Chapter 523: Boating on the River, Bidding Conference (4k)
Above the Wei River, the morning mist shrouded, like a huge gauze hanging between the sky and the earth. On the wide water, a small mountain-like iron-clad ship slowly sailed forward, its dark and cold metal shell shimmering in the mist.
Faintly visible, reflecting the faint skylight.
The ship's hull is majestic, its iron buildings are well-proportioned, its tall masts seem to pierce into the sky, and the observation deck at the top is surrounded by white water vapor, like a lonely floating island hanging in the sky.
Along the riverside, flocks of birds sensed the presence of some kind of natural enemy. They fled in panic and hid in the dense reeds, leaving only a series of rapid and panicked calls that echoed endlessly.
At this moment, a black light suddenly flashed across the sky, as fast as lightning. When it approached, it was clear that it was a goshawk with all black feathers and sharp eyes. It landed directly on a man in yellow on the observation platform.
On the arms of the boy in the robe.
The boy had a delicate face and lively eyes. He dexterously pulled out a volume of secret documents from the small metal tube tied to the goshawk's feet, then respectfully unfolded it and handed it to the old man waiting aside: "The head of the family should be Uncle Fifteen.
letters."
"Is this news about Li Ren? He plans to board the ship midway? Just arrange this little thing." The old man in yellow robe briefly glanced at it and nodded.
His face was extremely old, covered with traces of time, with criss-crossed wrinkles. What was even more eye-catching were the few black corpse spots, which silently told of his long years as a practitioner and the impending end of his life.
life.
At this time, there was a drizzle on the observation deck, and the raindrops brushed against the cold metal railings, making a crisp sound.
Seeing this, the boy quickly took out a butter paper umbrella from his side and opened it slightly to protect the old man from the wind and rain.
The old man closed his eyes and rested his mind. As he breathed out, there was a faint sound of thunder echoing. Although the sound came from only him, it seemed to resonate with the entire ship, causing the entire hull to tremble slightly.
, as if even the vitality between heaven and earth was pulled by it and turbulent.
Few people know that this old man in his twilight years is the current head of the Zheng family in Jiaodong County and the fourth uncle of Queen Zheng Xiu of the Qin Dynasty. He also single-handedly promoted the construction of the first iron-clad merchant ship, ushering in the era of the iron-clad fleet.
legend.
Although his cultivation talent is not very high, with the supply of countless overseas elixirs, he has not yet reached the top level of the Seventh Realm. Now his actual power has been squeezed by his descendants, and most of the time he just does some idle clouds and wild cranes.
General affairs, providing care for the elderly and the young, and taking care of the old age;
But whenever the family faces a major decision or crisis, everyone will invariably think of the helmsman who once led the family in the wind and waves, the sensational feats of his youth, and the decisions made by the old man himself that still guide the family to this day.
The family's strategy for moving forward.
"Give the order, activate the Li Shui Array with all your strength, operate the Echo Array, and speed up the voyage... Recently, the Great Qin Dynasty is at an extremely critical moment and is about to face a major challenge. Our Zheng family's fleet also needs to act more cautiously.
Don’t leave opportunities for others to take advantage of you.”
After meditating for a while, the old man's voice sounded again. The boy retreated in response, turned around and quickly flew down along the mast, arriving at the signaling platform on the side of the ship. He waved the yellow flag in his hand, and a series of crisp whistles cut through the morning fog.
The news spread throughout the entire giant ship.
As the order was issued, the crew members in the cabin quickly took action. They each performed their duties. Some climbed to the other mast at the stern to pass the message to the rest of the sailing ships. Some ran to the depths of the cabin to speak with real people.
Yuan adjusts the accuracy of the echo array to avoid all potential dangers.
Under the influence of the magic circle, the giant iron-clad ship cut through the waves and gradually accelerated. The water spray on both sides of the ship was cut at high speed, stirring up layers of white foam. The morning fog that originally shrouded the surroundings was also torn into pieces by this sudden force.
