Zhu Yuanzhang Returns from Modern Times

Chapter 134 Completely Takes the Shape of the Emperor

Zhu Biao looked somewhat surprised and doubtful upon hearing his father's words.

"Father, this... they've already signed the agreement and applied for the shipping license."

And these incriminating pieces of evidence are in the hands of the Emperor.

Today, Zhao Deyong was also executed, as an example to warn others.

How could these people dare to go back on their word and resort to other means?

"Biao'er, don't be fooled by them."

These people are incredibly bold.

Otherwise, it would have been impossible to have engaged in various smuggling activities and used various means to deceive the imperial court before this.

Believe it or not, these people have committed countless acts of murder and robbery at sea.

As the saying goes, cutting off someone's source of income is like killing their parents.

Now that we've established the Maritime Trade Office and are charging such high taxes, many people hate us to the core.

I just signed the agreement at Tianjie Temple and behaved very well.

It's because we've got their weakness in our hands.

We could have killed them back then, so they had no choice but to temporarily submit.

But once they're further away from us, these people will only get angrier and angrier.

Then I thought they were capable.

They're bound to cause some trouble; otherwise, it wouldn't be their style.

The battle over money is always fierce; it's never settled in a single round.

Upon hearing Zhu Yuanzhang's words, Zhu Biao thought about it and realized that what his father said made a lot of sense.

"Then... Father, this time... why not just keep all these people here?"

After saying this, Zhu Biao realized that he had spoken too quickly.

That's a rather silly question.

He had already considered many possibilities, such as capturing all these people at once.

Public opinion in Shihlin was particularly bad.

If not handled properly, it could cause a huge uproar.

It will also have a great impact on the reputation of his own father, the emperor.

After all, their own father, the emperor, had publicly announced to the world that he had invited them to the Heavenly Realm Temple for a chat.

But when they arrived here, they managed to take them all down.

Wouldn't that cause an uproar?
My father's reputation will be greatly damaged.

If I do anything in the future, it will inevitably cause many people to lose trust.

For example, there are simply too many of these people, and they are different from those officials.

It involves all walks of life, and there are a lot of people who rely on them for their livelihood.

If we were to take them all at once, it could easily cause a huge uproar in wealthy areas like Songjiang, Suzhou, and Hangzhou.

Furthermore, not all of these people deserve to die.

My father once said that we must distinguish between friend and foe, and tell who is the enemy and who is the friend.

We should strive to make as many friends as possible and as few enemies as possible.

Isn't this also a method used by the Emperor to distinguish between friend and foe?
The Emperor gave everyone a chance.

The choice they make next is up to them.

I believe there will definitely be some people among them who, after what happened today, will not act recklessly again.

They will obey the government's administration and support the Maritime Trade Office.

This is one of the great achievements of the Emperor's summons.

This prevents those who still have some conscience and are redeemable from being taken down as well.

Of course, after this incident, if these merchants go back and still don't know what's good for them and continue to cause trouble...

Then, when his own father took action against these people, he felt it was more and more natural and justifiable.

They will have the upper hand in public opinion from all sides, and their advantages will be fully apparent.

"Father, brilliant!"

Zhu Biao gave Zhu Yuanzhang a thumbs-up.

Upon seeing Zhu Biao's reaction, Zhu Yuanzhang knew that he didn't need to explain; his son had already figured it out.

"Haha, that's for sure, your father must be tall."

It's several stories high.

Hahaha……"

Zhu Yuanzhang was in a great mood when his own boss gave him a thumbs-up.

Where is the image of the living Yama that the merchants had of him when he was at Tianjie Temple?

"Propaganda Envoy Luo?"

As they approached the palace, Zhu Yuanzhang turned back and looked at Luo Guanzhong, who was attending him not far away, squinting his eyes.

"The minister is here."

Luo Guanzhong immediately bowed respectfully.

At this point, Luo Guanzhong could be said to have completely transformed into the likeness of Zhu Yuanzhang.

What do you mean Zhu Yuanzhang was cruel? What do you mean Zhu Yuanzhang was a foolish and tyrannical ruler?

