As the first rays of dawn broke through the sky, the soldiers of Rong Kingdom were already lined up neatly in the drill ground behind the General's Mansion. They stood tall and straight, their eyes fixed firmly on the front. Xiao Yichen, dressed in military uniform, stood agilely on the command platform, and on the weapon rack beside him, various weapons gleamed coldly in the morning light.
"Soldiers, although the world is now at peace, we must be mindful of potential dangers even in times of peace, and military reform is imperative." Xiao Yichen's loud voice echoed across the training ground.
Xiao Yichen stepped down from the command platform, picked up a long sword, and said, "Although this long sword is a commonly used weapon of our army, in our exchanges with other countries, I have found that it still has room for improvement in terms of weight and flexibility. We need to gather the skilled craftsmen of Rong Kingdom and discuss with the soldiers to create a long sword that is more suitable for our army's combat style. We need to reduce the weight of the blade to make it more flexible when wielding it, while also increasing its toughness so that it is not easy to break."
After saying that, he picked up another bow: "This bow also needs to improve its range and accuracy. We can research new bow materials, such as using more durable wood combined with animal tendons to increase the bow's draw weight. At the same time, we need to improve the arrow manufacturing process to make its flight more stable and its penetrating power stronger."
Regarding military training, Xiao Yichen continued, "Traditional training methods, while effective, are somewhat monotonous. We need to introduce new training models, such as combat training that simulates real combat scenarios. We will no longer be limited to fixed moves and tactics, but will enable soldiers to learn to adapt flexibly in complex and ever-changing environments."
A general stepped forward and asked, "General, how can we more effectively simulate real combat scenarios?"
Xiao Yichen replied, “Various obstacles can be set up on the training ground, such as ditches, traps, and fake city walls. Soldiers will be divided into groups for combat, one side attacking and the other defending. The attacking side needs to devise tactics to break through the defending side's lines, while the defending side must utilize the terrain and fortifications to resist. Simultaneously, training will incorporate drills of different scenarios such as night combat, mountain warfare, and naval warfare, allowing soldiers to adapt to various combat environments.”
Regarding the organization and tactics of the army, Xiao Yichen also had new ideas: "The organization of our army can be further refined. In addition to the existing infantry, cavalry, archers and other branches, a special engineering corps can be formed. They will be responsible for tasks such as building fortifications, constructing bridges and digging tunnels on the battlefield, providing strong engineering support for combat."
Another general asked, "General, what are the special requirements for the selection and training of this engineering corps?"
Xiao Yichen said, "During the selection process, we focus on the soldiers' physical strength, endurance, and practical skills. The training includes learning engineering knowledge, such as building structures, principles of mechanics, and the use of various engineering tools. They must be proficient in skills such as building simple city walls, setting traps, and constructing pontoon bridges, so that they can respond quickly and complete engineering tasks in actual combat."
Xiao Yichen further stated: "In terms of tactics, we should learn from and draw on the advanced tactics of other countries, such as the flexible use of the fish scale formation and the crane wing formation. The fish scale formation can generate a powerful impact during an attack, while the crane wing formation is advantageous for encircling the enemy. However, we cannot simply copy them; we need to adjust and innovate them according to the characteristics of our troops and the actual battlefield situation."
Regarding military command and communications, Xiao Yichen's expression was serious: "On the battlefield, the efficiency of command and communications is crucial to victory or defeat. We need to establish a more complete command system and clarify the command authority and responsibilities of generals at all levels. In terms of communications, in addition to traditional flag signals and bugles, we can study the use of carrier pigeons to transmit important intelligence, and at the same time explore simple encrypted communication methods to ensure the security and accuracy of intelligence."
The generals nodded in agreement.
Xiao Yichen continued, "In order to enhance the military skills and strategic vision of our soldiers, we will invite renowned military experts from various regions to Rongguo to give lectures. They will share the military history, strategies and tactics, and the latest military ideas of different countries, broadening the horizons and increasing the knowledge of our soldiers."
