Chapter 129

Chapter 129

When Lu Wei returned with her report, she first shared the news with Meng Die, who nodded repeatedly. "That's indeed a good idea. In business, capital is usually required for investments."

Lu Wei continued, "This time, I mainly came back to show this to Second Aunt."

Meng Die flipped through the small notebook. "This is...?"

Lu Wei explained, "A while ago, the Ministry of Finance asked about the materials we used when constructing our factory. I gave them an honest answer. Now that everything is settled, I figure they'll likely ask for a detailed account of how much material was used in total for such a large factory. After discussing it with Ruixue, she wrote this down."

"She divided the workshops into three categories: large, medium, and small, with each category further divided into three grades. Altogether, there are nine types, and she has calculated the exact amount of materials needed for each. Moreover, she has also determined the material consumption per square unit."

Meng Die raised an eyebrow. "With such calculations, they'll likely save a great deal of effort."

Lu Wei smiled. "All credit goes to Ruixue."

Meng Die replied, "Prepare at least three copies of this ledger. Ruixue should keep one, I'll retain another, and the third should be given to the Ministry of Finance."

"Aye."

Yang Wanying lifted the curtain and entered, "Second Lady, Manager Rong requests an audience."

Meng Die showed no surprise at all, "Ask him to respond from the veranda."

"Okay."

Lu Wei wore a look of astonishment, "What could he possibly want at this time?"

Meng Die stood up, creating a sense of intrigue, "You'll know if you come along."

Lu Wei accompanied Meng Die to the main hall. Meng Die took her seat, and Manager Rong bowed in respect, "Greetings, Second Madam."

After the salute, Manager Rong didn't immediately bring up any matters but instead wore an expression of hesitation.

Lu Wei was quite curious, "Manager Rong, is there something on your mind? Why do you look so troubled?"

With a distressed face, Manager Rong replied, "Oh, Miss Lu Wei, I have now truly understood what it means to be indebted for someone's favor and to feel obligated after accepting their kindness."

"Ah?" Lu Wei was puzzled.

"Haha." Meng Die laughed unapologetically. "Are those major merchants from the north seeking you out?"

Shopkeeper Rong was dumbfounded, then quickly nodded. "Madam Er, your intuition is truly remarkable. After seeing you triumph at the debate tournament and His Majesty's order to build factories in the northern regions, they came to me asking about the materials used in constructing the factory. It wasn't a secret, so I told them truthfully, assuming that would be the end of it. Little did I expect they'd somehow learn that the court is searching for merchants who can supply these materials, but payment would be delayed for a year, with interest paid next year."

Lu Wei understood. "So they've come back to you, hoping to use Madam Er's influence to get a word in with the Ministry of Finance?"

Shopkeeper Rong nodded repeatedly. Having accepted their generous gifts initially, it would be difficult for him to refuse now. He could only swallow his pride and request an audience with Meng Die. The one thing he was grateful for was not hiding the matter of the five hundred taels of silver. Otherwise, he wouldn't have had the face to come today.

Meng Die's eyes curved into a warm smile. "Tell them when you return that I'll lend a hand in this matter. However, I cannot guarantee its success."

"Ah?" The Manager Yong was quite astonished. "Madam Second just agreed like that?"

Meng Die replied, "Ask them to compile a small booklet detailing which merchant houses can supply which materials and where their shops are located. They should deliver it to Mother Fan."

Manager Yong responded, "Eh!" He hesitated slightly. "Madam Second, will this matter... be disadvantageous to you?"

Meng Die reassured him, "Don't worry. I have a plan in mind."

Manager Yong pondered for a moment before realizing why Madam Second had guessed the purpose of his visit so quickly. It turned out she already had an idea. Manager Yong was utterly impressed.

When Manager Rong had left, Meng Die and Lu Wei returned to the inner chamber. Confused, Lu Wei asked, "Second Lady, why did you agree to do something that obliges others?"

Meng Die waved her hand dismissively. "Owing favors? That debt is owed to us by the Ministry of Revenue. Construction projects are breeding grounds for corruption. With so many factories being built in the northern regions, do you really think all those local officials are upright? Even if the higher-ups are honest, can we be sure that everyone beneath them is? Recall the recent scandal at the Ministry of Works. If not for Su Xiaolang's conveyor belt earning some favor for Minister Su in the emperor's eyes, he would still be keeping a low profile now."

