It took Tan Min some time to convince Kong Zhang that this was not a fairy car, nor did it require fairy power, but it was a car that could be manufactured.
"If it's a divine vehicle, how could it have come out of a factory? The people who make it are just ordinary workers."
Kong Zhang agreed with this explanation, but the enthusiasm on his face didn't fade at all. Instead, his eyes seemed to be getting brighter and brighter. "Since human power can make these, then in the future, we can also rely on these to fly into the sky, right?"
After all, Tan Min was born into a family of scholars. He was good at various subjects and skilled in court calculations, but his imagination was indeed inferior to that of the young man in front of him.
It seems like a pipe dream for people to fly into the sky.
But seeing the young man's expectant look, the handsome man finally nodded: "Yes, sir, you are absolutely right. There will be someone who can match you in the future."
Kong Zhang laughed, but didn't say any more. Instead, he pulled Tan Min out of the carriage quickly and ran towards the stopped car.
The person driving the car at this moment was an indigenous person trained by Langyun.
Perhaps because of the foundation laid by the tractor, he can now drive this one quite well.
In the eyes of Langyun people, although this car is the third revision, it is still not complete. It is quite different from their impression. It is also much louder and noisier, with a rumbling sound. You can hear it before you see the car. There is a lot of room for improvement.
But in Kong Zhang's eyes, it was already likable enough.
The car body is completely black, which is the most noble color in Zhou State.
From the appearance, the lines are smooth, the headlights are bright, and there are glass windows, which are very transparent.
The seats inside are not like ordinary chairs. They are wrapped with thick cotton pads and look very comfortable. The driving method is also very different. You can control the direction by holding a round thing and move forward and backward by stepping on the pedals.
If Tan Min hadn't tried to stop him out of fear that he might get into an accident, Young Master Zhang would have already gotten in and started driving.
After the final negotiation, I settled for the second best and just sat in the passenger seat to get a feel for it.
Then the highest speed was used——
Running at 30 miles per hour, I feel free and at ease!
When getting off the car, Kong Zhang jumped happily and insisted on going to see the immortal to look at the blueprints.
Lord Tan, who had never experienced such things before, was trembling with fear. Not wanting to embarrass himself in front of his students, he pretended to be calm and went to rest aside, not showing up for a long time.
This also gave Kong Zhang time to study.
He was clearly a young master of a country, but at this moment he had no airs at all. He lifted up his robe and sat directly on the ground, holding a charcoal pencil in one hand and a drawing in the other, looking at it carefully and seriously.
It wasn't until he felt a shadow looming around him that he suddenly came back to his senses.
The first reaction was to take out a dagger from his pocket.
Before he could move, someone grabbed his wrist.
The hand was slender and tender, but it made Kong Zhang feel as if he was clamped by a pair of pliers and could not move at all.
Then, a clear female voice rang in his ears: "I haven't seen you for a few days, why are you going to use a knife on my sister?"
He looked up quickly and met Kong Lingyun's smiling eyes.
Kong Zhang finally breathed a sigh of relief, struggled slightly, and retracted the knife, asking, "I didn't realize it was my sister. Didn't I scare you?"
Kong Lingyun said gently, "Don't worry, it won't happen. Even if you tie up the three of you, you can't hurt me."
Kong Zhang:......
Although it is the truth, it is still very hurtful to be said so directly!
Kong Lingyun found a stool and sat next to him.
Then he handed over a gourmet food box.
When Kong Zhang opened it, he saw that the first layer was a plate of pastries, all of which he liked, and a bowl of apricot cheese.
When I opened the second layer, I saw a wooden box inside, which looked extremely solid.
Kong Zhang: "What is this?"
Kong Lingyun: "This is a gift for you. It's a textbook I got from the immortal."
Kong Zhang was stunned for a moment, then quickly opened it.
Soon I saw a handwritten copy of "Manufacturing Technology".
He flipped through it casually and was fascinated by it.
