Chapter 36 In the second quarter, there are many talented people in the southern country
The news of the Central Plains alliance quickly spread to Chu State, and even Ying was shocked!
King Chu Wei couldn't sleep at night, so he took a leisurely stroll in the garden.The autumn wind was blowing, and the night was already as cool as water, but he felt dry and hot all over.In the ten years since he inherited the throne, the state of Chu has experienced a peculiar turning point: expansion and contraction coexist, prestige and humiliation come together.Four years ago when Vietnam was destroyed in the First World War, Chu State completely occupied the vast land south of the Huai River. The first dream of Chu's monarchs was to swallow Wu and destroy Yue, and rule most of China!This dream finally became a reality in his hands, and he was praised by the government and the public as "Jiangnan in Weijiao, revitalizing the Great Chu".But what followed was the loss of Fangling, the death of his teacher Hanshui, and the forced relocation of the capital!It caused Chu to suffer the greatest humiliation since its founding.So far, King Chu Wei has not been able to tell whether the country has gained more or lost more in the past ten years.But every time he asked himself, he felt ashamed of his ancestors.The Mi clan has been established for more than 400 years, and was strongly despised by the princes of the Central Plains for most of the time.Going north to the Central Plains to fight for hegemony, showing the strength of aspiring to the Central Plains, became the first national policy of Chu State.Whether they can compete with the princes of the Central Plains is the measure of the success or failure of the monarchs of the Chu Kingdom. Compared with internal affairs mistakes and harassment by Wu and Yue, the struggle for hegemony in the Central Plains will always be the first!The king of Chu Zhuang had not made a name for several years, and he became a blockbuster. He failed in internal affairs but succeeded in fighting for hegemony, thus becoming a generation of British lords.Now, although he has destroyed the Yue Kingdom, he has suffered a crushing defeat in the struggle for hegemony in the Central Plains. Seriously speaking, the shame outweighs the credit.What's more, the war of destroying Yue was not the plan of Chu's monarchs and ministers, but the credit of Zhang Yi and Tian Ji.Thinking of these two people, King Wei of Chu regretted endlessly: He lost a plan and lost a battle. How could he be so angry that he accused the crime and forced two great talents to flee from Chu?At that time, if Zhang Yi and Tian Ji could be treated kindly, they would be invited to stay in Chu State to make up for their losses to Chu State. With their true qualities of celebrities, they would be able to plan with all their strength to repay Chu State.With these two people, why is Chu State in such a mess?But at that time, I was young and full of energy, so I felt that these two people had missed the opportunity of his second reform and allowed Ren Zhaoju to harm them. It was really too late to regret it!A gust of autumn wind passed by, King Wei of Chu coughed violently for a while, and there was a bloodstain on the snow-white sweat towel! "Report to my king, Zuo Sima Qu Yuan asked to see him."
"Qu Yuan..." King Wei of Chu panted heavily and sat down on the stone pier in the grass: "Come in Xuan."
The servant went, but King Wei of Chu became suspicious.A Sima who is in charge of the government affairs in the army is only an official equivalent to a doctor in Chu State. In terms of official position, he is not qualified to meet the king.But this Qu Yuan is different, he is a noble son of the Qu family of the Chu family, and the official position is not important to him.The aristocratic system of the Chu State has not been eradicated. The five major tribes of Zhao, Qu, Jing, Huang, and Xiang have always been the main force supporting the State of Chu. All divided.The actual status of a descendant of an aristocratic family in the state of Chu in his youth before and after the coronation does not depend on the size of his official position, but on the size of the fiefdom he holds within the clan, the degree of title he inherits or is bestowed.The official position of a young nobleman, at most, only indicates whether he has actual achievements.
This Qu Yuan is a new and cutting-edge figure who emerged from the aristocratic family of the Chu State. He became Zuo Sima two years after he was crowned, and he was well-known in the court and the public of the Chu State.After all, one is that Qu Yuan is the eldest grandson of the Qu clan, and when he was crowned, he was immediately granted the title of Yadafu, and he was entrusted with a fief for a hundred miles in the clan; Very popular.Therefore, the young Qu Yuan has already become a famous celebrity in Yingdu.
King Chu Wei still remembered that the first time he met Qu Yuan was in the second year after he ascended the throne.At that time, the old minister Qu Gai accompanied King Wei of Chu to inspect Yunmeng Lake, and took his sixteen-year-old eldest grandson Qu Yuan with him.At that time, King Wei of Chu had a heavy heart, and he wandered alone at the bow of the boat when the moon rose.
"I, Wang Sizhi, will do it right away!" A crisp voice came from behind him.
Looking back, a handsome young man was like a jade tree facing the wind under the moon. He couldn't help being surprised: "Who are you? Lie about your heart." The young man cupped his hands and replied: "Qu Yuan, a commoner, don't dare to speak nonsense."
King Wei of Chu was stunned, but he was also very interested in the mature spirit of the young Qu Yuan: "If I want to rule the state of Chu, how should I do it?" The young Qu Yuan did not hesitate for a moment, and replied loudly: "Imitate Shang Yang and completely reform the law! "
King Wei of Chu was stunned for a moment, and couldn't help laughing: "Why didn't you follow Wu Qi's example? Wu Zi was the first reformer in Chu State." "Wu Qi is not enough to imitate, Shang Jun is a model for the world." The young man still did not hesitate.
"But why?" The first time King Wei of Chu heard Chu people say "Wu Qi is not enough to imitate", he was a little serious. "Wu Qi ruled the surface without eradicating the root, but Shang Jun ruled the root and reformed the law."
King Chu Wei was really surprised!It is truly immeasurable for a young man with a weak crown to have such a clear and firm view on state affairs.He inquired about Qu Yuan's family background, age, and hobbies with concern, and investigated Qu Yuan's knowledge in a chatty manner. The result was even more surprising—this young man could almost recite the three hundred poems of "Poetry" backwards!The works of famous masters circulated all over the world, such as "Ji Ran Ce", "Book of Shang Jun", "Wu Zi's Art of War", etc., are also very rare!Unknowingly, he and this young man Qu Yuan spent a whole night in the bow of the boat under the moon.From then on, King Wei of Chu had the ambition to carry out the second reform in Chu State.In the past eight years, there have been many obstacles, and the second reform has been shelved.Gradually, Qu Yuan was also in his twenties, and he had been interviewed several times, but he never asked him to carry out the reform.He was vaguely puzzled and regretted whether this talented man had become famous too early, and his ambition was gone... "Qu Yuan sees my king." A handsome figure has already stood outside the Maoting.
King Wei of Chu suddenly said, "Qu Yuan, come in."
Qu Yuan walked into the Maoting and saw King Wei of Chu leaning on the bamboo couch with a pale complexion. He couldn't help asking in surprise and concern: "Is my king not feeling well? You should consult a famous doctor as soon as possible." King Wei of Chu smiled wearily. Leo: "Slightly cold, just coughing. Sit down and talk, see you at Kui Ye, what's the big deal?"
Qu Yuan sat on the stone pier opposite the bamboo couch and said, "Report to my king, I have received a report from the cavalry: Su Qin led the special envoys of the four countries to go south to Chu, and will arrive in Yingdu in ten days." "Understood, it is just an invitation to form an alliance. In today's world, a covenant is the least valuable."
