Di Ming

Chapter 271 Qingchen Medical College!
Looking at the warehouse full of gold and silver, Zhu Yin rubbed his hands excitedly and said to Ning Qingchen:

“We’ve become incredibly wealthy in just a few years. It’s not safe to keep so much gold and silver in Beijing. What if we need to flee someday? Where would we take it in such a hurry? It would be best to transport it to an overseas island. Sigh, having too much money is a real problem.”

He thought that if Emperor Baijin knew he had so much gold and silver, he would probably start plotting something wicked again. Zhu Di's descendants all liked to confiscate property and put it into the imperial treasury, especially Emperor Baijin.

Ning Qingchen chuckled and said in a soft, cute voice:
"Does transporting them to the island guarantee safety? Are we really guaranteed to defend the island? Didn't you say the West was going to organize a naval crusade to retaliate against the Jinghai Navy in Southeast Asia? What if we can't stop them? Won't we just have to run away?"

"Furthermore, do you think we have a lot of money? My sister said that in Beijing alone, there are countless families with total assets of several million. Not counting the royal family, there are several families in the capital with assets of tens of millions, such as the Duke of Dingguo, the Duke of Yingguo, and the Duke of Chengguo. Which of them does not have more than tens of millions in assets?"

"Heh. Our assets wouldn't even rank in the top twenty in Beijing. If you looked at the whole country, we wouldn't even be in the top hundred. Which prince isn't much richer than us? You can count how many princes there are in the Ming Dynasty. There are also the top merchants from the four major merchant groups of Shanxi, Shaanxi, Anhui, and Zhejiang, and those aristocratic families who have served as officials for generations. Who isn't richer than us?"

Zhu Yin thought about it and agreed. Putting everything else aside, just consider the Xu family. They owned 150,000 mu of fertile land in Songjiang Prefecture alone, which alone was worth over a million taels of silver. The Xu family also had thousands of looms, tens of thousands of mu of mulberry orchards, and shops all over Jiangnan. They were indeed much wealthier than the Zhu family.

Ning Qingchen laughed and said, "Little Tiger, you really have a narrow mind. Is this what you call being rich? You can't even call yourself a super-rich person unless you're on the top ten richest list in the country?"

"Although my sister is very good at making money, she has only been around for a short time and her foundation is still shallow. If she wants to achieve the goal of becoming the richest woman in the Ming Dynasty, she will need to work hard for at least seven or eight years."

"My sister said that once the silver in this vault exceeds one million taels, a portion will be transported back to Nanjing, and another portion will be transported to the island and stored separately."

Compared to Zhu Yin, Ning Qingchen was even less interested in money.

"Let's go, little tiger, let's go see Li Shizhen. I only forced others to stay for a few months because of you."

……

The central courtyard and western garden is the most exquisite independent guest courtyard in the Zhu family mansion, covering an area of ​​five acres, and is used to entertain distinguished guests.

Today, Xiyuan is home to Li Shizhen, Wan Quan, Xu Chunfu, and Gong Tingxian, four of the most famous doctors in the world, as well as their dozen or so outstanding disciples.

About twenty people lived in this beautiful courtyard complete with pavilions and towers. Each person was treated to fine wine and delicacies, and there were even Zhu family servants to serve them. However, they were not happy at all.

They had been invited here for half a year, and for the first three months they were in high spirits. They discussed medicine with the little girl, who seemed to be the reincarnation of a medicine goddess, every day. They were greatly inspired and gained a lot of insights, almost as if they had attained enlightenment again. For a time, they were completely absorbed in their studies and vaguely discovered another door to the path of medicine.

But the last three months were very difficult.

Because Ning Qingchen wouldn't let them leave, he actually placed all twenty of them, master and disciples, under house arrest in the Zhu family mansion!
They had lost their freedom; though nominally honored guests, they were in reality prisoners. They were confined to the Zhu residence, guarded by Zhu family servants at both the main and back gates, forbidden from leaving the mansion even a step.