Why wouldn't they go even if it's Yingtian Dog?
At this point, Luo Guanzhong discarded them all.

Furthermore, they held it in utter contempt.

Even to the point of anger.

Anyone who speaks ill of the emperor like this should be killed!

The emperor was clearly the best and most virtuous ruler, a master of great talent and ambition.

A figure comparable to Emperor Gaozu of Han and Emperor Taizong of Tang.

They might even be able to surpass them.

It is truly infuriating that they have been so slandered by some wicked and despicable people.

Such wicked and despicable people deserve to be torn to pieces!

"Write down today's events in a statement and publish it in the next issue of the newspaper."

It should be published on the front page, and the circulation should be increased.

Besides the capital, we should distribute more to places like Songjiang, Hangzhou, and Suzhou.

"The minister obeys the order."

Upon hearing this, Luo Guanzhong perked up and immediately agreed.

It's time to put my talents to use, serve the emperor, and strive for the dream of the Ming Dynasty!

I have no other skills, only the pen in my hand is like a knife.

He slashed at those wicked people, one blade after another.

"Here, try this."

Zhu Yuanzhang looked at Luo Guanzhong and said with a smile.

Then he took out a small box about three or four inches long from his sleeve and handed it to Luo Guanzhong.

Luo Guanzhong was taken aback for a moment, then quickly declined, saying, "Your Majesty, I dare not accept this reward."

Zhu Yuanzhang said, "Just take what we've given you; it's not a big reward."

You'll see when you see it.

Upon hearing this, Luo Guanzhong no longer refused and accepted it with both hands.

Then open it.

Upon seeing what was inside the box, Luo Guanzhong felt a warmth in his heart.

This emperor is truly a good emperor, a wise and sage ruler!
They even noticed the issue of eye problems caused by their own small publicity campaign.

He even made himself a double-sided mirror.

The Ai-Dai mirror appeared as early as the Song Dynasty.

It's not surprising that Luo Guanzhong was able to recognize it.

However, at that time, most of the iris mirrors were held by hand.

Now, there are even glasses that can be worn on the bridge of the nose.

"I am deeply grateful for Your Majesty's concern."

It's just... it's just that I have an eye condition that's different from most people's.

This lousy mirror is of no use to me; in fact, it makes it even harder to see clearly.

Upon hearing Luo Guanzhong's words, Zhu Yuanzhang immediately understood what was going on.

After all, at this time, most people are experiencing blurred vision due to old age, also known as farsightedness.

There are nearsighted people like Luo Guanzhong, but they are not many.

Traditional glasses are designed for farsightedness, but not for nearsightedness.

That's why Luo Guanzhong said this.

"This one is different from that one. Luo Xuanxuan will know once he tries it on."

Upon hearing this, Luo Guanzhong suppressed some of his anticipation and curiosity.

Carefully take the mirror out of the box.

Then put it on your eyes.

"what?"

Looking into the distance, he exclaimed in surprise, his eyebrows practically flying up.

How could it be so clear?
The world is so bright!
He hadn't seen such a clear world for a very, very long time.

Looking down again, the notebook I carry with me has clear handwriting, each word coming into view.

You don't even need to squint and get close to see these words clearly.

She was both surprised and delighted, and couldn't help but shed tears.

Overwhelmed with emotion, he kowtowed to Zhu Yuanzhang.

"Your Majesty, I thank you for your great kindness!"

Zhu Yuanzhang was satisfied with Luo Guanzhong's reaction.

"Mr. Luo, please get up. It's just a small trinket."

"Your Majesty, this is no small trinket."

This is something that is the best and most precious thing to me.

Your Majesty, I kowtow in gratitude for Your Majesty's divine grace and kindness. I truly do not know how to repay Your Majesty's kindness.

From now on, I will serve Your Majesty with utmost loyalty and dedication.

"I'd repay you with my life."

Upon hearing Luo Guanzhong's words, Zhu Yuanzhang smiled and said, "We can't bear to let you die. You should work hard from now on."