Lu Wei nods. The embezzlement of six hundred thousand taels of silver is such a scandal that it has spread throughout the entire capital.

Meng Die: "With shortcuts taken here and corners cut there, who knows what the final outcome of this construction project will be? The Ministry of Revenue has wisely pre-arranged reliable suppliers for raw materials, ensuring that only top-quality materials will be used. I assume they will also engage the same craftsmen who worked on our previous project as supervisors in different regions. With experts overseeing the work, and the emperor dispatching a team of inspectors, corruption can be minimized, and the quality of the factory can be guaranteed to the greatest extent."

Lu Wei gasped, "Heavens! There are so many intricate twists and turns within this."

Meng Die smiled. "I've only mentioned the basics. The actual execution will be much more challenging."

Lu Wei chimed in. "No wonder they say it's easy to speak but difficult to do."

Meng Die continued, "When you give Fan Mu the book, tell her that the Ministry of Revenue is inquiring about the raw materials. Ask Fan Zongguan to disclose the dealings with those merchants. Then, inform them that these merchants have purchased my fish breeding techniques and are now investing effort into fish farming."

"Understood."

As Lu Wei had anticipated, right after she delivered the book to Fan Mu, an official from the Ministry of Revenue came to request Fan Hong's presence. Fan Hong, armed with the new booklet, accompanied the official to the ministry, where he was promptly ushered into Ran Pengfei's office.

Fan Hong: "I've come to pay my respects to Minister of Works."

Ran Pengfei: "No need for formalities, please take a seat."

Fan Hong sat down with ease.

Ran Pengfei: "Last time you mentioned the materials used in constructing the workshops. Now that everything is settled, I'd like to know the exact quantities of various materials utilized in building such a large number of them."

Fan Hong took out a small notebook from his bosom, still warm to the touch, and presented it respectfully to Ran Pengfei with both hands: "All the details are recorded here. Please peruse it, Your Excellency."

Ran Pengfei took the booklet, flipping to the first page, revealing the neatly written characters within. Upon reading its contents, the corners of his lips couldn't help but curve up. Especially since it clearly listed the exact amount of materials and silver needed for each construction – this was incredibly useful.

He had previously discussed with the emperor that once they had some extra silver, they could build such a factory in a village with a denser population, not for the weavers to produce cloth, but to provide shelter for the poverty-stricken people during winter.

Every year, there were elders, women, and children who froze to death due to the inability to afford firewood. This was an issue that deeply concerned the emperor. Now that there was a better solution, it would certainly be implemented. "To have written with such detail has truly saved us much effort. Fan Hong, thank you so much."

Fan Hong replied, "Oh, my lord, you flatter me too much. I don't know how to calculate expenses at all; just being able to keep track without mistakes is good enough for me. This is all thanks to our Miss Ruixue's calculations."

Ran Pengfei asked, "Ruixue? Was she also part of Lady Meng's dowry?"

Fan Hong: "Not really. She was one of the ladies-in-waiting who accompanied our Lady of the Marquis House during her marriage. When Lady Two established her factory and employed too many workers, there was a shortage of hands. So, Lady One generously offered two of her ladies to Lady Two. Miss Ruixue was in charge of all the accounts when the factory was being built."

Ran Pengfei sighed with admiration. "Your esteemed household truly inspires envy with its harmony."

Fan Hong took the compliment with a smile. He might not know about the harmony among others in the marquis house, but Lady One and Lady Two were certainly on good terms. Recalling Meng Die's instructions, he continued, "Lord Ran, I've heard that the Ministry of Revenue is searching for suitable merchants?"

It was no secret, so Ran Pengfei nodded. "Indeed, yes. How so? Does County Master Meng have someone in mind?"

Fan Hong: "Your wisdom, Lord. Lady Two has a few business partners who often collaborate. They're the ones who purchased Lady Two's fish breeding method previously. Although they are currently focused on fish farming, merchants are always eager to seize new business opportunities. They would like to participate if there's a chance."

Ran Pengfei chuckled. "It's only natural for merchants to prioritize profit. Since they're willing to provide the materials, let them prepare accordingly. They can come to the Ministry of Revenue tomorrow morning at the third hour of the day."