Slowly, they ran out of patience.

They were grateful to Ning Qingchen, even somewhat admiring her, because it was this little girl who had inspired them. Yet, they also harbored resentment towards the little girl who claimed to be the reincarnation of the Medicine God.

However, seeing that they could not leave for a long time, they did not waste their time. Instead, they sat and discussed medical techniques every day. With Ning Qingchen's inspiration and guidance, they combined their own knowledge, verified each other, and integrated their understanding. Surprisingly, they made great progress.

At this very moment, tea is being brewed under the grapevines in the courtyard, surrounded by doctors under house arrest. The white-haired Li Shizhen is speaking eloquently:

“As Dr. Ning said before, there are five elements within the five elements, which can be called cells and molecules. Within yin and yang, there are yin and yang, which can be called atoms and ions. They are so small that they cannot be observed, just like pure qi filling the space between heaven and earth, but cannot be seen with the naked eye.”

She refers to Yin and Yang and the Five Elements as macroscopic Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, and microscopic Yin and Yang and the Five Elements. What ordinary people can see, recognize, and know is macroscopic Yin and Yang and the Five Elements. What ordinary people cannot see, recognize, and know is microscopic Yin and Yang and the Five Elements.

"This macro and micro perspective is quite novel, yet also apt and accurate."

"The macro and micro perspectives must be combined; neither can be omitted. Only then can the Yin-Yang and Five Elements be complete, and the way of Yin-Yang and Five Elements be unbiased. In this way, Taiji is perfect, and that is Taiji."

"I wholeheartedly agree. Let me ask you all, medicine is based on Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, which is the source of pharmacology and pathology. If that is the case, how can we only focus on the macroscopic Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, while ignoring the microscopic Yin and Yang and the Five Elements?"

"Medicine can cure diseases by first reaching the microscopic level and then the macroscopic level, just as there is dust before there is Mount Tai. The same is true for the causes of disease; the causes of disease also have microscopic molecules of the five elements and microscopic atoms of yin and yang."

At this point, he pressed his hand down, "Therefore, for us doctors, it is not enough to only know the macroscopic medical principles and macroscopic pathology. We must also know the microscopic to avoid bias in the medical path and achieve perfect harmony. Many diseases in the world are difficult to cure because doctors do not know the way of the microscopic."

"Throughout history, the macroscopic principles of medicine have been profound and ever-evolving, a testament to the passing down of knowledge from generation to generation. However, the microscopic principles of medicine have been discussed in general terms, often in a broad and generalized manner, making it difficult to grasp their mysteries. If we could gain a glimpse into their secrets, the world of medicine would surely be transformed and renewed."

"It seems that my 'Compendium of Materia Medica' really needs to be revised significantly. Fortunately, it has not been published yet. Many of the previous medical cases also need to be re-examined to avoid misleading students."

Xu Chunfu nodded and said:

“That’s exactly right. In the words of that little divine doctor Ning, we only know the macroscopic way of medicine, but not the microscopic way of medicine. People praise us as great doctors, but we don’t understand the microscopic Yin and Yang, or the microscopic Five Elements. We’ve never even heard of the concepts of molecules and atoms before. How ashamed we are!”

"We hope that Physician Ning can lift the house arrest and release us as soon as possible so that we can take advantage of our twilight years to spread and teach the theory of microscopic medicine. Alas, I cannot wait even a day longer."

Wan Quan nodded and said, "The theories of micro and macro seem to be different paths, but in fact they are a unified whole. Both are the origin of birth, aging, sickness and death. The best doctors treat diseases before they occur, not only by adhering to the four seasons for health preservation, but also by referring to the innate numbers. In case of acute illness, they save those in critical condition and support the body's vital energy. The ultimate goal of medicine may be the unity of the macro and micro, and then the treatment of both body and mind."

