Outside Mengshan County, the county magistrate Chen Yi, along with his yamen officials, stood at the city gate facing the wind.
The cold wind blew past, and everyone shivered.
Soon, a group of carriages and horses approached from afar. Chen Yi's face suddenly became solemn, and he stood with his head held high, looking forward.
A man sat high on horseback, wearing a dark suit, with his hair tied up with a jade crown. He had a handsome face, but his expression was stern and cold, which diluted some of his beauty, but highlighted the royal family's noble demeanor.
The mother of Prince Qin is the elder sister of the late emperor and a cousin of the current emperor. She has royal blood and her noble and majestic demeanor is incomparable to ordinary people.
What is surprising is that, in addition to a horse-riding attendant beside him, he also leads a divine horse, which is white in color and is of the same size as his own red divine horse.
Why lead an extra horse? Chen Yi did not understand Qin Ke's thoughts and did not dare to ask more questions. He immediately led the officials to bow and salute to show respect.
In addition to the Prince of Qin, there were several carriages behind him, all of which were filled with officials from the Ministry of Works.
The streets were cleared by the government officials, and the common people hid in their homes to watch. When they saw the prince's graceful demeanor, they were immediately captured.
Who could have thought that the God of War of Wei State would be so handsome?
Arriving at the county government office, Chen Yi breathed a sigh of relief. Although he had witnessed the incident of Prince Qin arresting County Magistrate Cao in the county government office before, the situation then was different from now.
It was carried out in secret then, but now it is carried out with strict and solemn guard of honor.
"Prince, all the superiors, please take a seat." It was the first time that Chen Yi met several officials from the capital, and he felt quite reserved.
Several people took their seats one by one, with Qin Ke sitting at the head.
"The emperor ordered us to Mount Meng this time to learn the craftsmanship of craftsmen." Qin Ke took a sip of tea. "Mr. Shen Ming should know where the glass kiln is. We want to go and see it."
Chen Yi asked: "The prince and the other superiors are tired from the journey, why don't we go tomorrow?"
It was almost the afternoon before dinner and the kiln workers had all gone home. There was no one at the kiln and there was no need to go there.
Several people from the Ministry of Works nodded and looked at Qin Ke.
Qin Ke suddenly stood up and said to everyone, "Then tomorrow. I have something to do, so you can share dinner together."
After saying this, he left the table. Chen Chuangu naturally followed him.
The two men rode side by side, leading the white divine horse, and headed towards Linxi.
"When we get to Rong's house, Dalang must have already had dinner," Chen Chuangu said with a loud laugh, "and he must have looked very amused to see the unexpected guest."
Qin Ke heard this and thought that Rong Xi was usually calm and peaceful. If he saw the things he had lost, his expression would definitely be more interesting.
A smile flashed across his eyes, and he raised the whip high, raising dust, leaving Chen Chuangu far behind.
Rongzhai.
The dinner was just over and the lights were just beginning to come on.
There was a sudden knock on the door. Liu He came to open the door. In the dim sky, he saw two people outside the door and said hurriedly, "It turns out to be the two gentlemen. Please come in!"
He stepped aside to let him pass, and loudly told Liu Zishi in the courtyard: "Go and report to the young master immediately."
Liu Zishi responded and left.
When the two of them arrived at the main hall, Rong Xi hurried over. Seeing that they were indeed the two of them, he was slightly surprised and asked, "Brother Sizhi, Brother Chen, why are you here so suddenly?"
Liu He served tea and placed it on the table. Chen Chuangu said with a smile, "Da Lang, Brother Sizhi and I just arrived at Mount Meng, and we came to look for you. We haven't eaten yet, and now our stomachs are rumbling. What should we do?"
The two people's actions were extremely against the rules. But it was precisely because the two of them did not regard Rong Xi as an outsider that they joked like this.
Hearing this, Rong Xi immediately stood up and said, "My two brothers, please wait a moment. I will go wash my hands and make soup."
Soon, two meals were brought to the table.
Qin Ke lowered his head and saw a bowl of steaming hot noodles on the lacquer plate, which made his mouth water at the smell. The soup is bone marrow soup, which has been boiled for a day and is extremely fragrant. The noodles are chewy, soft and melt in your mouth.
In the bowls and plates next to it, there are a few shrimp cakes displayed, which complement the soup noodles perfectly.
"You two brothers came at the right time. The bone soup has been cooked for just one day," Rong Xi said with a smile, "I was afraid that Brother Sizhi and Brother Chen would have to wait for a long time, so I took the initiative to entertain you in person. I hope you can forgive me."
Qin Ke was about to respond when he heard Chen Chuangu exaggerate, "Da Lang, this bowl of noodles and a few cakes of yours are worth a lot of expensive dishes. I love them so much!"
