also. The most valuable part lies in the question of ambush at the end: If there is no strategy to eliminate the soldiers, what is the way out for the world? The old man's superficial opinion, what to choose, Lord Xinling has decided." Although Xunzi's words were modest, his conclusions were extremely solid. Before he could finish his words, the eyes of the scholars all focused on Zichu.But Mr. Xinling thought for a moment, got up and smiled, "Mister, it's a good thing that you have made a decision! Wuji will discuss the agenda with all parties, and inform all halls ten days before the grand ceremony." "Mr. Xinling is clear!" the audience shouted in unison, and they dispersed with a rumble.Scholars originally did not take the issues of the Qin people seriously, but unexpectedly the well-known and respected Xunzi spoke highly of them, and they were very unhappy. It is expected that Lord Xinling respects the virtuous, and besides, he asked Xunzi to "evaluate and make a decision" beforehand. He would make a decisive decision on the spot, making this Qin scholar famous overnight; Who would have thought that Mr. Xinling would make an exception and break his promise, and he just turned around, and the scholars immediately felt relieved. support. The crowd dispersed, the lake breeze passed by, and the Populus euphratica forest was quiet.Mr. Xinling was gazing at the crowd that was gradually going away, but he heard the loud and pleasant smacking sound behind him, and when he looked back, it was Mr. Xue and Mao who were leisurely pouring himself a drink. He couldn't help but smiled in surprise: "Hello, two Interested too!" Mao Gong tapped the bronze jue with his left hand, and turned his right hand to reveal the pottery bowl in his hand: "It's really a big bowl to drink!" Lord Xinling said with emotion: "Okay! I will accompany Mao Gong to poke again!" Xue Gong waved his hands again and again: "Wait a minute, drinking is an excuse. The two of us stay here because we really want to help you." Lord Xinling's eyes flickered and said: "You two have a good relationship with Zichu, so we have to decide on an agenda. Isn’t it?” Mao Gong laughed loudly: “Bird! How dare you underestimate the old man! Don’t you want to keep the old man?” Lord Xinling suddenly nodded: “It’s hard for the two of you to think of this. Well, let’s go.” Then he called the old master After a while of whispering orders, he hurried to the depths of Populus euphratica forest with Mao Gong Xue Gong. When the moon is shining, we meander along the east bank of the Great Lake and enter the depths of Populus euphratica forest. In the distance, we can see wind lanterns flickering in a golden-red haze. Like a mirage.Xue Gong couldn't help laughing and said: "This hotel is quiet and secret, which is to the old Xunzi's taste." Lord Xinling said: "These courtyards were originally the place where King Zhao settled the fugitive ministers from various countries. Back then Wei Qi was hunted down by Fan Ju , and was stuck here by Lord Pingyuan." Mao Gong suddenly waved his hand and said, "No, I'm afraid that old Xunzi will leave!" Xue Gong pulled Lord Xinling and said, "Mao Gong is a thief, there must be some movement, hurry up. " The upper hotel is a large manor with a small courtyard. A low white stone wall twists and turns into a large Populus euphratica forest. When entering the gate, there are several winding paths. Without the guidance of the gatekeepers, idlers will not be able to find any courtyard. .Lord Xinling was well versed in the art of the Five Elements Qimen, and was already familiar with its mysteries. As soon as he entered the gate, he led