Gong Tingxian continued, "According to what the young physician Ning said, the profound mysteries of medicine cannot be fully described by Yin and Yang alone, nor can they be fully explored by observation, auscultation, inquiry, and palpation. We have truly underestimated the surgical techniques she emphasizes; they are far more than just external procedures."

"For example, the meridians in the human body flow like rivers across the land, and the circulation of Qi and blood corresponds to the movement of the stars. By studying both, one can understand the subtle workings of the five internal organs. If a physician understands the minute details of cells and molecules, and the trajectory of the five elements' evolution, he can reach the highest realm of medicine. He can see the microscopic as molecules and the macroscopic as the internal organs, which is no different from the unity of heaven and man..."

The four disciples listened intently, nodding repeatedly, and occasionally one disciple would offer their own insights.

Previously, Ning Qingchen had given a speech and even cured a disease that the four famous doctors had been struggling with using miraculous medicine. He claimed to be the reincarnation of the Medicine Buddha Bodhisattva.

At first, the masters naturally didn't believe it. But she could cure illnesses, and her words were always thought-provoking, enlightening and enlightening, like a sudden awakening.

The more they thought about it, the more they felt that the little girl's words contained profound wisdom and great mystery.

During this period, they listened to the four great doctors discuss their theories every day, and the more they talked, the clearer it became. Today, they finally achieved a comprehensive understanding and a completely new perspective.

It turns out that their previous medical training only focused on the macroscopic Yin-Yang and Five Elements theory, unaware of the microscopic Yin-Yang and Five Elements theory. This was a major flaw. Even if they cured the disease, they often only knew the symptoms, not the underlying reasons.

Yin and Yang and the Five Elements are not generalized, but rather there are smaller parts within the larger ones, and even smaller parts within the smaller ones, progressing layer by layer, with a clear pattern to follow.

If you only know the macroscopic level but not the microscopic level, you won't be able to find this pattern.

Li Shizhen became increasingly pleased as he spoke, but then suddenly sighed and said:
"As the saying goes, 'Those who are accomplished are teachers.' Little Doctor Ning claims to be the reincarnation of the Medicine Buddha Bodhisattva. She also said that a great lama from Tibet wanted to become her disciple, and that great doctors from the West and India also wanted to become her disciples, but she refused them all. Regardless of whether this is true or not, her medical skills are undeniable."

"Although she was young, she guided and inspired us, acting as a mentor to us. We should have been grateful and remembered her kindness for life. But instead, she imprisoned us for months, restricting our freedom..."

Just then, a cute, childlike voice suddenly said:
“If I hadn’t forced you to stay, you would have all gone home long ago. How could you have sat in my house and discussed these principles? Instead of thanking me, you complain about me. You are truly heartless.”

No sooner had the words left his mouth than a little girl, as round as a pink dumpling, appeared before him, accompanied by a boy in white.

This young man possessed outstanding looks and a refined, noble air, making him seem otherworldly. At first glance, he appeared somewhat childish, but upon closer inspection, he did not resemble a typical young man.

Everyone immediately recognized that this must be Zhu Yin, the world-renowned prodigy who had achieved the highest honors in the imperial examinations, also known as Zhu Lang of Jiangzuo or Mr. Zhihu.

Sure enough, the young man bowed with a beaming smile and said:
"This junior, Zhu Yin, greets all of you gentlemen. I am late, please forgive me!" As he spoke, he looked at Li Shizhen with a beaming smile, as if he were looking at a treasure.

Li Shizhen was seventy-five years old, with white hair and beard, a lean appearance, and a strong scholarly air. His deep, weathered eyes were full of stories accumulated over the years.

His desolate gaze was somewhat similar to Xu Wei's, except that Xu Wei's gaze was one of detachment from the world, while Li Shizhen's was one of compassion for the common people.

This is one of the most famous physicians in Chinese history. He brought together the best of medical knowledge from the Song and Yuan dynasties, not only saving countless patients but also writing the monumental work, "Compendium of Materia Medica".