Revealing a broader river surface and blurry mountain shadows in the distance.
…
Almost at the same time, thousands of miles away, on the sparkling river, Zhao Qing and Xia Mi took a pottery boat and slowly sailed in from the water gate south of Ying, the capital of Chu.
The reason why it was a pottery ship instead of Zhao Qing's favorite ice boat was actually because she heard Zhao Yi and Zhao Si tentatively broadcast some experiences in using real fire to refine sword bodies early in the morning using the Lingxi Jade Talisman.
, and randomly tried a few fire techniques, and made a boat-shaped magic weapon out of the river bottom mud.
Since there is already a type of "antique ceramics", this pottery boat has been glazed and decorated with wood grain carvings. It is different from the crystal clear ice boat. It is indistinguishable from the wooden ship in appearance, but it is more likely to bear the power of runes.
, it can be regarded as creating a new category in this world.
The vast river surrounds this ancient city, with thousands of miles of green fields on both sides, and the fragrance of rice, creating a scene of fertility. Along the way, the wharves and ports are busy, the majestic warships of the Chu Dynasty, and the shuttle of merchant ships all witness the prosperity of this water area.
As Tao Zhou gradually approached the tallest city gate tower and passed the iron gate that controlled the water level on the outside of the moat, the outline of the city wall that Yingdu had spent hundreds of years carefully building became increasingly clear.
The interior of the high wall is reinforced with layers of iron tenons and is more than ten feet thick. It may be the strongest city defense in the world.
Although the sky was overcast, there was no sign of rain, which instead added a hazy beauty to the picture that was about to unfold.
As soon as you enter the city gate, your eyes suddenly open up and you have a panoramic view of the prosperity of Chudu. The bright lamps in the mansion reflect the beauty of the buildings even on a cloudy day. The lines carefully carved by the craftsmen are even more beautiful in the interplay of light and shadow.
It is exquisite and amazing.
Compared with the straight and rough shape of Changling and the monotonous colors of black, white and gray, Chudu, which is also close to the river, has a completely different style. It is like another beautiful and gorgeous world.
Although it has arrived in autumn, the place is still as warm as spring, and the fragrance of flowers is overflowing. The countless buildings and palaces in Ying City are hidden among the flowers, and they are all like graceful and graceful girls. The scenery is indescribably exquisite and beautiful.
This chapter is not over yet, please click on the next page to continue reading! The purple water lilies bloom leisurely in the water, the fiery red cockscombs are as hot as flames, the pink jasmine exudes a faint fragrance, and the rouge-like begonias are even more delicate and charming.
It adds a bit of tenderness and vitality to this ancient city.
"They are mainly inland river ships. Most of the warships are only covered with a layer of iron. In terms of quality and quantity, they cannot compare with the iron-clad warships of the Qin Dynasty."
After entering the city and driving for five or six miles in the waterway, Zhao Qing carefully observed the boats in the ports inside and outside the city, and analyzed: "It seems that the navy here in Chu State has never considered the attack of overseas fleets.
possibility, the focus seems to be entirely on the security of the inland river and the protection of commerce along the river."
"The military talismans arranged by the Chudu defenders along the city wall should be very powerful, but the level of the practitioners is not very high. There are only two seventh-level masters. Although the blind dragon temporarily stays outside the city, at the critical moment
, it is completely possible to forcefully break into the city and provide support..."
"Why are we talking about these boring topics?" Xia Mi patted the pottery guardrail, causing the whole boat to tremble and speed up a few minutes: "We are not here to find Tiangong, a famous workshop in Chujing.
Are you doing business? Do you need to be prepared for danger in times of peace?"
"The 'Magic Machine for Producing Grain' is of great importance and must be guarded against." Zhao Qing replied softly: "Once the world's food no longer comes from the farmland, it will affect the powerful class and the stubborn interest chain that will be touched.
How much, it might trigger a riot by a large group of masters and make this river dyed with blood..."
