On the outskirts of Mengshan County, there was a sudden deafening sound and a slight tremor under the feet, as if there was an earthquake.
County Magistrate Chen Yi hurriedly summoned the police officers and went to the place where the noise came from.
After a while, the jailer came back and said nothing happened.
The Mengshan County Chronicles then recorded the unusual events of that day. Later researchers speculated that this was because the originator of explosives was testing gunpowder.
The few people who witnessed the miracle of fire and powder returned home in a daze and did not speak for a long time.
After Liu He served tea and snacks, he took Liu Zishi to the kitchen and asked, "What happened? Why are you guys so absent-minded?"
"Aunt, did you hear the loud noise just now?"
The vibration just now was so great that the old man should have felt it.
"I heard it. I thought there was going to be an earthquake." Liu He patted his chest and acted frightened. "Could it be that you are frightened by this?"
Liu Zishi nodded vigorously, "Our Master is really amazing. The loud noise was caused by his weapon. Just a little bit of powder can cause the earth to shake."
"Really?" Liu He was shocked.
With such destructive power, how can people not be afraid?
Liu Zishi nodded vigorously.
At dinner, everyone had their own thoughts and did not enjoy the meal very much.
Rong Lian was still so excited that he couldn't concentrate on his reading after returning to his room. He became more and more impressed by Rong Xi's ability.
In the courtyard, Qin Ke and Rong Xi stood opposite each other.
"Are you really going back to Beijing overnight?" Rong Xi sighed, "It would be so exhausting and detrimental to your health."
Seeing his sincere eyes, Qin Ke felt a little soft in his heart. He reached out and stroked his hair, smiling, "This matter should be done as soon as possible. Today's disturbance will definitely attract attention. I am worried."
Rong Xi wanted to persuade him to stay, but he heard him say, "I have sent someone to protect you secretly. Don't leave the house for the next few days."
Seeing the boy's slight surprise, the man smiled apologetically, "If you feel uncomfortable, I can ask Feng Shan to come and protect you personally."
As a carpenter, it was normal for Feng Shan to be invited to renovate the ancestral home.
"I wasn't careful enough." Rong Xi felt quite guilty.
He wanted to test the effectiveness of gunpowder and did not think about anything else. This was because he was used to the stable life in his previous life and had forgotten that Dawei was not a place he was familiar with.
Even Qin Ke is so nervous and cautious, there must be unknown dangers lurking.
"It's not your fault," Qin Ke's eyes were gentle and his tone was low, "I was just too nervous."
Rong Xi looked confused.
"You don't know your own abilities, so you're bound to be careless." Qin Ke held the reins, "I've sworn to you that I'll protect you, so I can't break my promise."
He climbed onto his horse, his long eyelashes drooping slightly, and stared at Rong Xi for a moment, and finally said, "The wind is cold, let's go back to the house."
Then he left in a cloud of dust.
The next day, Feng Shan and his son came to visit Rong's house.
Except Rong Xi, everyone was surprised.
"I invited you to repair the house," Rong Xi explained with a smile, and then instructed Liu Zishi, "In order to avoid the trouble of running back and forth, Engineer Feng and Young Master Feng will stay here for the next few days. You go and clean up the bedroom."
Liu Zishi was extremely happy and pulled Feng Li to the backyard.
The two young boys practiced martial arts together every day, and their friendship as masters and brothers was so deep that they walked away together.
Rong Xi led Feng Shan to a dilapidated courtyard and said, "Engineer Feng, that's it. Thank you for your help."
The two of them knew it very well and there was no waste of words. Feng Shan pretended to start repairing the house.
A few days ago, Rong's house was quiet and nothing happened.
Rong Xi no longer went out of the house, but he was not idle.
Yesterday, Qin Keyan said that he wanted to station troops in Mengshan to protect him in developing new equipment. He thought about it for a long time and decided to build a military factory in Mengshan.
Mengshan is rich in mineral resources and has a suitable geographical location. If it has the support of the imperial court and can recruit craftsmen from all over the world, it will surely be successful.
He spread out paper on the desk and wrote down his plan.
However, there is so much stored in the brain that the pain in the waist, back and arms at dusk is just the tip of the iceberg.
Writing like this consumes too much paper. Paper is expensive in Dawei, and so are pens and ink.
Thinking about pencils in future generations, Rong Xi pondered for a moment and picked up his pen to write a letter. After writing the letter, he went to Feng Shan and asked him to deliver the letter to Hu's house for him.
He needed graphite, clay, gum and other materials. If Hu Yulin could help him find them, he might be able to try to make a pencil, which would be much more convenient.
The next day, Feng Shan went to see him off in person and left his son Feng Li at home.
Anyway, there are people protecting the house in the dark, so he can just go and come back quickly.
About half an hour after he left the house, Rong Xi was reading in the room when someone suddenly came outside the house.