As soon as Chen finished speaking, he felt a chill on his neck. He turned around to look at Qin Ke, and saw him eating noodles and bread. He sighed to himself that he thought too much.
After Meimei finished her dinner, Liu and her grandson cleaned up the dishes.
When Qin Ke arrived at the courtyard, he saw that the doors and windows were all made of glass, which was indeed transparent and bright, so he said, "Tomorrow I want to lead a few people from the Ministry of Works to go to the glass kiln to learn the craft. Dalang, are you willing to accompany us and help us solve our doubts?"
"Brother Sizhi, you are too polite. It's just a small favor. I will go there myself."
The candlelight in the room was bright, and half of Rong Xi's cheek was illuminated, while the other side was hidden in the dark. In the haze, his handsome outline was clearly visible.
Although still a little plump, his whole temperament is peaceful and harmonious, making people easily forget about his appearance.
What's more, Rong Dalang's appearance is quite good.
Chen Chuangu suddenly laughed out loud, "Big Brother, I haven't seen you for a few days. You have become slimmer. In time, you will surely become a handsome man and attract the hearts of the young ladies."
The people of Wei were open-minded, and there were many romantic activities such as throwing fruits into the carriage.
Rong Xiqian said, "Brother Chen is joking. If we talk about handsomeness, Brother Chen is a bit better."
He didn't dare to joke with Qin Ke, even though Qin Ke's appearance was the most stunning he had ever seen in his life.
"Before, Dalang sent me a letter and told me all about the horseshoe and the glass. I am very grateful," Qin Ke suddenly interrupted the two of them and said coldly, "I don't know what Dalang likes, so I took the initiative to choose a horse for transportation."
The people of Wei love horses and like to ride them when they travel.
However, the market price of horses is quite high, not to mention the good and majestic ones. There are very few people who are qualified and have the capital to ride a horse.
Therefore, giving a horse as a gift is a valuable gift, indicating that the person giving the horse values the recipient very much.
Rong Xi was flattered, his eyes widened and he was speechless for a moment.
Seeing him like this, Chen Chuangu laughed without hesitation, and Qin Ke also raised the corners of his lips, his eyes softening.
"Da Lang, the horse is outside the house. Would you like to go and see it?"
Rong Xi came back to his senses and said gratefully, "Thank you, Brother Sizhi, for the horse." Then he went out of the house with the two men, and with the help of the lights in the house, he saw the white divine horse.
In the past, men were proud of luxury cars. In the Wei Dynasty, men competed with each other with their cars.
Although Rong Xi didn't know much about horses, he could tell that this horse was something that could only be found by chance.
"Is Dalang good at horse riding?" Qin Ke suddenly asked.
He just observed Rong Xi's expression and saw that although he was grateful and admiring, he did not seem eager to try.
If a person who is good at riding a horse sees a good horse, he will definitely not be able to resist and will ride it to enjoy the pleasure.
"I am ashamed," Rong Xi said, as if he was embarrassed, "I have never learned horse riding."
Horse riding is a must-learn for children from noble families, but the original body had never learned it.
Rong Xi lowered his eyes, memories emerged in his mind, and a dark color flashed in his eyes.
To be exact, the original body had practiced it once. However, it was that time that someone deliberately threw him off the horse, which traumatized him and he never learned it again.
The culprit is still Rong Silang.
Chen Chuangu was surprised, "The school offers horse riding and archery courses, but Dalang has never learned it?"
"Since I have received the generous gift of the divine horse from Brother Sizhi, I will work hard to learn horse riding." Rong Xi smiled faintly and changed the subject without leaving a trace.
Qin Ke looked at his expression, as if thinking about something.
The night was dark and the wind was cold. Rong Xi shivered suddenly, and his slightly chubby chin tucked into his collar, making his cheeks look even more childish.
He was only sixteen, the same age as Siwen.
Qin Ke's expression was gentle, and he said softly, "It's cold, let's go back to the house."
After he finished speaking, he mounted his horse swiftly and left with Chen Chuangu.
Rong Xi watched the two men go away, turned around and met the white horse. The two glared at each other, and the white horse snorted in grievance.
He suddenly laughed out loud.
After leading the horse into the house, Rong Xi asked Liu He to prepare some high-quality feed the next day, as he was going to start raising the pet horse.
"Brother, was there a guest at home just now?" Rong Lian suddenly walked over and saw the white horse, with a slightly surprised look on his face.
He was so engrossed in reading that he didn't realize there was a guest in his house. He just stopped and heard Xiyan report it, then he realized what was going on and came to ask a few questions.
"An old friend is here to visit." Rong Xi had a slight smile on his face, still looking gentle.
Seeing this, Rong Lian stopped talking and went back to his room to continue reading.
The next day, the weather was nice and the sun was shining.
Chen Yi personally led Qin Ke and others to the glass kiln on the outskirts of the city. Rong Xi and Hu Yulin had already been waiting outside.
