Infant Qi Chronicle

Author: Shi Jiepeng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: Following The Little Officer, Shi Jiepeng ignites a new wave of New Historicism. Professor Kong Qingdong of Peking University praised this book as surpassing the works of Eryuehe. The protagonist, Yingqi, originally served as a subordinate to the Little Officer. After the Little Officer's death, Yingqi rises through the ranks by chance and becomes entangled in the intricate political struggles, eventually retiring after several twists and turns. The author uses the passion of artistic creation and rich imagination to revitalize the familiar Han Dynasty literature and classics, successfully shaping the typical life of a Han Dynasty figure with elegant and simple language. His struggles and rise reflect all aspects of Han Dynasty society.
In the fourth year of the Zhenghe era, Emperor Wu accused the crown prince of rebellion and ordered the issuance of a decree to crush the prince's army. The crown prince committed suicide. The Chief Minister of Jingzhao, Shen Wu, leapt to his death from a cliff to assist the crown prince. Shen Wu's follower, Yingqi, and others were arrested but later pardoned. Yingqi returned to his hometown, Yuzhang County. Due to a rivalry with the son of the wealthy Yan Lesheng, Yan Changnian, over the love of Yingqi's sister, Ajun, who was the county magistrate's sister, Yan Changnian committed suicide in public out of humiliation. Yan Lesheng harbored deep hatred for Yingqi and vowed to avenge his son. He bribed the Governor of Yuzhang, Zhao Guangguo, to manipulate the law and order the execution of Yingqi's uncle, Ying Qingji, under false pretenses. He also confiscated Yingqi's family property, leaving Yingqi destitute.
September of the fourth year of the Zhenghe era. Autumn. In the Yuzhang County of the Great Han Dynasty. The crimson sun slowly climbed to the treetops, and the city of Yuzhang was gradually bathed in a golden, warm autumn glow. At this moment, in the Nanpu Village, a courtyard with three courtyards, covered walkways, and tall pavilions bustled with people.