"Big Beard, long time no see. I hope you are doing well." Chu Ze greeted him with a smile.
The bearded man looked up when he heard the voice, revealing a dark and rough face that looked very capable.
"Oh, General Chu!" He smiled and put down the work in his hands. "I'm sorry for not welcoming you in person!"
The two of them exchanged greetings warmly.
The bearded man is named Xu Ji, a fellow villager of Chu Ze and also his right-hand man in Fengyang.
Xu Ji is very talented and is particularly good at mechanical manufacturing.
Many of the key components of the Enterprise were made by his skillful hands.
"Big Beard, I'm here this time to ask for an important favor." Chu Ze said seriously.
"General, please feel free to speak. I will go through fire and water for you without hesitation!" Xu Ji patted his chest and promised.
Chu Ze looked around and said mysteriously, "To be honest, the situation in the capital is critical. The new emperor has just been established, and border troubles have arisen. It can be said that there are internal and external troubles."
"I have discussed with His Royal Highness the Prince of Yan and want to present some unique skills and tricks to win the favor of the new emperor in order to protect ourselves. You see."
Hearing this, Xu Ji couldn't help but sigh: "General, this move is expedient, but I'm afraid it's only a temporary solution."
"In my opinion, we should plan ahead and make plans for the worst."
"For example, we should step up the development of new weapons such as artillery and muskets to improve the combat effectiveness of the army."
"For example, we can recruit more civilians to build fortifications and strengthen border defense."
"Only when the country is stable can the people live and work in peace. Otherwise, even if you offer many rare treasures, it will be in vain."
Chu Ze nodded frequently and praised:
"What the bearded man said makes sense! We can't just focus on the present, we must also plan ahead and plan for the root cause as early as possible."
"How about this, I'll leave the firearms to you. After I return to Beijing, I'll send someone to deliver the blueprints, and you can make them according to them."
"As for the border defense works, I will report to King Yan and ask him to raise manpower and material resources as soon as possible."
"Also." Chu Ze changed the subject, "Do you have anything new to show off? It would be best if it could shock the government and the public."
"Shocked?" Xu Ji chuckled, "Then I do have a treasure that will surely astonish the entire court!"
As he spoke, he mysteriously opened a large wooden box beside him and took out a black thing from it.
"What is this?" Chu Ze looked at it curiously.
I saw that the thing looked like a 21st century pistol, it was completely black with a cold metallic luster.
"This is my masterpiece that I worked so hard on," Xu Ji introduced proudly, "A single shot can penetrate heavy armor, and continuous shots can wipe out the enemy's formation!"
"With this 'Iron Shuttle' in hand, you can become a killing god on the battlefield!"
"Wow!" Chu Ze was amazed, "You even made guns?"
"You are worthy of being the 'King of Invention' of Fengyang! With such a powerful weapon, we are not afraid of those barbarians in the north!"
Xu Ji waved his hand and said modestly: "General, you are too kind. Although this 'Iron Shuttle' is powerful, it still has many shortcomings."
"For example, the range is short, the accuracy is insufficient, and reloading is time-consuming."
"I will continue to improve and strive to achieve the goal of hitting the target with every bullet!"
Chu Ze was overjoyed when he heard this and immediately made the decision:
"Okay! This kind of divine weapon must be put into actual combat as soon as possible! You can make a few first, and I will take them back to the capital, and then give those old stubborn people a surprise!"
Xu Ji agreed and immediately started the intensive production.
There was the sound of anvils and hammers, sparks flying, and sweat pouring down.
In the blink of an eye, several brand new "iron shuttles" were already lying in front of Chu Ze.
"This is the most sophisticated weapon I have ever seen in my life!" Chu Ze couldn't put it down and played with it, marveling at it.
"Big Beard, your hands are truly amazing!"
"That's all thanks to the general's cultivation." Xu Ji scratched his head embarrassedly.
"General, didn't you say last time that some people in the court were dissatisfied with your new policies?"
"You must be more careful when you go to Beijing this time. Those old guys are the most unreasonable and stubborn."
"Oh, it gives me a headache when I mention this." Chu Ze sighed.
"To be honest, the resistance to the implementation of the new policy is much greater than I imagined." "Especially those diehards in the court, who are always criticizing and even openly opposing it."
"If the late emperor had not stood up against all odds, I'm afraid we wouldn't even be able to keep Fengyang's achievements."
Speaking of sad things, Chu Ze couldn't help but feel sad.
Xu Ji quickly comforted him, "General, don't be discouraged. As the ancients said, 'Without going through the bone-chilling cold, how can you smell the fragrance of plum blossoms?'"
"Although your new policy may encounter many obstacles for the time being, as long as you persist, it will surely benefit the people of the world."
Chu Ze nodded and continued, "I know that reform is never achieved overnight."
"There are too many interests involved and too many old customs and practices. How easy is it to overcome them one by one?"
"But, for the future of Ming Dynasty and for the benefit of millions of ordinary people, how can I not do it?"