the two of them into a courtyard in the northeast corner in a hurry.The small courtyard is made of bamboo fences for walls and logs as doors, which is as simple as a mountain residence.The three of them came in a hurry, but they saw the log door was open, and the wind lanterns in the courtyard were rushing back and forth, and Lord Xinling couldn't help being stunned. Mao Gong strode into the door and held a young man with a smile, "Young man, how busy are you in the middle of the night?" "My teacher has an order: leave at dawn, and we are packing up the bookshelf." Xue Gong raised his head towards the Zhengbei hall: "Lord Xinling paid a visit to Master Xun—" The front door of the hall opened with a bang, and Xunzi's slender figure was reflected by the lanterns in the corridor: "At the end of the Yin hour, Xun Kuang should bid farewell. He Laoxinling Lord Kui is walking around at night." "For disturbing Qingxing, sir." Mr. Xinling bowed deeply, "Wuji has a difficult problem, and the two husbands have something difficult to say. Please enlighten me, sir." Xunzi said with a faint smile: "The old man only has the yellow paper of the educated youth, how can he have the ability to break things? Please go back, three." "Old Master, I'm out of order!" Mr. Mao waved his hands in a drunken state and walked down the corridor, "The country is not the country, and the affairs are not the affairs. Extraordinary times are not normal, you know? Old, old master!" "Yes." Xunzi's eyes suddenly lit up, "The three are invited." Entering the study, Xunzi clapped two palms, and a young servant came out to make and pour tea.Xue Gong said in a low voice: "Master and disciples, do you know about today's banquet?" Xunzi shook his head and said, "Tongmeng is a servant, not a student of learning. My disciples don't do chores, don't go into worldly entertainment, just study." Mr. Mao Pointing at Xue Gong, he laughed and said, "You old brother, don't you know the old master's rules? Xunzi teaches people, and he pays attention to matters of dark ambition and obscurity. It means that one must concentrate on one's studies, be deep in one's heart, and introspect oneself. Enlightenment, don't be distracted by the bustling business. This is the so-called "a gentleman is knowledgeable, but if he examines himself every day, he knows and does nothing wrong!" Right, old master?" Xunzi couldn't help nodding and laughing: "Mao Gong is right Poor. Except for academic debates, I never bring my disciples to the guest banquet. The disciples don’t know what happened today.” Xue Gong couldn’t help but sigh with emotion: “Mr. All the banquets are attended by all the accompanying disciples, and the seats are before the accompanying celebrities, it is really too full." Lord Xinling smiled and said: "Mencius Xunzi, the way is different. Mencius is weaker than politics but stronger than learning. He is domineering. Xunzi is stronger in politics but weaker in learning, so he is as modest as he is in his studies. In fact, Xunzi is humble in learning Taoism and strong in the world, which is much better than Mencius!" Xunzi laughed loudly and said, "Xinling Lord is absurd! The old man just doesn't want to entangle the scholars for no reason, as you said, the old man has a deep conspiracy, how dare you take it?" The four of them burst into laughter, and Lord Xinling bowed solemnly: "The matter of today's topic was originally my sojourn in Zhao State, and I was concerned about the scholars in Handan, so I didn't make a decisive decision on the spot. I'm really ashamed to break my promise, sir. Forgive me." Xue Gong continued: "Mr. Xinling is just to save