Chapter 157

Chapter 157

Papin hesitated before the towering walls and sturdy gate, somewhat intimidated. He currently worked at the Academy of Sciences and still received his monthly salary, albeit without any bonuses due to the lack of progress in research, and his job was on unstable ground...

With a creak, the door opened inward, and a robust man emerged.

Recalling the unpleasant encounters he'd had with nobles in the past, especially their servants, Papin instinctively turned around.

"Good sir, is there anything I can assist you with?"

With a firm tone and a gentle manner, Meng Die's words effectively halted Paping's departure. Turning back to the servant who had spoken, he noticed the young man gazing intently at him, without any trace of contempt, disdain, envy, or jealousy. His eyes held a calmness as if he were looking at an ordinary friend. Paping suddenly felt emboldened. "I am Paping, the inventor of the Paping Pot."

For the rest of the encounter, even days later, Paping still felt as if he were in a dream. Before meeting Meng Die, he had imagined that the owner of such a courteous servant could not possibly be an arrogant noble. Yet, upon meeting Meng Die herself, he was deeply impressed by her.

He sensed that Meng Die genuinely carried no airs of nobility; her kindness and approachability were not mere pretenses.

Meng Die smiled warmly. "Mr. Paping, are you currently working on any intriguing projects?"

Paping felt a bit awkward. "My recent research hasn't been going very smoothly."

Meng Die's smile remained unchanged. "That's only natural. There are so many secrets in this world, and they're so difficult to comprehend. Human lives are so fleeting. To uncover a secret or create something unique that others can't is already an absolute triumph."

Papin was taken aback, his eyes suddenly reddening. The self-confidence he had lost over the years was effortlessly restored by Meng Die's words. Papin was overjoyed; the gloom weighing on his heart vanished completely.

Previously uncertain, Papin now had full confidence in Meng Die. "Can you sponsor me to continue my research?" His heart pounded as he gazed intently at her, and then he saw her nod without hesitation.

Meng Die replied, "Of course, Mr. Papin. What you create is very intriguing, and I truly enjoy it. Just tell Jia Ning what you need, and he will take care of the procurement."

Relieved, Papin released his clenched fist and pressed his lips together. "Is there anything you desire?"

Meng Die froze for a moment before bursting into laughter. "Desires? Oh, there are countless ones. I wish to soar through the heavens and delve into the depths of the sea. I dream of traveling a thousand miles in a single day and conversing with someone despite being separated by vast mountains and rivers."

Papin's eyes gradually widened, his mouth hanging open.

Meng Die asked, "Am I too greedy?"

Lu Wei interjected, "Mr. Papin, just focus on researching what you enjoy. Our Second Grandma has myriad ideas, and it's impossible for them all to come true."

The corners of Papin's mouth slowly curled up, eventually forming a bright smile that narrowed his eyes into slits. He understood.

The news that Pan Ping was free to pursue her interests swept through the kingdom like a tempest, reaching every corner. The influential nobles, who had initially been wary of Meng Die, were immediately reassured. There was no threat; she hadn't specified weapons research, not even indirectly.

In the hearts of the researchers, this sparked a tidal wave of excitement.

At times, scientific pursuits can be lonesome and impoverished. The scientists whose names are etched in history books form but a tiny fraction of all researchers. Many more spend their entire lives without any significant findings, falling along the path of seeking truth.

This was acceptable, but scientific research was notoriously expensive. Many had poured their entire fortune into their passions, only to succumb to poverty before seeing any fruits of their labor.

Now, here stood someone who didn't demand results nor dictate the subject of study. She would provide equipment, funding, and support one's passion. What reason could there be not to throw one's lot in with her?

For a moment, many researchers found their minds wandering, contemplating whether they should join Meng Die's side.

Listening to Mr. Zhao's news gathered from various sources, Meng Die laughed in triumph.

Xing Huang teased her, "Second Grandma, you're smiling like a villain in those novel plots."

Upon hearing this, Meng Die's laughter became even more uncontrollable.

Everyone in the room burst into laughter.

As Meng Die was in high spirits, Hai Guanxing's three grand ships approached the harbor gradually.

On the day of her arrival, from afar, she spotted the enormous piles of grain and iron tools at the dock. As they drew closer, she noticed Xing Huang energetically waving her arms.