The greatest reward for us is to write more good manuscripts and more good novels.

We are very satisfied.

Zhu Yuanzhang said to Luo Guanzhong with a smile.

Indeed, gift-giving is a complex art, requiring careful consideration of the specific needs of each individual.

For example, right now, he had the people from the Bureau of Military Strikes make him a nice pair of glasses, which immediately made Luo Guanzhong even more loyal to him.

Look at Luo Guanzhong, he was so moved he cried buckets, as if he would go through fire and water for me.

Zhu Yuanzhang was extremely satisfied.

Luo Guanzhong was a talented man. Even back then, Zhu Yuanzhang knew that Luo Guanzhong was very good at writing novels.

Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a true classic.

Some of the scenes in it are practically templates for wish-fulfillment novels.

Examples include slaying Hua Xiong while the wine was still warm, riding alone for a thousand miles, Zhao Zilong's seven charges in and out of Changban Slope, his debate with the Confucian scholars, and his solo journey to the banquet.

Just thinking about it makes my blood boil.

However, after appointing Luo Guanzhong as propaganda chief and putting him in charge of newspapers, Zhu Yuanzhang discovered that Luo was not only a good novelist.

His news writing is also exceptional.

No wonder he's a writer; he's just different.

In particular, I communicated with him about some things.

Following classic techniques commonly used in later news reporting, such as sensationalism and subtle writing, Luo Guanzhong further refined his skills in these areas.

It can be said that he is the most talented writer in the Ming Dynasty today.

Zhu Yuanzhang naturally wanted to treat such a talented person with great respect.

If I could get myself a pair of glasses, that would be perfect.

This not only solved a major problem for Luo Guanzhong, but also enabled him to write novels, news articles, and do things for himself in the future.

This is a win-win situation.

At the same time, Zhu Yuanzhang also decided that once glass is made, more development should be made in the field of eyeglasses.

Especially nearsighted glasses.

The glasses given to Luo Guanzhong today are made of pure crystal and cost quite a lot.

Once the glass is finished, we need to conduct more research on it to make better glasses for nearsightedness.

It can also allow people to open specialized eyewear stores.

Firstly, it would allow them to earn some money, and secondly, it would also help alleviate the suffering of those plagued by nearsightedness. With the increasing school enrollment rate, the number of nearsighted people in the Ming Dynasty would also rise.

It is still very necessary to develop and promote the use of eyeglasses for nearsightedness.

"By the way, how's your writing of Romance of the Three Kingdoms coming along?"

When will the manuscript be finished? I don't want it to affect the newspaper serialization.

Zhu Yuanzhang looked at Luo Guanzhong and asked him a question.

Now, with the continued publication of newspapers, Water Margin is already more than halfway through its serialization.

Based on the current pace and the remaining content, it will take about another six months before the series is completed.

For the sake of newspaper sales, and especially for the newspaper's influence.

Zhu Yuanzhang needed to pay close attention to this matter.

"Your Majesty, the manuscript is basically complete."

Apart from a few minor details that need some adjustments, there are no major problems.

It definitely won't be delayed; it will be serialized in the newspaper.

Hearing Luo Guanzhong's words, Zhu Yuanzhang was relieved, as long as the serialization wouldn't be delayed.

"We've also started printing your teacher's Water Margin, and we plan to bind it into a book in the future."

It will be sold in various bookstores later.

After deducting printing and operating costs, the remaining profits are split 50/50.

From now on, these royalties will be your responsibility.

That must be a decent income.

The Water Margin has now gained fame in newspapers and its circulation is quite widespread.

Its popularity has remained strong for a long time.

Every time the Daming Daily published a new issue of Water Margin, it would generate a lot of buzz.

Many people are talking about it.

This large area near the capital can be described in one sentence.

That is, wherever there is a well, people listen to the Water Margin.

Many storytellers seized the opportunity and began telling stories of Water Margin in crowded and lively places such as teahouses and taverns.