face for Mr. Pingyuan. Today, most of the scholars in Handan are the followers of Mr. Pingyuan. The proposed topic is naturally approved by Mr. Pingyuan. This gentleman is old and narrow. Then he became angry at the fact that the disciples came into Lord Xinling's door. Considering the covenant between Wei and Zhao, Lord Xinling has only postponed it for a few days, sir, don't take it seriously." Mao Gong slapped his wine gourd and said with a smile: "Hehe, how old is the old master? Wisdom, you need to be so noisy?" Xunzi couldn't help laughing loudly: "It's still Mao Gong, he is worthy of being born by a god! 'The country is not the country, and the affairs are not the affairs, and the law is not the law in extraordinary times'. With this warning, Xun Kuang An Don't understand?" "So, Master can keep Zhao?" Xue Gong was very clear about it. "It's hard!" Xunzi sighed, "I'm also from Zhao. Those who throw rats are afraid of weapons. They can't make long-term strategies for rectifying the country. How can we avoid going to other countries to study, or we can raise one or two great talents, and think that the motherland can speak and survive. and also." "Bird! It's just that the country of Zhao is difficult to rectify." Mao Gong scolded with a smile, "As soon as he came out of Jixia back then, Master Xun advocated a second reform for King Zhao Huiwen, imitating Qin and completely banning the nobles' land. The monarchs and ministers discussed it for more than a month, but they were noncommittal. What can Master Xun do? Go, go! Stay in Handan to eat!" "The heart of serving the country is inevitable for a man of lofty ideals!" Xue Gong sighed, "Master Xun is not for the use of the motherland, but wants to train his disciples to serve the country one after another. I am ashamed of myself!" Lord Ling arched solemnly: "If you dare to invite your husband to go south after the beginning of autumn, Wuji is determined to live up to his high expectations." "Okay! The old man will wait and see." As soon as Xunzi said something, everyone's hearts immediately relaxed, and they laughed and talked, and the rooster sang loudly without knowing it.Lord Xinling ordered a few words, and the deacon of the hotel brought four cases of Handan's most famous Hubing mutton bone soup.Hubing is a kind of noodle cake that Hu people carried on long journeys. It is baked on iron plates or pottery pieces. It is the size of a palm and is browned and crisp.Regardless of grazing and marching, the picnic mustard biscuits paired with stewed lamb soup or mare's milk is a solid meal.After Hufu riding and shooting, Hu people's clothing and food customs prevailed in Zhao State, and this Hubing mutton bone soup became the most popular and convenient breakfast for Handan people.In the cold morning, a pot of hot snow-white lamb bone soup sprinkled with green shallots was snorted, and then two crispy browned mustaches were chewed, sweating all over the body, and everyone's spirits were lifted immediately. Mr. Xinling wiped the sweat from his forehead and said, "Sir, let's hang around with Mr. Mao and Mr. Xue. I'm going to see Mr. Pingyuan." Xunzi just cupped his hands: "Don't go, son, the old man is going to have a talk with the two gentlemen." But it was said that last night when Xin Cemetery ended, Mr. Ping Yuan heard a report from the manager of the housekeeper, Mao Sui, and felt so depressed that he couldn't sleep all night. In the winter of last year, Lu Buwei specially invited to see him, and gave Pingyuan Jun a secret suggestion: At present, the Qin State has the largest profit market, and Lu Buwei wants to use the power of winning foreigners