Da Ming: Father, step aside, I'll be the prime minister!

Chapter 182 His Majesty the Emperor Arrives at Xishan! The "Profound Planning" of the Huizhou Merchants?
Logically speaking, when the emperor personally visits, no matter how prominent the minister is, they should kneel in obeisance.

But this brat Zhang Yunxiu doesn't even want to kneel? That's utterly outrageous!
Feng Bao, who was standing to the side, immediately turned cold.

"Zhang Tongzhi! How dare you! Why do you refuse to bow before the Emperor?"

Feng Bao's words appeared harsh, but he was actually reminding Zhang Yunxiu that it was not a wise move to throw a tantrum at the emperor.

"Don't block the way!"

But Emperor Wanli waved his hand and pushed aside Feng Bao, who was blocking his way, seemingly not caring at all.

"Your Majesty, what is this?" Feng Bao was taken aback.

Having worked in the inner court for so many years, this is the first time I've ever been pushed aside by the emperor!
But Emperor Wanli ignored him completely, and staggered toward Zhang Yunxiu, laughing loudly as he spoke.

"Hahaha! Shiyuan, Shiyuan! You are truly my most trusted and capable minister!"

When Zhang Yunxiu looked up, he saw a fat man in a dragon robe stumbling and rushing towards him. Anyone who didn't know better would think it was a horror movie.

Suppressing the urge to kick the other person, he twisted his mouth and put on his best acting skills.

"Your Majesty, my heart is filled with bitterness."

Before our eyes, it became another story of harmonious coexistence between ruler and subject.

Unexpectedly, Emperor Wanli was too weak and had not moved around for a long time. He tripped over his own feet and fell straight down.

"Be careful, Your Majesty!"

Feng Bao let out a high-pitched scream, but it was already too late.

Fortunately, Zhang Yunxiu reacted quickly and stepped forward to support him. However, his hand suddenly became heavy, and he almost failed to support the emperor's body.

Fourth Brother Zhang Jianxiu, with his agile movements, stepped forward and lent a helping hand, thus ensuring the emperor's safety.

"You have rendered meritorious service in protecting me, my dear minister."

Despite being in such a sorry state, Emperor Wanli couldn't help but utter a word of praise, squinting his eyes as he complimented her.

"Shiyuan is truly my wise strategist and decisive minister!"

Seeing that things had escalated to this point, Zhang Yunxiu naturally wouldn't be stubborn anymore and quickly said respectfully.

"I deserve to die a thousand deaths! Your Majesty was nearly subjected to an undeserved calamity!"

"It's alright, it's alright~"

Emperor Wanli was in high spirits when he was happy, and his face was still radiant. He couldn't muster any anger.

He said with emotion, holding his back.

"I granted you the right to not kneel before me before my audience, wasn't it because of our childhood friendship? Why are you being so distant today?"

Zhang Yunxiu looked speechless. Ever since the emperor granted this privilege, he had never been summoned again, and it seemed that even Feng Bao was unaware of this matter.

Clearly, this fat emperor had indeed developed a grudge against him some time ago.

However, no matter how much doubt there was, the tens of thousands of taels of silver could dispel it all. Now, Emperor Wanli regarded him as even closer than a brother.

Zhang Yunxiu cupped his hands and said, "Your Majesty, please forgive me. In the past, there were many disputes in Xishan. I dared not fail Your Majesty's expectations, but I was also very uneasy."

"Hahaha~ It has nothing to do with Xishan. Am I the kind of person who covets money?"

Emperor Wanli clutched his stomach and let out a dry laugh. Then, noticing the implication in Zhang Yunxiu's words, he narrowed his eyes and asked.

"How is the Western Hills doing these days? I am not worried about the money. If you need money, my dear minister, just let me know. What I am worried about is the livelihood of the tens of thousands of displaced people in the Western Hills."
Alas! Whenever I think of the refugees in Xishan suffering from hunger and thirst, my heart aches as if it were being torn apart.

Zhang Yunxiu was speechless. Zhu Yijun lacked political acumen, but his acting skills were exactly like his grandfather's.

But he still smiled and said it.

"Please rest assured, Your Majesty. As for the Xishan workshop, the rumors outside are not to be believed, nor is your opinion. I urge Your Majesty to accompany me to Xishan to investigate for yourself. What you see with your own eyes cannot be faked."

Emperor Wanli's eyes lit up and he said, "That's exactly what I was thinking!"