Seeing the carriage approaching, Rong Xi looked up towards the light and met Qin Ke's eyes.
The two of them were stunned for a few moments and then looked away.
After Chen Yi's eye signal, Rong Xi and Hu Yulin saluted the officials.
This time, the Ministry of Works sent several people to Mount Meng to seek advice, and Cheng Hao, the Vice Minister of Works, was among them.
He has been keen on making tools since he was young and is unwilling to study. After being educated by my elders at home, I had no choice but to give up my hobbies and devote myself to my studies.
Later, he passed the imperial examination and became an official in the Ministry of Works with his own abilities.
He was not supposed to come on this trip to Mengshan, but he kept asking for it, and the Minister of Works Yang Qianmu had no choice but to give him the spot.
“Prince, this is the kiln.” Chen Yi explained.
Qin Ke nodded coldly, then looked at Rong Xi, "Since Young Master Rong is here, how about you explain the glass making method to us?"
A clerk prepared paper and pen and wrote down the contents.
Since the prince had spoken, the others naturally did not dare to refute him. They were just confused in their hearts as to why the prince was acquainted with a craftsman.
They thought that Rong Xi was a craftsman.
Rong Xi looked calm, without the slightest sign of nervousness, as he led everyone inside. He had already prepared a speech in his mind, and now he spoke it fluently with a calm tone and smooth logic.
Qin Ke walked side by side with him, and the rest of the people followed behind the two of them, listening attentively.
"Young Master Rong is very intelligent and has great skills, which can benefit the people of the world. If your father knew about this, he would be very happy."
After explaining the doubts, Qin Ke suddenly began to praise.
Including Rong Xi, everyone else was a little confused.
Who doesn't know that Prince Qin is a cold-faced devil? It is really confusing that a small craftsman is treated with such courtesy and praised so highly today.
They were all important officials in the court and had never heard of rumors, so they had never thought that Rong Xi was the son of Minister Rong.
"Your Majesty, you are too kind." Rong Xi's eyes curved slightly, his lips were red and his teeth were white, "It is a blessing for the people, and it is also a blessing for me."
"Very good." Qin Ke's eyes fell on his cheek, complex and difficult to understand.
After visiting the glass kiln, Jiang’s iron shop was also visited.
The clerk wrote it down in detail on paper, waiting to study it after returning to Beijing.
No matter what, Rong, Hu and Jiang will definitely be rewarded by the court.
At noon, everyone was about to return to the yamen.
"Mr. Rong," Qin Ke suddenly stopped Rong Xi in his tracks and said in front of everyone, "I still have questions. Can you explain them to me alone?"
Rong Xi was slightly surprised, but said: "The prince's words are serious, I will do my best."
The two of them left together and headed towards Linxi.
In the crowd, Chen Chuangu couldn't help but roll his eyes. Qin actually left him behind and wanted to eat alone!
In autumn, the grass withers, the flowers fall, and the leaves fall.
Rong Xi and Qin Ke walked side by side. The atmosphere was dull and the only sound was the sound of horse hooves.
"That's all." Qin Ke suddenly stopped and spoke.
Rong Xi looked up at him and knew that he was looking for him alone not to answer his questions but for some other purpose.
"Yesterday you said you were not good at horse riding. Let me teach you." Qin Ke's eyes were light and his long eyelashes drooped as he stared at the young man in front of him.
Rong Xi suddenly smiled and asked, "Why?"
They have different identities and ambitions, so they should have no intersection and are just passers-by to each other. However, he gave a horse as a gift last night and taught horse riding today. Does the dignified Prince Qin have so much free time?
"Do you know what kind of contribution the horseshoe mentioned in your letter has made to the State of Wei?" Qin Ke asked seriously.
That's why.
Rong Xi understood and said with a smile, "I will try my best to learn horse riding."
The red divine horse suddenly snorted, as if it didn't want others to get close.
Qin Ke stroked the horse's head, and after a moment, the red divine horse calmed down, glanced at Rong Xi, and moved its hooves.
Rong Xi saw that horseshoes had been nailed on the soles of its feet and smiled slightly.
"It's called Red Flame." Qin Ke stretched out his hand and made an invitation, "Come."
Chi Yan glanced at Rong Xi with his big eyes, as if looking down on him. Rong Xi found it quite interesting, smiled and asked, "What should I do if it bullies me?"
Qin Ke chuckled, "I'm here."
After getting his promise, Rong Xi slowly got on the horse. It’s not that he doesn’t know how to ride a horse. After all, he had been to the racecourse several times in his previous life.
However, those horses were all docile and well-behaved. Even with the company of a trainer, he could only drive the horses for a walk. It was impossible to make them run freely.
Seeing that he had no idea at all, Qin Ke smiled and carefully taught him horse riding. He had a stern expression and an indifferent tone, seemingly difficult to approach. If it were someone else, they would definitely be nervous, fearing that they had done something wrong.