to enter the Qin State to do business, and the profit is willing to share with Pingyuan Lord equally; what Lu Buwei is asking for is Lord Pingyuan, please release the imprisonment and allow Ying Yiren to travel freely in Handan.Lord Pingyuan thought for a while, and that night he went into the palace to meet King Zhao Xiaocheng, had a secret discussion for an hour, and agreed to Lu Buwei's request the next day.Lord Pingyuan and King Xiaocheng's plan is: Lu Buwei's entry into Qin to do business will add a large amount of revenue to Zhao's treasury; allowing Ying Yi people to communicate freely will not harm Zhao, but also test Qin's movements.This is just trickery.Mr. Pingyuan's greatest expectation is: Qin Guo heard the news and proposed to win Yiren back to Qin, Zhao Guo can take the opportunity to resume talks with Qin Guo, and break the stalemate of confrontation after the Changping War.After all, the strength of Qin State is far from what it used to be. Zhao State forcibly carried this mountain on his shoulders, and the six kingdoms of Shandong may not appreciate it.At that time, Zhao Guo fought against Qin in Changping, but the five kingdoms in Shandong fell into trouble. No matter how hard Zhao Guo begged for each other, there was no food, grass and reinforcements.It wasn't until Bai Qi died that the Qin army was defeated twice, and the Five Kingdoms sent troops to "rescue Zhao" under the inspiration of Lord Xinling who had stolen the soldier talisman.After winning by luck, there was another clamor, and they all regarded themselves as Zhao Guo's "survival and death benefactor".King Zhao was angry, and Lord Pingyuan was cold-hearted, so he didn't confer the land to Lord Xinling, not wanting to provoke the unanimous condemnation of the world, as if Zhao State owed the five Shandong Kingdoms a life-saving grace.In such a Shandong, Zhao Guo's ruling and opposition parties have long been chilled!If we can re-negotiate peace with Qin, the world will be Qin and Zhao stand side by side, carve up the five kingdoms of Shandong, without any harm to Zhao, why not do it?Besides, the value of a hostage is to make the other party feel apprehensive. If the hostage is really imprisoned to death, so that the other party has no hope of rescuing the hostage and then fights freely, wouldn't it be counterproductive? Who would have thought that this Yingyi came out of the mountain after getting out of trouble, but changed his name to "Zi Chu" to make friends in Handan, and became quite famous in just a few months.According to Mr. Pingyuan's original intention, it is a good thing that Ying Yiren's fame can attract Qin's attention.But this Ying Yiren got mixed up with Mr. Xinling, and Mr. Pingyuan was very unhappy. In any case, Mr. Xinling is the pillar of Shandong today, and the only prestigious minister who truly understands the overall situation.With Lord Xinling here, at least the alliance between Wei and Zhao will not be disintegrated.Although King Wei hated Lord Xinling, and Lord Xinling could only temporarily live in Zhao, in fact, no one would treat Lord Xinling as a white man.Because the six kingdoms of Shandong are aware of it, but there is a crisis, and Lord Xinling's prestige and appeal are unrivaled.Because of this, Zhao Guo had to pay respect to Lord Xinling who lived in Handan.However, Mr. Pingyuan always has some scruples in his heart, and he is often uneasy. Lord Pingyuan is deeply aware of Lord Xinling's loyalty to the state of Wei.When the interests of Zhao and Wei were in conflict, Lord Xinling would definitely plan for the state of Wei unswervingly, and would never treat the Three Jins as