Daming: Brother, there is no future for monks, let's rebel

Chapter 1437 Special Guest

"Seventy-five, can this academy truly cultivate talents capable of governing the world?" Zhu Yuanzhang gazed at the four large characters "Yingtian Academy" above the gate, his voice tinged with doubt. Although he was illiterate, he deeply understood the importance of talent in the struggle for supremacy.

Zhu Qiwu turned around, his gaze sweeping over the crowd: "Fourth Brother, this academy not only teaches classics, history, philosophy, and literature, but also offers practical subjects such as mathematics, physics, and military strategy. I have invited renowned scholars from Jiangnan, Song Lian and Liu Ji, to give lectures. They are both great scholars of our time, with profound knowledge."

Tang He stroked his chin, frowning, and said, "Seven or Five Brothers, do those pedantic scholars even know anything about fighting? Aren't we all from humble backgrounds?"

Upon hearing this, Xu Da slapped Tang He on the back: "Tang He, what do you know! When have the Seventh Brother ever done anything useless? Remember when he taught us how to make thunderbolts with gunpowder, didn't we defeat the Yuan army?"

Zhou Dexing nodded in agreement: "Exactly! The Seven Brothers' ingenious plans and strategies have always been admirable."

Zhu Yuanzhang raised his hand to signal everyone to be quiet: "Seventh Five, you continue. How does this academy operate?"

Zhu Qiwu took out a scroll of silk from his sleeve: "I have formulated detailed rules for the academy. It will be divided into an inner and outer courtyard. The outer courtyard will accept students from humble backgrounds, regardless of their origins; the inner courtyard will select the best from the outer courtyard, who will be personally instructed by renowned scholars. Furthermore, there will be monthly essay examinations, with winners receiving monetary rewards and even direct appointments to the army."

Liu Ji stepped out from the crowd, dressed in a blue robe, with a lean face and piercing eyes: "Young Master Zhu's plan is truly an excellent way to cultivate talent. In the past, the Jixia Academy, with its hundred schools of thought contending, produced countless virtuous talents. Although the Yingtian Academy is not as large as Jixia, if it perseveres, it will surely cultivate pillars of the Ming Dynasty."

Song Lian stepped forward, stroking his beard, and said, “Brother Liu is absolutely right. I observe that Young Master Zhu’s proposed curriculum includes the Four Books and Five Classics, as well as mathematics and natural philosophy, and even touches upon astronomy and geography—truly a comprehensive field of study. If he can persevere, he will surely see results in ten years.”

Upon hearing this, Zhu Yuanzhang's eyes flashed with a glint of light: "Good! As Qi Wu said. Xu Da, you will be in charge of the academy's security; Tang He, you will allocate five hundred soldiers to assist in the academy's construction; Zhou Dexing, you will supervise the academy's supply of materials."

The three answered in unison, "Yes, sir!"

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Zhu Qiwu said, "Fourth Brother, I have another request. I would like to establish a 'General Star Class' in the academy to specifically train military talents. In addition to military strategy and tactics, it will also teach practical subjects such as mathematics, geography, and engineering."

Zhu Yuanzhang raised an eyebrow: "Oh? That's interesting. Do you have anyone in mind?"

Zhu Qiwu smiled and said, "I have already identified a few candidates. First is Lan Yu, a brave and skilled warrior with considerable knowledge of military strategy; second is Feng Sheng, an expert in mathematics who once helped me design a catapult; and third is Fu Youde, who, although illiterate, is a fierce fighter and possesses the talent of a commander."

Upon hearing this, Xu Da's eyes lit up: "I know Lan Yu and Feng Sheng; they are indeed talented. But this Fu Youde..."

Zhu Qiwu explained, "Although Fu Youde is illiterate, his memory is astonishing. I have already ordered someone to compose 'The Art of War' into rhymes, and he can recite them backwards. If he can study them systematically, he will surely become a great man."

Zhu Yuanzhang pondered for a moment, then nodded and said, "Alright! As you say. However..." He suddenly lowered his voice, "Seventh Five, this academy is quite expensive. Although we've made some progress, military funds are still tight. Do you have any ideas?"