"My king is in trouble. This covenant is absolutely extraordinary, it is a great opportunity bestowed by heaven on Chu!" "Oh? How do you say that?" King Wei of Chu smiled lightly, feeling that this talented man was pretending again Amazing words. "I ask Wang Sizhi: In the past ten years, the second reform of the Chu State has been shelved. What is the reason? The Qin State seized my house, destroyed my army, and forced me to move the capital to the small city of Huainan. For many years, the government and the people have not had a moment of stability. Can we talk about reforms? The threat of Qin is not eliminated, and the state of Chu will never be peaceful. This is the overall situation today. The reason why the four countries have responded to the Su-Qin alliance in the Central Plains this time is that the overall situation has become the consensus of the world. If Chu An alliance with the five great powers in the Central Plains will not only eliminate the threat of the Qin State, but also eliminate the chaos in the Central Plains. Isn’t it a godsend for the Chu State to have ten years of peace?” King Wei of Chu sat up abruptly: “You think that alliance will have this effect Is it?"
"Although I don't know the specific terms of the joint agreement, but according to my perspective: Su Qin can make the three Jins and the old Yan country settle their grievances and entanglements, which will definitely benefit all countries. The most important interests in the world are nothing more than the safety of the country. How can there be it? Ya!"
King Chu Wei's eyes flashed, but he fell silent again.
Qu Yuan said with all his might: "My king Sizhi: Although the state of Chu underwent short-term reforms by Wu Qi, the aristocratic territory has not been touched, and the old Chu state is divided into six parts by the people; in addition, Wuyue was destroyed in the east, the land was expanded thousands of miles, and the population increased by more than two million. A new aristocratic territory was also formed; under the state of Chu, there were many feudal lords, but any major state affairs could not be implemented without gathering the aristocratic leaders; the king's orders could not be extended for two hundred miles, and the government orders could not be unified. Such an outdated system, the people could not govern, the wealth could not be gathered, and the soldiers could not How can we fight against the strong Qin? How can we fight against the Central Plains? Before Shang Yang’s reform, the Chu State was already strong from the outside, trying to maintain a balance with the Central Plains. With the rise of the Qiang Qin, the Chu State has become a candle in the wind! At this time, it is completely Reform is Chu's only choice, and fighting against Qin is the only opportunity for reform. If my king hesitates again, Chu will be abandoned by the times forever!"
King Chu Wei couldn't sit still: "According to Qing, there is no need to discuss with the clan lord?"
"My king makes a decision!" Qu Yuan was firm and decisive: "The reform is to cure the root cause. It is eradicating the aristocratic clan and cede land. If you want to discuss it, is it not seeking skin from a tiger? There are many princes in the Chu state, and the reform plan cannot be as grand as the Central Plains. It must be carried out in accordance with the time and another way .”
"Oh? You have a plan? Say it!"
"I have a request: I, Wang Yunzhun, please secretly train an elite new army, as a weapon for the reform; at the same time, secretly formulate new laws, and secretly recruit talented officials; next year today, we can carry out the reform with the momentum of thunder!"
"Crack!" King Chu Wei jumped up at the table, but stopped suddenly, stared at him and said with a smile, "Qu Yuan, you are an aristocrat, have you ever thought that with the tide of political reform, the Qu clan will also be submerged?" Qu Yuan said harshly. He took a breath, and his voice was surprisingly calm and indifferent: "He has no second thoughts, and he is dedicated to public affairs and disregards selfishness. Qu Yuan vowed to be the second king of Shang." "Good!" King Wei of Chu held Qu Yuan's hands: "Qing is the king of Shang." , Am I going to be Qin Xiaogong?"
"My king has the ambition of being a filial duke, and Chu is very lucky!"
King Wei of Chu laughed loudly: "Come here, serve wine! Have a drink with Qu Zi."
After a while of drinking, King Chu Wei and Qu Yuan discussed while drinking, and the reform plan gradually became clear.King Wei of Chu said that there should be another wise man to conspire with Qu Yuan.Qu Yuan recommended his son Huang Xie.King Chuwei laughed: "It's just what I want!" After drinking three nobles, King Xuanlai of Chuwei issued an order to write a book on the spot, conferring on Qu Yuan the title of "Zhigui", and Zuo Sima was promoted to Da Sima.As the moon set in the west, Qu Yuan had just left the palace, whipped his horse, and came towards the mansion of Young Master Huang Xie.
In the early morning of the next day, a team of horses surrounded a bronze cart and galloped towards the north bank of Huai River.A large banner with the word "yellow" in front of the car was fluttering in the wind, and under the canopy of the car stood a dark and vigorous young man, wearing a six-inch white jade crown, holding a three-foot Wu hook sword, and the golden cloak fluttering in the air. The high spirits!This is the son Huang Xie, according to the order of the king of Chu conveyed by Qu Yuan: to go northward to meet the special envoy of Hezong.
Huang Xie is not from the Mi family of Chu, but his mother is the younger sister of King Wei of Chu. Although he is a relative, he is also considered a member of the royal family in Chu tradition, and is also called "son".Among the noble children of Chu State, Huang Xie is a famous man of intelligence, quick-witted and resourceful, easy-going and humorous, very good at socializing and dealing with people, and is very popular in Chu State.Strange to say, Huang Xie has an easy-going temperament, but he gets along very well with Qu Yuan, who is unrestrained and enthusiastic. He often hangs around all day long, singing "Poems" and songs, comparing martial arts essays, and their friendship is very strong.After a long time, there was a saying of "Twin Stars" in Yingdu.The reason why King Wei of Chu readily agreed with Qu Yuan to recommend Huang Xie as his assistant to plan great reforms was not only because Huang Xie was his nephew, but more importantly, because Qu Yuan and Huang Xie were congenial, they were able to conspire candidly and share risks. When it comes to planning big things in secret, sincerity is better than cleverness.
King Wei of Chu expected it right. When Qu Yuan told Huang Xie the secret plan overnight, Huang Xie devoted himself without saying a word.The first mission he undertook was to cross the Huai River in the north and welcome the Su and Qin missions to Chu State in the south.
According to the practice of envoys from various countries, Chu State does not need to welcome them out of the border. In fact, Zhao, Han, and Wei did not do this either.But Qu Yuan insisted on making an exception to welcome him, and King Chu Wei agreed after thinking about it.Qu Yuan had an ambitious plan: the state of Chu should not just participate in the alliance, but take advantage of the opportunity of the alliance to revitalize the prestige of Chu and strive to become the leader of the alliance!Previously, King Wei of Chu hadn't thought about it anyway, and he didn't agree to this approach until Qu Yuan analyzed the situation of the six countries.Rather, the reason why he agreed was because he wanted to test Qu Yuan's ability to predict and plan.However, Huang Xie strongly agreed with him, and he seemed to be very successful: "Oh, among the six countries, only the king of Chu is bright and his ministers are virtuous! Who is Su Qin? How could he not have such vision?"