one family.The three families of Wei, Zhao, and Han have been divided into Jin and Jin for more than a hundred years. There are many people who fight each other with flesh and blood, and few people who form alliances with each other.Based on this foundation, Lord Pingyuan has always maintained due vigilance towards Lord Xinling. As the four princes of the Warring States period, Mr. Xinling's entry into Zhao greatly reduced the brilliance of Mr. Pingyuan, and Mr. Pingyuan always felt uncomfortable.In particular, the disciples defected to Lord Xinling one after another, and his scholarly prestige dropped sharply, and Lord Pingyuan was the most annoyed and frustrated.However, if you are angry, you will be angry, and if you are depressed, you will be depressed. The world of the Warring States Period is such a free and unrestrained life. If you agree, stay or go, but what can you do?Powerless to change, but also unable to offend, after a burst of resentment, Lord Pingyuan let go of him, allowing his disciples to come and go, and Lord Xinling as he pleases.There is only one thing not to be ignorant of, which is not to hurt the interests of Zhao Guo. Who would have thought that at this very moment, this Zi Chu would become Lord Xinling's guest, and Lord Pingyuan's heart suddenly trembled!If Zi Chu became the channel for Lord Xinling to secretly communicate with Qin State, wouldn't Zhao State be in great trouble?From the perspective of the overall situation, Zhao State does not allow any country in Shandong to communicate with Qin State alone.Only the State of Zhao, and only the State of Zhao, which has sacrificed nearly a million lives and blood to withstand the storm of the State of Qin, can negotiate and mediate with the State of Qin as the suzerain of the six kingdoms of Shandong.After some thought, Lord Pingyuan discussed with Mao Sui and a group of confidantes about testing Lord Xinling during the ceremony. This temptation is to instigate the scholars of Zhao State to raise the topic of debate: How to revive the joint vertical resistance against Qin, and then revitalize the six countries?What Lord Pingyuan wants to see is how Lord Xinling will speak on this important issue concerning the survival of the six kingdoms?No matter what it says, as long as Lord Xinling speaks out, it is the best time for Zhao Guoyou to persuade the six countries. Once the momentum of revitalizing the alliance is formed, it will form a huge pressure to force Qin to make peace!Coupled with the temptation of this man, Zi Chu, Qin will be in an extremely passive state.At the same time, the anti-Qin issue was also a wake-up call for Zi Chu.Such killing three birds with one stone, Mr. Pingyuan is naturally very satisfied with this plan. Unexpectedly, Mr. Xinling put aside the topic in public, and Mr. Pingyuan's heart sank suddenly.Although several confidantes said that Mr. Xinling did not make a decision in order to prevaricate the old Xunzi.However, Mr. Pingyuan did not take it seriously, and believed that Mr. Xinling was just prevaricating Zhao Guo, and he did this to prevaricate Mr. Pingyuan!The foundation of Lord Xinling's prestige lies in his loyalty and daring to take responsibility. If he asks old Xunzi for some questions, can he go back on his word?Temporary shelving, can only be concerned about Zhao Guo's face, and Lord Pingyuan's face, how could he!What alarmed Mr. Pingyuan was, what was Mr. Xinling's plan for this move? This gentleman has lived in Zhao State for five years, Wei State is still as indifferent as before, and has no intention of inviting him back.With Lord Xinling's literary and military strategy, living