"My dear, someone from the town's clinic came to say that Master Gao had a sudden emergency and is being treated in the clinic." Liu Zishi reported outside the house.
Rong Xi was startled, and hurriedly got up to open the door and asked, "What's going on now?"
He often went in and out of Master Gao's house. Everyone in the town knew that he had a close relationship with Master Gao, so it was normal for him to send someone to report it.
After all, Master Gao has no relatives by his side.
Liu Zishi shook his head and said, "I don't know. Sir, do you want to go and take a look?"
Rong Xi naturally wanted to visit, but Qin Ke told him not to leave the house, so he hesitated. Moreover, Master Gao has always been in good health, so how could he suddenly fall ill?
"Do you know the person outside the door?" he asked Liu Zishi.
Liu Zishi nodded, "I recognize him. He's the nephew of the owner of the rouge shop in town."
It is better to be cautious. Rong Xi lowered his eyes and thought for a while, then said, "You and Feng Li go to the town clinic together on horseback. If Master Gao is really ill, report back immediately."
Liu Zishi was about to answer when he heard a noise coming from the front yard.
Before the two of them could react, they saw a young man rushing into the courtyard gate. When he saw Rong Xi, he looked quite excited and was about to walk towards him.
"Zishi! Stop him!"
Rong Xi suddenly shouted.
Liu Zishi didn't know why, but he obeyed the order in his heart and immediately stepped forward to stop the man.
The man seemed to want to cleverly dissipate his strength, but found that Liu Zishi was still motionless.
At this time, Liu He came quickly, sweating profusely, "Sir, it was my carelessness that allowed him to rush in!"
The man's expression suddenly changed, he clenched his fists and hit Liu Zishi. After all, Liu Zishi was a beginner in martial arts, so he was defeated and knocked to the ground.
"My dear!" Liu Zishi suddenly grabbed the man's legs and said, "Come into the house quickly!"
Fortunately, Feng Li heard the noise and arrived in time. He has been practicing martial arts since he was a child, and his fighting ability is much higher than Liu Zishi's. However, he is still no match for the man.
The two young boys tried every possible means, including hugging, pulling, and imprisoning the man, and they did not give up even after being beaten until his face was bruised and bloody.
"Brother!"
Rong Lian heard the noise and rushed over to check it out.
Seeing the scene in the yard, he became a little panicked and couldn't help shouting.
Rong Xi frowned, quickly went back to the house, took out a light bow and crossbow, and aimed it at the man.
This was created in his spare time, at the request of Jiang Weiping and Feng Shan. As it was not perfect yet, he did not show it to the public.
This crossbow is much superior to the bow and arrow, both in range and power.
He stood under the eaves, looking stern and with sharp eyes. The tip of the arrow shone coldly, pointing directly at the man's throat.
The man visibly flinched, but seeing that the man was still young and soft, his fear gradually faded.
"Mr. Rong, it's better to surrender than to let the trapped beast struggle. If you want to wait for someone to rescue you, I'm afraid it's hopeless."
He laughed wildly and said, "If you care about the life of the child in my hand, put down your weapon immediately!"
Rong Xi sneered, without saying a word, and decisively activated the bow and crossbow!
The arrow pierced the air and headed straight for the man's chest, as fast as lightning. The man tried to dodge, but was trapped by the two teenagers.
All that was heard was the sound of the arrow piercing the flesh, and the man's scream.
Liu Zishi and Feng Li looked at each other with a fierce look on their faces. They pressed the man to the ground and prevented him from escaping.
The arrow pierced the man's right chest and blood flowed all over the ground.
Rong Xi closed his eyes. After all, he couldn't kill anyone.
"Mr. Liu, get a rope and tie him up in the woodshed." He gave an order and then asked the two young boys, "How are you?"
Liu Zishi and Feng Li were both strong and healthy, so although their condition was quite tragic, they were fortunately not seriously injured.
"My dear, we are fine, but you are frightened." Liu Zishi pulled the corners of his mouth, his face twisted in pain.
Rong Xi approached, touched their hair, and said with a gentle smile: "Please ask the doctor to come and see them later and apply some medicine on the wound."
"Brother, I'll go get a doctor." Rong Lian said immediately.
Rong Xi tried to stop him, "The enemy is in the dark and we are in the light. The villains are treacherous and cunning. Previously, they used Master Gao's name to try to capture me. You are my brother. If they use you as a threat, the situation will be disadvantageous to us."
After he finished speaking, his brows furrowed and his eyes darkened.
Qin Keyan sent people to secretly protect his house, but no one has shown up so far. It must be because the house was broken into by thieves, and now his life or death is unknown.
Liu He took a rope, tied up the unconscious man tightly, and dragged him and the inkstone into the woodshed.
"Brother, how should we deal with this person?" Rong Lian's expression was stern, and he seemed to be angry.