Fan Hong was delighted by the ease with which the matter had been resolved and shared the good news with Manager Rong, who was waiting outside. Manager Rong exhaled in relief and hastily dispatched messengers to inform the merchants, his mind preoccupied with the thought that earning this money wouldn't be simple.

In just two days, Lu Wei came to report to Meng Die again. "Second Lady, the weavers sent by His Majesty to learn from Xue Qing have arrived."

Meng Die asked, "They've arrived? Where did these weavers come from?"

Lu Wei replied, "They were transferred from the Jinling Textile Bureau."

Meng Die was taken aback. It had only been three days since the debate ended, and even traveling by canal from Jinling to the capital wouldn't be this swift. Apparently, the emperor had already issued an imperial edict to summon them while the decision was still pending.

Lu Wei: "Second Aunt, what do you think we should do with them? The Ministry of Works has sent someone to ask for our opinion. According to tradition, Xue Qing should teach them there, but their facilities aren't very spacious, nor is the lighting adequate. There are also too many idle individuals around. I don't really want Xue Qing to go there."

Meng Die: "When the workshops were first built, we had quite a few spare rooms, right? Let Xue Qing choose any room she likes within our territory to teach them."

Lu Wei nodded repeatedly.

Meng Die continued: "We shouldn't have those weavers travel back and forth either. Tell the Ministry of Works that they'll be staying with us. With so many empty rooms, it's more than enough. Go buy some simple wooden beds and thick bedding. They won't have any problems living in the workshops with this weather. Also, purchase a few bathing tubs for them to use. They can have their meals with all of you. Just ask the cook to prepare a bit more food."

"Ai."

Meng Die had efficiently arranged the weavers, and the Ministry of Works was genuinely relieved. Their current dwellings were occupied by male artisans; suddenly having so many women to accommodate was indeed a challenge.

In the northern provinces, the construction of factories began with great enthusiasm. The topic of conversation among the common folk during leisure hours revolved around this development. What particularly fascinated them was the allowance for women to serve as laborers in lieu of men.

The governance of the Great Yi Dynasty was generally just and fair. When the people fulfilled their compulsory labor duties, officials did not mistreat them. However, such duties typically entailed arduous tasks, and there was no pay involved. Hence, no one was eager to take on these responsibilities. Now, with the opportunity for women to perform lighter tasks, everyone was delighted. Men could stay at home and gather more firewood, ensuring warm beds during winter and sparing themselves some cold.

Upon learning that everything was proceeding smoothly, Meng Die finally let out a sigh of relief. Today, Hai Guanxing was visiting. Since his return, they had yet to have a proper conversation.

At the precise hour of si in the morning, Hulu ushered Hai Guanxing through the door. Unlike his first visit to the Marquis's residence, Hai Guanxing appeared considerably more composed this time, and had grown much closer to Hulu. "I have long wished to come and report to Lady Second, but she has been perpetually occupied. At last, she finds herself with some respite."

Hulu offered a subtle smile, her voice lowered conspiratorially. "There's no rush before the debate commences. You know well enough what Second Lady is capable of. Everyone merely encourages her to focus on her studies, as you understand."

Hai Guanxing nodded repeatedly, fully understanding. She understood all too well. Since everyone was urging Second Grandma to read and prepare, it would be inappropriate for her to meet and engage in unrelated conversations at that time.

Amidst laughter and conversation, the pair soon arrived at the small flower hall where Meng Die was. Hai Guanxing bowed respectfully. "Second Lady."

Meng Die: "Please take a seat quickly."

Hai Guanxing took the tea offered by Mu Qing and sipped it. He put down the teacup and pulled out a scroll from his sleeve. "Second Aunt, this is also the design of glass windows from abroad."

Meng Die received the scroll. "Didn't you rush back as soon as you arrived?"

Hai Guanxing smiled. "On my way back, didn't I encounter the merchant who showed me the new sea route? There was a missionary on his ship who had traveled to many countries and places. We chatted, and he drew these designs for me."

Meng Die unfurled the scroll, revealing sketches of glass window shapes inside. From the drawings, the artist had even simply depicted the evolution of glass windows.

Contrary to Meng Die's initial understanding, windows in foreign lands weren't initially very large. Although they had been producing and using glass for quite some time, the techniques for making glass were quite limited. It wasn't until three years ago when a man named Nav created large sheets of glass that glass factories sprang up like mushrooms after rain. In just these short three years, the production and use of glass had experienced an explosive growth.