Rong Xi listened very carefully and wrote down everything he said clearly.
"You try it." Qin Ke said, passing all the horse riding skills to him.
He is not a good teacher, but Rong Xi is very talented. He drove Chi Yan as he was told, and fortunately Chi Yan gave him face and slowly moved forward.
Getting into the mood, Rong Xi squeezed the horse's belly, held the reins, and looked back at Qin Ke. The man was tall and slender, with Ju Lun standing shoulder to shoulder with him. When the breeze blew past, his robe fluttered and seemed to be glowing.
Chi Yan ran around Qin Ke, and the sound of horse hooves could be clearly heard in the wilderness.
Rong Xi gradually became intoxicated by the pleasure of running and his expression was extremely excited.
It's very different from her usual temperament, and seems a bit childish.
In just half a moment, the red flame gradually slowed down, stopped in front of Qin Ke, and rubbed his shoulder. Qin Ke praised it and it wagged its tail a few times.
Rong Xi slowly dismounted from the horse, her cheeks flushed from running, like white jade floating in the water, charming and beautiful.
"Thank you, Brother Sizhi." He expressed his sincere gratitude.
Qin Ke stared at him for a moment, then took out something from his collar and handed it to Rong Xi.
"Does this purse belong to you?"
The purse is old, with a rabbit embroidered on it. Its white fur is clearly visible, and it looks cute and adorable.
Apart from the excellent embroidery, there is nothing special about it.
Rong Xi seemed to be struck by lightning. It was not himself, but a very unfamiliar emotion that suddenly burst out from the depths of his mind, containing a mixture of sourness, bitterness, and joy, confusion and complexity, which almost made him cry.
The young man looked extremely sad, his eyes were red, and Qin Ke saw it all.
He did not disturb her, but waited for Rong Xi to calm down.
After a moment, the sadness gradually dissipated, memories flashed in his mind, Rong Xi calmed down, his eyes slightly curved, he took the purse with a smile, and carefully hid it in his lapel.
"I lost it and thought I would never see it again." The young man seemed to be forcing a smile, which looked quite pitiful. "Brother Sizhi, how can I repay your kindness?"
There was a slight stab in the heart, which was fleeting. Qin Ke frowned, this feeling was very strange.
He deliberately ignored it, his expression indifferent, "Your contribution has been rewarded."
Rong Xi suddenly smiled, "I also have a gift for Brother Sizhi, would you like to come to my humble abode to see it?"
"It's my honor." Qin Ke got on his horse without thinking and stretched out his hand to Rong Xi.
The hands are extremely slender, with thin calluses all over the palms and fingertips. Rong Xi shook hands with him without any hesitation.
The young man's hands were warm and soft, and felt as delicate as warm jade to the touch. Qin Ke's long eyelashes drooped slightly, and he used force with his arms to easily pull Rong Xi behind him.
"Hold me tight." The man's clear voice blew against her ears with the wind, so pleasant and magnetic that Rong Xi's ears moved slightly.
He wrapped his arms around Qin Ke's waist and abdomen, loosely, without touching Qin Ke's body too much.
However, Chi Yan suddenly accelerated. In desperation, he hugged Qin Ke tightly, with half of his face pressed against the man's back.
A faint, cool fragrance wafts into the nose.
Chi Yan was extremely fast, and in just a moment, the two of them arrived at Rong's house.
Rong Xi asked Liu He to lead the white horse out to play with Chi Yan, while he took Qin Ke to the study.
It was dark last night and the benefits of the glass were not yet obvious. Now it is clear and bright, with plenty of light.
Qin Ke thought to himself that before returning to Beijing, he would purchase some glass and replace the paper windows in his mansion.
"Brother Sizhi," Rong Xi took out a cylindrical object from the wooden box, smiling, "Follow me."
The two men returned to Rong's house, one on a horse, and went to the wilderness together.
Rong Xi dismounted and asked Qin Ke, "I've heard that people who practice martial arts have sharp ears and eyes. Brother Sizhi, standing here, can you see the things on the mountain clearly?"
They were now quite far from the hill, and could see nothing else except a gathering of dead trees.
Qin Ke didn't know what he meant, but he replied seriously: "Except for the dense trees, it's hard to see clearly."
Rong Xi smiled, put the telescope in front of his eyes, and suddenly said, "Lend me what I have, so you can see the bird's nest on the tree clearly."
So magical?
Qin Ke boasted of his good eyesight, but even he couldn't see clearly whether there was a bird's nest on the tree. How could he see it clearly with just this cylindrical object?
Seeing that he looked strange, Rong Xi handed the telescope to him and said, "Look through this telescope."
Qin Ke placed the telescope in front of his eyes as instructed, and actually saw a bird's nest on a tree in the distant mountain. He was extremely shocked. He looked for a long time before putting down the telescope, his eyes and brows shining.