After a long while, he looked up again and said seriously, "Thank you, sister."
Kong Lingyun smiled and said, "We are siblings, so why should we talk about thanking each other?"
But Kong Zhang was not stupid. He knew that the man in front of him had no interest in mechanics at all and it was impossible for him to learn this for no reason. It was most likely that this was found specifically for him.
When you give someone a gift, you must have something in mind.
So he asked, "What do you want me to do for you?"
Kong Lingyun's expression remained unchanged: "Look at you, I just want you to learn more, but you're saying it as if I have some ulterior motive."
Kong Zhang replied, "If you don't tell me now, I really won't care."
Kong Lingyun's smile paused and she looked at him in surprise.
I didn't expect that after not seeing each other for a few days, my sixth brother, who was always so gentle, had become so insightful.
I simply didn't beat around the bush and said directly, "I want you to say something good about me."
Kong Zhang was a little confused: "What good words are you saying?"
Kong Lingyun sighed, fidgeting with the bracelet on her hand with her fingertips, muttering, "It's all about my marriage. Father always dislikes me marrying Colliver. He keeps saying that I look strange and am from a foreign tribe, and he's not happy with me."
Kong Zhang knew about this and was silent for a moment before he said softly, "Father has his own concerns, and he actually has other plans."
Unexpectedly, Kong Lingyun sneered: "I know, isn't it just that you want to find another princess from the royal family to marry Colliver? Don't worry, it won't succeed."
"Why?"
"I've already made them give up the idea by organizing a polo match before."
This surprised Kong Zhang: "Really? How did Sister do that?"
Kong Lingyun raised her chin proudly. "It's simple. I just invited Colliver over. He's too eye-catching. Looking at the entire royal family, anyone besides me standing next to Colliver would turn into mud next to a peony. We're all respectable people, so why bother making things boring?"
…
Okay.
I never expected that being good-looking could also be a reason for rejecting a marriage.
However, for the Sixth Young Master, he was well aware of Kong Lingyun's feelings for Colliver, but he was also aware of King Zhou's protection of Kong Lingyun, fearing that she would be bullied after marrying a Banqui man.
After all, as a king, King Zhou still hopes to have a son-in-law who knows him well.
At least you can understand their temperament, and it would be best if you can easily grasp it.
One's own daughter can act tyrannically, but as for the prince consort, if he dares to touch his daughter, he will be finished.
It sounds overbearing, but as the king of a country, this is the best way he can think of to pamper his daughter.
As the most favored of all the princes and princesses, Kong Lingyun was of course very clear about King Zhou's intentions. That was why she wanted to use some roundabout tactics.
Princess Lingyun smiled and said to Kong Zhang, "Actually, I've already thought of a way, but I'm afraid my father won't listen if I tell him, so I'm asking my brother for help."
Kong Zhang was a good-tempered person, and he wanted to help others, so he refused directly and asked, "Sister, tell me first."
"Go tell my father that Colliver has agreed to stay in Zhou and live with me in the capital. Queen Banqui has also agreed. I will continue to visit my father every day as I do now. If my father is happy, it would be great if we could live together in the palace."
"Will Father agree to this?"
"Of course, he's actually usually very lonely. The noble ladies in the harem all have their own maternal families, and their minds are so different. Every word they say is full of twists and turns. Talking to them is more tiring for father than reviewing memorials. And you sons all have your own errands, and none of you know how to act coquettishly. It's very boring. Don't you miss me?" He paused. "Speaking of which, the immortals have a special word to describe this situation."
"What?"
"Care for empty-nest elderly people and don't let waiting turn into regret."
Kong Zhang:......
Although he didn't understand what "empty-nest elderly" meant, his reason told him that it was best not to delve into it.
Seeing him remain silent, Kong Lingyun thought he was hesitating, so she added, "Everyone can see how important Banque is now. They have the richest reserves of Blackwater, and Qi already has connections through marriage. Although Colliver isn't royal, he's been rewarded by the Queen and is Banque's second-highest noble after the royal family. Considering a marriage isn't bad either."