As the largest shareholder of Xishan Workshop, I finally have the opportunity to visit the site today and inspect all the construction work in Xishan.

Led by agents of the Embroidered Uniform Guard and the Eastern Depot, the group entered the Western Hills in a grand procession.

Emperor Wanli and Zhang Yunxiu each rode a horse, walking slowly between the various workshops in the Western Hills.

Zhang Yunxiu would occasionally glance at the horse beneath the emperor, feeling a pang of sympathy in his heart.

Upon entering Xishan, Emperor Wanli looked around from horseback like a curious child.

My eyes were first drawn to the workers' dormitories with their rows of blue tiles, then to the aroma of food wafting from the canteen that made my mouth water, and finally to the bathhouse built of blue bricks.

The emperor couldn't help but ask, "Does this bathhouse really have hot water?"

"Your Majesty, there is coal in Xishan, and boiling water is supplied daily," Zhang Yunxiu replied.

"Good! Good!" Emperor Wanli patted the saddle repeatedly, his mood becoming more and more cheerful as the Western Hills looked better. "Feng Banban, look at these Western Hills, they are even more orderly than those in the capital."

Feng Bao lowered his head and said meekly, "Zhang Tongzhi has a unique talent, and naturally he is not as the rumors outside suggest."

Emperor Wanli could no longer suppress his doubts and looked at Zhang Yunxiu.

"Shiyuan, I've heard that your Xishan workshop can produce over four million catties of briquettes per month. Is that true?"

coming?

Knowing that the Wanli Emperor was coming, Zhang Yunxiu had already prepared his response.

Zhu Yijun couldn't understand account books, and given the emperor's physique, it was questionable whether he could even climb into a coal mine.

So Zhang Yunxiu simply cupped his hands and said.

"Your Majesty, please visit Liulichang and you will be able to find out more!"

Liulichang?

Zhu Yijun looked puzzled.

Inside Liulichang in Xishan.

When the emperor and his entourage entered the workshop, they saw a large basin of water already set up in the courtyard, along with the "dragon sucking water" device.

Having already heard Zhang Yunxiu's explanation on the way, Emperor Wanli's heart warmed upon seeing this object again.

He stepped forward and stroked the "dragon head," unable to resist asking a question.

"This item can solve the problem of water seepage in the Western Hills?"

Zhang Yunxiu smiled and said, "Your Majesty, this product can not only solve the problem of water seepage in the Western Mountains, but if it can be promoted throughout the country, it can also enable drought-stricken areas to draw water from the ground to solve the problem of water shortage in drought years!"

"Could it really solve the drought problem?"

Emperor Wanli stared wide-eyed, somewhat incredulous.

Drought is a major issue. The Ming Dynasty relied on agriculture, and drought led to crop failure, a surge in the number of disaster victims, and eventually, a wave of refugees. Such cases were commonplace.

But now, Zhang Yunxiu says that this thing can not only pump water, but also relieve drought.

It's really hard to believe.

"Please wait a moment, Your Majesty."

Zhang Yunxiu didn't waste any words. He summoned Zhao Shizhen and instructed him to demonstrate to the emperor.

Zhao Shizhen had poor mental fortitude; his hands and feet trembled whenever he saw the emperor.

But he still gritted his teeth and went forward to operate the "dragon sucking water" device.

Perhaps due to his nervousness, Zhao Shizhen tried several times, but the "dragon sucking water" technique did not react at all.

No, that's not how it is.

He was covered in sweat, and his performance was nothing short of disastrous.

Fourth Brother Zhang Jianxiu couldn't stand it anymore. He stepped forward in a few steps, took the dragon head handle, and said, "I'll use the strength, you tell me how to use this thing."

With Zhang Jianxiu's help, Zhao Shizhen's tension gradually eased.

He finally understood why he couldn't survive in the officialdom.

A ladle of water was poured into the tap.

"Please press down, sir."

With Zhao Shizhen's guidance, Zhang Jianxiu gradually mastered the knack.

Not long after, with a "whoosh" sound, clear water actually flowed out of the faucet!

Emperor Wanli's eyes widened. He turned his head to look at the basin, where the water level had dropped.

Such a miraculous method was presented right before our eyes.

Unable to contain his excitement, the Wanli Emperor couldn't help but ask.

"Shiyuan! Is this not a miracle? Nor is it sorcery?"

"Of course not."

Zhang Yunxiu said with a smile.

“Your Majesty saw it with your own eyes, how could it be faked? If Your Majesty still doesn’t believe it, you can try it yourself.”

