Cangyi.
It was hardly a famous city in Qi State, but Lü Xiao Bai had chosen it for the auspicious meaning of its name: Qi State was about to spread its wings, soar high, and reign supreme over the nine heavens.
Its present obscurity did not matter. Qiyan had once been unknown too, but Duke Wen of Luo had assembled the lords loyal to the king there and ultimately accomplished a great undertaking. Had it not likewise earned a place in history?
Qi State had already erected a towering platform of yellow earth here, even higher than the prescribed standard for an assembly convened by a Bearer of the King's Mandate, and everything needed for the gathering had been prepared.
This was Qi State's first assembly. More than ten lords had been invited, but how many would accept remained unknown.
Lü Xiao Bai's face was full of anxiety, while Guan Zhong looked perfectly composed.
"Zhong, aren't you worried that no lords will come to the assembly?
"Although we just defeated the Lai Yi State and sent a great shock through All Xia, Qi State has suffered political turmoil for decades and has no prestige among the other states.
"If no one comes, won't Qi State become a laughingstock?
"If I had my uncle's prestige, the lords would surely follow me like shadows at the first whisper of my name, and I would have nothing to worry about."
Guan Zhong naturally understood Lü Xiao Bai's concerns. He belonged to Luo State's ducal clan and understood the Luo Clan's prestige all the better. Savoring his wine, he reassured him, "My lord, you need not belittle yourself.
"The Marquis of Luo did not earn his prestige alone. It was accumulated through the unwavering dedication of successive marquises over nearly four hundred years.
"Besides,