Huang Xie was very familiar with the Huaibei area between Wei and Chu. The horse team went north along the Yingshui River Valley. Two days later, they were 200 miles away from the northern boundary of Chu State, but there was still no sign of Su Qin's chariots.Huang Xie couldn't help being suspicious, so he sent flying scouts to go out to detect, and he got a reward half a day later: Su Qin's chariots encountered a mysterious surprise attack in Nuyang Valley!Huang Xie was shocked and immediately urged the cavalry to go northward.This attack came very suddenly and was extremely mysterious.
According to the official road at that time, it was the shortest way to go from Daliang to Chu State in the south and go straight down along the avenue on the west bank of Yingshui.Wei Wuji loves the art of war, and he is naturally familiar with Wei's geography, mountains and rivers.The southward route he planned was also this avenue.It has long been known in the world that the special envoys of the four countries are envoys to Chu, and taking shortcuts is of course far less secure than the official way.Wei Wuji thought carefully and ordered the scouts to go out a hundred miles to explore the road along the way, and there was nothing unusual about it.Zhao Sheng laughed at him: "Too cautious, like a lady getting married", he just laughed it off, and did not relax his vigilance at all.No one would have imagined that in such an ordinary place as Nuyang, something really happened!
There is a small town on the west bank of Yingshui with a strange name called Nuyang.According to the study of scholars, this is a "lack of name".The original name of this city is "Ruyang". It used to be the river channel of Rushui.I don't know when, this Rushui stopped flowing and dried up and changed its course. The folks called it "Dead Rushui", honestly turning "Ruyang" into "Nvyang" lacking "氵".Today, the dry river course has become a deep earth mountain canyon, almost going south side by side with Yingshui.The old river course is thick with silt and no one has cultivated it, so there are towering forests on both banks and in the valley.The Yingshui official road started from Nvyang, so it naturally took advantage of this flat old river channel, passed through the dense forest of the canyon, and returned to the west bank of Yingshui after a hundred miles.It was noon when they arrived at Nuyang City, but Wei Wuji ordered to camp outside the city to rest, and set off at dawn tomorrow.Such scheduling is for the purpose of walking through this canyon and dense forest in one day.After setting up camp, Wei Wuji came to Su Qin's big tent, and had a secret discussion with Su Qin for an hour. After everything was settled, he rested.At dawn on this day, Wei Wuji ordered the camp to be pulled out and reorganized.At dawn, the chariot and cavalry team had entered the old river canyon.The ones who opened the way were the three hundred knights of Zhao State led by Zhao Sheng, and the latter were the two hundred warriors of Yan State led by Jing Yan.Wei Wuji responded in the middle, leading the five hundred elites of Wei State and one hundred of his followers to personally guard Su Qin's chariot and the convoy of supplies.In the canyon, the flags are fluttering, the horns are heard, the scouts are shuttled, and the chariots and horses are rattling, it is really no different from an army.The weather was cool, and the horses and chariots continued on their way with only a short rest in the middle. When dusk fell, it was almost possible to pass through the valley.Suddenly, there was a shrill roar of tigers and monkeys, and the war horses in the road neighed one after another!Wei Wuji yelled: "Knights rein in their horses, don't move!" Before he finished speaking, he heard thunder rumbling, and countless boulders rolled down from the cliffs and dense forests, and fell straight to the center of the horse team!At the same time, the arrows in the woods on both sides were like a shower of arrows, and they fired at the central truck with a howling sound!In an instant, Wei Wuji immediately understood, and split the flag in his hand: "Two ends cover! The Chinese army retreats!" Before he finished speaking, there was a loud noise, and Su Qin's car was suddenly overturned and crushed. , Blood spattered on the spot!Hearing the roar of a tiger on the cliff, the rain of rolling stones and arrows disappeared immediately!Only the roar of Zhao Yan's cavalry chasing and killing resounded through the valley.Wei Wuji still reined in his horse majestically, and the phalanx of the knights of Wei State was still full of flags and banners, orderly.
"Mingjin—!" Wei Wuji ordered loudly.
A big gong "boring" sounded, and the two horse teams that were chasing and killing retreated quickly.Zhao Sheng and Jing Yan rushed to the front of the central convoy like a whirlwind, and said in unison: "What's the matter, sir?" Jing Yan suddenly caught a glimpse of the smashed bronze truck and the blood on the ground, and shouted: "Wei Wuji—— ! Where is Lord Wu Xin? Tell me!" The two hundred dead soldiers of Yan State raised their swords and surrounded the Wei State cavalry, which was lined with banners.Zhao Sheng's face suddenly changed, and he was at a loss for a while.
"Don't be impatient, general." Wei Wuji was expressionless, and clapped his hands three times, and saw a banner behind him parting, and a red-clothed knight holding a large banner with both hands came out one by one.Jing Yan yelled in surprise: "Wu Xinjun!" Get off the saddle and rush over. "Knight in red" laughed and said: "Jing Yan is reckless, why don't you apologize to the young master?" Jing Yan suddenly realized, she went up to Wei Wuji's horse and fell on the ground to bow down, her head hit the ground with a bang!Wei Wuji hurriedly got off his horse and helped him up: "How can I bear the general's heart?" Zhao Sheng was surprised: "Who is the dead man in the car?"
Su Qin sighed heavily: "My son is a doorman, and he is also a righteous man in the world."
Wei Wuji turned around and told a clerk, "Pick up the dead body of Sheren quickly, and bury it on the high hill. Get back to Daliang, and then ask for merit for the clerk!" The clerk agreed, and took people to handle it. .
Su Qin got off his horse and bowed his hands solemnly: "Young master, I went to pay homage to the martyr's tomb."
"Wait a minute, sir." Wei Wuji said, "An old proverb says: Courtesy and righteousness. At this time, the assassins may not be completely retreated. Sir, the righteousness of the six kingdoms should be the most important thing, how can you take risks lightly?" "It makes sense! Wu Xinjun should go south immediately! "Jing Yan shouted anxiously.
"Then don't freeze here, Mr. Wu Xin, let's go." Zhao Sheng smiled and stepped forward to support Su Qin, asking him to get on the horse.Su Qin was about to get on his horse, but he heard the rumbling horseshoes coming from outside the canyon like a storm!Wei Wuji's expression changed suddenly, and he shouted sharply: "Everyone get on their horses—! Leave the luggage and retreat to the hills on the north bank! After the Wei soldiers are finished——!" Just as Zhao Yan's two horse teams embraced Su Qin and retreated into the dense forest, Wei Wuji's red cavalry just lined up. When forming a charging formation, the Taniguchi cavalry rumbled in, and the first rider flew there first, holding up a yellow flag and shouting: "Mr. Chu Huangxie is here--! On the opposite side is Mr. Wei Wuji--?"
Wei Wuji observed attentively, and saw that the accent of the Yijia Banner was indeed the cavalry of the state of Chu, so he stepped forward and said, "I am Wei Wuji, where is Mr. Huang Xie?" After finishing his words, he saw the yellow cavalry lined up on the opposite side, and a light cart galloped by. When they got out, the people in the car cupped their hands far away and said in a loud voice: "Oh, Mr. Wuji, where is Mr.?" Wei Wuji clasped his hands and said with a smile, "Mr. Huang Xie, are you all right? Mister is all right." Go ahead and turn around and tell: " horn."