Zhu Yin couldn't help but feel a deep respect, and he understood even more why Ning Qingchen insisted on keeping Li Shizhen in Beijing. Because historically, Li Shizhen was supposed to die the following year.

He died at the age of seventy-six, a rare longevity in ancient times. However, Li Shizhen's death was also closely related to his experiences in his later years. He could have lived much longer.

Li Shizhen, emulating Shennong, had a habit of personally tasting medicinal herbs. While tasting the poisonous herb *Gelsemium elegans*, he died from poisoning due to old age, weakened constitution, and poor immunity.

At this moment, Li Shizhen and the others stood up together, cupped their hands in greeting, and said, "This old man greets Mr. Zhihu!"

A group of disciples knelt down and said in unison, "This humble subject pays respects to Your Excellency!"

Although Zhu Yin was young, his status and position were such that no one dared to be disrespectful.

According to the laws of the Ming Dynasty, commoners were required to kneel before officials. Li Shizhen and others had all served as imperial physicians and thus held some official rank. Moreover, being elderly, they were exempt from kneeling before Zhu Yin.

"No need for formalities, please rise!" Zhu Yin quickly said. "You are all honored to have come all this way to my humble abode because of my invitation, but I have been ordered to go on a campaign in the Northwest and have been unable to meet you. I am ashamed! I am ashamed!"

“I only returned to the capital three days ago, but I went to the palace to discuss and receive my official appointments, which is why I am so late.”

As soon as Zhu Yin appeared, everyone's resentment vanished.

Ning Qingchen also took the opportunity to bow like a little adult, and said in a clear, childish voice:
"Qingchen apologizes to all of you gentlemen. It's not that I'm trying to force you to stay, but I simply can't bear to see you leave and want to wait until the patriarch returns to meet you."

Everyone bowed to Ning Qingchen, not daring to treat her with disrespect because of her youth. After all, Ning Qingchen had guided and inspired them, making her like a mentor.

Li Shizhen thought to himself, "The main character has finally arrived," and stroked his beard, smiling as he said:
"I have finally met Mr. Zhihu today. As a minister of the state, Mr. Zhihu should naturally prioritize his official duties. We are just country folk, so there is no need for us to worry about us. However... we have been a bother to your residence for half a year, and have provided you with countless expenses. We are truly unworthy of your hospitality. Please allow us to leave, Mr. Zhihu."

"To be honest, the reason I am so eager to return home is to revise the Compendium of Materia Medica and the medical records from over the years. My days are numbered, and time waits for no one. If I do not return to Qizhou soon, I fear I will regret it."

Wan Quan, Xu Chunfu, and others shared the same idea.

"Very well, very well. We have been staying at your residence for half a year now, and we have caused you great trouble. We must take our leave today."

Seeing that everyone was eager to return home, Zhu Yin was not in a hurry. He invited everyone to sit down, personally poured tea for the four renowned old doctors, and got straight to the point:

"I have long admired the reputation of you all as medical masters and hold you in the highest esteem. That is why I invited you to the capital as guests. How could I dare to be disrespectful? Qingchen was unaware of the gravity of the situation. I apologize on her behalf."

Li Shizhen chuckled and said, "Mr. Zhihu, you flatter me. The young physician Ning did not neglect us at all; on the contrary, he treated us with great hospitality. It's just that we are not fortunate enough to enjoy it all the time."

Zhu Yin said, "Qingchen has shared her knowledge with you all regarding medicine, and she has benefited greatly. However, some of her views are just the tip of the iceberg, and I believe they will also offer some inspiration to you all."

"My wife's younger sister was born able to speak. She knew medicine at the age of three and was familiar with all kinds of herbs by the age of five, as if she were a gift from God. Perhaps she is truly the reincarnation of the God of Medicine."