The stories of Wu Song fighting the tiger, Wang Po, Pan Jinlian, and Ximen Qing, as well as the fight and killing of Ximen Qing, the bloodshed at the Mandarin Duck Tower, and Feiyunpu, have all become popular topics of conversation.

Some even turned it into a variety show and performed it.

The popularity is very high.

Therefore, printing and selling Water Margin would definitely be a profitable venture.

Giving this money to Luo Guanzhong would also be a considerable income.

As for what to do with Lao Luo, whether he keeps it for himself or gives it all to his teacher's family.

Or they might keep some for themselves and give the rest to the teacher's family, then leave it to their own devices.

Upon hearing Zhu Yuanzhang's words, Luo Guanzhong smiled.

"On behalf of my teacher's family, I thank Your Majesty for your great kindness!"

"To have the opportunity to meet Your Majesty is truly the greatest fortune for me, and for my teacher and family."

Luo Guanzhong spoke these words with utmost sincerity, from the bottom of his heart.

Ever since Mr. Qingtian sent me a letter, and I made a decision that went against my ancestors' wishes to come to the capital.

My life suddenly became much better.

Not only did she exceed her teacher's last wish, but she also found the place that suited her best.

His own status also rose accordingly.

Now, wherever I am, who wouldn't respectfully call me Propaganda Envoy Luo?
Even the Prime Minister Hu Weiyong treated him with the same respect and never acted arrogantly.

Luo Guanzhong knew that this was partly because he was now deeply trusted by the emperor and was seen by many as a favorite of the emperor.

Another reason is the newspaper he is in charge of.

Its influence is growing.

Many people are afraid that when they publish a newspaper in the future, they will suddenly have to comment on someone.

Or you could write a simple, easy-to-understand short story and put it on.

Given the widespread circulation of newspapers these days, it would definitely become famous in a very short time.

And all of these were given to me by His Majesty.

Now Your Majesty is even going so far as to publish and sell novels for your own teacher.

In addition, royalties must be paid.

How could this not make him happy?

He decided on the spot that all the royalties from these books would go to his teacher's family.

The teacher's family lived a rather poor life.

Now that I have a legitimate job, I have enough money to live on.

Moreover, in about six months, my own Romance of the Three Kingdoms will be serialized in the newspaper.

With the example set by the teacher's Water Margin, I'm sure my own Romance of the Three Kingdoms will also be able to sell books and make money.

It won't make a difference if we wait a little longer.

Zhu Yuanzhang thought for a moment and said, "How about this, we'll start printing after the New Year."

They bound the Water Margin into books and began selling them.

We'll establish a new Great Ming Publishing House, and they'll be responsible for printing and distribution, under the jurisdiction of the Propaganda Department.

Cultural soft power is becoming increasingly prominent.

In addition to news, the government should also take the initiative to produce and sell some positive and uplifting novels and anthologies.

There are official standards for this.

Doing so also has many positive implications.

Luo Guanzhong accepted the imperial decree and expressed his gratitude.

Zhu Yuanzhang further stated: "From now on, all bookstores must sell the official version of Water Margin and are not allowed to print and sell it privately."

Those who print and sell these materials without authorization will have their illegal income confiscated.

The severity of the offense must be considered when determining the punishment.

Private publishers who wish to print and sell their products must consult with Guo Daming Publishing House and obtain authorization before they can do so.

Furthermore, appropriate payments must be made to Daming Publishing House and the original author.

We must raise awareness of intellectual property rights protection.

Otherwise, the hard work of authors would be wasted on selling their books.

These people made a fortune, but the author didn't get a single penny of it.

That is clearly unreasonable.

It is detrimental to the author's enthusiasm for writing.

Of course, this is also for the purpose of effectively managing what is published and distributed.

Besides these, it was also a trial run by Zhu Yuanzhang to promote some inventions in the future and to stimulate the enthusiasm and creativity of inventors.

Under his active promotion, the Ming Dynasty will inevitably embark on a different path in the future.

Various scientific inventions will inevitably emerge in greater numbers.

And put it into practical use.

In this situation, intellectual property rights must be protected, and inventors should be rewarded accordingly.