"Rong Dalang," his eyes were deep and his voice was deep, "How many genius ideas do you have left?"
"Do you know the merits of this thing?"
Rong Xi smiled slightly, "Then do you know why I gave it to you?"
The young man had a sincere gaze and a leisurely demeanor. To him, such magical things were nothing more than the breeze and the bright moon, or the rivers flowing into the sea. They were nothing special.
"The territory of Wei was protected by soldiers who fought bloody battles and tried their best. How can my achievements be compared with yours?"
The young man's heartfelt words made Qin Ke's heart suddenly pound. His heartbeat was so strong that it almost burst out of his chest.
He held the telescope in his hand, his eyes trembling.
After a long pause, he suddenly smiled and asked, "Is there anything you want?"
Qin Ke thought that a horse and some rewards from the court were not enough to measure Rong Xi's contribution.
He had been to countless battlefields and was well aware of the power of the telescope. That's why he wanted to give Rong Xi more.
Rong Xi was stunned. What did he want? Maybe even he himself doesn't know.
"No, I just want peace and happiness, and a smooth life."
This is the greatest luck.
Qin Ke looked at him deeply and said, "If you want, I will ensure that you will be safe in this life."
As long as he lives, Rong Dalang will be protected by him.
"This thing is called a telescope. If it is useful to you, I can write down the recipe." Rong Xi knew that a telescope would be helpful in a war, and one would definitely not be enough.
If this item is classified as a military supply, it would be most appropriate to hand it over to Qin Ke.
Qin Ke did not refuse. He secretly praised Rong Xizhi for his generosity and said, "Da Lang's friendship will be remembered in my heart."
After they finished speaking, the two of them suddenly smiled at each other.
At 3 p.m., the two men returned home and ran into Rong Lian.
Rong Lian had met Qin Ke several times in Shengjing. Qin Ke's appearance was unforgettable for ordinary people. So when Rong Lian saw Qin Ke appear in Rong's house, he was extremely shocked. After being stunned for a moment, he hurriedly bowed solemnly.
"Rong Erlang, there's no need to be so polite." Qin Ke was a little cold towards others.
However, to Rong Lian, the Prince of Qin was already considered mild in his attitude.
How come my brother knows the Prince of Qin? And they seem to be very familiar with it.
When distinguished guests came to the house, Rong Xi asked Rong Lian to accompany them while she cooked dinner in the kitchen.
Rong Lian and Qin Ke sat in the main hall, and the atmosphere was extremely cold.
After a long while, Rong Lian plucked up the courage to ask, "May I ask why the prince is looking for my brother?"
He was worried because of Liang Siwen's matter.
Because of Liang Siwen, Qin Ke had some impression of Rong Lian, but it was only a vague impression. Now, after a closer look, he found that his appearance and demeanor were indeed quite good, and he could be a friend.
"When His Majesty heard about the glass, he ordered me to lead several people from the Ministry of Industry to learn the craft here. Dalang is the original inventor, so I will go find him."
He avoided the main point and talked about the trivial one. Rong Lian did not hear it and just felt that it was just as it should be.
His brother's skills will benefit future generations, and now he has caught the emperor's eye. He is really happy for his brother.
After the topic was over, the hall fell silent again.
One of them had a stern expression and didn't like to talk. One person was silent and was intimidated by Qin's aura, so he dared not say much.
Seeing Rong Lian looking a little uneasy, Qin Ke's expression softened a little, considering that he was Rong Xi's brother, and he found a topic to talk about, "Si Wen and you have been friends for many years, and you have a very close relationship. However, he beat Rong Si Lang in public a few days ago, which was indeed impulsive, but there were reasons for it. I hope you two won't let this cause any rifts between you."
Rong Lian was flattered and said hurriedly, "It was my brother who made the mistake first. Brother Liang was innocently implicated, so it was reasonable for him to be angry and take action. It's just a pity that my brother's things were thrown away by Silang."
"No." Qin Ke said suddenly.
Rong Lian looked at him doubtfully.
Qin Ke lowered his head and drank his tea. He felt that he seemed to be bragging and quickly changed the subject. "He beat someone in the street. Regardless of whether there was a reason or not, it was wrong. I have punished him with ten lashes."
"What?" Rong Lian suddenly cried out in panic.
After realizing that he had lost his composure, he quickly straightened his posture, but he was really worried and asked, "How is he?"
Qin Ke was about to answer when he saw Rong Xi's figure outside the door, so he stopped talking.
"Brother Si, second brother."
Rong Lian didn't ask any more questions.
The Liu family's grandparents and grandchildren washed the inkstone, brought the food to the table, and then left.
The three of them ate in silence; the only sound in the room was the clinking of bowls and chopsticks.