Zhu Qiwu's heart skipped a beat, and the system interface appeared before his eyes: [Host request detected, sign in?]

[Ding! Sign-in successful! You have received a copy of "Salt and Iron Monopoly Techniques", ten bags of "High-Yield Crop Seeds", and one "Cement Formula".]

Suppressing his joy, Zhu Qiwu said to Zhu Yuanzhang, "Fourth Brother, don't worry, I've already thought of a solution. Firstly, we can implement a salt and iron monopoly, with the government managing the production and sale of salt and iron. This will ensure quality and increase revenue."

Zhu Yuanzhang's eyes lit up: "This is an excellent plan! The decline of the Yuan Dynasty was inextricably linked to the corruption in the salt and iron industries. If we can reform the salt and iron sectors, we will surely gain the support of the people."

Zhu Qiwu continued, "Secondly, I have obtained some special seeds that yield more than three times that of ordinary crops. If they can be promoted in Jiangnan, they can not only solve the military's food problem but also ensure that the people have enough to eat and wear."

Tang He's eyes widened: "Three times? Brother Qi Wu, you're not bragging, are you?"

Zhu Qiwu laughed and said, "Brother Tang He, if you don't believe me, you might as well come with me to the experimental field. I've already had people plant these seeds, and they're growing extremely well."

Zhou Dexing stroked his chin: "Even so, promotion will take time. Right now, military spending..."

Zhu Qiwu took out a piece of paper from his sleeve: "Thirdly, I have a cement formula. Using this to build houses and fortresses is not only sturdy and durable, but also inexpensive and extremely fast. I have already ordered people to build a section of the city wall with cement; Fourth Brother, you might want to go and take a look."

Zhu Yuanzhang took the paper and examined it carefully: "Cement? That's a peculiar name. If it's really as you say, it solves a major problem. Good! Seventh Five, you truly are my lucky star!"

At that moment, a soldier rushed in: "Report! Generals Lan Yu, Feng Sheng, and Fu Youde request an audience!"

Zhu Qiwu laughed, "Speak of the devil, and he appears. Fourth Brother, why don't we let them come and see this academy too?"

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded: "Good! Let them in."

A moment later, the three men strode over. Lan Yu was burly with a resolute face; Feng Sheng was tall and thin with sharp eyes; Fu Youde was of medium build with dark skin and exuded the unique aura of a soldier.

The three knelt on one knee: "Greetings, King of Wu!"

Zhu Yuanzhang raised his hand: "Get up. Qiwu, tell them about the academy."

Zhu Qiwu explained the academy plan in detail, and the three nodded repeatedly. Lan Yu exclaimed excitedly, "Young Master Zhu's plan is brilliant! If we can systematically learn military strategy and tactics, we will surely reach a higher level!"

Feng Sheng also said, "Mathematics is extremely important in military affairs. When I designed the catapult, it always worked because I wasn't proficient in mathematics. With systematic study, I would surely be able to design even more ingenious machines."

Although Fu Youde was illiterate, he was still filled with enthusiasm: "Young Master Zhu, although I am illiterate, I am willing to learn! Please let me join the General's Class!"

Zhu Qiwu smiled and said, "It is a great blessing for the academy that the three generals are willing to learn. However," he turned to Zhu Yuanzhang, "Fourth Brother, I have another idea."

Zhu Yuanzhang raised an eyebrow: "Tell me about it."

Zhu Qiwu said, "I propose establishing a 'real combat training' course within the academy. A simulated battle would be organized monthly, commanded by three generals in rotation, with other students participating. This would both test learning outcomes and accumulate practical combat experience."

Upon hearing this, Xu Da's eyes lit up: "This is an excellent plan! Back when we were under Guo Zixing's command, we suffered a lot because of a lack of systematic training. With this kind of exercise, new recruits will definitely grow much faster."

Tang He nodded: "Exactly! Brother Qiwu, how do you have such a brilliant mind? How do you always come up with so many good ideas?"