"You clearly said before that you would rather follow your aunt's example and suffer from illness than be used as a tool for a marriage."
"Even if I get married, it won't affect my learning to lead troops. Besides, I accept tributes from my fiefdom and have been raised in luxury since childhood, so naturally I need to make some sacrifices." After saying this, she said generously, "Come on, use me, I'm willing."
...It's clearly a matter of taking advantage, but you make it sound like you've suffered a loss.
Fortunately, Kong Zhang had a close relationship with her and was willing to consider his sister in every way. After thinking it over, he felt that King Zhou would agree.
What I just said is impeccable both emotionally and politically.
But Kong Zhang also knew that although his sister was smart and good at riding and archery, she was not sensitive to political affairs.
So the Sixth Prince asked directly, "I will tell my father, but you must tell me, who gave you this idea?"
Perhaps because the other party had promised her, Kong Lingyun was in a good mood and was very generous: "Tan Min told me."
Kong Zhang was not surprised to hear this, but instead felt that it was as he expected.
Then Kong Lingyun continued, "He was the one who asked me to entrust this matter to you."
"Why is that?"
"Lord Tan said you are pure and kind. As long as you know this matter is harmless to the country and can help us get married, you will definitely not refuse. If you really can't, let me cry for a while." As she said this, she turned her handkerchief over, revealing a piece of peeled ginger hidden inside. "I prepared everything, but I didn't use it."
Kong Zhang was at a loss for words and quickly asked his sister to throw away the ginger so that he wouldn't get hurt by the spiciness.
But he still couldn't understand why Tan Min was so busy every day, but was so devoted to Kong Lingyun's marriage.
If bringing them together before was just a coincidence and a spur of the moment decision, then what was the reason now?
Just for marriage?
As he was thinking, he found himself in the pavilion for rest.
At this time, Tan Min was leisurely drinking tea. The man in blue kneeling on one knee in front of him was Mr. Tan's confidant.
Seeing this, Kong Zhang wanted to hide away.
But Tan Min said first, "Sir, this year's Mingqian tea is very good. Why don't we drink a cup together to enjoy the beautiful scenery?"
Kong Zhang also heard the voice-over and was obviously not going to avoid him.
So the Sixth Young Master walked over and sat down next to Tan Min, holding the tea in both hands, looking particularly well-behaved.
Then Tan Min nodded to the man in green: "Go on."
The man responded and said, "The delegation sent by the barbarians has arrived in the capital. According to the master's previous instructions, they were arranged to stay next door to the Bankui delegation that arrived not long ago. As expected, a red-haired barbarian from the Bankui delegation went to meet the barbarians."
Kong Zhang looked bewildered.
Banqui, why are there barbarians here too?
And Tan Min had obviously heard about this.
They originally wanted to rob, but were almost wiped out. Finally, they stayed in Banqui thanks to their excellent singing and dancing skills. The red-haired Chiwu was an important character among them.
So Tan Min wasn't surprised at all. He simply said, "Don't stop him. Let him go. Later, notify Master Zhong Zuozhong and have him tell the barbarians and the Banqui people that five days later... no, tomorrow, the Zhou Kingdom invites them to view the new divine gift. I hope they'll be able to attend the ceremony on time. Oh, and have Master Zhong deliver the prepared cloth strips and colorful fans."
The man in green was slightly stunned. In previous years, when the envoys came, the Zhou Kingdom would prepare some gifts, either bronze ware or porcelain or pottery, as a token of friendship.
But now using only strips of cloth and a fan doesn’t it seem a bit... shabby?
But he didn't dare to ask, and just looked hesitant.
Tan Min seemed to be able to sense the other party's thoughts, but he didn't get angry. He just smiled and said, "Just do as I tell you. These things are the best welcome gifts. They are very important."
The man in blue asked, "Could it be that Master Zhong used some rare material?"