My brother was living a peaceful life, but he suffered this unexpected disaster.
Rong Xi lowered his eyes and said coldly: "Whether you live or die, it's up to fate."
At this time, he realized that his situation had changed since the emperor's edict came to Mengshan.
There are poisonous snakes lurking in the dark.
Qin Ke had prepared for a rainy day and had anticipated it, so he arranged for people to protect him secretly. However, the method of smelting iron and making glass will not attract too much attention from others, and his life is not in danger.
It was not until the gunpowder incident a few days ago that Qin Ke was anxious to return to Beijing to ask for permission.
He must have had a premonition.
"Zi Shi, Feng Li, you two go and rest for a while while Feng Gong returns home..."
As soon as he finished speaking, Feng Shan hurried into the house.
Seeing the blood in the yard, he was horrified.
"Mr. Rong, are you okay?" He looked at Rong Xi carefully and was relieved to see that he was not hurt at all.
Rong Xi asked expressionlessly: "How did you know that?"
"I was careless, please forgive me, sir." Feng Shan's face was filled with shame. "The thieves drugged the guards and then allowed them to enter the house."
Fortunately, the other party did not dare to act so arrogantly and only sent one person here. If there were more people, by the time he came back, Rong Langjun would have been in trouble.
Rong Xi looked at Liu Zishi, "Why do you, nephew of the Rouge Shop owner, act like this?"
Young Liu lowered his head in shame and said, "Please punish me, my lord. He came to visit relatives a few days ago, and I have never seen him before."
That day on the street, he knocked a man to the ground. After apologizing, the man asked him how to get to the rouge shop. Out of kindness, he led the way for him.
We chatted for a while on the way and got to know each other.
Unexpectedly, it turned out to be a trap!
Rong Xi shook his head and said, "I was careless too. It has nothing to do with you. Engineer Feng, are the guards in danger of losing their lives?"
"Don't worry, Mr. Rong, they are just unconscious." Feng Shan said thankfully, "Fortunately, the prince had previously ordered Shen County to impose martial law, otherwise there would be even more thieves."
Rong Xi had just pretended to be calm, but now that the crisis was over, he felt cold sweat on his back soaking his clothes.
The hand holding the crossbow trembled slightly. He turned around and said, "Please ask Engineer Feng to ask someone to get a doctor."
"I will go now."
It was a false alarm. After Rong Xi returned to his bedroom, he sat on a high chair, feeling a little scared.
He didn't know what the thief's purpose was, but he was sure that he had no good intentions. If I were really captured, the consequences would be disastrous.
Fortunately, Qin Ke protected me. I don't know whether his request for permission was successful.
Shengjing Prince's Mansion.
Qin Ke suddenly sneezed three times in a row, which shocked Chen Chuangu.
"Put your hand out, let me see it."
Qin Ke shook his head, "Nothing, no need."
He pursed his lips slightly, he was just a little uneasy for a moment.
"Do you really want to station troops in Mengshan?" Chen Chuangu asked, holding his chin.
Qin Ke nodded and looked at him again, "You don't want to go with me?"
"Of course I do! How could I not want to enjoy this heavenly taste every day?" He smiled happily.
Qin Ke's expression was slightly cold, his long eyelashes were cold, "Rong Dalang is a great talent in the world, how can I prepare soup for you every day?"
"I am the one who benefits from the position of the prince. Can you please be kind enough to give me a bowl of rice?" Chen Chuangu winked and rolled his eyes in his heart.
It is really hard to describe Mr. Qin.
A few days later, the emperor finally issued a decree to set up a special military equipment supervisory office, and ordered Qin Ke to serve as the supervisor commander and Cheng Hao to serve as the supervisor secretary.
They only obey the orders of the emperor and are not subject to the control of any government office.
Although this move was opposed by many court officials, the young emperor was extremely tough this time and all those who advised him against it were thrown into jail.
He believed what Qin Ke said about the power of the fire bomb, and also believed in Rong Dalang's ability to make weapons.
The government order has been issued to establish a military equipment supervisory unit.
Qin Ke was just about to order his troops to set off when he suddenly received an urgent letter from Mengshan.
After reading the letter, his color suddenly changed. He rushed to the yard and ordered the strong servant to prepare the horse quickly.
Chen Chuangu stopped him and asked, "What happened?"
"Something happened at Mengshan, I must go first." Qin Ke's expression was extremely cold, as if he was furious. "Go and tell Cheng Hao to lead his troops to Mengshan as soon as possible, don't delay."
After saying this, he disappeared into the distance.
Chen Chuangu frowned. The only thing that could make Qin so anxious could be Rong Dalang.
Could it be that something happened to Rong Dalang?
His heart suddenly skipped a beat and he hurried to look for Cheng Hao.
Qin Ke traveled day and night, and Chi Yan was so exhausted that his hair turned black. If it weren't for the iron nails on the soles of his feet, he would have bled profusely.