Seeing this, Xu Ji was also in awe: "General, you are so dedicated and thoughtful, you are truly a role model for our generation!"
"Those old people will understand your painstaking efforts one day."
"I hope so." Chu Ze sighed.
He carefully put the "iron shuttles" into his bag and gave Xu Ji a few instructions.
Then we said goodbye and set off again.
The carriage rumbled out of the village again.
Xu Ji looked at the receding wheel tracks and murmured to himself:
"I hope this 'iron shuttle' can convince those stubborn people."
"I also hope that the general's new policies can restore the glory of the Ming Dynasty."
On the way back to Beijing, Chu Ze went to several places and collected some rare treasures.
There are all kinds of things, such as walking iron men and talking birds.
Of course, these are all made by skilled craftsmen from all over the world, symbolizing the dawn of modern technology.
Soon, the carriage finally arrived in the capital.
Before entering the palace, a young eunuch came out to greet him:
"General Chu, the prince is waiting for you in the Yangxin Palace!"
"Got it." Chu Ze nodded, "I'll go see you right away."
In the Yangxin Palace, the new emperor was listening to his ministers arguing with each other.
"Your Majesty, the most urgent task is to concentrate our efforts to wipe out the Tatars! These Tatars are restless and may invade our borders at any time!"
"No, no, right now we should prioritize stabilizing the people. The government and the country are in turmoil, and the people are living in poverty. If there is another war, what will happen to the people?"
"Your Majesty, we have already raised the money and food for disaster relief. If the Ming Dynasty can recuperate, we can take this opportunity to strengthen it!"
"Bullshit! To become strong, you need strength, not blindly give in! Only with powerful soldiers in hand can you command the world!"
Zhu Di looked at the quarrel among his ministers coldly, with a sinister look in his expression.
Suddenly, a trusted eunuch trotted in and whispered something in his ear.
"What? He's back?" Zhu Di stood up suddenly, his face changed slightly.
"Quick, let him in!"
Before he could finish his words, the door of the hall was pushed open with a bang.
Chu Ze walked in, followed by several servants, each carrying a huge mahogany box.
"Your humble servant Chu Ze pays homage to the emperor, long live the emperor!"
Chu Ze bowed, but Zhu Di did not respond.
"My dear minister, you have come from afar. I wonder what good things you have brought with you?" Zhu Di asked indifferently.
There was no emotion or anger in his tone.
Chu Ze understood and hurriedly ordered the servants behind him: "Hurry up and open the box and show it to His Majesty!"
Several servants responded and there was a series of "click" sounds, and several large boxes opened. (End of this chapter)
The bearded man looked up when he heard the voice, revealing a dark and rough face that looked very capable.
"Oh, General Chu!" He smiled and put down the work in his hands. "I'm sorry for not welcoming you in person!"
The two of them exchanged greetings warmly.
The bearded man is named Xu Ji, a fellow villager of Chu Ze and also his right-hand man in Fengyang.
Xu Ji is very talented and is particularly good at mechanical manufacturing.
Many of the key components of the Enterprise were made by his skillful hands.
"Big Beard, I'm here this time to ask for an important favor." Chu Ze said seriously.
"General, please feel free to speak. I will go through fire and water for you without hesitation!" Xu Ji patted his chest and promised.
Chu Ze looked around and said mysteriously, "To be honest, the situation in the capital is critical. The new emperor has just been established, and border troubles have arisen. It can be said that there are internal and external troubles."
"I have discussed with His Royal Highness the Prince of Yan and want to present some unique skills and tricks to win the favor of the new emperor in order to protect ourselves. You see."
Hearing this, Xu Ji couldn't help but sigh: "General, this move is expedient, but I'm afraid it's only a temporary solution."
"In my opinion, we should plan ahead and make plans for the worst."
"For example, we should step up the development of new weapons such as artillery and muskets to improve the combat effectiveness of the army."
"For example, we can recruit more civilians to build fortifications and strengthen border defense."
"Only when the country is stable can the people live and work in peace. Otherwise, even if you offer many rare treasures, it will be in vain."
Chu Ze nodded frequently and praised:
"What the bearded man said makes sense! We can't just focus on the present, we must also plan ahead and plan for the root cause as early as possible."
"How about this, I'll leave the firearms to you. After I return to Beijing, I'll send someone to deliver the blueprints, and you can make them according to them."
"As for the border defense works, I will report to King Yan and ask him to raise manpower and material resources as soon as possible."
"Also." Chu Ze changed the subject, "Do you have anything new to show off? It would be best if it could shock the government and the public."
"Shocked?" Xu Ji chuckled, "Then I do have a treasure that will surely astonish the entire court!"
As he spoke, he mysteriously opened a large wooden box beside him and took out a black thing from it.
"What is this?" Chu Ze looked at it curiously.
I saw that the thing looked like a 21st century pistol, it was completely black with a cold metallic luster.
"This is my masterpiece that I worked so hard on," Xu Ji introduced proudly, "A single shot can penetrate heavy armor, and continuous shots can wipe out the enemy's formation!"