After the meal, Qin Ke said goodbye and left on horseback with Rong Xi and Rong Lian seeing him off.
Rong Lian was looking at the white horse in the courtyard and suddenly asked, "Brother, was this horse given by the prince?"
He saw that Prince Qin seemed to be quite gentle and amiable in treating his brother, and that no one else except Prince Qin could afford to give away such a majestic animal.
Rong Xi smiled and nodded, "Just now when I returned home, I heard from Brother Sizhi that Young Master Liang was punished with ten lashes, which was quite pitiful. Second brother has always had a close relationship with him, why don't you write a letter to show your concern?"
He suggested sincerely.
He really couldn't bear the idea of sadomasochism!
After Qin Ke returned to the yamen, a strong servant came to report that Cheng Hao, the Minister of Works, wanted to see him.
After he nodded in agreement, he saw Cheng Hao hurriedly coming in from outside. Before he could even stand still, he said, "Your humble servant greets the prince. May I ask when you plan to return to the capital?"
"What does Minister Cheng think?" Qin Ke knew his character and threw the question back.
Cheng Hao looked nervous, but still replied: "Prince, I think that just one day of cursory observation is not enough to learn the essence. I want to stay for a few more days and work with the craftsmen to make glass and other things by hand, so as to live up to your majesty's order."
He is really itching to try his luck.
The room was silent for a long time. Just when Cheng Hao thought Qin Ke would not agree, Qin Ke suddenly said, "Yes."
The voice was unexpectedly soft.
Cheng Hao was extremely happy to get the promise. He bowed and thanked the master quickly and left the room.
Qin Ke took out a telescope and laughed silently. He originally wanted to stay a little longer.
A few days later, Cheng Hao, the Minister of Works, led a number of officials from the Ministry of Works and frequently went in and out of the glass kiln and Jiang's iron shop, and even worked shirtless with the craftsmen to make artifacts.
The stunned craftsman's jaw dropped.
As an avid tool maker, Cheng Hao found the true meaning of life in the kilns of Mengshan County.
After getting acquainted with the craftsmen, Cheng Hao heard many of them praising Rong Xi. Thinking back to when Rong Xi met the prince before, he showed no nervousness or fear at all, and he admired him very much.
"Is Mr. Rong's skill inherited from his ancestors?" he asked the craftsman beside him.
If Young Master Rong is willing, he can recommend him to Minister Yang and find him a position in the Ministry of Works.
The craftsman looked surprised, "Inherited from ancestors? Minister Cheng doesn't know Rong's background?"
Cheng Hao really didn't know, so he humbly asked, "What is Young Master Rong's identity?"
Seeing that he really didn't know, the craftsman whispered, "Mr. Rong came from Shengjing. He is the eldest son of Minister Rong."
What!
Cheng Hao was stunned. Apart from Minister Rong of the Ministry of Personnel, there is no other minister in Shengjing with the surname Rong, right?
He suddenly remembered that his wife seemed to have mentioned that Minister Rong sent his son back to his hometown in anger. He didn't pay attention to it at the time, and after a few months, he had completely forgotten about it.
Therefore, it is normal not to know Rong Xi’s identity.
Minister Rong actually didn't recognize the genius of his legitimate son! Cheng Hao felt extremely depressed and uncomfortable.
After arriving at Mount Meng, he was shocked by Rong Xi's ability. He had long wanted to make friends with him, but except for the first day, Rong Xiaolang did not show up for several days. Then he asked the craftsmen.
If he was really the son of Minister Rong, how could he have "kidnapped" him to the Ministry of Works? If Minister Rong finds out, he will definitely come after me for settlement.
However, he really couldn't let such a talented gem be covered in dust.
After returning to the yamen, Cheng Hao was in a bad mood. He went to his room and wrote down his experience of making tools today. After thinking it over, I decided to go find Qin Ke.
Unfortunately, Qin Ke was not in the yamen.
He is teaching Rong Xi higher-level horse riding.
Xue Ni is the name Rong Xi gave to the white horse. Compared with Chi Yan, Xue Ni is obviously more docile, but its speed and endurance are not much worse than Chi Yan.
"When will you return to Beijing?" The skill of riding a horse is not easy. Rong Xi jumped off the horse with a heavy breath and asked Qin Ke.
Chi Yan approached the snow mud, and Qin Ke also dismounted, letting them play by themselves.
"It depends on how long Minister Cheng wants to stay." There was a hidden smile in his eyes, his long eyelashes seemed to be brushing against the light, his pupils were slightly light, giving him an air of ruthlessness and indifference.
Even so, it is still beautiful.
Rong Xi didn't care about other people's appearance before, but now he realizes that color can be seductive, and it is not an exaggeration.
Thinking of Minister Cheng's enthusiasm for artifacts, Rong Xi couldn't help but laugh.