The sun sets in the west, dusk is approaching, and the remote town is peaceful and quiet.
Suddenly, the sound of horse hooves was heard approaching in a hurry and stopping in front of Rong's house.
Chi Yan almost collapsed to the ground. If it were not a divine horse, it would have been drained of blood and flesh halfway through. How could it have held on until now?
Qin Ke's face was grim. He didn't have time to knock on the door, so he jumped into the yard on horseback.
The courtyard was silent and quiet. A guard appeared. When he saw his face, he was stunned. When Qin Ke glanced at him coldly, he knelt on the ground instantly.
"Is he injured?" His voice was slightly hoarse.
"My Lord, Rong Langjun was not injured." The guard said guiltily, "It was my subordinates' incompetence that nearly caused Rong Langjun to be killed."
Qin Ke calmed down a little and said calmly, "Go and accept the punishment."
After saying this, he went straight to Rong Xi's bedroom.
If you don’t bathe often in winter, a lot of dirt will accumulate on your body surface. Rong Xi couldn't bear it any longer, so he took a bath in the side room.
No one knew that Qin Ke had entered the house except the guards in secret.
When he arrived at Rong Xi's bedroom door, he saw that the lights were on inside. He reached out to knock, but found that the door was not locked. It opened with a slight push.
He was stunned for a few moments. Although he felt that this was inappropriate, he was really worried about Rong Xi, so he stepped inside.
Looking around, there was no one in the house.
The bed was neat and clean, with a high chair standing alone beside it.
He listened attentively, and when he heard some movement in the ear room, he walked away.
The ear room was only covered with a curtain. Without giving it much thought, he lifted the curtain and walked in. He saw a screen standing in front of him, and suddenly there was a sound of water behind the screen.
Under the candlelight, a shadow grew on the screen, accompanied by the sound of splashing water, and was clearly visible.
His mind suddenly became clear, and he quickly stepped back from the curtain and went to the high-legged chair beside the couch. He sat on the chair in a daze.
What I just did was not the behavior of a gentleman.
Feeling shame was growing inside him, and he wanted to leave the bedroom, but he saw the curtain being lifted out of the corner of his eye. It would be too deliberate to leave now.
"Brother Sizhi?"
Rong Xi was surprised at first, then he was delighted.
Anyone who sees someone suddenly appear in the room after taking a bath will be frightened.
But when he saw the man's face clearly, he felt relieved instantly.
The young man wore a solid-colored inner garment and a fur-collared cloak. He clasped his hands together and wrapped himself tightly.
But even so, I still felt cold.
Qin Ke had regained his composure and waved, "Come sit over here, I'll wipe your hair for you."
It is his responsibility to guard carelessly. It was also his fault that he rushed into the room just now.
Adding the two together, Qin Ke felt guilty. When facing Rong Xi, his expression became even gentler, and he couldn't help but want to make up for it.
Rong Xi stood there in a daze, and his eyes met Qin Ke's.
The young man's wet hair draped over his shoulders made his face look even whiter than jade. Under the lamp, the long eyelashes cast a shadow, which falls on the bags under the eyes. The expression is gentle and timeless, which makes people feel peaceful.
"Brother Sizhi?" Rong Xi asked.
Qin Ke also felt that what he had just said was rather reckless. But the words have been spoken and cannot be taken back.
He gritted his teeth and explained to Rong Xi, "Before that, the guard accidentally fell into the trap of the thieves, and put you in danger. It was a dereliction of duty. I feel guilty and want to do something for Dalang to express my apology."
Rong Xi's face suddenly brightened. She had just taken a bath. Her eyes were as bright as stars, her lips were red and her teeth were white, brightening the room.
"Brother Sizhi, your words are sincere." He sat on the couch and wiped his hair with a towel. "If I hadn't been careless before, I wouldn't have caused the jackals to be greedy."
Qin Ke took the towel from his hand persistently, his eyes firm.
"It's not your fault. I failed to protect you well."
Rong Xi had no choice but to turn his back to Qin Ke and said with a smile: "You and I don't need to blame ourselves anymore. The culprit is the thief."
"Um."
The man moved slowly and carefully, wiping the water off his hair.
The boy's black hair cascades down his shoulders, making him look even more immature and youthful.
"Were you frightened?" Qin Ke asked softly, "The letter only said that a thief was causing trouble in Rong's house and was injured by Rong Dalang's arrows, but it did not go into detail about what happened that day."
Rong Xi said honestly, "To be honest, I was really scared and broke out in a cold sweat."
He laughed at himself, "Am I a coward and useless?"
Since that day, he has been restless and has nightmares every night.
However, as he was the master and brother, he could not mention anything to the other people in the house and he kept it suppressed in his heart. But now, in front of Qin Ke, he put down his burden and spoke frankly.