"Isn't it said that there are not many real great masters in the Chu Kingdom? Come to a few ordinary seventh realms, and it will be a good time for me to try out my newly acquired tricks." Xia Mi's words were somewhat confident and uninhibited: "Sword
The energy stretches ninety thousand miles across, and the fist holds the mountains and rivers between the five fingers. How could I, Xia Mi, have ever been afraid?"
"Kill sparingly and with caution. High-level practitioners are the most precious wealth in the world."
Zhao Qing shook his head and reminded: "According to the information provided by Chu Liuyun at that time, 'Tiangong Pavilion' should be a manor surrounded by water in the southeast corner of Yingdu, covering an area of tens of thousands of acres. It is quite conspicuous outside, but after all, it is Chu
It is one of the top ten training places in the dynasty, but it is not a place that can be entered casually."
"As a workshop, they don't solicit ideas from outside, but welcome customers to purchase?" Xia Mi was moved in his heart and asked: "Could it be that the craftsmen here only accept distinguished guests introduced by acquaintances, so as to create"
What is the brand value of high-end customization?”
"That's why the craftsmen of Tiangong Pavilion are highly skilled, and the instruments they create are often extraordinary, so they don't worry about not having business. On the contrary, they pay great attention to the identity and background of their customers, and only accept reputable and qualified ones.
Entrusted by powerful nobles or sects."
"It is said that if you want to get their works, you either have to have a profound background, or you have to complete the test they set to prove your strength and sincerity." Zhao Qing smiled slightly and explained: "This is natural for us.
It’s not that difficult.”
"The so-called test should be a two-way street. When the people in 'Tiangong Pavilion' consider our qualifications, it is a good opportunity for you and me to see our true face."
Thinking of the wonderful scene of pretending to be a pig and eating a tiger, Xia Mi nodded: "Even if someone recommends it, 'Tiangong Pavilion' is not the undisputed number one workshop in Chu. If the other craftsman's skills and character are
If the performance is not good, it would be a good idea to switch to another workshop.”
The two of them chatted while riding the boat. What they saw along the way was the unique style of Chudu.
Along the river bank, there are many teahouses and restaurants, and the sound of silk and bamboo can be heard endlessly. People are drinking tea and chatting, or drinking and having fun, creating a harmonious scene. Occasionally, there are painted boats passing by, and the beauties on the boats are singing and dancing, adding to the charming scenery.
The eleventh year of Yuanwu in the Qin Dynasty was equivalent to the thirty-second year of Wulie in the territory of the Chu Dynasty.
During the thirty-two years of the reign of this generation of Chu emperors, the Chu Dynasty did not suffer any serious losses in the south and north wars. It was already a scene of the country's peak power, and even the things the Chu Dynasty used daily were better than others.
The court is much more beautiful.
Not to mention that the Chu utensils were already the best in the world, even some of the clothes and furnishings popular in the Chu capital became the objects of imitation by various dynasties.
Just as Zhao Qing and Xia Mi were immersed in the bustling scenery of Chudu, the waterway in front suddenly became narrow, with high-rise buildings on both sides of the bank cutting the sky into a line. The boat trip felt like traveling through a canyon, which had a unique charm.
Then, after turning a small corner, an extremely broad and flat open space appeared on the edge of the waterway, which was more than ten miles square. It was much larger than the area of an ordinary city. It was incomprehensible.
Why is there such a place in the golden capital of Chu?
"Such a large piece of unplanned land? Are you planning to build a new royal palace? There seems to be a lot of excitement!" Xia Mi narrowed his eyes and looked at the open space curiously. With a thought in his mind, he made waves: "Let's go there
Take a look?"
In the open space, the crowd was bustling, but it did not appear chaotic. Instead, it gave off an orderly atmosphere. They were obviously watching something in an organized manner. Except for the main fan-shaped area in the middle, there were people watching everywhere for several miles around.
of people.