A smile touched the corners of Hai Guanxing's eyes, and she waved back. Beside her, Ning Suiyuan followed Hai Guanxing's gaze to see Xing Huang. "Are those people from Lady Meng's county?" he asked.

Hai Guanxing nodded. "Yes, that's Xing Huang."

Ning Suiyuan's eyes lit up. "I've heard that she's an excellent cook." Feeling that he hadn't conveyed his anticipation adequately, he added, "Exceedingly good, in fact." He had been at sea for so long, eating who knew what – it was more than enough!

Hai Guanxing echoed, "Absolutely wonderful."

The large ship gently approached the dock, and Hai Guanxing and Ning Suiyuan disembarked one after another.

Meng Die had already descended from her carriage as their boat neared the pier. As Hai Guanxing stepped off the deck, Meng Die approached and pressed the warm hand warmer into her palm, saying, "As long as you're safe, that's all that matters."

Hai Guanxing inquired, "What do you mean?"

Meihong explained, "Awhile back, some sea vessels arrived in a terrible state. They said there was a massive storm at sea. Fortunately, they only encountered the tail end of it. Those who faced the brunt of the storm... let alone people, not even scraps of their ships remained."

Hai Guanxing: "Indeed, we encountered some rough seas, but fortunately, they were only slightly more intense than usual. It seems we've just brushed against the tail-end of a storm."

Meng Die: "That would be the case." Her gaze fell upon Ning Suiyuan.

Hai Guanxing: "Second Lady, this is General Ning Suiyuan."

Ning Suiyuan bowed with clasped hands, "This humble officer has the honor to meet County Lady Meng."

Meng Die: "In a foreign land, there's no need to adhere to such formalities."

Hai Guanxing said, "In Lady De's last letter to Lord Er, she mentioned that His Majesty could send people over. This time, I've brought a total of three thousand individuals. What would you like me to do with them, Lady De?"

Meng Die was startled. "So many people?"

Hai Guanxing chuckled. "Many? Lady De hasn't seen the enthusiasm of the applicants. Your reputation as the God of Wealth isn't for nothing. When they heard they could seek refuge under your wing, people were practically breaking their heads to sign up. The county magistrates had to repeatedly screen the candidates, eliminating those who didn't meet the age requirement and those who were already married. They also promised to recruit from villages less affected by poverty next time, just to avert a potential crisis."

Meng Die started laughing but soon couldn't help frowning. "Well, I suppose it's understandable if they're too young, but those who are already married applied too? They'll be away for years. What about their wives and children back home?"

Hai Guanxing sneered. "What about them? Each one is probably dreaming of making a fortune and starting anew. As the saying goes, all we hear are the laughter of new lovers, while the cries of old ones fade away."

Xing Huang raised an eyebrow. "How despicable they are! Even if they come here, I'd chase them away."

Hai Guanxing's anger turned to delight. "There's no need for that. Not long after this incident, Mister Meng, the Court Lecturer, submitted a memorial demanding punishment for such immoral behavior."

The title 'Meng ShiJiang' momentarily disoriented Meng Die; before her family was implicated, her father had held this position in the Hanlin Academy. Now, it was her elder brother, Meng Yuan, who occupied that role.

With eager eyes, Xing Huang looked at Hai Guanxing. "What did our lord's memorial say? And how did His Majesty handle it?"

Hai Guanxing replied, "In essence, Mister Meng's memorial stated that these men, who are already married and yet still register, deceive the court. The Emperor's edict clearly states that unmarried men should not marry while away – doing so is an offense against the sovereign. Privately, a man leaving the country for years – what will happen to his wife and children? Isn't this tantamount to abandoning one's spouse and offspring?"

"His Majesty finds this reasoning sound and thus issues an edict: those who evade marriage registration shall be punished with ten strikes of the cane and have their entire assets seized for the benefit of their spouse and children. If the individual has no personal wealth, the county magistrate will oversee the division of property, ensuring that the spouse and children receive what is rightfully the man's from his parents."

Xing Huang remarks, "This rule is fair."

Meihong adds, "They deserve it for harboring ill intentions."

Meng Die raises an eyebrow. While this regulation is commendable, such severe punishment seems unusual: "Is there more to this story than meets the eye?"

Hai Guanxing spreads his hands. "Nothing escapes Second Madam's notice. There was indeed someone with a rather problematic mindset involved."

Meng Yuan bowed deeply after presenting his memorial, "Your Majesty, this behavior must not be encouraged. Those found guilty should be severely punished."