Tan Min shook his head and said softly, "Even if it's the most ordinary thing, as long as it can save lives, it's the best thing in the world."
The man in green didn't understand what he said.
But he still took the order and went to find Zhong Zuo.
Kong Zhang, who was listening quietly, did not seem to have any doubts at all.
Tan Min looked at him and said with a smile, "Sir, why don't you ask me why I do this?"
Kong Zhang's eyes were clear, and his tone was unhesitating: "Since it is your decision, it must be reasonable."
Perhaps because the words were too decisive and too trusting, Tan Min was a little at a loss.
He was silent for a moment, then slowly raised his head and gently touched the top of the boy's head.
He quickly let go, but the smile on his face was much more genuine: "I'm very happy that you can trust me. I think that in this court, you are the only one who can trust me so much."
Kong Zhang looked puzzled. "Father trusts you too. He always tells me you're the most loyal."
Tan Min was silent again. Finally, he spoke about something he had been reluctant to say before: "People's trust in each other will change with time and status."
"Master, I don't understand."
"The king trusts me, which is a blessing for a subject. However, the moment I stand behind you, it means I am no longer a lone subject. Although the king treats me as usual, he must be wary of me."
Kong Zhang suddenly became nervous.
Even though the person in front of him was cunning, spoke harshly, and liked to spank him, Kong Zhang always remembered the good things about him and was naturally worried now: "Are you okay?"
Tan Min looked at him and smiled before he spoke: "Young Master is truly kind and pure. I was not wrong about him."
Kong Zhang was stunned for a moment, then blushed: "Why are you praising me for no reason?"
It's quite embarrassing.
But Tan Min actually didn't finish his sentence——
Only such pure kindness will prevent one from killing meritorious officials after gaining power.
After calming himself down for a moment, Tan Min continued, "I believe the King knows your character, so he will definitely find a way to help you clear the obstacles. However, I am now one of the Three Dukes and in control of the cabinet, which is the biggest obstacle."
"...Father, what will happen?"
"Your Majesty will not kill me, or demote me, or divide my power. Moreover, the envoy Banqui brought a letter from the Queen herself, stating that she is selecting a husband and holding a banquet, and welcomes your recommendation."
As soon as these words were spoken, Kong Zhang understood that Queen Bankui was proposing a marriage alliance.
So he subconsciously asked, "Any requests?"
"Nothing special, just a decent character and good looks that matches her."
Kong Zhang felt somewhat helpless, thinking that this request was quite direct, so he carved the words "Appearance Association" on his face.
……etc.
Good looking?
Tan Min seems to be good-looking.
In other words, among all the people Kong Zhang had ever met, Tan Min was the only beauty whose appearance could rival Ban Kui's.
It was at this moment that Kong Zhang suddenly understood.
The Master certainly would not do useless work; everything he thought and did had a clear purpose.
No wonder this guy tried so hard to bring Kong Lingyun and Colliver together.
As long as these two are successful, Queen Banqui will definitely not marry into the Zhou Kingdom again for the sake of balance.
In other words, is Tan Min trying to avoid "marrying" him?
Seeing that he didn't say anything, Tan Min asked, "What are you thinking about?"
Kong Zhang subconsciously said, "I wish my wife wouldn't have to get married... er..."
With a start, the Sixth Young Master looked up in panic, fearing that the person in front of him would be angry.
As a result, he saw that Tan Min was still smiling and even had the mind to add a cup of tea for him.
So, he didn't hear it?
Fortunately, fortunately.
But before he could breathe a sigh of relief, he saw that Tan Min had taken away the drawings he had placed aside.
Just as Kong Zhang was surprised, he heard the other party say, "I see that your understanding and application of writing are still lacking. Go back today and copy the Thousand Character Classic five times and give it to me." The voice paused, "Use a brush, not charcoal. When you finish copying, I will return this drawing to you."
Kong Zhang: QAQ
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