Zhu Yuanzhang laughed heartily: "Qiwu is a genius bestowed by heaven! Very well, it will be as you say. Xu Da, you are in charge of organizing this live-fire exercise; Lan Yu, Feng Sheng, and Fu Youde, the three of you will assist Xu Da and ensure this matter is handled well."

The four responded in unison, "Yes, sir!" Zhu Qiwu seized the opportunity and said, "Fourth brother, now that the academy is settled, why not choose a date to hold the opening ceremony? I have already invited many famous scholars from Jiangnan. If we can take this opportunity to demonstrate our military strength, we will surely attract more talented people to join us."

Zhu Yuanzhang pondered for a moment, then nodded and said, "Good! It's set for three days from now. Qi Wu, you'll be in charge of the preparations; Xu Da, you'll gather five hundred elite soldiers to ensure the ceremony's security; Tang He and Zhou Dexing, you'll prepare the banquet—it should be lavish but not extravagant."

The three men obeyed and left. Zhu Yuanzhang turned to Zhu Qiwu and said, "Qiwu, come with me. I have something to tell you."

The two entered the academy, passed through the corridors, and arrived at a secluded pavilion. Zhu Yuanzhang gazed at the busy craftsmen in the distance and said in a low voice, "Seventh Five, tell me honestly, where did all these ingenious schemes and plans of yours come from?"

Zhu Qiwu's heart tightened as the system interface appeared before his eyes: [Crisis detected. Use the "Master of Lies" skill?]

He suppressed the urge to use his skills and smiled, "Fourth Brother, I once had a strange dream. In the dream, there was an old man with a white beard who claimed to be Laozi. He taught me many wondrous arts, saying that this knowledge could help me assist a wise ruler and revive the Han Dynasty. After waking up, this knowledge was firmly imprinted in my mind."

Upon hearing this, a hint of doubt flashed in Zhu Yuanzhang's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by a smile: "So that's how it is! It seems you truly are destined for greatness! Haha!"

Zhu Qiwu breathed a sigh of relief and seized the opportunity to say, "Fourth Brother, I have another request."

Zhu Yuanzhang raised an eyebrow: "Oh? What is it?"

Zhu Qiwu said, "I want to establish a 'Girls' School' within the academy, allowing women to enroll and study."

Zhu Yuanzhang's expression changed: "A girls' school? Seventy-five... this... this is probably inappropriate. Since ancient times, it has been believed that a woman's virtue lies in her lack of talent. If women are allowed to study, I fear it will invite criticism."

Zhu Qiwu, prepared for this, calmly replied, "Fourth Brother, you are mistaken. Although women do not participate in the imperial examinations, their literacy is beneficial to their families and society. Moreover, I believe the decline of the Yuan Dynasty was not unrelated to its neglect of education. If we can pioneer women's education, we will surely gain the support of the people."

Zhu Yuanzhang pondered for a moment, then shook his head and said, "This matter is too shocking and unconventional; I'm afraid it will be difficult to implement. However," he changed the subject, "you can set up 'women's needlework classes' in the academies to teach women embroidery, weaving, and other skills. This will both improve women's status and avoid controversy."

Zhu Qiwu sighed inwardly, knowing that this matter couldn't be rushed, and nodded, saying, "Fourth Brother is absolutely right. Then let's do as you say and set up a needlework class."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded in satisfaction: "Seventh Five, you always come up with novel ideas. But remember, don't go too far. Although we've achieved some success, the Yuan army is still eyeing us covetously in the north; we can't be careless."

Zhu Qiwu said solemnly, "Fourth Brother, don't worry, I know what I'm doing."

Three days later, the opening ceremony of Yingtian Academy was held as scheduled. The academy gate was decorated with lanterns and colorful flags. Zhu Yuanzhang and Zhu Qiwu led their generals to stand on the steps to welcome guests from all directions.