The emperor was still contemplating the appropriate course of action when Censor Han stepped forward, "Scholar Meng, indeed, such behavior cannot be tolerated. However, punishment needn't be overly harsh. These people likely didn't even realize they were deceiving the sovereign; they merely sought to provide more for their families. It's simply greed on the part of common folk."

Meng Yuan responded sharply, "Greed on the part of common folk? I beg to differ. Are they unaware that by leaving for years, their wives and children will struggle to survive? Their actions demonstrate blatant greed and a lack of responsibility. They prioritize themselves over others."

Censor Han, perhaps struck by a sudden thought or harboring some hidden motive, countered, "By your logic, County Master Meng's departure would also be considered a display of irresponsibility and selfishness."

In that instant, the entire Hall of Diligent Government fell silent, with even the sound of a pin dropping being audible.

Meng Yuan erupted in indignation, "What do you mean by that? How dare you compare these deceitful commoners who have offended the monarch to my sister? My sister ventured overseas, all for His Majesty, all for the Great Yi Dynasty. Are you telling me you're unaware of their motives for setting sail?"

Realizing his words might have been inappropriate, Han Shi, the censor, attempted to clarify: "I spoke out of turn. Lady Meng acted for His Majesty, for the state, and also for her family. Their great love is selfless, and their smaller, personal love is not in error either!"

Meng Yuan: "For the sake of their own families? You're just pretending to be oblivious, aren't you? You know very well what those people are thinking. They merely wish to make a fortune effortlessly overseas using my sister, and then take new consorts upon their return. How is it wrong to say they lack responsibility and are selfish? And you talk about doing it for their families? You truly excel in embellishing your actions, shamelessly so."

Inspector Han stood agape, taken aback. How could a prestigious scholar, such as yourself, possess not an iota of refinement, resorting instead to insults like a shrewish woman at the marketplace?

Li Ai was also present in the court. Not as quick-witted as Meng Yuan, he finally reacted, "Little Love? What is this Little Love? Does it mean, in Han Yushi's perspective, leaving one's parents without serving them in their old age is considered Little Love? Or is it neglecting one's spouse and children's well-being that counts as Little Love?"

Counselor Han seemed utterly defeated.

Xing Huang put her hands on her hips. "Is this guy insane? What did the Emperor do with him in the end?"

Hai Guanxing replied, "His Majesty commanded him to return home and reflect upon his actions."

Xing Huang: "He didn't get stripped of his official position?"

Meng Die: "The words 'return home' already imply losing his post. But Counselor Han? I don't recall there being an Han in the Censorate. He must be a recent addition, right?"

Hai Guanxing nodded, "He's a newly crowned jinshi, having recently joined the Censorate. Second Master mentioned that Mister Meng investigated and found out that this Han Censor was overly confident in his scholarly abilities, believing he had the potential to be the top scholar. Yet in the imperial examination, he only ranked forty-eighth. Not only did he fail to become the champion, he didn't even secure the runner-up position. After the palace examination, his rank could easily turn into that of a common jinshi."

Meng Die's heart stirred, "Who was the chief examiner for that particular examination?"

Hai Guanxing chuckled, "None other than your esteemed grandfather, Minister Meng."

Meng Die: The mystery is solved!

Jia Ning approached with a wry smile, "Second Lady, at first, we hoped for two thousand candidates, but now with three thousand, it's simply unmanageable. Even adding more beds won't suffice."

Meng Die pondered for a moment before suggesting, "Let them take turns staying on land for now. We'll immediately purchase another residence."

Jia Ning: "Aunt Two mentioned sending them to different dining halls for training back then, didn't she? They should be adequately trained within three months; there's no need for them to reside there permanently."

Meng Die waved her hand dismissively, "They reside here this year, but come next year, there may be others arriving. Purchasing a residence could serve as a landing point for our people from the Great Yi Dynasty. It's impossible for the restaurant to accommodate everyone; they must find employment on their own eventually. Focus first on arranging matters at hand."

"Yes."

Meng Die gazed at Hai Guanxing and Ning Suiyuan, "Come along, let's return to the manor for some rest first. I'll host a welcoming feast for both of you this evening."

Ning Suiyuan: "Lady Meng, the silk carpet and silks..."

Meng Die reassured, "General Ning, rest assured that the party with whom we've made the agreement is already waiting at the dock. Lu Wei will see to it."