Emperor Wanli was an extremely curious person. Upon hearing this, he rolled up his sleeves and stepped forward to try it out himself.

He had long been weakened by wine and women, but fortunately Zhang Jianxiu was there to help him. In no time, he actually managed to replicate what he had just done.

Seeing the clear water flowing out, Emperor Wanli's plump face relaxed, and he let out a hearty laugh.

"I have succeeded! I was actually able to pump water out. It wasn't some kind of sorcery, but rather..."

Zhang Yunxiu added, "It is science and technology."

"Yes, yes, yes! That's the science and technology!"

Emperor Wanli put down the handle, took a few steps and sat back down in the chair that Feng Bao had prepared for him, and let out a long breath.

"But I never expected that science and technology would have such miraculous effects. I was so grateful before..." His chubby face turned red.

Let's not talk about this anymore~

The emperor was now extremely grateful that he had not used force to compel Zhang Yunxiu to close the Xishan workshop.

Seizing the opportunity, Zhang Yunxiu continued, "Your Majesty, it's not just the power of this pump; the miraculous medicines like garlic extract developed by the Renmin Medical Hall in the past also relied on scientific principles. Your Majesty must not underestimate the importance of these scientific principles!"

"science?"

Emperor Wanli stared wide-eyed.

He couldn't help but think of the miracle that had occurred a few months ago in the "petri dish" he had secretly cultivated in the Qianqing Palace!
The Staphylococcus bacteria that were cultured are still being kept by special people in the palace, and Emperor Wanli would often go to check on them.

Now, the method of "dragon sucking water" is being used again.

It's all because of science!
But what exactly is science?

Emperor Wanli didn't quite understand, but he did understand one thing: science could truly save lives, truly solve problems, and especially make money!
After thinking for a moment, he looked at the "dragon sucking water" device and couldn't help but ask.

"Shiyuan, your dragon-absorbing water technique is excellent, and scientifically sound, but what if others learn it?"

The emperor's unspoken message was that this thing looked simple, and if others learned it so easily, wouldn't all his efforts be in vain, and he wouldn't earn any money either?

"Your Majesty is unaware," Zhang Yunxiu said with a smile, shaking his head. "I would even beg them to come and learn."

"What do you mean?"

The Wanli Emperor was somewhat wary.

Zhang Yunxiu explained, "This dragon sucking water seems miraculous, but as long as I know the reason, study the underlying logic, and master the methodology, I will be able to succeed in everything and create more and better machines."

What's the point of clinging to a divine artifact?

He paused for a moment before continuing his analysis.

"This dragon-shaped water-drawing device has a wide range of uses. I have never thought of keeping it for myself. I even thought of having the court promote it throughout the country. At that time, well-digging and water-drawing in various places will be much more efficient and will benefit countless people."

These words silenced not only the emperor, but also the eunuchs and imperial guards who were following him.

Perspective! What is perspective?

Zhao Shizhen was even more stunned, and his gaze toward Zhang Yunxiu became even more reverent.

Is this my mentor?

He was not preoccupied with his own selfish interests, but rather put the public good first. His virtue was comparable to that of great Confucian scholars of ancient times!

Emperor Wanli let out a heavy sigh and looked at Zhang Yunxiu.

"Shiyuan! I was right about you!"

"Your Majesty need not worry."

Zhang Yunxiu saw it clearly and reminded him again.

"If we adhere to the scientific method, making money will be a piece of cake."

"Shiyuan, do you still have a way?"

Emperor Wanli truly believed that the other party was a treasure trove, capable of producing anything.

Zhang Yunxiu gestured to Zhao Shizhen and said.

"Disciple, quickly bring out our new seven-colored crystal glass and present it to His Majesty!"

Inside a side room of Dongsi Archway.

The sun was still high in the sky, but inside, people were already clinking glasses and exchanging toasts.

The merchants, dressed in fine silks and satins, each had one or two girls accompanying them while they drank. After a few rounds of drinks, the atmosphere gradually became lively.

"This cup is a toast to Minister Xu! If it weren't for Minister Xu's mediation, how could we have recovered half of the silver from the Xishan workshop?"

Wang Shishun, slightly tipsy, stood up and addressed Xu Guo, who was in the main seat.

"It's alright, it's alright~"

Xu Guo was all smiles, a far cry from the tearful, widowed old man he had been in court just a few days ago.

He downed a glass of wine.