There was silence behind him for a long while. Rong Xi gradually became uneasy. Just as he was about to turn around, he suddenly heard the man murmur softly, "If you blame yourself, I should feel even more guilty."
"At the tender age of sixteen, Dalang bravely fought against the bandits. If this is cowardice, how can it be called bravery?"
When Rong Xi heard this, his eyes and nose suddenly felt extremely sore.
In his previous life, he was just an ordinary person and had never witnessed bloodshed. After wounding the thief, blood appeared in my dreams for several days and was hidden in my heart.
He lowered his head and remained silent for a long while.
Qin Ke placed the towel on the table and suddenly smiled, "Si Wen killed an enemy for the first time, and it was also to protect himself. He couldn't sleep for a month afterwards. Compared to him, you are considered brave."
Knowing that he was comforting him, Rong Xi felt a little warm in his heart. He turned to face Qin Ke, his eyes slightly moist, and his voice was deep, "If I were the God of War of the Great Wei, I would definitely not be afraid."
Qin Ke was slightly stunned.
Half of his face was hidden in the darkness, and a hint of bitterness suddenly appeared on his lips, but it disappeared in an instant.
"I am not a god, but a mortal." His amber eyes flashed like shooting stars, "The fear has never subsided."
But he is the "God of War", so how can he be afraid?
Rong Xi suddenly understood the profound meaning.
For example, because he was the head of the family, he could not show fear in front of the Liu family's ancestors and grandchildren; because he was the elder brother, he could not tell Rong Lian about his fear.
As for Qin Ke, the god of war of the Wei Dynasty, his fear was beyond words.
Rong Xi felt the same way, his eyes suddenly reddened, "Brother Si, what do you think? It's because of fear that Fang Yong is brave."
Even if you are afraid in your heart, you still risk your life. This is true courage.
Qin Ke's mind was slightly moved, and his expression became softer, "Da Lang's words make sense."
He never mentioned it to anyone, but he expressed his fear in front of Rong Dalang. One was for comfort, and the other was that he had been hiding his feelings for a long time and just now he couldn't help himself.
"It's late, you should take a rest." Qin Ke said when he saw that he looked tired.
Rong Xi suddenly pulled his sleeve, and seemed unable to speak.
"Da Lang, do you have anything to say?"
Under the dim candlelight, the boy's cheeks flushed, his eyes moved to the side, and he whispered, "If I tell the truth, Brother Sizhi, please don't laugh at me."
Qin Ke's eyes were gentle, "Don't worry, but it's okay to talk."
"I've had nightmares these past few days." Rong Xi smiled at him pitifully and adorably, "Seeing Brother Sizhi tonight, my heart is at peace and I'm no longer afraid."
The room suddenly became quiet.
The man stood beside the bed, his eyes calm. The young man sat cross-legged on the couch, raised his head and pulled his sleeves.
"You fall asleep by yourself, and I will stay here with you."
"If you don't mind, why don't we rest together?"
The two people's voices collided, like the entanglement of chimes and bamboos, and the harmonious sound of zither and harp.
Rong Xi couldn't help but smile and show his teeth, his eyes curved, "I was just joking, brother Sizhi, please don't mind."
"You sleep, I'm here."
After Qin Ke finished speaking, he sat down on the high-legged chair.
Seeing him here, Rong Xi felt at peace indeed, as he had been troubled by nightmares for several days and was extremely tired. In a short moment, he fell into a deep sleep.
A dreamless night.
When he woke up the next day, Rong Xi thought about what happened last night. Suddenly he turned his head and saw that there was no one sitting on the high chair. For a moment he didn't know whether it was a dream or reality.
He stood up, pushed the door open and walked out. The yard was silent.
Just as I was about to step out of the gate, I saw a familiar figure coming into view.
Thinking of last night's rude request, Rong Xi's cheeks suddenly became hot. Brother Sizhi had traveled all the way here, but because I was afraid, I asked him to accompany me and take up his rest time.
It's really rude!
Qin Ke arrived and saw Rong Xi's stunned face. He reached out and stroked her hair and said, "The thief in the firewood room is still alive. I have moved him away. You don't have to worry anymore."
Rong Xi looked at him in surprise.
He actually knew what was in my mind! His fear was not only because of the risk of hurting others, but more because of his guilty conscience.
Life or death is up to fate.
This is easier said than done.
He was deeply influenced by the education of later generations, which taught that even death row prisoners have the right to seek medical treatment.
Now he let the thief fend for himself in the woodshed, and only fed him rice soup every day to keep him alive, without hiring a doctor to treat his wounds.
If you are not careful, if the injury causes infection, it may cost a life.
The woodshed is only a hundred steps away from the bedroom. How can he sleep peacefully?
"You arrived last night and haven't had any rest yet. Now that you have nothing to do, why don't you go to the bedroom and rest for half a day?" he suggested sincerely.