Ning Suiyuan exhaled in relief, watching Meng Die and Hai Guanxing enter the carriage. He didn't mount his horse either, instead entering another carriage. After being on the ship for so long, his legs were as weak as noodles; it was better not to ride a horse now.

Inside the carriage, Meng Die looked at Hai Guanxing and asked, "Are you preparing to lead your fleet on a voyage?"

Hai Guanxing replied, "Yes. I have successfully assembled the naval fleet, and over these two years, by consistently leading the mariners along the trading routes, I have cultivated a considerable number of individuals who are well-versed in this passage. Before setting off on this journey, I petitioned His Majesty for permission to resign from my post as Trade Commissioner, and he has granted it. Consequently, I will not be returning to the Great Yi Dynasty this time; instead, I will embark directly from this port to explore the various seas. In due course, I also intend to chart a navigation map that is not only mine but also belongs to our Great Yi Dynasty."

Delighted for Hai Guanxing, Meng Die encouraged him, "That's the spirit. With such determination, you'll become an explorer, one whose name will be etched in history."

Hai Guanxing's eyes shimmered with delight. "Empress Xiaoyi expressed the same sentiment, and His Majesty even bestowed upon me the dragon banner embroidered with the character 'yi,' along with skilled naval warriors to ensure my safe journey."

Meng Die's eyes sparkled with excitement. "This is wonderful! With His Majesty's endorsement, when you travel to other nations in the future, you can invoke the name of the Great Yi Dynasty, which will ensure your safety even more."

Hai Guanxing nodded repeatedly.

Meng Die glanced through the carriage window at the other coach. "He's the one His Majesty sent to replace you? I had expected an official from the Ministry of Revenue." Yet, a military officer was sent instead.

Hai Guanxing nodded, then whispered, "When I returned last year, I encountered pirates."

Meng Die's smile faded. "What about this time?"

Hai Guanxing met Meng Die's gaze. Both understood the unspoken implication – they had undoubtedly faced the same danger again.

After a moment, Meng Die let out a long sigh. "Our route is fixed, and the value of the goods on our ship is enormous. News of this has spread across the entire continent over the past two years."

Fair faces and wealth can stir men's hearts. A successful plunder would truly mean instant riches. Naturally, many were tempted to take shortcuts.

Hai Guanxing remarked, "General Ning is a naval commander, renowned as the Divine Archer. His soldiers are also skilled in archery and excel in naval battles." This was why the Emperor had chosen a military general to replace her.

Meng Die nodded in understanding.

Upon returning to Meng Die's residence, Hai Guanxing handed her two thick letters before retiring for the night.

During times of war, a letter from home was worth its weight in gold. Although they were not in the midst of a conflict, the value of a letter from loved ones, separated by thousands of miles, was evident.

Meng Die first opened Meng Tingyi's letter. It began with the news that all their family members were safe and sound. Her uncles had successively been promoted, and some of her cousins had married. Then, the letter delved into the matter of the sweet potatoes in detail.

Hindered by the fact that beetroot takes two years to bloom and produce seeds, the court was previously powerless to promote its cultivation rapidly. In the past couple of years, with an ample supply of beet seeds finally available, the growth of beet farming has naturally surged exponentially.

Now, not to mention Ganzhou, which had secured the seeds first, even the other suitable regions in the north had entered their peak production period for sugar beets. Especially beyond the Shanhaiguan Pass, the beets grew enormous and had an exceptionally high sugar yield. Coupled with the abundance of mountains and mulberry trees in those areas, the local people had become significantly more prosperous over the past two years.

In times past, when the folks were plagued by the poverty of their homeland and compelled to leave, they would often seek refuge in the fertile lands known for their abundance of fish and rice. However, in recent years, there has been a gradual shift, with some venturing beyond the frontier. Yet, this migration is not prolific; it's not that the frontiers are less desirable, but rather that the Great Yi Dynasty has lately been blessed with favorable weather and societal harmony, leading to a marked improvement in the livelihoods of the majority. As such, life for most citizens has grown increasingly prosperous.

Meng Die let out a long, relieved sigh, her heart filled with contentment.

Meng Die refolded the letter she had finished reading and slipped it back into its envelope. Picking up the second letter, she noticed it was from Li Ai. Like Meng Tingyi's, it began with an update on the elders, assuring Meng Die that both Marquis Yongyi and his wife were in robust health. A long sigh of relief escaped her lips.