Overseas, windows transformed from numerous and small to fewer but larger, and curtains made an unexpected entrance into the lives of people across all social strata.

Meng Die carefully rolled up the sketch paper. "In other words, the curtain market is currently in its initial phase of chaos. Whoever can seize a significant share of the market quickly will most likely become the industry leader in the future."

Hai Guanxing's astonishment was plain on his face. "Grandma Two speaks the truth indeed."

Meng Die lowered her gaze. "What about the influence of foreign religions?"

Hai Guanxing's mouth gaped open. "Grandma Two even knows about this?"

Meng Die smiled. "We have the Three Persecutions and One Extermination of Buddhism in our history. I don't believe there aren't any powerful religions abroad. Even if they don't have them now, they must have had some in the past. With such a long history, anything can happen. And didn't you just mention missionaries?"

Hai Guanxing's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Second Aunt, your knowledge is truly impressive. Yes, many countries do have influential religions, and among their believers, there are also many educated people. When I bought the iron, I stopped there for two days and explored the area a bit. There were quite a few religious structures."

Meng Die nodded. "Do you know what colors are taboo for religions with a large number of followers?"

Hai Guanxing was initially taken aback, but then he had an epiphany. "I really don't know about that. I'll have to ask properly when we set sail this autumn."

Meng Die nodded in agreement. "Make sure to ask clearly. Since we're doing business, we can't afford to offend their taboos."

Hai Guanxing nodded repeatedly.

Meng Die said, "Have lunch with me today."

"Many thanks, Second Aunt."

As Meng Die entertained Hai Guanxing over a meal, an urgent messenger on a galloping horse raced through several northern provinces of the Great Yi Dynasty, leaving a trail of dust behind all the way to the capital city. Upon arriving in the capital, the horse didn't pause for a moment before entering the imperial city.

Within the Diligent Governance Hall, the emperor was discussing the silk rug matter with the officials.

Ran Pengfei: "Your Majesty, the silkworms have been placed in the mulberry groves across the regions. It shouldn't be long before we can harvest the cocoons."

The emperor was delighted. "Yesterday, Meng Die submitted a report stating that the weavers have mastered the techniques for creating silk carpets with various patterns. She even provided several finished silk carpets. Even if they forget anything, they should be able to figure it out quickly by referring to these samples."

Su Yuquan: "Your Majesty, should I arrange transportation and escort the weavers to their respective locations immediately?"

The emperor nodded. "Yes, do so. With the warmer weather, we can temporarily place the looms in open spaces outside, covered with simple shelters. It won't hinder the weaving process."

Su Yuquan: "As you wish."

A eunuch entered, "Your Majesty, an urgent military dispatch from the frontlines has arrived."

The emperor responded, "Bring it in." He was both anxious and puzzled. The recent battles had not been intense; why would there be such an urgent report?

The faces of the assembled ministers also betrayed their concerns.

The soldier who brought the news was covered in dust, carrying a small pack on his back. Upon entering the grand hall, he knelt on one knee and reported, "Your Majesty, Vice General Li Ai successfully launched a surprise attack on the enemy's rear camp. In coordination with the main commander, they routed the foe. Vice General Li personally shot and killed the enemy's chief commander with an arrow, then led his troops in pursuit of the remnants, capturing two cities of the enemy nation. The enemy has dispatched an envoy to present their surrender document, offering annual tributes and pledging allegiance every year."

The emperor's eyes widened abruptly.

Lin Chu received the surrender document from the soldier and respectfully presented it to the emperor with both hands. The emperor wiped the sweat from his palms before carefully examining the document. Indeed, the enemy had surrendered, vowing to pay annual tribute and acknowledge their status as a vassal state every year. At the bottom was the seal of the opposing kingdom's ruler.

"Excellent, excellent."

The ministers chorused, "Congratulations, Your Majesty. The power and prestige of our Great Yi Dynasty have reached far and wide."

"Ahaha..." The emperor's joy was palpable. "Rise, and tell me, how did Li Ai manage to successfully ambush the enemy?"

Soldier: "Your Majesty, Deputy General Li led an army of ten thousand across the Tian Mountains, hiding in wait on their side. They launched a surprise attack on the enemy camp at night, sowing discord among their ranks. Meanwhile, the commander ordered a full-scale assault, causing the enemy to fall into chaos and ultimately resulting in their complete defeat."