"She plans to first establish a medical academy, located in Beijing, to recruit 500 talented young people each year who are dedicated to healing the sick and saving lives. They will be divided into several departments to study medicine at the academy. And you gentlemen will be the professors of this medical academy."

"In this way, you can use this medical academy as your training ground to spread knowledge, teach skills, integrate the strengths of various schools, promote new medical theories, break down sectarian prejudices, and bring together the great achievements of Chinese medicine. The people of the world will also suffer less from disease and be spared much pain."

"This is true medical ethics and benevolence. Isn't training so many students more beneficial to the world than teaching a few apprentices?"

"As long as the medical skills of the Ming Dynasty reach a higher level, in a few years, the people of the world will be able to live longer. The saying that seventy years is a rare age may be rewritten."

"I will take care of all the funding for building the Medical Academy. I am willing to contribute 20,000 taels of silver annually to cover the academy's expenses."

What a magnificent spirit! Li Shizhen and the others were deeply shocked upon hearing this.

This fifteen-year-old boy, Mr. Zhihu, actually wants to increase the average lifespan of all people in the world!

Even though they themselves are all highly skilled doctors who have saved countless lives, they couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence at this moment.

It is said that Mr. Zhihu is the reincarnation of a star deity, an auspicious omen for the Ming Dynasty, and many places have built shrines in his honor.

Now it seems, he is indeed extraordinary. Putting aside his innate intelligence and extraordinary talent, his benevolence alone is admirable.

As an official, he didn't have to do that. Nor would any official want to do it.

But he's going to do it!
"Mr. Zhihu truly has the heart of a sage," Li Shizhen said with admiration. "Mr. Zhihu is of noble character and compassion for humanity, which I am ashamed to admit. I originally thought that writing a book would benefit the world, but I never thought of establishing a medical academy to pass on all the knowledge I have gained in my life."

"If I still disagree, then I will be letting down Mr. Zhihu's good intentions. If Mr. Zhihu does not mind, I am willing to teach at this medical academy."

Wan Quan, Xu Chunfu, and Gong Tingxian all spoke with deep respect:
"I am also willing to teach at the Medical Academy."

Zhu Yin immediately stood up, clasped his hands in a salute, and said:
"With the help of you gentlemen, how can we worry about the prosperity of Chinese medicine! The success or failure of the Medical Academy rests in your hands. Please accept my deepest bow!"

Li Shizhen said, "Recruiting five hundred medical students every year is definitely too much for just a few of us. We are willing to recommend renowned doctors from all over the country to teach at the Medical Academy. With such concerted efforts, we can achieve great things."

Zhu Yin was overjoyed. "What you say makes sense, sir. That's how it should be! If dozens of famous doctors could teach at the academy together, it would be a great event for the medical profession of our nation."

"I will certainly not treat you all unfairly. Your salary will start at ten taels per month, so that you will not have to worry about food and clothing."

Li Shizhen and others were somewhat moved. A monthly salary starting at ten taels of silver was the equivalent of a fifth-rank official's salary in the imperial court. This treatment was truly generous.

Wan Quan asked, "Mr. Zhihu, may I ask what the name of this Medical Academy is? We need a name for the letter we write to recommend famous doctors."

Zhu Yin smiled and said, "The Medical Academy will be called Qingchen Medical Academy! Ning Qingchen is the first founding dean, and you all are the founding elders!"

Upon hearing "Qingchen Medical College," Ning Qingchen, who was standing nearby, immediately beamed with a sweet smile.

It's all set!

At the tender age of six, she will become the founding dean of the Qingchen Medical College, which is named after herself!
Finally, we have our own platform!
P.S.: The name of this medical school is definitely controversial. However, medical schools are privately owned and have no connection with the imperial court, so they certainly can't call themselves the "Great Ming Medical School," otherwise the censors would definitely impeach them. That's all for now, Li Shizhen. Goodnight, thank you.

(End of this chapter)