The man's eyes were slightly dark and his face was haggard. The candlelight was dim last night and he could not be seen clearly.
Now it was bright outside and everything was obvious. Rong Xi felt guilty and distressed.
The God of War of the Great Wei is also a mortal.
When he carries the burden forward alone, millions of people live in peace and safety.
It is both admirable and sad.
"good."
Qin Ke saw the concern in his eyes, raised the corners of his lips slightly, agreed, and walked towards the bedroom.
It was not until noon that Qin Ke woke up.
To express his gratitude, Rong Xi cooked the meal himself, and at 3 p.m., a sumptuous meal was placed on the table, all of which were Qin Ke's favorites.
When all the masters and servants in Rong's house saw Qin Ke coming, they all felt relieved.
Not only Rong Xi, they also haven't slept well in the past few days.
After dinner, Rong Xi invited Qin Ke to the study, and the two sat opposite each other with proper postures.
Qin Ke suddenly smiled and said, "The high-legged chair in Dalang's room is indeed comfortable. Why don't you give me one?"
Rong Xi would never refuse what he asked for.
"This is made by Feng Gong. If you like it, I will ask Feng Gong to make a few more."
Rong Xi took out the bow and crossbow and placed them on the table. He said, "This crossbow was made by Feng Gong and Brother Shou Yuan. Its range and power are incomparable to ordinary bows and arrows. Brother Si Zhi, why don't you give it a try?"
"good."
The two men got up and went outside. There was a sturdy locust tree behind them. Qin Ke was far away. Under the guidance of Professor Yu Rongxi, he pulled the mechanism. There was a sound of an arrow breaking through the air and whizzing away. The tip of the arrow suddenly sank deep into the tree trunk and trembled slightly.
Even with Qin Ke's arm strength, he could draw the bow to this level. However, ordinary soldiers do not have superhuman arms, so it is easier for them to kill the enemy with a crossbow than with a bow and arrow.
"Very good." He curved his lips in praise.
"If the army can equip itself with this crossbow, its combat power will be much stronger."
Rong Xi also knew this, but his business was still in its infancy. Although he had the will, he was extremely short of manpower.
Today, he doesn’t even have the most basic laboratory, let alone a research partner?
"Brother Si, there are many skilled craftsmen in the Wei Dynasty, such as Brother Shouyuan and Brother Fenggong. However, what they can do is nothing more than relying on their talents or experience. They have not undergone systematic training. Moreover, each craftsman hides his or her skills and treats them as family heirlooms, unwilling to pass them on to others."
Seeing that Qin Ke looked confused, he changed his words.
"I wonder how Brother Sizhi usually trains his soldiers?" he asked humbly.
Qin Ke looked at him, remained silent for a few breaths, and whispered: "This is military information, it cannot be leaked casually."
Seeing Rong Xi's apologetic expression after being stunned, he said, "However, your majesty has set up a military equipment supervisory department, and you make military equipment for the court, so I can also inform you of these military information."
Rong Xi laughed out loud, his eyes curved like a waxing moon, his teeth white as pearls. He waved his hands and said, "Brother Sizhi, you don't have to tell me. I just want to ask, the training of soldiers in the military camp must be like that in the school, and the soldiers must obey the orders of the instructor, right?"
Qin Ke nodded.
"Since students and soldiers can do this, why can't craftsmen do the same?"
Rong Xi's eyes sparkled. "The Wei Dynasty governs the country with culture, maintains its security with military force, and takes agriculture as its foundation. However, those engaged in industry and commerce are regarded as the lowest class."
The young man's eyes were like morning stars, and he said sincerely: "But the writing brushes, ink, paper and inkstones used by scholars, which one was not made by craftsmen? The armor and armor used by soldiers, which one was not made by craftsmen? Not to mention the farm tools."
"Brother Sizhi, if it weren't for the exquisite skills of the craftsmen, how could the civil officials and military generals maintain peace and stability in the country?"
He was not exaggerating the abilities of the craftsmen, but just hoped that the court could relax its policies so that the profits earned by craftsmen who engaged in business would match their abilities.
"I understand what you said." Qin Ke's face was solemn, but his eyes were gentle. "I know you have ambitions, but everything should be done step by step. Don't be impatient."
Rong Xi calmed down immediately. After experiencing the thieves, he was indeed quite impatient.
"It was my fault, please don't be offended, Brother Sizhi." Rong Xi smiled shyly.
The young man was generous and polite, but his face was a little childish. He looked cute and amiable, and Qin Ke softened his heart a little. "Wait for Minister Cheng to lead the army and bring the emperor's decree. Your idea may be feasible."
Rong Xi smiled and nodded, then suddenly asked, "Brother Sizhi, where did that thief come from? What is his purpose?"
"He is under the command of King Shun," Qin Ke's expression suddenly turned cold, "He wants to capture you to help him."