The excess fat on his body gradually disappeared, revealing his handsome features. Just because Rong Xi is still young and childish, he looks quite cute.
With red lips, white teeth, delicate eyebrows and eyes, he looks like a boy in New Year pictures. Although a little fat, he looks festive.
Qin Ke had never paid attention to other people's appearance, but at this moment he suddenly felt that the boy in front of him was quite pleasing to the eye when he smiled.
My heart becomes a little softer.
He had just sweated a little and now he took a break. The cold wind blew and he suddenly felt a bit chilly. Rong Xi couldn't help but stroke the cold chestnuts on his arms.
"Let's go back." Qin Ke felt sorry for him and got on his horse immediately.
Rong Xi slowly rode onto Xue Ni's back and rode home with Qin Ke.
Qin was used to eating for free, so Chen Chuangu also shamelessly waited at Yu Rong's house.
Seeing the two people coming, he smiled widely, "Da Lang, what dishes do you have today?"
Because they entertain guests, the dishes at Rong’s house are different every day, but they are all delicious.
Rong Lian and his servant, as well as the Liu family's grandparents and grandchildren, were so honored as guests that they ate so much that their mouths were drooling every day and they wished they could swallow their tongues.
It had been some time since he arrived at Rong's house, and Rong Lian suddenly felt that he seemed to have gained some weight.
When the Wei Dynasty selected officials, appearance was also considered. If you are too fat and bulky, it will reduce your beauty and it will be difficult to get a job.
After the panic, he immediately reduced his diet and felt quite miserable.
After dinner, Rong Xi saw Qin Ke and Chen Chuangu off.
He pondered for a moment, and when he saw the two men were about to ride their horses and leave, he suddenly said, "Brother Sizhi, there is something I want to ask you."
Qin Ke's expression suddenly became serious. "You say."
"I know that iron is a government-run enterprise," Rong Xi said with courage, "but if the iron smelting method is improved and the iron production increases greatly, the demand from the people will increase accordingly. The government alone will not be able to meet the needs of the people."
Qin Ke was quite interested when he heard this, "You can talk about it, Dalang."
Rong Xi smiled shyly and said, "Why not the court grant a franchise, the government can designate blacksmiths within its jurisdiction to run the business, and the court will collect taxes and profits from it."
The Wei Dynasty had a vast territory and numerous government affairs, and the imperial court was unable to take care of all aspects.
In some government-run offices, many officials are not familiar with common affairs and often issue impractical orders. In the long run, production cannot develop and expand.
If a craftsman could obtain a franchise, he would do his best to smelt iron in pursuit of profit, and with a competitive spirit, he would only become more innovative.
He did not explain in detail, but Qin Ke already understood his meaning.
"This method is indeed feasible," the man chuckled, his eyes softened, and he whispered, "However, this method affects the interests of some people, so it may be difficult to implement."
Rong Xi also knew it, but everything depends on human efforts.
"Why? There are countless skilled craftsmen in the world. If the court can set up special rewards to protect the interests of innovators, why should the Great Wei not prosper?"
Interests are always the driving force behind creativity.
He had this ambition buried in his heart for a long time. It was because I trusted Qin Ke that I mentioned it to him.
Qin Ke was not a pedantic person. When he ascended the throne as a young emperor, he was committed to reform and tried to change the corrupt and decadent situation of the court.
Rong Xi's words might be exactly what he wanted.
"I already know what you said." Qin Ke suddenly reached out and stroked her hair. "Don't worry, wait for my news."
"good."
After returning to the yamen, Qin Ke was about to take a bath when Cheng Hao came to look for him again.
"Your humble servant greets the prince." He saluted hastily, with a look of embarrassment on his upright face.
Because of Rong Xi, Qin Ke had a good impression of him, so he asked gently, "What do you want from me?"
"Your Highness, you don't know this," Cheng Hao sighed, "I admire Young Master Rong's skills and wanted to make friends with him and invite him to Shengjing, but today I suddenly learned that he is actually the son of Minister Rong."
Qin Ke raised the corners of his lips slightly, "So?"
Cheng Hao felt that the Prince of Qin was becoming more and more gentle, so he boldly said: "I think that genius should not be buried. Although Rong Xiaojun is not good at studying, he is very talented in making instruments. Mengshan is remote and I am afraid that the pearl will be covered in dust!"
He looked so sorrowful, as if he was more like a real father than Minister Rong.
Thinking about Rong Xi's proposal, Qin Ke groaned and asked, "What do you want?"
"I think that with young master Rong's talent, he is qualified for the position of head of the Yuhengsi." Cheng Hao dared to say it.
The Wei Dynasty selected officials through imperial examinations, but did not rule out recommendations. Although Rong Xi has no achievements, if he is recommended by Qin Ke and several people in the Ministry of Works, he can also take up a certain position.