The first to arrive were renowned scholars from Jiangnan, including Song Lian and Liu Ji. Looking at the magnificent academy, Song Lian exclaimed, "Young Master Zhu is truly an extraordinary man! To have built an academy of such scale in such a short time is a great fortune for Jiangnan!"

Liu Ji nodded in approval, saying, "Excellent. Looking at its curriculum, it covers classics, history, philosophy, and literature, as well as mathematics and natural philosophy—truly a comprehensive system. If one can persevere, it will surely cultivate countless talented individuals."

Zhu Qiwu stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said, "You two are too kind. The academy's current scale is entirely due to everyone's support. I hope you two will generously offer your guidance and suggestions for the academy's future development."

Song Lian smiled and said, "Young Master Zhu, rest assured, since I have already agreed to give this lecture, I will certainly do my best."

Liu Ji also said, "That's right. And judging from Young Master Zhu's talent, it is truly rare in this world. I am willing to discuss important matters with you."

Zhu Qiwu was overjoyed and was about to speak when he suddenly saw dust billowing in the distance as a troop of people galloped towards them. As they approached, he saw that the leader was dressed in fine clothes and had a handsome face; it was Chen Youliang's son, Chen Li.

Chen Li dismounted and bowed, saying, "Your Highness, Prince Wu, Young Master Zhu, I have come on behalf of my father to offer my congratulations. Upon hearing of the establishment of Yingtian Academy, my father specially ordered me to present a thousand taels of gold and a hundred bolts of silk as a token of his congratulations."

Zhu Yuanzhang's expression changed slightly, but he quickly regained his composure and said with a smile, "Prince Chen is too kind. Please convey my thanks to Prince Chen."

Zhu Qiwu, however, noticed a man behind Chen Li. This man was tall and thin, with a sinister face and a cunning glint in his eyes. He whispered to Xu Da, "General Xu, who is that man?"

Xu Da whispered, "That's Zhang Dingbian, Chen Youliang's strategist. He's incredibly intelligent and a valuable assistant to Chen Youliang."

Zhu Qiwu's heart skipped a beat, and the system interface appeared before his eyes: [Important figure Zhang Dingbian detected. Sign in?]

Without hesitation, he silently recited in his mind: "Sign in!"

[Ding! Sign-in successful! You have received a copy of "The Counter-Espionage Strategy," a bottle of "Bewitching Powder," and the "Mind Reading" skill (trial version).]

Suppressing his joy, Zhu Qiwu whispered to Zhu Yuanzhang, "Fourth Brother, we must be wary of this man. I have arrangements for the ceremony later."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly, signaling him to be careful.

At the start of the ceremony, Zhu Yuanzhang delivered a speech: "The establishment of Yingtian Academy today is a blessing for our Great Ming Dynasty and for Jiangnan! I hope that all students will study diligently and serve the country in the future!"

A round of enthusiastic applause erupted from the audience. Zhu Qiwu continued, "The academy accepts students from humble backgrounds, regardless of their origins. Anyone with talent can enroll. Furthermore, there are monthly essay examinations; winners receive monetary rewards and may even be directly appointed to military positions!"

These words caused an uproar in the audience. Many students from impoverished families were moved to tears; they had never imagined that they would have the opportunity to study, learn to read, and even become officials in the imperial court.

Halfway through the ceremony, Zhu Qiwu suddenly announced loudly, "Today we have another special guest who has come from afar to present a great gift to the academy!"

Everyone was astonished and looked around. Zhu Qiwu pointed at Chen Li: "Chen Li, the heir apparent of the Prince of Chen, has delivered a thousand taels of gold and a hundred bolts of silk on behalf of the Prince!"

These words caused an uproar in the audience. Some whispered, "Chen Youliang and the King of Wu are enemies, why would he send gifts?"

Some people said, "Could it be an attempt to curry favor?"

The murmurs among Zhu Qiwu and the others subsided slightly, and he continued, "Prince Chen's move is truly a wise choice. In these chaotic times, only culture can unite people's hearts. Prince Chen's support for the academy is, in fact, support for culture and support for unification!" (End of Chapter)