Rong Xi's eyebrows moved slightly.
I remember that in the later part of the book, Liang Siwen was awarded the title of Marquis of Weining for his contribution in suppressing the rebellion. The rebellion he suppressed was that of Prince Shun.
Prince Shun is the emperor's half-brother. He now occupies Jizhou and is eyeing Shengjing covetously.
Jizhou is not far from Qingzhou, so it is normal for him to set up spies and death squads in Qingzhou. After Rong Xi's name became known, he sent people to capture him, intending to force Rong Xi to make weapons to help him rebel.
Fortunately, Qin Ke prepared for a rainy day and ordered Chen Yi to secretly clean up the abnormal people. He also imposed martial law in a few miles around Rong's house. Although there were still some fish that slipped through the net, it was still useful.
"If it weren't for Brother Sizhi's alertness, I might have become a beast in a cage now." Rong Xi was sincerely grateful.
"It doesn't have to be like this between you and me."
After Qin Ke finished speaking, he looked at the crossbow in his hand again and said, "This thing is very good. This time the emperor also sent many skilled craftsmen here, saying that they are for you to use. If you have any clever ideas, you can command them."
Feng Shan and Jiang Weiping alone are definitely not strong enough.
"good."
After the two returned home together, Hu Yulin happened to visit.
A few days ago, Rong Xi asked Feng Shan to deliver a letter to him, saying that he needed graphite and other raw materials, so he bought some and delivered it personally.
"Da Lang!" Hu Yulin smiled as he got out of the car.
But when he saw Qin Ke, he immediately became reserved. After greeting each other, he smiled at Rong Xi and said, "You asked me to buy the raw materials earlier. I have already found them. I wonder what new tool Dalang wants to make?"
Rong Xi smiled brightly and sincerely, "Thank you, Brother Xuanshi! When the new device is completed, I will definitely tell Brother Xuanshi first."
"Very good." Hu Yulin wanted to put his arm around his shoulders, but Qin Ke was beside him, so he felt really polite and could only pat him lightly.
His narrow eyes were slightly curved, the corners of his eyes were raised, and there was a smile on the corners of his lips, making him look quite handsome and elegant.
However, with the Great Wei God of War nearby, its brilliance was dimmed a lot.
"Brother Xuanshi, why don't you stay for dinner?" Rong Xi suggested, sincerely grateful for his hard work.
Hu Yulin naturally agreed.
Jianpu piled the raw materials in bags in the utility room, with graphite and clay being the most numerous.
Qin Ke left the house for some business, so Hu Yulin relaxed a lot. He sat in the study with Rong Xi, and suddenly said with a serious face: "When I heard that the emperor set up the Military Equipment Supervisory Office, I guessed that it was related to you. Now that I see Prince Qin is here, it seems that my guess is correct."
"Brother, you are smart and thoughtful. I admire you." Rong Xi poured tea for him and said calmly, "I know you are worried about me. But a man should establish himself in the world and must not be idle. I have no intention of pursuing a career in politics, but I also want to do my best to do something practical."
Hu Yulin sighed, "That's fine. It's a crime to possess a treasure. If someone covets it, you might get hurt."
Rong Xi smiled but said nothing.
After dinner, Hu Yulin returned and Qin Ke went home.
"Is dinner ready?" Rong Xi had just finished speaking when he heard Qin Ke's stomach rumbling, and he suddenly smiled.
Seeing Qin Ke's gloomy expression, he had to hold back and asked, "What do you want to eat?"
"random."
Sounds like it's totally unselective.
Rong Xi knew what he liked, so he stopped asking and went to the kitchen.
After a moment, the plate was placed on the table, and the rich fragrance filled the air.
A bowl of bone soup noodles, the soup is thick and white, garnished with wolfberry and chopped green onions, it is both colorful and delicious.
In the bowls and plates next to it, the vegetarian roast goose is delicious and red in color, which makes people's appetite increase. Although it is called vegetarian roast goose, it is all vegetarian.
Wrap the cooked yam with bean curd skin, fry it in oil, and add autumn oil, wine, ginger and other ingredients. It is very delicious.
Bean curd skin is a derivative of tofu. Although Rong Xi never taught it to others, the people of Wei seemed to have a talent for eating it.
After tofu, bean curd skin came into being and became a delicacy loved by the people.
Qin Ke was not polite at all. He ate three bowls of noodles and two plates of vegetarian roast goose, but he still felt unsatisfied.
After the meal, Rong Xi invited him to his study, intending to tell him all the plans in his mind.
But Qin Ke suddenly stopped, half of his face hidden in the darkness, his long eyelashes drooped, he did not look at Rong Xi, and his tone was calm.
"If you need raw materials, thousands of soldiers will be at your disposal in the future."
Rong Xi: “…”
Should he be more excited?
