Toward the end of the Western Zhou (1046-771 BC), the patriarchal clan system based on blood ties started to disintegrate and the consensus of one common lord was under challenge. The royal authority was loosened while traditional etiquette and the code of ethics were no longer observed. The power of the kings in King City was overwhelmed by that of lords of big vassal states. The states of Zheng and Wei, located on the Central Plain, were the hub of transportation, alliances, wars, marriages, and commerce for all other states. With an advanced economy and culture, they challenged the traditions in rites and music and offered up a brand-new look at culture at that time.