Following this, Xiao Yichen personally led the soldiers into a new training session. He moved between the various training groups, instructing the soldiers on movements and tactical applications. In the simulated night combat training, the training ground was pitch black, with only a few faint lights. The soldiers advanced groping their way forward according to the training requirements, communicating with each other using specific codes. The attacking side used the cover of darkness to quietly approach the defending side's position, while the defending side pricked up their ears, vigilantly listening to the surrounding movements.
During the formation and training of the engineering corps, soldiers learned how to use various engineering tools under the guidance of master craftsmen. They moved timber and stones, and practiced building simple fortifications. Some soldiers dug tunnels, learning how to excavate quickly underground while ensuring the tunnels' stability.
With the advancement of military reforms, Rong Kingdom's army has gradually been revitalized and strengthened. Under new training models, soldiers have continuously improved their physical fitness and combat skills; the development of new weapons has also made progress, laying the foundation for upgrading the army's equipment; the army's organization has become more rational, and its tactical applications more flexible and diverse; the improved command and communication system allows the army to coordinate operations more efficiently on the battlefield. Under Xiao Yichen's meticulous planning and reforms, Rong Kingdom's military power is steadily advancing towards greater strength and advancement, becoming a solid bulwark protecting Rong Kingdom's peace and stability.
"Soldiers, our efforts today are for the peace and tranquility of Rong Kingdom tomorrow. We must constantly hone ourselves, adapt to the trends of military reform, and become a fierce and invincible army that strikes fear into the hearts of our enemies!" Xiao Yichen stood on the training ground, looking at the soldiers training, and loudly encouraged them.
Inside the general's mansion's council hall, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er sat upright, facing several highly respected scholars from Rong Kingdom and officials from the court responsible for education. Sunlight streamed through the windows, casting bright shadows on the floor, seemingly foreshadowing the importance and hope of this discussion on promoting education.
"Gentlemen, education is the foundation of a nation, concerning the future rise and fall of Rong. Although we have initially established the framework for education, the path of its promotion still requires careful planning." Xiao Yichen looked at everyone with a firm gaze and spoke first.
One scholar nodded in agreement, saying, “The general is absolutely right. I believe that schools should be built vigorously in the capital and in all the prefectures and counties so that more children have the opportunity to attend school and receive an education. The location of the schools should be chosen based on convenient transportation and a suitable environment, so that students can travel to and from school and study with peace of mind.”
After a moment's thought, Lin Wan'er said, "Building schools requires attention not only to quantity but also to quality. The buildings must be sturdy and durable, and equipped with complete teaching facilities, such as desks, chairs, blackboards, and books. A special school construction supervision team can be set up to ensure that every school meets the standards."
Regarding teacher selection and training, an education official said, "General, Miss Lin, the quality of teachers determines the level of education. We need to recruit talented people widely in Rong Kingdom. Whether they are experienced old teachers or outstanding young students, as long as they are committed to the cause of education, they can be selected as teachers. At the same time, we will hold regular teacher training activities, invite famous teachers from all over the country to give lectures, exchange teaching experiences and methods, and improve the teaching ability of teachers."
Xiao Yichen agreed, saying, "Teachers who teach in remote areas should receive more support and rewards. For example, we can increase their salaries, provide accommodation and living supplies, so that they can teach and nurture students in difficult places with peace of mind. In addition, we can establish a teacher evaluation system to assess teachers based on teaching results, student evaluations and other aspects, and give outstanding teachers recognition and promotion opportunities to encourage them to teach with dedication."
When discussing textbook compilation, scholars offered their opinions. One scholar said, "Textbook compilation should cover a wide range of knowledge, including classics, history, philosophy, and literature, but it should be easy to understand and suitable for the cognitive level of students of different ages. Illustrations and stories can be added to increase the textbook's interest and appeal."
Lin Wan'er added, "In addition to traditional knowledge, textbooks should also incorporate the history, culture, geography, and customs of Rong Kingdom, so that students can enhance their understanding and love for their country while learning knowledge. For example, geography textbooks can introduce in detail the mountains, rivers, and local specialties of Rong Kingdom; history textbooks can tell the stories of Rong Kingdom's heroes and dynastic changes."