"Thank you, Brother Si, in advance." The young man smiled, his features looking even more handsome under the dim candlelight.
Qin Ke glanced at him silently, then turned and went into the study.
"You want to make a new instrument?"
The two men sat down opposite each other, and Qin Ke asked straight to the point.
"Just giving it a try." Rong Xi took a piece of paper from the desk drawer and handed it to the man. "This is my preliminary plan. Brother Sizhi, please read it."
Qin Ke suddenly became interested. He took it and read it carefully. The more he read, the more his long eyelashes trembled.
Although there are many things that he does not understand, Rong Xi has explained them clearly. If they are really feasible, they will definitely benefit the people and be of great benefit.
"I was narrow-minded before, thinking that you were only good at craftsmanship. I didn't expect that you also have extraordinary attainments in farming." Qin Ke frankly expressed his shame.
The more I get along with Rong Xi, the more I realize the breadth of this young man's thoughts.
Rong Xi's plan not only talked about making tools, but also involved agriculture. However, it takes too long for agriculture to show results, so I will only mention it briefly.
But even just a few words were enough to let Qin Ke know what he meant.
"Please forgive me, Brother Sizhi." Rong Xi looked ashamed.
He is merely imitating the techniques of his ancestors and does not deserve such high praise.
The two talked for a long time, and did not stop until midnight.
After breakfast the next day, Rong Xi took out a little graphite powder and clay, mixed them evenly according to the proportion, put them in a bucket, filled them with water and stirred them.
Finally, pour the slurry into the mold to make it lose water. Take it out and let it air dry.
"What's this new device? What's its use?" Qin Ke asked.
Rong Xi replied seriously, "Xi is greedy for convenience and feels that writing with pen and ink is really a hindrance. I see that this graphite has a fine texture, is slippery to the touch, and is easy to dye things, so I will try to make a writing tool."
He also borrowed the thoughts of the ancient sages, but he felt guilty because he could not express them clearly.
Part of the profits we will earn in the future will be used to support research projects, and the remaining money will be used to do more good deeds and spread charity.
I will never use this to seek huge profits or pleasure.
Qin Ke didn't know what he was thinking, but he found it strange just by hearing it.
Our ancestors used stones, bones and other objects to carve words, but now we use brushes to express our emotions. During this period, the world has undergone tremendous changes and the process has gradually evolved.
If Rong Dalang could really create a new instrument, it would surely be passed down to future generations.
Of course, the prerequisite is that the new device can be needed by people.
"Brother Sizhi, can you help me deliver the letters to Jiang and Feng respectively?"
After Rong Xi washed his hands, he took out two letters.
Qin Ke did not hesitate and called the guard in secret to deliver the letter.
After a few days, wait for the graphite slurry to dry, crush it again, add water again and mix it into a dough-like state.
At that time, Rong Xi requested that all the tools made by Feng Shan and Jiang Weiping be transported to Rong's house.
Rong Xi used a mold to shape the graphite slurry, which was no different from the pencil lead of later generations. He then ordered kiln workers to burn it until it was mature and hard.
The refill is ready and just needs to be wrapped in wood.
According to what was said in the letter, Feng Shan dug out semicircular grooves on the wooden strips, which could be put together to enclose the pen core.
Rong Xi used glue to stick the gaps together and a simple pencil was made.
Everyone was curious and looked at it. Liu Zishi was the most serious and asked, "Sir, can this thing really write?"
Rong Xi took a piece of paper from the desk, sharpened the tip of a pen, and when the pen core was exposed, he started writing.
You can really write!
Rong hurriedly moved closer to take a closer look and saw that the handwriting on the paper was very small, but every stroke was clearly visible, and his brother's handwriting was very good, and its style was no worse than that of calligraphy.
Several people tried to use it, but they were not familiar with the pen-holding posture and were unable to write neatly.
Qin Ke had just observed carefully, and now he picked up the pen to write, and his handwriting was still good, but because he used too much force, the pen core suddenly broke, leaving a long mark on the paper.
The room was silent.
After a moment, Xiyan suddenly praised: "Your Majesty, your arms are strong!"
Rong Xi smiled, took the pen from his hand, and said, "It's already very good."
Qin Ke looked at the words on the paper, feeling annoyed but not showing it on his face. He stood up and said, "This pen is good. It saves me a lot of tedious things and is convenient to carry. It's very good."
When writing with a brush, you need to grind the ink, wash the brush, etc. If you are not careful, ink will drip onto the paper and make the paper dirty. Moreover, it is inconvenient to carry pen, ink, paper and inkstone with you.
The others nodded in agreement.
Rong Xi smiled, the uses of pencils are far more than just these.
A few days later, Cheng Hao and his party arrived at Mengshan. The county magistrate Chen Yi greeted them at the city gate, unable to hide his joy.
As a county magistrate, Mengshan was naturally very happy to receive such an honor.
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