There was a burst of melodious horn horns, and the two horse teams in the forest on the top of the mountain rumbled down the mountain.Wei Wuji said loudly: "Sir, Mr. Huang Xie has specially welcomed you!" Su Qin walked up and said, "Thank you, Mr.." Huang Xie looked Su Qin up and down in surprise, and suddenly laughed: "Oh, Mr. So brilliant!" Su Qin said with a smile, "This is Mr. Wuji's plan, and I'd rather be respectful than follow orders. This is Mr. Sheng of the Zhao Kingdom, and this is General Jing Yan of the Kingdom of Yan." Wei Wuji then asked: "How is the road ahead?" Huang Xie said with a smile: "Oh, within the territory of Chu State, just follow me." He said to Wei Wuji: "The last general asks for orders, and the Chu army will be the vanguard!" Wei Wuji He laughed and said: "How dare you say your fate? When you arrive in Chu State, you can be a guest and follow your master." Huang Xie laughed loudly: "Oh, Mr. Wei is more refreshing! Okay, the Chu army will lead the way!"
With a sound of horns, the five-color cavalry trot started on the road.When Huang Xie came, he had already arranged the pickup and drop-off at the post stations along the way. There was almost no delay in military food, horse feed, camping, etc. After three days of travel, he arrived in the outskirts of Yingdu.
It was noon, and the autumn sun was sinking in the west. Looking at the ten-mile long pavilion, the flags were fluttering, and the bells and drums were faintly playing.Su Qin lobbied for He Zong already in the four countries, this is the first time he has encountered a big welcome gift from the suburbs.The etiquette of the Warring States period was greatly simplified. This kind of old-fashioned suburban greeting etiquette is rare, and Huang Xie has traveled hundreds of miles to greet him. Is there still a grand suburban welcome?Just when he was wondering, Su Qin saw a bronze chariot coming towards him, and there was a man standing under a six-foot canopy, wearing a red cloak, a high white jade crown, wearing soft armor, a Wu hook hanging on his waist, and a big beard fluttering on his chest. Chic is actually all in one's body!Although Su Qin's eyesight is poor, he can see clearly, and he couldn't help admiring loudly: "The children from Jiangdong are so talented and handsome!" Huang Xie laughed loudly: "Oh, Mr. Wu Xin has good eyesight! Sima Quyuan. Brother Qu, this is Lord Wu Xin, and he is praising you." The car barely stopped, and Qu Yuan respectfully bowed his hands: "Qu Yuan has met Lord Wu Xin and the two young masters."
The three of Su and Qin returned the salute together and paid tribute to each other.Qu Yuan got out of the car respectfully, helped Su Qin get into his own car, then jumped into the driver's seat, and drove forward for Su Qin himself.Wei Wuji was thoughtful and meticulous. He ordered his accompanying Sima to drive away the convoy of supplies, clean up the formation of the guard of honor, display the flags of the four countries, and then follow up.Under the opposite suburban pavilion, there is already loud music, solemn, melodious and euphemistic.Wei Wuji, who was on the same horse as Huang Xie, asked with a smile: "Is this "Song", "Ya" and "Wind"?" Huang Xie smiled and shook his head: "Oh, brother Qu Yuan is a master of music, it must be the music he chose That’s it. This is Chu Le, if it’s not included in the Poetry, just ask him later.”
Arriving at the pavilion, the banquet has been set up, Su Qin takes the first seat in the middle, accompanied by Qu Yuan, who is opposite to the main seat, Wei Wuji, Huang Xie, Zhao Sheng, and Jing Yan are divided into two compartments.Huang Xie said with a smile: "Oh, this Yunmeng whitebait and Lanling old wine are all Chu people's taste. I wonder if you are used to it?" , has always only drank Lanling wine. Whitebait, the world is delicious, the more the better!" Huang Xie laughed loudly: "Oh, this is brother Qu Yuan's bewilderment, and it has nothing to do with me." Amidst the laughter, Qu Yuan stood up and raised his hand. Jue said: "Mr. Wu Xin is responsible for the rise and fall of the world. After going through hardships and dangers, he also came to the south. Qu Yuan and his son Huang Xie came to meet us on the order of my king. Today's suburban banquet is specially for Mr. and you to wash the dust. Come, my son and I, first Mr. Jing and everyone!" After finishing speaking, he drank it with Huang Xie who had already stood up.Su Qin also stood up with his honor: "Thank you Da Sima and Mr. Huang Xie. We will do this for the revitalization of Chu!" "For the revitalization of Chu!"
Qu Yuan said with a smile: "Sir, you have come from a long way, how about first having a look at Chu Yue Chu Wu?"
"Oh, this is a song written by Brother Qu Yuan himself!"
Su Qin wanted to see Qu Yuan's talent very much, so he readily agreed.Wei Wuji and Zhao Shengyuan were free and unrestrained noble sons. When they heard that Qu Yuan wrote the song himself, they applauded in unison, but Jing Yan watched quietly with a smile.Qu Yuan smiled modestly: "The wild songs of Chu people are not included in the "Poetry".But listening to the far-reaching music wafting from the huge array of chime bells, under the pavilion is a secluded and uninhabited valley in an instant!Eight half-naked mountain girls in simple skirts floated out of the distant music and started dancing. A female singer who was also dressed as a mountain girl sang softly and brightly:
With the sound of a high-pitched voice suppressing the clouds, the audience was silent, and the lingering sound still lingered, and it lasted for a long time!
"Okay!" Su Qin couldn't help admiring loudly: "Simple and unpretentious, deep and sincere, the real voice of the common people!" Wei Wuji gave a long sigh, as if he had just woken up from intoxication, and suddenly said in surprise: "I have heard that the Chu Feng is strong and rough, How can there be such a moving song?" "Yes, yes," Zhao Sheng said impatiently, "this song makes people feel sore, but it is so beautiful. Look, brother Jing Yan wiped his tears Qu Yuan laughed heartily: "Chu land is thousands of miles away, separated by mountains and rivers, so people can't communicate with each other. How can folk songs be the same? Just now are the Wu songs of Chu land, which are unparalleled in the world. Chu songs even have a sun-shooting dance, singing nine heads The ferocity of the birds; the dance of mountain ghosts, and the endless souls of heroes. All of these are fierce and fierce, and I will invite you and you to watch them some other day." Su Qin sighed meaningfully: "What Da Sima said is true, Chu The mountains and rivers of the country are vast, and the valleys are deep. Who can bear the heavy burden of the world once it cheers up?" Qu Yuan looked at Su Qin with piercing eyes: "Chu country cheers up, maybe it will be today. After the suburban feast, please come to my house. As soon as the government said, Qu Yuan still has a place to ask for advice." "The great Sima asked, Su Qin should obey his orders."