“Zhang Shiyuan is used to bullying people. He used to be the same at Renmin Medical Hall. He always thought of giving money to ordinary people, but he would squeeze money out of us.”

But he didn't consider that ordinary people are hard to please; if you do them a favor, they will turn their backs on you.

The world still depends on us, the gentry.

It doesn't matter. Zhang Shiyuan is still young. After he has stumbled, he will naturally realize his mistake.

Just you all see, Zhang Shiyuan will come looking for our help again in the future, and we'll still be able to earn that much money!

"Yeah!"

Wang Shishun also looked delighted.

“Zhang Tongzhi is not a bad person. He is exceptionally good at making money, but this time he has gone down the wrong path.”

This small punishment is meant to let them know that we Huizhou merchants are not to be trifled with.

Only through a back-and-forth exchange can both sides make money!

He slapped the table and said with a grin.

“I will make the decision here. If Magistrate Zhang is willing to cooperate with us again, I, Wang Shishun, will definitely give my full support, no matter how much money it costs. However, we must not touch the Xishan Coal Mine.”

In an instant, the room became lively.

The Hui merchants still held a fairly good impression of Zhang Yunxiu.

However, seeing the huge deficit in Xishan Workshop and Zhang Yunxiu's obstinacy, they had no choice but to resort to this desperate measure.

They were also dissatisfied with Zhang Yunxiu's consistent suppression of them and his complete exclusion of them from the business operations.

"That's what a drunken merchant said."

“It’s fine if Magistrate Zhang wants money, but we can’t act like we used to, always subservient to others. We need to stand up for ourselves and have a say in business!”

These words resonated with everyone.

Even Xu Guo raised his glass and said, "That makes sense! That's how it should be done! Please rest assured, everyone, I will speak to the Prime Minister myself. I believe the Zhang father and son are both intelligent men and will naturally assess the situation."

"Cheers~"

For a time, the Hui merchants were in high spirits, their eyes filled with a bright future.

"Sir~"

Just as Xu Guo and the Hui merchants were drinking and exchanging toasts, a servant rushed in to request an audience.

Xu Guozheng, holding the beautiful woman in his arms, said with some displeasure.

"You ill-mannered brat! Who let you in! Can't you see I'm here?"

Before he could finish speaking, the servant hurriedly lowered his voice and reported.

"Your Excellency, this is extremely urgent! Vice Minister Yang of the Ministry of Revenue has written to you, saying that he must deliver it to you immediately!"

"Minister Yang~"

Xu Guo's expression relaxed as he took the letter and addressed the merchants present.

“He and I have a past relationship. I suppose the accounts of the Xishan workshop are out. I told him to inform me as soon as possible so that I can see how much Zhang Shiyuan has lost!”

"Hahahaha~"

The room was filled with a cheerful atmosphere. Wang Shishun, stroking his beard, pinched the girl's shoulder and said...

“Zhang Tongzhi should also bow his head. If things continue like this, the Xishan workshop will suffer more and more losses, and the hole will be difficult to fill.”

Many Hui merchants at the table also spoke.

"If you're short of money, we can borrow some on credit; it's a way of repaying evil with kindness."

"We are kind-hearted and naturally willing to assist Magistrate Zhang in some way."

"Zhang Tongzhi is still too young and impetuous; he really won't listen to advice."

The Huizhou merchants joked and turned their gaze to Xu Guo, whose paper had already been opened.

However, Xu Guo showed no sign of joy; his expression grew increasingly solemn, even turning somewhat ashen, revealing no trace of happiness.

Wang Shishun's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly stepped forward to ask.

"Minister Xu, how much did the Xishan workshop lose? Fifty thousand taels? Eighty thousand taels? Could it be one hundred and fifty thousand taels?"
This is troublesome.

Xu Guo completely ignored him, his eyes even turned red, and his hands were trembling.

"Impossible! Extinction is impossible! How could they possibly make money? How could they possibly make money? If they did, wouldn't I have withdrawn my shares for nothing!"

Wang Shishun looked puzzled: "What does Lord Xu mean by this?"

He couldn't resist any longer and, disregarding all manners, went over to take a look.

It was fine if I hadn't looked, but when I did, I was shocked.

"How could more than 100,000 taels of silver have come in!"

His sudden shout was like a blow to the head, striking Xu Guo squarely.

"Ah~"

Xu Guo let out a long howl and suddenly fell backward off the table.

"Master Xu!"

A series of panicked sounds came from inside the side room.

(End of this chapter)