Within Luo State, more than a dozen diplomatic missions flying banners bearing the Luo script set out for the various states with the Sage King Calendar, intending to replace the calendars used there.
Though the states were already at daggers drawn, no one would provoke Luo State unless they wanted it to emerge into the world once more.
After arriving in Han State, Xia Chenyan said to Marquis Cheng of Han, "This Outer Minister once heard that a neighboring state is a fierce tiger waiting to choose someone to devour. Why are you helping Wei State grow stronger? Does that not harm Han State?
"Han State is surrounded by Wei State, the Royal House, Zhao State, and Luo State. If you want to acquire land, you can only seize it from Wei State. Surely Wei State knows this too.
"And what if Wei State wants to seize land?
"The simplest way is to swallow up Han State's territory. This is what worries me on your behalf.
"By helping Wei State grow stronger and stronger now, I fear you are feeding meat to a tiger. Only when you have fed it every scrap of flesh on your body will it be satisfied.
"United, Han State and Zhao State have nothing to fear from Wei State. I am willing to travel to Zhao State and mediate for you. If I can spare Han State from Wei State's encroachment, that is something I can do for you."
Marquis Cheng of Han sighed. "Honored envoy, you are right. I am willing to present you with gold and a precious sword. Han State's future rests on your shoulders."
And so Xia Chenyan continued toward Zhao State. But the moment he left the hall, Marquis Cheng of Han summoned a trusted attendant and ordered, "Go to