After the banquet in the suburbs, it is already dusk.Su Qin and his party lived in the post house, and the accompanying four-nation cavalry camped in the open space outside the post house.Everything is arranged properly, and Qu Yuan has sent chariot guards to invite him.Su Qin invited Wei Wuji and Zhao Sheng to go together, but both of them declined, Wei Wuji smiled and said: "After the covenant is confirmed, I will pay a visit to Qu Yuan and Huang Xie. The first talk between Mr. Chu and the interests of Chu State, there are many subtleties, we avoid it Yes." Seeing that the two of them were innocent, Su Qin smiled in relief and took Jing Yan with him without saying much.Although Qu Yuan became the great Sima, he still lived in his original house.Chu State was originally a vast land and sparsely populated, Yingdu was a newly moved capital city, the city wall encloses a vast area, but the government offices and residential buildings are scattered, making people feel empty and lonely, far from being able to compare with the prosperity and splendor of the Central Plains.Qu Yuan's mansion is a garden-style mansion with a spacious courtyard but few houses.A garden is actually a large grassland, a few groves, and a small lake. The rough and simple appearance can never be compared with the exquisite courtyards in Luoyang, Daliang, Xianyang, and Linzi.It's just that the thatched huts in the grassland and woods are really unique, and Su Qin admires them.
Huang Xie said with a smile: "Oh, Brother Qu Yuan is a maverick. He doesn't like the mansions and terraces, but he prefers this thatched hut." The savages live here." Su Qin sighed: "It covers an area of more than a hundred acres, and the thatched hut has three layers of thatched grass. Even if you live in seclusion, it is not too expensive. There are many poor people in the world. How many people can live in this thatched hut?" Huang Xie Embarrassed for a moment, his dark face turned purple: "Oh, oh, what do you say? It was a trivial matter, but Mr. actually took it seriously." Qu Yuan silently bowed deeply to Su Qin: " Mr. Qu Yuan's feelings of helping the world made Qu Yuan ashamed."
Su Qin admired in his heart, and quickly bowed his hands: "Su Qin is so abrupt, dare to ask Qu Zijian to forgive me."
"Oh, what is this? Please, sir, please come in." Huang Xie smiled and helped Su Qin into the central hut.The hall of the thatched hut is spacious, and the six lanterns illuminate the room brightly.Qu Yuan clapped his hands, and the three maids came in lightly to set the tea sets.The tripod stove, wooden plate, pottery pot, and pottery bowl were placed neatly on the four large mahogany tables in a short while.Qu Yuan said with a smile: "Mr. Yashi, how about I replace wine with tea tonight?" Su Qin was not addicted to alcohol, so he readily agreed.Huang Xie smiled and waved his hands: "Oh, your tea is too bitter, but I want to drink it lightly. It's hard to get drunk." Qu Yuan laughed loudly: "When can I make you drunk? Tonight, there are four teas, each Warm tea, how about it?" "Drink warm tea." Su Qin nodded and smiled, "Qu Zi set the tone for the conversation, it's really a wonderful metaphor."
Huang Xie teased and said with a teasing smile: "Oh, Brother Qu Yuan has also learned to be gentle? Tsk tsk tsk, it's an anecdote!" Qu Yuan laughed loudly: "Huang Xie also knows me. Please forgive me if I offend you."
Jing Yan, who had been silent all this time, looked at the four maids making tea on the left and right, and then at Qu Yuan: "Da Sima, should we turn away from the left and right?" Qu Yuan waved his hand: "Sir, don't worry, the general, these maids are all dumb. , it's okay."
"Mute girl?" Su Qin's face suddenly darkened.Slavery in Chu State is far from being eradicated. Could it be that this Qu Yuan also worked as a slave in this beautiful thatched hut garden?At the thought of making a dumb slave, Su Qin's heart trembled violently, and goose bumps suddenly appeared on his body!Only those shrewd boys and girls are worthy of being selected by the master to be dumb slaves; the selected boys and girls will be forced to swallow red-hot charcoal blocks of different sizes, and all the vocal parts of the throat will be burned to death; Then take medicine every day to restore the swallowing function of the throat; and then train them how to express various meanings with body movements by a special song and dance artist.Many masters make dumb slaves, not to use themselves, but to bribe or exchange for more golden estates!When Su Qin was in Luoyang, an old servant once took him to see the royal Shangfang making dumb slaves. When the beautiful girl uttered a horrible cry, Su Qin passed out on the spot... To this day, Su Qin still can't forget the creepy scene. scene.If Qu Yuan had such a penchant for prey, how could he conspire with him?
Seeing Su Qin's astonished expression, Huang Xie laughed loudly: "Oh, oh, brother Qu Yuan, where did you start? Sir, listen to me: these four dumb girls were all forced to buy by Brother Qu Yuan on the slave black market. They came back. For this reason, Brother Qu Yuan killed a patriarch and almost lost his title. When he bought the dumb girls back, Brother Qu Yuan invited music and dance masters to teach them dance skills, and taught them how to read and write. He treated them like a relative. My younger sister is mediocre. Prime Minister Zhaoju asked for a lot of money to buy these dumb girls several times, but Brother Qu Yuan insisted on not giving them. He wanted to send these dumb girls to the Taimiao to be music and dance female officials. But these girls would rather Starve to death, just don't leave brother Qu..." After speaking, Huang Xie was sobbing.
The four tea-making dumb girls turned their heads together and looked at Su Qin earnestly. The kind of enthusiastic expectation was self-evident.Su Qin's heart was moved, and he bowed his hands solemnly: "Qu Zi's feelings are broad and lofty, and Su Qin has offended him." Qu Yuan's tears flickered, and he sighed: "Why did Su Zi say this? Those who sin against Qu Yuan by this are righteous and noble." It's just that our people in Chu are suffering a lot, the country is weak and the people are in poverty, Qu Yuan can't save the common people in case of emergency, how can I feel this heart!"
Suddenly, Su Qin felt that he had met a rare genius.This talent is full of talent, noble character, broad-minded, lofty ambition, and even more passionate. He is really the mainstay of Chu State!With this person in power in Chu State, the unity of the six countries will be as strong as a rock, and the flame of strengthening Qin will quickly dim.With this in mind, he slapped the case with great emotion: "Qu Zi seeks to save the country and the world, and stands up for the world. Su Qin is willing to go hand in hand with Qu Zi to turn the tide!"
"Okay!" Qu Yuan said impassionedly: "A strong man with one heart can cut gold! Qu Yuan is willing to follow Su Zi, even if he dies nine times, he will have no regrets!" rise.
The three pottery bowls collided and drank a bowl of green tea.Huang Xie said with a smile: "Oh, I think it's better to talk about the main topic. It's not easy to unite the six countries?" "
"Dare to ask Su Zi, how will the grievances and grievances between the six countries be resolved?" Qu Yuan immediately asked seriously.
This question is at stake.The real difficulty of Su Qin's lobbying and joining forces is also here.Qin's threat is now not difficult to be recognized by all countries, and it is not difficult for all countries to accept the alliance against Qin, because this is the only feasible and best choice, and the monarchs and ministers of all countries are not idiots.However, the Central Plains Warring States have attacked each other for more than a hundred years, and the entanglement of grievances and resentments is too deep.Everyone has been an ally with everyone, and everyone has had a blood feud with everyone.Cooperation is a kind of cooperation against the enemy, and what is most needed is mutual trust.However, there are more than one hundred years or even three or four hundred years of grievances and entanglements in the middle, and it is unclear. Where does trust come from?And without a minimum of trust, how can He Zong start?The reason why the four kingdoms of Yan, Zhao, Han, Wei, and Wei agreed to the alliance was also based on the threat of the strong Qin and their own stability, but the monarchs and officials of the four countries once said: "What should be said, will be said at that time."