in another country and supporting three thousand scholars, how can he endure such loneliness?Thinking about it in his own shoes, Lord Xinling's best way out is to return to Wei State to take over the government as soon as possible. If the power of Wei State is in the hands of Lord Xinling, the world may be completely different, at least the six kingdoms of Shandong must be different!This kind of pattern is what Zhao Guo does not want to see, and it is also what Lord Pingyuan does not want to see.With the basic strength and geographical advantages of the Wei State, once there is a British leader and capable ministers, it will definitely become the axis of the Central Plains, and the status of the Zhao State will definitely decline greatly at that time.And Lord Xinling, who has power in his hands, mediates the world, and Lord Pingyuan will surely be even more bleak. At the beginning, when Lord Xinling led the Allied Forces of the Six Nations to triumph in victory, Lord Pingyuan and King Xiaocheng's uncle and nephew had already seen through the future pattern, and only then did they have such a strange response—not to enclose Lord Xinling's land and population, but to act like a god. Generally enshrine the hero.The former is afraid that he will be full-fledged, while the latter is for the world to see.This is the real reason why Zhao Guo is willing to pay a lot of money to worship Lord Xinling, and it is also the biggest secret between King Xiaocheng and Lord Pingyuan.Knowing that such actions have offended Lord Xinling, Lord Pingyuan has no shame—for the fundamental interests of Zhao State, he can only do this.Mr. Pingyuan believed that if Mr. Xinling was in his position, he would do the same. With Lord Xinling's ability, it's impossible not to perceive the mystery, and it's impossible not to get close to the brilliant goal of returning to the Wei Kingdom.However, in the past five years, Lord Xinling has never had any "extraordinary" news, King Zhao Xiaocheng and Lord Pingyuan were relieved for a moment, but they were negligent in guarding against it.Now it seems that Mr. Xinling is really about to move.Otherwise, it is absolutely impossible to shelve Zhao Guo's motion on the big issue of "scholar's discussion" related to the direction of diplomatic relations.But what is the target of the movement?Mr. Pingyuan couldn't figure out why. "Report to the lord: Mr. Xinling is paying a visit!" Mao Sui, the head guest, hurriedly reported with strides. "Oh?" Mr. Pingyuan suddenly turned around, "Where are the people? How many guests are there?" "There is only one person on the bicycle, and we have arrived at the gate of the house." "Okay! You go out to greet him immediately, and personally drive Lord Xinling to the Mibing Pavilion." Mao Sui hurried away, and in a short while he drove a bronze cart into the mansion, heading straight for the big stone pavilion in the grassland in the forest.When the cart came to a complete stop, Mao Sui came to help Mr. Xinling get out of the carriage, but Mr. Xinling pointed to the three big red letters on the pavilion and said with a smile, "When will the Mibing Pavilion be built?"Mao Sui laughed and said: "After the Great War of Changping, Mr. Pingyuan felt that the people of the country were watching from the sidelines, so he built this pavilion to show his ambition to stop the army." "I think about it." Lord Xinling suddenly nodded, "It is At that time, Mister stood out and forced the King of Chu to form an alliance with his sword, I admire you!" Mao then bowed his hands and said, "My lord, the pillar of the world, is right now to rejuvenate and unite the six kingdoms, so