"What if he doesn't want to?" Qin Ke thought about Rong Xi's name and concluded that he was not an unlearned person. "Minister Cheng, you can ask him yourself to see if he is willing or not."
He respected Rong Xi's choice.
Cheng Hao was stunned for a moment, then came back to his senses and said, "I understand."
Having said this, he left.
Qin Ke stared at his back. Cheng Hao was an instrument-making fanatic. Rong Dalang's idea might get his support.
The next day, Cheng Hao came to look for Rong Xi as expected.
Seeing the young man with handsome eyebrows and bright eyes, a handsome face, elegant conversation and noble temperament, she immediately felt a liking for him.
Minister Rong was so old and his eyesight was blurry that he actually sent such a wonderful young man to a remote ancestral home.
His eyes were kind and his expression was mysterious, and Rong Xi suddenly felt a chill on his back.
"Boy, meet Minister Cheng." He was about to salute but was stopped by Cheng Haoxu.
He grinned, his short beard trembling, and his eyes narrowed into slits. "Young man, there is no need to be polite. I am looking for you for something. Are you willing to work in the Ministry of Works?"
Rong Xi was shocked and a little helpless when he heard this, "Thank you very much for your kindness, Minister Cheng, but I have no intention of returning to Beijing for the time being."
Not to mention working in the Ministry of Works.
He just wanted to focus on his research and didn't want to get involved in official disputes.
Seeing that he was determined, Cheng Hao gave up and said no more.
I really can’t bear to let go!
The date for returning to Beijing had been set. The day before, Cheng Hao finally made a flawless glass by his own efforts. He was so excited that he drank a few more glasses of sake at dinner and became drunk and unconscious.
When I woke up, I found myself in the car. The carriage was swaying towards Shengjing.
Everyone in the Ministry of Works knew his character. Once he became obsessed with making tools, he would act recklessly without regard for his status as an official appointed by the imperial court.
After rushing back to the capital, Qin Ke and Cheng Hao went to the palace to report on their work.
Qin Ke spoke in a neutral tone about his trip to Mount Meng, and the young emperor fell asleep listening to him.
"Minister Cheng is an expert in this field. It would be better if he could explain the making of the artifact to Your Majesty in detail."
Cheng Hao could no longer hold back, and after being named by Qin Ke and getting the emperor's permission, he began to speak passionately and described the matter of making the instrument in an interesting and witty way.
The emperor was very interested in what he heard. He leaned forward slightly with his eyes shining.
"Mr. Cheng has great skills. He can even make glass." He laughed and praised for a few words, then asked, "The people of Mengshan have enjoyed the blessing of glass. When can I change the glass of my palace?"
Cheng Hao understood what he meant and immediately replied: "I have mastered the method of making glass. Once all the craftsmen gather together, we can make glass on a large scale."
"I await your news."
The young emperor discussed with the two men for a long time and never forgot the matter of rewarding them.
"The skills of the Mengshan craftsmen will benefit future generations. I wish to reward them. I will ask for your opinions at the court meeting tomorrow."
Qin Ke's eyes moved slightly. His Majesty's move was, firstly, to reward, and secondly, to test the attitudes of the court officials.
Merchants and craftsmen are classified as the lowest class, so offering high rewards may cause controversy.
Prior to this, His Majesty had ordered him to bring several people from the Ministry of Works to Mount Mengshan, and some pedantic ministers had already expressed dissatisfaction.
It is really a disgrace to a country's ruler to not value civil governance but to send people to learn craftsmanship.
Soon, the emperor ordered Cheng Hao to leave the palace first and leave Qin Ke behind.
"You looked at me just now. Do you have something to say?" the young emperor asked with a smile.
The two of them had a deep relationship and a tacit understanding. Qin Ke's expression had already caught his eye, so he asked this question.
Qin Ke nodded, took out a telescope from his pocket, and said, "This thing was also made by Rong Dalang, it's called a telescope, it can see things far away clearly."
The emperor had also been to the battlefield, and was extremely surprised when he heard this. He took it from his hand and placed it in front of him.
Outside the palace gate, there are white jade steps carved with dragons and phoenixes and surrounded by auspicious clouds. If the emperor only used his eyesight, he would not be able to see the fine lines.
However, with the help of a telescope, the dragon's whiskers on the steps appear lifelike, and the phoenix's tail is exquisite and unparalleled, with every detail clearly visible in the mirror.
He looked at it for a long time, and then reluctantly put it down, sighing, "How could Rong Dalang have so many clever ideas? If this thing is used on the battlefield, it will definitely surprise the enemy."
As he spoke, he laughed out loud again, "I regret listening to you and not calling him back to Shengjing."
"Your Majesty, if he really returns to the capital, he will be pestered by villains and have no time to study skills. Isn't it a pity?" Qin Ke was merciless and pointed out the rampant villains in the Rong Mansion.
As for who the villain was, both of them knew it very well.
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