Obviously, this "what to say" is nothing else than wanting to get back some of the castle lands that make him feel distressed, and try his best to get justice for his country.Every country insists on it like this, isn't it just another pot of porridge?Except for Yan and Han, the rest of the Wei, Chu, Qi, and Zhao countries are roughly equal in strength. If they get entangled, they will definitely not give in to each other. If they don't have a good mediation strategy in mind in advance, but just blindly avoid it, the alliance will be in vain!
Qu Yuan's ability to ask this question means that the monarchs and ministers of Chu State are very aware of the benefits.What about the country of Qi?King Qi Wei is even more majestic for a lifetime, and he is known as the "Hero of the Warring States Period", so how could he not mention this vital point?It seems that this thorny issue has been brought to the table.Su Qin naturally has his own strategy, but he can't come up with it rashly. "Qu Zi has insight into the key points, Su Qin dared to ask: Based on Qu Zi's intentions, how to deal with it properly?"
"Oh sir, how did you kick the ball back?"
"When Qu Zi asks, he must think about it. Su Qin really has no definite strategy, and I hope Qu Zi will not hesitate to give you some advice." In the explanation, Su Qin asked for advice again.Su Qin was vain, but Qu Yuan couldn't hold on to his words any longer. He was silent for a while, and Qu Yuan said slowly: "For the sake of a unified plan, this matter should not be left alone, nor should it be liquidated. There should be an appropriate disposition so that all countries can accept it. Do you think so?"
Su Qin nodded: "Please ask Qu Zi to continue."
Qu Yuan smiled and shook his head: "That's all I can say, the general strategy has to be determined by Su Zi."
Su Qin was slightly surprised.He thought that Qu Yuan would be passionate and frank, and he would talk about the topic quickly, but unexpectedly Qu Yuan stopped suddenly.当然，方略由苏秦提出，楚国便有见机回旋的余地，而如果由屈原提出，则楚国事实上就变成了一种事先承诺。但屈原又有基本思路，至少表示了楚国不会坚持清算，不会斤斤计较。从这等适可而止的应对来看，屈原绝不仅仅是个激情满怀的《诗》家，而且是一个练达老到的无双国士！面对如此人物，雕虫小技只能适得其反，最好的办法便是以真诚对真诚，心换心的磋商出可行之策。想到此间，苏秦一拱手：“不敢说厘定。苏秦的谋划与屈子一辙：不宜回避，不宜清算。大计是：秦国东出之前的旧账，一概不提；秦国东出三年多来，中原六国间的争夺，一律返回原状。”“噢呀，也就是说，六国间只退回这三年以来的土地、城池？”
“正是。公子以为如何？”
“噢呀……那小小几座城池不打紧。这几年倒是宋国、中山国占了一些便宜了。”屈原静心思忖，“啪！”的一拍长案：“好方略！合纵目标，在于抗秦。秦祸之前，一概不究。秦祸之后，争夺作废。如此一来，六国恩怨消解，唯余对秦仇恨，妙！”
“噢呀，赵失晋阳，魏失崤山，韩失宜阳，楚失房陵，大仇尽在秦国！”黄歇兴奋间却又突然沉吟：“惟有齐燕两国未被虎狼撕咬了，他们……”
苏秦笑道：“公子毋忧，对齐燕两国，苏秦自有主张，必使两国铁心合纵。倒是楚国，三年来失地最多，夺得淮北几县又须得退还韩魏，楚王能否接受？”
屈原沉默良久，喟然一叹：“楚国之难，不在我王。先生明日自知。”
三人又商讨了一些细节，一路说来，不知不觉已是四更。秋霜晨雾轻纱般悠悠笼罩了树林、茅屋、草地，苏秦回到驿馆，已经是雄鸡高唱了。
辰时日上三竿，郢都王宫的大殿里便聚满了楚国权臣。
楚威王听了屈原的详情禀报，觉得已经没有必要再单独会见苏秦，便下诏召集了这次朝会，让苏秦直接面对楚国的贵胄权臣说话。邦交大事每每关系国家安危，没有柱石阶层的认同，国王也是孤掌难鸣。尤其是楚国，芈氏王族虽然势力最大，但对于整个吞并吴越后的大楚国来说，依然是小小一部分而已。那广袤的土地、人口，都要靠各个自领封地的部族势力来聚拢汇集。没有世族大臣的认可，举国协力就是一句空话。将最终的决策权交由御前朝会，对于世族权臣是一种尊严和体面，对于楚威王，则是进退皆可自如。更重要的，是楚威王要借此考验苏秦的胆识才华，以便决定对合纵的信任程度。