Regarding the issue of extending education to rural areas, a local official said: "General, rural areas are relatively scattered and economically underdeveloped, making it difficult to promote education. I suggest that private schools be set up in rural areas, taught by local gentry or retired teachers, with flexible teaching times and methods, so that children from farming families can have the opportunity to study even when they are not busy with farming."
After a moment's thought, Xiao Yichen replied, "This plan is feasible, but we must ensure that the quality of teaching is not compromised. We can regularly send officials or scholars to rural schools for inspections and guidance, and provide them with books and teaching materials. At the same time, we should encourage exchange activities between rural and urban schools, such as student visits and teacher support programs, to promote the sharing and balanced development of educational resources."
To encourage children from impoverished families to attend school, Lin Wan'er proposed: "General, we can establish an educational scholarship specifically to support children from poor families who are eager to learn. The scholarship will be awarded based on a comprehensive assessment of the family's economic situation and the student's academic performance, ensuring that children who truly need help receive assistance."
Xiao Yichen continued, "In addition, work-study positions can be set up in the school, such as cleaning the school and organizing books, so that poor students can earn a certain amount of living expenses through their own labor and cultivate their self-reliance and sense of responsibility."
Regarding women's education, Lin Wan'er said firmly, "Women should also have the right to education. In schools, separate courses can be offered for women, such as traditional courses like needlework, etiquette, and housekeeping, while also teaching them literacy, arithmetic, and cultural knowledge. Cultivating knowledgeable and cultured women will not only improve the quality of families but also contribute to the cultural heritage and social development of Rongguo."
As the discussions deepened, Rong Kingdom's education promotion plan gradually became clearer and more comprehensive. Schools sprang up everywhere, teachers devoted themselves to education with great enthusiasm, teaching materials were compiled in a rich and diverse manner, rural education received attention and support, and children and girls from impoverished families had more opportunities to receive education. Under the impetus of Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, Rong Kingdom's education system flourished, cultivating generation after generation of knowledgeable, virtuous, and ambitious talents for the country, injecting a continuous source of wisdom and strength into Rong Kingdom's long-term development.
"Wan'er, watching the education promotion plan being implemented step by step, I seem to see a future where Rong Kingdom is full of talented people and prosperous." Xiao Yichen looked out the window, his eyes full of longing and anticipation.
Lin Wan'er gently grasped his hand: "General, the road of education is long, but as long as we persevere, Rong Kingdom will surely prosper because of education and flourish because of talented people."
The first rays of morning sunlight bathed the vast fields of Rong Kingdom, draping the earth in a golden veil. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er rode on horseback, followed by several agricultural experts, inspecting the fields. A gentle breeze rippled through the wheat fields, and water flowed gurgling in the ditches, irrigating this land full of hope.
“General, Miss Lin, the crops in this field are growing quite well, but to further increase yields, we need to introduce new agricultural technologies,” an agricultural expert said, pointing to the wheat field in front of them.
Xiao Yichen nodded slightly: "What you say is very true, sir. I have heard of a new irrigation technology called 'drip irrigation,' which can precisely deliver water and nutrients to the roots of crops, reducing water evaporation and fertilizer loss. I wonder if it is suitable for the farmland of Rong Kingdom?"
After a moment's thought, the agricultural expert replied, "General, drip irrigation is indeed an advanced irrigation technology, but it has high requirements for equipment and water sources. We need to first investigate the distribution of water sources throughout Rongguo, as well as whether the materials and processes for making drip irrigation equipment are available. If conditions permit, promoting drip irrigation will greatly improve the irrigation efficiency of farmland."
Lin Wan'er continued, "Besides irrigation techniques, high-quality seeds are also key to increasing yields. We should send people to various places to collect seeds suitable for Rongguo's soil and climate, and cultivate and improve them. For example, we can introduce some rice varieties with strong resistance to pests and diseases and high yields from the south and try planting them in the water towns of Rongguo; we can introduce cold-resistant and drought-resistant wheat varieties from the north and promote them in the dry lands of the north."