These people don't pay much attention to their manners. Some trees are full of people, and some tall ox-carts and horse-drawn carriages have become good viewing platforms.
Separated by two symbolic low fences, in the space inside, there were many Chu soldiers wearing blue armor maintaining order, and some signboards and flags were erected at the border.
When the Tao boat slowly docked and the two were about to disembark, a deafening roar suddenly sounded, like thunder in the sky, causing the water to sparkle and even the boat to tremble. The noise in the crowd was even worse, mixed with
Exclaims, admirations and discussions abounded.
"It seems that this is a bidding conference for talisman weapons jointly organized by the Chu Dynasty's military and a number of medium and large workshops, and they are planning to test the power in public." Zhao Qing saw the clues at a glance.
"Bidding meeting? This is a new thing." Xia Mi's eyes lit up. He was obviously less interested in the talismans than in the liveliness of the scene itself: "I didn't expect that the people of Chu had some ideas to use this method to
Encourage major workshops to compete with each other and innovate."
"Yes, and such an open bidding is also a rare opportunity for the Chu Dynasty to show its strength, which can enhance the trust and support of the people."
Zhao Qing added: "In addition, this is undoubtedly a stage for workshops to showcase their skills and innovation, which can attract more customers and orders. Kill two birds with one stone, why not?"
The two walked as they talked, passed through the crowd, and came to the fence.
At the apex of the fan-shaped area in the middle, a high platform made of bluestone rises from the ground. A dozen workshop representatives dressed in exquisite and elegant clothes are sitting upright. Behind them are flags representing the workshops, fluttering in the wind and colorful.
.
Under the high platform, hundreds of craftsmen in simple short robes are busy around the talisman of different shapes. Some are debugging complex rune arrays, while others are checking whether the various parts of the talisman are functioning properly.
It's in perfect condition, with a faint light constantly emitting from the contact area.
In mid-air, a middle-aged general wearing green-gold armor was suspended, announcing the rules and procedures of the bidding. His voice was clearly amplified by the real essence and loudspeaker, and was clearly transmitted into everyone's ears.
In the ear:
"All the people of Chu, as well as distinguished guests from afar, we are gathered here today to witness an unprecedented event - the Great Chu Military Talisman Bidding Conference!"
The middle-aged general's voice was full of passion and pride, echoing in the empty field and causing waves of cheers from the people around him.
"The Talisman, as an important aid for practitioners and the army, its power and effectiveness are directly related to the tranquility of our border and the well-being of the people. Therefore, the military hereby holds this bidding to discover the most creative and practical
Talisman weapon to strengthen the military power of our great Chu, defend our homeland, and frighten all directions!"
The middle-aged general's words revealed an unquestionable majesty. His eyes swept across the crowd and continued:
"This bidding is divided into three rounds. The first round is a display session, where each workshop needs to demonstrate the uniqueness and power of its talisman. The second round is an actual combat simulation. We will set up a variety of battlefield situations including target practice.
, to test the actual combat effectiveness of the talisman."
"In the third round, senior military officials and specially invited guests will make a comprehensive evaluation based on the test results, taking into account the manufacturing cost. The final winner will not only receive a large order from the military, but will also receive
His Majesty’s personal meeting and commendation made him famous all over the world!”
As the general finished speaking, the atmosphere in the crowd became even more lively. Countless spectators stretched their necks to try to see clearly the talismans that were about to be tested. Discussions continued one after another, full of expectations, and some even held promotional pamphlets.
People are walking around, selling to the richly dressed people.
Zhao Qing and Xia Mi looked at each other, both feeling surprised. They didn't expect that they would encounter such a grand event by chance during this trip.
Xia Mi chuckled and said in a low voice: "It seems that our trip to Tiangong Pavilion has to be put on hold for the time being. This bidding conference may bring us some unexpected gains."
Zhao Qing nodded in agreement, and the two of them observed the situation on the court more intently.
At this time, the representative of the first workshop had left his seat on the high platform, walked to the front, and began to introduce their works.