郢都新宫的正殿不大，只有四十多个席位，权臣贵胄全数到齐，几乎是座无虚席。苏秦进来的时候，大殿中鸦雀无声，大臣们目光炯炯的盯着这个红衣高冠大袖飘飘须发灰白却又年轻冷峻的当世名士，艳羡妒忌赞赏气愤，还夹杂着诸多说不清的滋味儿，一齐从锐利的目光和各异的神色中涌流出来。苏秦却是旁若无人，从容走到大殿中央的六级台阶下深深一躬：“苏秦参见楚王——！”“先生无须多礼，请入座便了。”楚威王虚手示意，便有当值女官将苏秦引导到王座左下侧一个显赫而又孤立的坐席前。苏秦坐定，抬眼向大殿瞄了一圈，便见两边各有三排坐席，满荡荡的人头竟是白发者多黑发者少，如屈原、黄歇等少壮人物竟都在前十座之后，不禁心中慨然一叹：“人道楚国暮霭沉沉，果不虚言矣。”心知今日必有一场口舌大战，便沉下心神默默思忖，静候楚王开场。“诸位大臣：”楚威王轻轻咳嗽了一声，不疾不徐的开了口：“几个月来，合纵之事已经在朝野传开。然我楚国，尚未决定是否加盟合纵？先生身兼四国特使入楚，意在与我磋商合纵大计。今日朝会，便是议决之时。诸卿若有疑难，尽可垂询于先生，以便先生为我解惑释疑。”寥寥熟语极为得体，却又留下了极大的回旋余地。苏秦听得仔细，不禁暗暗佩服楚威王的狡黠。殿中片刻沉默，便有前排一位老人颤声发问：“老夫景珩，敢问先生：合纵抗秦，对我大楚究竟有何好处？先生彰明义理，公道自在人心也。”
这景珩是楚国五大世族之一的景氏宗主，封地二百里，私家势力直追春秋小诸侯。景氏与王室融洽，景珩本人又方正博学，楚威王便拜他做了太子傅，领侯爵，算是楚国一个四面都能转圜的人物。苏秦听他的问题，便知他的老谋深算——只引话题而不置可否。“合纵抗秦，首利在楚。”苏秦从容道：“强秦东出，楚国先失房陵，辎重粮仓尽被洗劫一空；再失汉水，步骑十万溃不成军。两战之后，楚国匆忙迁都，江水上游与汉水山地竟成空虚。若秦国一军出彝陵，顺江直下，直指楚国腹心；一军出武关、下黔中，直逼郢都背后，楚国岂非大险？列位思之，秦国固然威胁中原五国，然可有一国如楚国这般屡遭欺凌践踏？方今天下，楚国与秦国已成水火之势，其势不两立！秦强则楚弱，楚弱则秦强。所谓合纵，实是楚国借中原五国之力以抗秦，于楚国百利而无一害。惟其如此，合纵之利，首利在楚，列位以为然否？”大殿中死一般寂静！苏秦丝毫没有粉饰太平，而是赤裸裸的将楚国的屈辱困境和盘托出。对于楚国人，这是难以忍受的痛苦与屈辱。几百年来，楚国屡屡挑战中原，自诩“大楚堪敌天下”。对中原战国，楚国历来保持着极为敏感的大国尊严与战胜荣誉。房陵大败迁都淮南后，楚国君臣对耻辱保持了奇特的沉默，一次也没有在朝会上公议过这些败绩。如今，谁也不愿直面相对的伤口，竟被苏秦公然撕开，楚国大臣们的难堪可想而知。
“苏秦大胆！”一个甲胄华贵的青年将军霍然从后排站起：“子兰问你：胜败乃兵家常事，如何夸大其词，说成亡国之危，灭我楚国威风，长虎狼秦国志气？”
“子兰公子，当真可人也。”苏秦揶揄笑道：“一个大国，若将丧师失地、迁都避战也看作吃饭一般经常，其国可知也。”这子兰乃是楚国首族昭氏宗主昭雎的侄子，任柱国将军之职（掌都城护卫），卓尔不群，酷好谈兵论战，常以“名将之才”自诩，曾对田忌败于秦师大加挞伐，对楚国两次大败也极是不服。此刻受苏秦嘲笑，大是羞恼，面色胀红，厉声喝道：“苏秦，楚国两败，皆因田忌无能，误我楚国！若子兰为帅，战胜何难？！”
苏秦不禁哈哈大笑：“子兰公子，若非田忌，楚国何能灭越？”一语出口，敛去笑容正色道：“田忌虽非赫赫战神，却也是天下名将，一战灭越，足以证明其绝非庸才！然则，同一名将，率同一大军，胜于越而败于秦，因由何在？非田忌无能，而在楚国实力疲弱也。秦国乃铁骑新军，楚国却是战车老卒；秦国粮草丰盛，楚国却捉襟见肘；秦人举国求战，人皆锐士，楚国却一盘散沙，人皆畏战。如此国情，虽吴起再生而不能战胜，况乎未经战阵的子兰公子？”
“如先生所说，楚国惟有合纵一途了？”座中一个白发老臣拍案而起。
苏秦悠然一笑：“前辈若有奇策，合纵自成虚妄。”
“老夫却是不信！”白发老臣须发戟张：“我项氏一族领有江东，可召三万子弟兵。若大楚五族共奋，可成三十万精锐大军与秦国死战！何须那牛曳马不曳的合纵？”
苏秦肃然拱手：“楚国项氏，尚武大族，前辈亦当是沙场百战之身，何以论兵却如此轻率？苏秦敢问：纵然募得三十万子弟，须得多久方能训练成军？战马须得几多？甲胄、马具、兵器、精铁须得几多？云梯、弓弩、军帐、旌旗、木材、布帛、兽皮，须得几多？粮食、草料、干肉、辎重、赋税，须得增加几多？以秦国之强之富，商鞅二十年变法，只练成新军五万。莫非老将军有呼风唤雨之能，撒豆成兵之法，朝夕一呼，便有三十万大军？若非如此，三十万子弟兵也只是鱼腩而已，安有死战一说？”白发老臣满脸通红，却是无言以对。这位项氏老将军原是一时愤激，苏秦问得合情合理，字字击中要害，如何能强词夺理？思忖无计，便“咳！”的一声坐了下去。
“先生之言大谬！”一个老臣沙哑愤激的高声问：“我黄氏不服：今日楚国，无论如何比当日秦国强大。当初六国锁秦，秦国与谁合纵了？也未见灭亡，反倒成就了二十年变法！我楚国并未到衰败崩溃之时，为何不能变法自强，却要与中原五国坑瀣一气？他们屡屡坑害楚国，还嫌不够么？”
此人乃公子黄歇的祖父，黄氏部族宗主，官居左尹。黄氏部族领地虽然不算广袤，却与楚国王室渊源深厚，数代结亲，子弟多是实权职位，在楚国影响甚大。此老说法自然须得认真对待。苏秦起身拱手道：“左尹之言，及表不及里，及末不及根。时移势易，岂能做刻舟求剑之论？苏秦敢问：楚国变法，最需要什么？”
大殿肃然无声，众臣竟被问得愕然！惟有屈原目光炯炯的盯着苏秦。楚国大臣多认为楚国是经过吴起变法的新战国，谁也没想到楚国还要变法，又如何有人思虑变法需要什么？一问之下，大臣们竟是面面相观。
“大凡一国变法，最根本者乃是国势稳定。”苏秦侃侃道：“何谓稳定？内无政变之忧，外无紧迫战患，是谓稳定也。战国百余年，内乱外战而能变法者，未尝闻也！六国锁秦之时，秦孝公忍辱割地与魏国媾和，又派秘使分化六国盟约，方争得一段安定，始能招贤变法。及至魏齐赵韩间四次大战，中原无暇顾及秦国，方成就了秦国二十年变法！此乃天时之利也。若今日楚国变法，其志固然可嘉，然则天时何在？稳定何在？强秦在侧，五敌环伺，楚国虽有三头六臂，也当疲于奔命，喘息尚且不能，又何来变法时机？”大殿中唯闻喘息之声，大臣们竟有一种心惊肉跳的感觉。