why should you only emphasize the pedantic theory of the son of Chu! "Mr. Xinling couldn't help laughing: "In the past, Mr. Pingyuan encouraged Mr. Pingyuan to build this military pavilion. Was it also pedantic?" With a leisurely smile: "Sir, what do you think is the key to the general situation?" Mao Sui continued without hesitation: "Qin is the dominant state, and the six countries are all weak. To unite the weak to resist dominance is the key to the general situation." Lord Xinling laughed: "Since Su Qin, the six countries have been united intermittently for more than 80 years, but they have healed and become weaker. What do you think is the reason?" Suddenly, Mao Sui was at a loss for words, and blushed: "The reason for this is that I have not figured it out. Make it clear." Lord Xinling couldn't help laughing out loud, "As the old saying goes, one moment is the other moment, joining forces is not a cure for ten thousand years, and there should be a new way!" "Where is the new way? May you teach me." Pingyuan Jun, who was dressed in clean clothes, cupped his hands far away under the pavilion. Mao Sui laughed and said, "Let's go into the pavilion to talk, my two young masters. I'll prepare wine." Then he left in a hurry. "Please take your seat." Lord Pingyuan smiled very brightly, and when Lord Xinling entered the pavilion, he sat down and said solemnly, "The meaning of King Zhao: If we can reopen the joint, Zhao Guo wants to invite you to be the king's special envoy to mediate the world The alliance, on the day of success, Zhao Guo strongly urges you to be the prime minister of the six countries, just like Su Qin is alive!" Mr. Pingyuan said generously, with an extraordinarily sincere and cordial tone, "Thinking about my brother, this is the most important thing for my brother-in-law to return to Wei to rule. What does my brother-in-law think is the best way?" "Zhao Sheng, your uncle and nephew really expect me to return to the Kingdom of Wei?" Lord Xinling smiled lightly. "What do you mean brother-in-law? If Zhao Guo is not careful, please speak up." "Playing on the spot, Zhao Sheng has grown up." Lord Xinling sneered, "You and I are both over sixty years old. Since we were young, we have made friends with each other and become famous all over the world. Even a little trick can deceive the eyes? Zhao Guoruo really wants Wuji to come back. Wei, why do you have to be so cloudy and misty? Just put pressure on Wei with 'no more help', and Wuji can return to Daliang. Wuji leads the government and urges Wei to reform again. The Central Plains is the alliance between Zhao and Wei. What is the situation of Qin at that time? Your uncle and nephew really can’t figure out such a big picture? No way. In order to maintain Zhao Guo’s dominance in Shandong, your uncle and nephew would rather die of old age and die of Zhao Guo!” Pingyuan Junda was embarrassed, his complexion was red and white at times, but he was speechless.During this embarrassing silence, Mao Sui led two servants to bring food and wine.平原君顿时舒缓，指点石案笑道：“姊夫，热甘醪，甘醪薛打得，先来一碗！”信陵君说声好，便径自举碗汩汩饮下。旁边毛遂看在眼里，便立即为信陵君再打满一碗，又是肃然一躬：“敢请信陵君指点：昨夜所提三题，君似对弭兵议题有所偏爱，不知因由何在？” 信陵君明知这是毛遂代平原君说话，也不辩驳偏爱之说，只悠然一笑道：“弭兵之议，人皆以为虚妄而不切时务之要害。实则大不然也。方今天下涂炭，生民厌战。山东士林若能大起弭兵议论，六国官府随即大举呼应。足下试想，其势如何？” “出其不意！好！”毛遂目光炯炯地一拍掌，“撂给秦国一个火炭团：他要加兵山东，便是天下公愤，激我合纵立成！他若息兵，便是给我变法富强之机遇！” “若公然高喊重振合纵，又当如何？” 毛遂红了脸，声音也低了下去：“以此想去，公然昌明重振合纵，便是给了秦国大举整军经武的口实，似对山东不利。” “毛遂真名士也！”信陵君哈哈大笑，径自扬长而去。 小暑大署一过，立秋便接踵而至。立秋之日，最大的忌讳是雷、雨、风。中原三谚说得便是这三样禁忌。一云：“立秋一雷，晚禾折半。”二云：“雨打立秋，多涝不收。”三云：“秋日一风，田土干底。”年年岁岁立秋日，朝野臣民盼得便是个风和日丽。 今岁立秋恰是如此，清晨太阳上山，天空便是万里碧蓝，邯郸城便平添了三分喜庆。卯时刚到，通往信陵园的大道便是车马如流，服色各异的士子们从邯郸的大街小巷淙淙流入此时已显得狭窄的六开间大门，流入湖边那片金色的胡杨林，人头攒动，衣袂相联，热闹得大市一般。