Ran Pengfei: "A night raid? Are there really so many people in the military camp who can see in the dark?"

In ordinary households, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that at least seven or eight out of ten had night blindness. Those chosen for a stealth attack would have to be loyal and skilled. After such rigorous screening, finding ten thousand suitable soldiers would be quite challenging.

Soldier: "Originally, there weren't that many in the personal guard. County Master Meng presented a food item to Deputy General Li Ai specifically to treat night blindness. That's how we managed to gather ten thousand."

The crowd suddenly understood. The emperor became even more delighted, his gaze turning to Meng Tingyi. "I recall that their marriage was blessed by Daoist Qingxuan from the Three Pure Views Temple, who said it was a match made in heaven. Today, I can see that the old immortal's words were indeed true. They are truly a match destined by the heavens."

Meng Tingyi bowed. "Your Majesty is absolutely right. Daoist Qingxuan did indeed say that it was a match made in heaven."

"Haha..." Laughter filled the Qianzheng Hall.

Moments later, news of a great military victory on the frontlines and the enemy's surrender spread throughout the entire capital city.

At the Marquis residence, the young servant Xiao Yao, who was guarding the secondary gate, rushed in like the wind to deliver the news to every household. Wan'er, upon receiving the information, hurried back: "Second Aunt, Second Aunt..."

Hulu commented, "What's the matter? This girl is usually quite composed."

Wan'er dashed into the room with a grin from ear to ear. "Second Aunt, Xiao Yao just told me that our Second Master has won the battle, and the enemy nation has surrendered!"

"Ahh!" Meng Die's book slipped from her hands and landed on the table.

Meihong asked, "What did you say? Repeat that."

Wan'er exclaimed, "Second Master has won the battle! The enemy nation has surrendered!"

In unison, the maidservants chimed, "Congratulations to Second Lady, and felicitations to Second Lady."

Meng Die was utterly stunned. The war was won, the foe had capitulated, and Li Ai would soon return. Her heart skipped a couple of beats.

The following morning, everyone gathered in the main chamber to pay their respects and learned of the news. They offered congratulations to Lady Hou, Lady Ning, and Meng Die.

Lady Hou asked Lady Ning, "Has the Princess's residence informed us that Li Lang's wedding will be postponed?"

Lady Ning replied with a smile, "Yes, Princess Da Chang believes that with the recent victory, Marquis Yongwei and Second Young Master will both return to the capital. Their presence would make the wedding more complete and lively."

Lady Hou nodded in agreement. "It would certainly be better for Father-in-law to witness this wedding personally."

Originally, Li Lang was scheduled to marry Hua An Kang Ding in early autumn. The war had previously made it impossible, but now they would surely wait for Marquis Yongwei to conclude his affairs and personally oversee his son's wedding. Thus, there was a high likelihood that the wedding would be postponed until next year.

Lady Zhou inquired, "Mother, since Second Brother and his troops have won the battle, will they be returning home soon?"

Lady Hou's face lit up with joy. "It'll still take some time. The Emperor needs to issue an edict allowing their return before they can set off for the capital." Without the Emperor's permission, a military force entering the city on its own would not be seen as a triumphant return, but rather as a threat to the throne.

Lady Wu commented, "With half a million troops on the front lines, it'll surely be quite a spectacle when they all make their way back to the capital."

Lady Hou corrected her, "Not quite half a million. Most of the soldiers were originally stationed at the border forts, and the Emperor later transferred additional troops from other borders. Now, those reinforcements will have to return to their original posts. Furthermore, some were recruited later due to the intensifying battles. It's likely that only this latter group will come back, so it won't be a very large number."

The others nodded in agreement.

As it turned out, experience truly counts. The emperor would never allow hundreds of thousands of troops to enter the capital. Currently, there were half a million soldiers on the front lines. Around twenty thousand previously guarded the Ak-su border, with an additional fifteen thousand summoned from other borders. These thirty-five thousand would certainly not march into the capital. The remaining fifteen thousand were hastily recruited for the pressing battles, and they would be the ones setting off. However, instead of entering the capital, the majority would return home when passing by their hometowns. In the end, only about fifty thousand troops would actually enter the city.