苏秦大袖一挥：“楚国若想变法振兴，惟有合纵！舍合纵不能救楚国，因由何在？合纵能给楚国安定，能使强秦望楚而却步，能使中原五国化敌为友，能使楚国安心内事，振翼重飞。不结合纵，楚国危在旦夕也！”慷慨之中，苏秦嘎然而止。“哼哼哼，”一阵冷笑声在寂静的大殿中清晰传开，前排首座那位白发苍苍的干瘦老人缓缓站了起来。苏秦知道，他是楚国令尹昭雎，楚国最大部族的宗主，在楚国实在是一言九鼎的人物，也是最令楚威王棘手的人物。他慢悠悠的环视了一周，却似乎谁也没看，沙哑苍老的声音一字一顿，透出一种久居高位浸泡出来的矜持：“先生与诸公，大论合纵变法，无稽之谈也。”一句话，便将苏秦与论战的楚国大臣全数否定！举座错愕，苏秦却是微微冷笑。昭雎依旧是谁也不看的扫视着全场，款款数落着：“谁说楚国要变法了？难道楚国没有过变法么？楚国是旧诸侯么？楚国不是新战国么？我大楚立国四百余年，从来都是领先时势，未尝落后也。称王第一，称霸第一，问鼎中原挑战天子者，仍是第一。悼王吴起变法，与魏武侯同时，也是领天下之先。抹杀祖宗功业，侈谈重新变法，居心究竟何在？”
如同肃杀秋风，殿中气氛顿时冷僵！
对楚国君臣而言，这无疑是一个明确警告：楚国绝不会第二次变法！谁也不要想动摇楚国旧制！楚国大臣中本来也没有变法呼声，论战中基于维护楚国体面，话赶话赶出来而已，谁也没有当真去想。昭雎却如同一只老鹫，警觉的嗅出了其中的异常——如此话题会给居心叵测者提供变法口实！楚国之大，安知没有野心勃勃之徒？若不借此时机大敲一记警钟，合纵一成，朝局便难以掌控。但是昭雎没有料到，这一番既无对象又囊括全体的“训诫”，却使朝会宗旨猛然扭曲，楚国君臣顿时在赫赫合纵特使面前，公然暴露出深深的内政危机！这是邦交礼仪场合最大的忌讳，楚国君臣顿时陷入大大的难堪。
按照寻常规矩，要不要变法这种大政决策，非国王不能轻言。昭雎身为令尹，纵然是实力权臣，笼统的训诫论断也显然是越矩的。但是，其余朝臣却无法开口。而楚威王若出面校正，则无论支持还是否定，都会将一个尚在秘密酝酿中的决策公然提前端出，只能使局面更加混乱。思忖之下，楚威王面色淡漠地保持着沉默，殿中竟是一片奇特的肃静。
“令尹之言，歧路亡羊也。”苏秦站了起来，脸上一副淡淡的微笑。昭雎一开口，他便看穿了这个首席权臣的用心，也看见了屈原眼中火焰般的光芒，看见了黄歇面如寒霜般的黑脸。可是，他们都不宜正面与昭雎碰撞，打开这个僵局的合适人选，只能是苏秦！而且必须给这个老鹫一点儿颜色，压下他的气焰！否则，楚国在合纵中的作用将大受掣肘。
只见苏秦气静神闲的笑道：“今日朝会，本是议决合纵。变法之说，本为延伸之论，涉及合纵能够给楚国带来的利害而已，无人决意要在楚国变法，如何便成无稽之谈？如何竟有'居心何在'之问？论辩争鸣，历来讲究'论不诛心'，老令尹动辄便凶险诛心，非但一言屠尽忠臣烈士，而且与合纵之议南辕北辙，置合纵大计于歧路亡羊之境，与国无益，与事无补，弦外之音却是大有杀气！苏秦敢问：老令尹究竟居心何在？”
“鬼谷子高足，果然名不虚传也。”昭雎老到的笑了。苏秦一句'弦外之音却是大有杀气'使他心头猛然一颤，立即断定不能再让此人在这个话题上纠缠下去。打断苏秦，昭雎一脸庄重之色：“方才只是题外之话，权且作罢。老夫所疑者：六国间争斗百余年，恩怨至深，一旦合纵，如何保得相互诚信？”
苏秦见昭雎插断，又主动找回话题，便知他已生退心，也乐得重回合纵本题，于是悠然笑道：“六国宿怨，不可不计，不可全计。苏秦以为：合纵盟约在于抗秦，秦国东出之前的六国争夺，一笔勾销；近三年以来的六国争夺，各自返还原状。老令尹以为如何啊？”昭雎默然片刻，转身向楚威王一礼：“此中利害，请我王定夺。”
楚威王心知昭雎做出一副尊王姿态，意在委婉的修饰方才的越矩，却依然是面无表情，不置可否，给了昭雎一个软钉子。群臣却是少有觉察，一个高亢的声音急迫发问：“右司马靳尚不明：宋国夺我大楚的两座城还不还？我大楚灭越，退不退？啊！”“轰嗡——”一声，殿中哄堂大笑！
屈原霍然站起，一声怒喝：“愚蠢靳尚，还不退下！”
苏秦看时，原是后排座中一个面如冠玉的俊秀青年在说话。见屈原怒斥，他面红耳赤的嘶声喊道：“屈原，尔无非一个新任大司马！我靳尚乃六年右司马也，你敢当殿侮辱大臣？靳尚请我王秉公处置！”喊声未落，殿便又是一阵轰然大笑。这个靳尚，本是小吏世家子弟，因俊秀风流而被称为“郢都美少”。偏偏这个“美少”懒于读书修学，开口便显愚笨可笑，却又忒爱人前邀宠而争口舌之功，竟每每引得人乐不可支。因了少年弱冠，反倒被人视为憨直可爱。有贵胄纨绔子弟者，便将这个“郢都美少”引荐给太子芈槐。不想这“美少”竟大得芈槐欢心，三五年间便做了太子舍人！虽是下大夫一般的小官，毕竟进入了“臣子”之列，也是他祖辈小吏的靳氏家族最为荣耀的高职了。没过几年，太子芈槐又荐举靳尚做了右司马，竟与屈原这般贵胄俊才比肩了。屈原本非骄矜贵胄，更无蔑视平民子弟之心，无奈这靳尚每每在议论军务时口没遮拦，大嘴巴信口开河，惹得不苟言笑的一班军中将领大为不快，屈原便开始从心底里厌恶这个“金玉其外，败絮其中”的市井痞子了。新近屈原做了大司马，右司马便是他的部属官员，理当出面申斥。可这靳尚仗恃太子宠爱，竟不将屈原放在眼里！
楚威王大怒，“啪！”的拍案：“来人！将竖子剥夺冠带，赶出王宫，永不许为官！”四名武士轰然一声上前。靳尚“哇——！”的一声坐地大哭：“我王做主，靳尚冤枉！太子大哥，快来救救小弟弟啊……”楚威王面色阴沉之极，正要大发雷霆，四名武士已经猛然捂住靳尚嘴巴，将他飞一般拖了出去。殿中寂然，竟无人再笑得出来。
这时黄歇站了出来，向楚王深深一躬，以惯有的诙谐口吻道：“噢呀，我王明鉴：大国如江海，鱼龙混杂也是常情，无须我王与这般竖子较真儿。臣以为，我王当决断大计，决策合纵才是了。”
黄歇素长折冲周旋，言谈温和雅致，那笑在言先的“噢呀”口头禅，更是虽雷神火暴也不能峻拒的“善引子”。他寥寥数语，殿中气氛顿时缓和下来。楚威王点头笑道：“黄歇大是，本王倒是肝火过盛了。”随即扫视大殿，肃然正色道：“朝会论战，合纵大计已无异议，本王决断：楚国加盟合纵，举国跟从先生。今命：黄歇为本王特使，随先生谋划合纵；与合纵相关之内政，由大司马屈原一并处置。”决断完毕，转身对这苏秦竟是深深一躬：“合纵功成，先生便是楚国丞相。”
苏秦连忙大礼拜下：“外臣苏秦，谢过楚王——！”
朝会散去，魏无忌、赵胜、荆燕三人早已经在驿馆门口迎候苏秦。苏秦将朝会情形细细一说，三人兴奋异常。正在谈笑间，公子黄歇前来相邀到他府中做客。黄歇已成楚王特使，将与他们同行，本来也有诸多事务需要磋商确定。苏秦一行略事安排，留下荆燕坐镇，便立即登车上马，辚辚来到黄歇府邸。
进得正厅，宴席已经安置妥当。黄歇本是刚刚从王宫办理出使诏书出来，便先对苏秦几人讲述了楚王对合纵的决心与期望，转述了楚王的八个字——全力促成，愿担重责。苏秦大为振奋，心中一块大石顿时落地。如果说大殿朝会只是一种姿态，对黄歇的这八个字便是楚王真实的意愿了。楚为大国，又是受秦国伤害最深的国家，一旦加入，合纵便成功了一大