胡杨林的空阔处早已辟成了一个方圆百十丈的大会场，正北中央一座竹木高台，十二个斗大的鲜红木字高悬在台额与两侧，台额是“立秋抡材”，东手是“论战无道”，西手是“文野有法”。高台西角矗立着一座丈余高的木架，架上一面牛皮大鼓，两名红衣司鼓雄赳赳立在两旁，竟与当年稷下学宫的论战大会一般无二。 鼓报辰时，司礼薛公走到台中高声一呼：“秋日辰时，抡材开典，士子明誓——”随着话音，大场中的千余名士子从木敦整齐站起，肃然拱手向天高诵：“昊天在上，违心之言，天地诛之！”便齐刷刷落座。薛公又是长声一呼：“祭酒入席——”便见须发灰白清癯健旺的荀子从大屏后稳步走出，被信陵君的执事门客引入中央大案前就座。 祭酒者，原本是远古时期飨宴时酹酒祭神的长者。举凡村社大宴，必公推一位年高望重的老人在天地神位前代村社众人洒酒祭拜，此人便呼作“祭酒”。进入春秋，“祭酒”便渐渐成为各业团体领头人的称谓，尽管还不是官府职爵，却是行业团体公认的威望长者。战国之世，士人大起，士林聚宴之“祭酒”便成为最引人关注的人物。此人未必一定要年岁最大，却一定要是自成一家且为士子们服膺的学问大师。一旦做了“祭酒”，也不再仅仅是宴会祭酒而已，而是事实上的士林领袖。荀子之学问、见识、人品尽皆为人称道，在稷下学宫时曾三为“祭酒”，齐国将其等同于上大夫职爵，事实上便是稷下学宫的学宫令。因了荀子在稷下学宫的巨大声望，自然便毫无争议地做了这次大论战的祭酒，坐镇论坛，仲裁可能出现的纠葛，掌控论战进程。 荀子入座，场中变肃静了下来。薛公便又是一声高呼：“东君入席——”随着呼声，便有执事门客领着信陵君与平原君走出，在高台东侧的两张大案前入座。 “祭酒宣题——” 荀子从座中站起高声道：“诸位同人，今秋抡材论战，议定论题为：天下多难，当否弭兵息战？在座士子或以邦国为本位，或以学派为本位，出一人阐发；邦国学派但有持论不同者，尽可单独上台驳论。高下文野，惟任天下士子公议也！” “抡材论战起——” 薛公一声高呼，两名鼓手便隆隆擂动牛皮大鼓。三通鼓罢，前排便有一个三绺长须大红长袍的中年士子走上了高台，一拱手高声道：“诸位同道，在下环渊，稷下学宫法家士子，师从慎子门下。我等稷下士子以为：今秋论题荒诞虚妄，实为不着边际之空谈！弭兵之论，自春秋宋国之华元、向戍奔波首倡，至今已经三百余年，何曾有过一日弭兵？便是华元向戍的弭兵之会，也是晋楚争霸两败俱伤，寻求喘息而已！息兵止战未满一年，晋国便恢复四军；未满三年，楚国便大攻郑、卫两国，次年晋楚便是举国大战！三十年后，诸侯不堪刀兵连绵，便有十三国弭兵大会。然便在弭兵八年之后，天下战端再起，弭兵终成空文！春秋尚且如此，方今战国大争之世，举国大战如火如荼，我等士人不思变法图强之道，却来空谈息兵止战，匪夷所思也！两位东君名重天下，荀夫子更是当今大家，三为稷下学宫之祭酒，竟能点此议题以为抡材，实乃滑稽笑谈也！我等不屑此等海外奇谈，告辞！”说罢大袖一挥径自下台，连台上三老看也未看一眼。 台下顿时哗然一片！自来论战再烈，却也从来没有过对论题本身大加挞伐。今日第一人便直指论题发难，且直名指斥信陵君平原君与荀子，确实是谁也没有预料到的局面。发难者又是赫赫大名的稷下学宫元老级法家大师慎到门下的老弟子，更见非同寻常。这环渊名望虽远不如荀子，却与荀子是同辈学者，也算得是天下名士了。稷下学宫士子们两三百人都在会场中心，若当真随他退场，岂非未曾论战便是一场“虚席”丑闻？一时之间，士子们便乱了起来。 “诸位同人，我有异议！”场中一个身着宽大黑衣者霍然站起，一声高喊场中便静了下来，正在骚动犹豫的稷下学宫士子们也顿时站住不动了。依着论战传统形成的习俗，但有敌手提出异议，发论方便须应战，若要脱身，便得先行认输表示折服，否则便会被公认为不堪礼仪之人，为士林所不齿。黑衣士子高喊异议，便是公然宣战，稷下士子岂能就此便走？ “在下秦士子楚。”黑衣人也不上台，只站上座墩向四周一拱手，“弭兵之题，当初由在下动议。东君与各方磋商采纳，子楚以为，极是妥当！春秋战国以来，刀兵不断，息兵呼声也从来未断。兵争愈演愈烈是事实，非兵之论接踵而起也是事实！老子以兵为不详之器，恶之。墨子大倡兼爱非攻，呼吁天下太平。吴子列暴兵逆兵，指斥兵灾。孟子说，春秋无义战。尉缭子直言，兵为凶器，战为逆德。司马穰苴则说，国虽大，好战必亡。更有诸如华元向戍一班志士仁人奋勇奔波，大呼弭兵不止！凡此种种，弭兵何错？至于方才环渊所言，弭兵之论荒诞虚妄不着边际，大谬也！老子云：人法地，地法天，天法道，道法自然。何谓自然？生民性命，万千家园，世人大同，向善安乐也！敢问环渊：法家变法图强，所为何来？不为庶民康宁，不为邦国富庶，不为天下太平，何人要尔等变法！至于能否弭兵，如何弭兵，正赖我等热血士子为天下谋划：或以战止战，或以义兵荡暴兵，或以我等热诚奔波弭兵之会。总归是要天下弭兵，庶民太平。稷下环渊身为赫赫法家名士，束手无策倒也罢了，反来指斥弭兵之论荒诞虚妄，倒是当真令人汗颜也！” “子楚之论，居心叵测！”环渊直指高高站在人海中的子楚，“尔为秦士，分明要借弭兵之论迷惑山东，使六国息兵偃战，听任秦国宰割，何其阴鸷也！” “论战诛心，非正道也！”子楚遥遥一指环渊，“弭兵息战，包容天下，秦国何能自外？敢问环渊：子楚说过秦国不在弭兵之列么？除非夫子自甘陋习，依然将秦国看作中原异类，否则，断无次等推理。” “吾观子楚，终是为秦国说话！”稷下士子群中霍然站起一人，“环渊学兄虽有偏颇，终不为过。长平大战后秦赵俱弱，譬如当初之晋楚两霸也。当此之时，子楚出弭兵之议，分明是要为秦国争得喘息之机！” “我等赞同！”稷下士子一片附和。 “掩耳盗铃，今日始闻也。”子楚一阵哈哈大笑，“长平大战秦国胜，合纵救赵六国胜。结局并非秦赵两弱，而是七国俱弱。若论实情，只怕秦国之疲弱，尚稍好于山东六国也。秦国固需喘息，六国便不需喘息么？审时度势，此时纵然六国合纵攻秦，依然是无分胜负两不奈何。更有甚者，若内政不修而致庶民饥荒离乱，不定哪国便有灭国之祸！当此之时，纵有争雄之心，何如各方先行息兵止战休养生息，恢复国力之日，再堂堂正正决战疆场？” “如此说来，弭兵终是虚妄！” “稷下名士，何多迂腐也？”子楚冷冷笑道，“弭兵者，天下自救之道也。兵争者，天下王霸之道也。一张一弛，轮回不止，人世之铁则也。子楚倡弭兵，不敢声言永世弭兵，却依然力主目下弭兵。尔等稷下名士，既不敢面对生民苦难而主目下弭兵，又不敢正视将起之兵争而指斥弭兵虚妄。譬如人之肚腹，吃了泻，泻了吃，永无休止也。以君之论，吃了又泻，何如不吃？泻了又吃，何如不泻？果真如此，安得人世生生不息也！” “彩——”整个会场可劲儿一声喝彩，赵国士子群犹为响亮。 环渊面色顿时张红，思忖片刻昂昂拱手道：“今日之论，算我等败君一合！”说罢一摆大袖落座，稷下士子群也纷纷落座，会场顿时整肃下来。 “我有一说，求教诸位。”会场中心的赵国士子群中走出一人大步上台，拱手高声道：“在下毛遂。我等赵国士子以为：弭兵之论，当看时势，时也势也，可也不可也！今日时势，七强伤痕累累，列国萎顿不堪，天下生民苦若倒悬。再起兵争，便是玉石俱焚同归于尽。我等士人，当为天地立心，为生民立命，为乱世开太平！弭兵之会，此其时也！赵国士子呼吁：今秋抡材论战，天下士人当大倡休战，力促七国行弭兵会盟，解民倒悬，天下生息！诸位以为如何？” “彩——”赵国士子群排山倒海般呼啸一声。 合纵败秦之后，毛遂大名早已随着“脱颖而出”的成语与剑逼楚王盟约出兵的故事传遍了列国，山东士子们都知道他做了平原君的门客总管，为平原君斡旋一应大事，与当年孟尝君的门客总管冯驩一般模样。今日毛遂出面以赵国士林的名义倡言，显然便是代平原君说话，也就是代赵国说话。目下赵国是山东屏障，赵国倡行息兵，他国如何能有争议？战国士子们都与本国权力层盘根错节，对本邦利益心中有谱，一看赵国士林拿出定见，便不再犹豫，齐齐地喝了一声彩，到邯郸游历的散士们也纷纷呼应，场中便是此起彼伏的喝彩叫好声。 此时惟有稷下学宫的士子群沉默着。稷下学宫虽已衰落，但仍然是各种纯学问派别的渊薮之地，保持着疏离仕途而专心治学的百年传统。今岁稷下士子们大举入赵，原本也是提出了一个大大的文明论题——人性善恶，要为天下廓清一个最根本的界限。然则几番论战，他们的学问心法已经被搅得松动了根基。尤其是祭酒环渊被那个子楚问得无言可对，尽管内心不服，毕竟承认了失败。如今赵国士林出面呼吁，天下士子尽皆响应，稷下士子群能佯装不睬么？再说，弭兵之论若能形成声浪，总是人心所向，素来有天下胸怀的稷下学宫士子群如何能漠然置之？声浪掀起之时，士子们的目光便齐刷刷聚向了环渊。环渊目光一扫，见士子们纷纷点头，便跳上座墩向主台遥遥拱手高声道：“弭兵之议，稷下士子赞同！” “我等赞同——”稷下士子群一片呼应。 高台上的荀子看看信陵君与平原君，三人不约而同地哈哈大笑起来。