"With this 'Iron Shuttle' in hand, you can become a killing god on the battlefield!"
"Wow!" Chu Ze was amazed, "You even made guns?"
"You are worthy of being the 'King of Invention' of Fengyang! With such a powerful weapon, we are not afraid of those barbarians in the north!"
Xu Ji waved his hand and said modestly: "General, you are too kind. Although this 'Iron Shuttle' is powerful, it still has many shortcomings."
"For example, the range is short, the accuracy is insufficient, and reloading is time-consuming."
"I will continue to improve and strive to achieve the goal of hitting the target with every bullet!"
Chu Ze was overjoyed when he heard this and immediately made the decision:
"Okay! This kind of divine weapon must be put into actual combat as soon as possible! You can make a few first, and I will take them back to the capital, and then give those old stubborn people a surprise!"
Xu Ji agreed and immediately started the intensive production.
There was the sound of anvils and hammers, sparks flying, and sweat pouring down.
In the blink of an eye, several brand new "iron shuttles" were already lying in front of Chu Ze.
"This is the most sophisticated weapon I have ever seen in my life!" Chu Ze couldn't put it down and played with it, marveling at it.
"Big Beard, your hands are truly amazing!"
"That's all thanks to the general's cultivation." Xu Ji scratched his head embarrassedly.
"General, didn't you say last time that some people in the court were dissatisfied with your new policies?"
"You must be more careful when you go to Beijing this time. Those old guys are the most unreasonable and stubborn."
"Oh, it gives me a headache when I mention this." Chu Ze sighed.
"To be honest, the resistance to the implementation of the new policy is much greater than I imagined." "Especially those diehards in the court, who are always criticizing and even openly opposing it."
"If the late emperor had not stood up against all odds, I'm afraid we wouldn't even be able to keep Fengyang's achievements."
Speaking of sad things, Chu Ze couldn't help but feel sad.
Xu Ji quickly comforted him, "General, don't be discouraged. As the ancients said, 'Without going through the bone-chilling cold, how can you smell the fragrance of plum blossoms?'"
"Although your new policy may encounter many obstacles for the time being, as long as you persist, it will surely benefit the people of the world."
Chu Ze nodded and continued, "I know that reform is never achieved overnight."
"There are too many interests involved and too many old customs and practices. How easy is it to overcome them one by one?"
"But, for the future of Ming Dynasty and for the benefit of millions of ordinary people, how can I not do it?"
Seeing this, Xu Ji was also in awe: "General, you are so dedicated and thoughtful, you are truly a role model for our generation!"
"Those old people will understand your painstaking efforts one day."
"I hope so." Chu Ze sighed.
He carefully put the "iron shuttles" into his bag and gave Xu Ji a few instructions.
Then we said goodbye and set off again.
The carriage rumbled out of the village again.
Xu Ji looked at the receding wheel tracks and murmured to himself:
"I hope this 'iron shuttle' can convince those stubborn people."
"I also hope that the general's new policies can restore the glory of the Ming Dynasty."
On the way back to Beijing, Chu Ze went to several places and collected some rare treasures.
There are all kinds of things, such as walking iron men and talking birds.
Of course, these are all made by skilled craftsmen from all over the world, symbolizing the dawn of modern technology.
Soon, the carriage finally arrived in the capital.
Before entering the palace, a young eunuch came out to greet him:
"General Chu, the prince is waiting for you in the Yangxin Palace!"
"Got it." Chu Ze nodded, "I'll go see you right away."
In the Yangxin Palace, the new emperor was listening to his ministers arguing with each other.
"Your Majesty, the most urgent task is to concentrate our efforts to wipe out the Tatars! These Tatars are restless and may invade our borders at any time!"
"No, no, right now we should prioritize stabilizing the people. The government and the country are in turmoil, and the people are living in poverty. If there is another war, what will happen to the people?"
"Your Majesty, we have already raised the money and food for disaster relief. If the Ming Dynasty can recuperate, we can take this opportunity to strengthen it!"
"Bullshit! To become strong, you need strength, not blindly give in! Only with powerful soldiers in hand can you command the world!"
Zhu Di looked at the quarrel among his ministers coldly, with a sinister look in his expression.
Suddenly, a trusted eunuch trotted in and whispered something in his ear.
"What? He's back?" Zhu Di stood up suddenly, his face changed slightly.
"Quick, let him in!"
Before he could finish his words, the door of the hall was pushed open with a bang.
Chu Ze walked in, followed by several servants, each carrying a huge mahogany box.
"Your humble servant Chu Ze pays homage to the emperor, long live the emperor!"
Chu Ze bowed, but Zhu Di did not respond.
"My dear minister, you have come from afar. I wonder what good things you have brought with you?" Zhu Di asked indifferently.
There was no emotion or anger in his tone.
Chu Ze understood and hurriedly ordered the servants behind him: "Hurry up and open the box and show it to His Majesty!"
Several servants responded and there was a series of "click" sounds, and several large boxes opened. (End of this chapter)