This will motivate people and create a virtuous cycle.

This will create a favorable environment for inventions and innovations in the Ming Dynasty.

Luo Guanzhong agreed, then looked at Zhu Yuanzhang with some hesitation and said:

"Your Majesty, only a little over half of the Water Margin has been serialized."

"Isn't it...a bit too early to start printing and selling the book now?"

Zhu Yuanzhang laughed upon hearing this; Luo Guanzhong was indeed an honest man.
He immediately said, "Propaganda Envoy Luo, some things are best done when they are still popular."

Moreover, there's no need for us to publish an entire book.

We can divide Water Margin into two parts.

The first half will be printed first, followed by the second half.

Why not just print them separately?

Selling it in two parts has many advantages. On the one hand, it allows you to take advantage of the hype and sell a portion of it first.

On the other hand, if the first half of the book doesn't sell well, then the second half can be skipped or printed in smaller quantities.

Sunk costs are reduced significantly all at once.

Ok? !

It is divided into two parts.

Luo Guanzhong's eyes lit up immediately upon hearing Zhu Yuanzhang's words.

It has to be His Majesty!

It's just extraordinary.

Everything comes in sets.

That's truly a brilliant idea!
Your Majesty is truly a master at making money.

Business genius!

He can handle all sorts of things with ease; he truly lives up to his reputation as His Majesty!

Is someone who has begged for food and been a monk really that powerful?
Luo Guanzhong's admiration for Zhu Yuanzhang was as boundless as a flowing river.

At the same time, I became even more convinced of the saying that successful people often achieve success in many other areas as well.

For example, even if Your Majesty had not become emperor, based on all the things he has done, you would still have distinguished yourself in other fields.

At least they won't be troubled by poverty.

This money-making ability is simply amazing.

One brilliant idea after another is popping up.

After explaining these matters to Luo Guanzhong, Zhu Yuanzhang returned to the palace.

Luo Guanzhong suppressed his excitement and rushed back to the Propaganda Department.

He sat in his duty room and began to write.

My thoughts flowed freely, and my writing was as if divinely inspired.

Beautiful characters leap off the page...

……

After Zhu Yuanzhang returned to the Wuying Hall, he quickly summoned Prime Minister Hu Weiyong.

It discussed some aspects of the establishment of the Maritime Trade Office.

He gave Hu Weiyong some specific instructions to carry out.

In certain necessary matters, the establishment of the Maritime Trade Office should be facilitated.

Keep everything simple and process it quickly.

Hu Weiyong naturally agreed to each of them.

He already knew about the things the emperor had done at the Heavenly Temple that day.

While being shocked by the emperor's powerful methods, they felt that he truly deserved to be called emperor.

I'm increasingly looking forward to what will happen next.

The emperor met with these people at the Heavenly Realm Temple.

It appears to be dominating the battlefield, giving off an aura of power and prestige.

However, based on his understanding of these merchants...

This matter will definitely not end so easily.

These businessmen will not sit idly by and wait for their doom.

They will definitely retaliate using various means.

If the emperor thinks that victory is now assured, he is sorely mistaken.

In short, the more chaotic, the better.

He wanted to see the emperor suffer a setback.

Ideally, the emperor should be thoroughly humiliated and lose all face.

It's interesting that even the Maritime Trade Office couldn't implement it.

Imagine how good Zhu Yuanzhang must have felt back then, being such an inhuman emperor who constantly harmed him.

"Prime Minister Hu, the end of the year is approaching. How are the performance evaluations for the Secretariat and the various ministries going?"

After discussing some matters concerning the Maritime Trade Office, Zhu Yuanzhang looked at Hu Weiyong and asked him a question.

The performance evaluation system is one that he strongly advocated for this year.

It was targeted at officials in the capital and several prefectures near the capital.

This is an important means of ensuring officials are diligent in their duties and for evaluating their performance.

It's impossible to simply give the order and then ignore it.

This must be implemented.

We will continue to improve it, promote it widely, and eventually develop it into a customized product...

(End of this chapter)