Regarding improvements to agricultural implements, an agricultural assistant with a craftsman's background said, "General, Miss Lin, there is still room for improvement in the efficiency of existing agricultural implements. For example, the plow can be optimized in structure to make the plow head sharper and more durable, penetrating deeper into the soil and requiring less effort. As for seeders, a new type of seeder can be designed that can automatically adjust the seeding rate according to the size and density of the seeds, thereby improving the accuracy of seeding."
Xiao Yichen agreed: "These ideas for improving agricultural tools are excellent. We can organize skilled craftsmen from Rong Kingdom to conduct research and development, and at the same time give them certain rewards and support to encourage them to be bold in innovation. In terms of promoting agricultural tools, we can first conduct trials in some demonstration farms so that farmers can see the advantages of the improved tools firsthand, and then gradually promote them nationwide."
They arrived at an orchard. The orchard was lush with fruit trees, and the branches were laden with fruit, but there were also some problems.
“The fruit trees in this orchard are too close together, which affects their access to sunlight and ventilation, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases,” Lin Wan’er said with a frown.
An agricultural expert explained, "Ms. Lin, this is because traditional fruit tree planting concepts are rather conservative, believing that dense planting can increase yield. In fact, reasonable spacing between fruit trees is not only beneficial to the growth of fruit trees, but also facilitates orchard management and harvesting. We can renovate the orchard, re-plan the planting layout of fruit trees, and introduce some new fruit tree pruning techniques to make the tree canopies more open, which is conducive to photosynthesis."
Xiao Yichen asked, "Are there any new methods for controlling diseases and pests in fruit trees?"
The agricultural expert replied, "General, biological control methods can be used. For example, natural enemies of pests, such as ladybugs and Trichogramma wasps, can be released into the orchard to control their numbers. This method is both environmentally friendly and effective, and will not contaminate the fruit. In addition, some natural plant-based pesticides can be developed to replace traditional chemical pesticides, reducing the harm of pesticide residues to the human body."
Regarding the construction of agricultural demonstration bases, Xiao Yichen said, "We should establish agricultural demonstration bases throughout Rongguo to showcase and promote new agricultural technologies, superior seeds, and improved agricultural tools. The demonstration bases can be divided into different areas, such as grain planting areas, vegetable planting areas, and orchard planting areas, with professional technicians providing guidance and explanations in each area."
Lin Wan'er added, "The demonstration base can also carry out agricultural training activities, regularly inviting farmers to learn new technologies and methods. It provides farmers with opportunities for hands-on practice, allowing them to grasp the key points of agricultural innovation in practice. At the same time, farmers who actively adopt agricultural innovation results and achieve good results will be rewarded and commended to set examples and encourage more farmers to participate in agricultural innovation."
With the gradual implementation of the agricultural innovation plan, significant changes have taken place in Rongguo's fields. Drip irrigation systems have been put into use in some areas, precisely nourishing each crop; new seed varieties have been successfully trialed in various regions, resulting in higher yields and better quality; improved farm tools are playing a greater role in the hands of farmers, reducing their labor intensity and increasing farming efficiency; orchards, after renovation and management, are laden with brightly colored fruit, and pests and diseases are effectively controlled. Agricultural demonstration bases have become a paradise for farmers to learn and exchange ideas, and the concept of agricultural innovation has taken root in people's hearts. Rongguo's agriculture is steadily moving forward on the path of innovation, laying a solid foundation for the country's food security and economic development.
"Wan'er, seeing the changes brought about by this agricultural innovation fills me with great joy. This is not only the hope for the fields, but also the hope for the Rong Kingdom," Xiao Yichen said with emotion, gazing at the fields promising a bountiful harvest.
Lin Wan'er smiled and replied, "General, agriculture is the foundation of the nation. As long as we continue to innovate, the foundation of Rong Kingdom will be more solid, and the lives of the people will be more prosperous."
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