The Heavens: A Qing, the Yue Girl at the beginning

Chapter 524: Sailing on the River, Bidding Conference (4k)

Above the Wei River, the morning mist was lingering, as if a huge veil was hung between heaven and earth. On the wide water, a huge ironclad ship as big as a mountain was slowly approaching. Its dark and cold metal shell was looming in the mist, reflecting the faint skylight.

The ship is majestic, the iron buildings are arranged in an orderly manner, the tall masts seem to pierce the sky, and the observation tower on the top is surrounded by white water vapor, like a floating island suspended in the air.

By the river, flocks of birds sensed the presence of some natural enemy and fled in panic, hiding in the dense reeds, leaving behind only a series of rapid and panicked chirps that echoed in the air.

At this moment, a black light suddenly flashed across the sky, as fast as lightning. When it got closer, it was seen that it was a goshawk with all-black feathers and sharp eyes. It landed directly on the arm of a boy in a yellow robe on the observation deck.

The boy had a handsome face and lively eyes. He deftly pulled out a secret document from the small metal tube tied to the hawk's foot, then respectfully unfolded it and handed it to the old man waiting on the side: "Master, this should be the letter from Uncle Fifteen."

"Is this news about Li Ren? He plans to board the ship midway? It's just a small matter, you just need to arrange it." The old man in yellow robe took a quick glance and nodded.

His face was extremely old, with traces of time and crisscross wrinkles all over his face. What was even more eye-catching were the black spots on his body, which silently told of his long years as a practitioner and his life that was about to come to an end.

At this time, there was a drizzle on the observation deck, and drops of rain brushed against the cold metal railings, making crisp sounds.

Upon seeing this, the boy quickly took out a butter-paper umbrella from his side, gently opened it, and shielded the old man from the wind and rain.

The old man closed his eyes and rested. As he breathed in and out, there was a faint sound of thunder echoing. Although the sound came only from his mouth, it seemed to resonate with the entire ship, causing the entire hull to tremble slightly, as if even the vital energy between heaven and earth was drawn by it and became turbulent.

Few people know that this old man in his twilight years is the current head of the Zheng family in Jiaodong County, the fourth uncle of the Queen of Qin, Zheng Xiu, and he also single-handedly promoted the construction of the first ironclad merchant ship, opening the legend of the ironclad fleet era.

Although his talent for cultivation is not very high, despite the supply of countless overseas spiritual medicines, he has not yet entered the seventh realm of the upper grade. His actual power has now been squeezed out by the younger generation, and most of the time he is just doing some idle work, taking care of the elderly and children, and enjoying his old age;
But whenever the family faces a major decision or crisis, everyone will think of the helmsman who once steered the family in the wind and waves, his sensational feats in his youth, and the strategies formulated by the old man himself that still guide the family forward.

"Pass the order down, fully activate the water separation array, operate the echo array, and speed up the voyage... The Qin Dynasty is at a very critical moment recently and is about to face a major challenge. Our Zheng family's fleet must also act more cautiously and not leave any opportunity for others to take advantage of it."

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, and came to the command platform on the side of the ship. He waved the yellow flag in his hand, and a series of crisp whistles pierced through the morning mist and spread throughout the entire giant ship.

As the order was given, the crew members in the cabin acted quickly. They each performed their duties. Some climbed up another mast at the stern to pass information to the rest of the ships, while others ran deep into the cabin and used their true energy to adjust the accuracy of the echo array to avoid any potential dangers.

Under the influence of the magic circle, the huge iron-clad ship cut through the waves and gradually accelerated. The water on both sides of the hull was cut at high speed, stirring up layers of white foam. The morning mist that originally shrouded the surroundings was torn into pieces by this sudden force, revealing a wider river surface and vague mountain shadows in the distance.

……

Almost at the same time, thousands of miles away, on the sparkling river, Zhao Qing and Xia Mi rode a pottery boat and slowly sailed into the water gate south of the Chu capital Ying.

The reason why it was a pottery boat instead of Zhao Qing's favorite ice boat was that she heard Zhao Yi and Zhao Si tentatively use the Lingxi Jade Talisman to broadcast some experiences in using real fire and refining sword embryos early in the morning, and they casually tried a few fire methods and used the river bottom mud to refine a boat-shaped magic weapon.

Since the category of "antique ceramics" already exists, this pottery boat has been glazed and decorated with wood grain carvings. Unlike the crystal clear ice boat, it is indistinguishable from a wooden boat in appearance, but it is easier to bear the power of runes, and can be regarded as creating a new category in this world.

The vast river embraces this ancient city, with green fields on both sides and the fragrance of rice, a scene of abundance. Along the way, the docks and ports are busy, the majestic warships of the Great Chu Dynasty and the merchant ships shuttle back and forth, witnessing the prosperity of this waterway.

As Tao Zhou gradually approached the tallest city gate tower and passed through the heavy iron gate that controlled the water level outside the moat, the outline of the city wall that Yingdu had spent a hundred years to carefully build became clearer and clearer.

The interior of the high wall is reinforced with layers of iron mortise and tenon joints and is more than ten feet thick. It may be the strongest city defense in the world.

Although the sky was cloudy, there was no sign of rain, but instead added a hazy beauty to the painting that was about to unfold.

Once you enter the city gate, the view opens up to you, and you can see the prosperity of the capital of Chu. The lights in the mansion are bright, and even on a cloudy day, the buildings are beautifully illuminated. The lines carefully carved by the craftsmen are even more exquisite in the interweaving of light and shadow, which is amazing.

Compared with the flatness and ruggedness of Changling and the monotonous colors of black, white and gray, the Chu capital, which is also close to the river, has a completely different style and appearance, and is like another beautiful and magnificent world.

Although it is autumn, the place is still as warm as spring, with the fragrance of flowers everywhere. The countless towers and palaces in Yingcheng are hidden among the flowers, all like graceful and beautiful girls. The scenery is indescribably exquisite and beautiful.

Purple water lilies bloom leisurely in the water, fiery red cockscombs are as hot as flames, pink jasmine exudes a faint fragrance, and the rouge-like crabapple flowers are even more gorgeous, adding a bit of tenderness and vitality to this ancient city.

"They are mainly inland vessels. Most of the warships are just covered with a layer of iron. No matter the quality or quantity, they cannot be compared with the ironclad warships of the Qin Dynasty."

After entering the city and sailing for five or six miles on the waterway, Zhao Qing carefully observed the boats in the ports inside and outside the city and analyzed: "It seems that the navy of Chu State here has never considered the possibility of an attack by an overseas fleet. The focus seems to be entirely on inland river security and the protection of trade along the river."

"Along the riverside city wall, the Chu capital garrison has deployed military talismans that should be very powerful, but the realms of the practitioners are not very high. There are only two lower-level seventh-level masters. Although Blind Dragon is temporarily staying outside the city, at the critical moment, he can force his way into the city and provide support..."

"Why are we talking about such depressing topics?" Xia Mi patted the ceramic railings on the edge of the boat, causing the entire boat to tremble and speed up a few times. "Aren't we here to do business with the famous Chu workshop 'Tiangong Pavilion'? Is it necessary to be so 'prepared for danger in times of peace'?"

"The 'Grain Production Divine Machine' is of great importance and must be guarded against." Zhao Qing replied softly: "Once the world's grain no longer comes from farmland, who knows how many powerful and wealthy people will be affected and how many stubborn interest chains will be touched. Maybe it will trigger a riot among a large group of masters, and make this great river stained with blood..."

"Didn't they say that there are few true grandmasters in Chu? A few ordinary seventh realm masters here will be a good opportunity for me to try out my new tricks." Xia Mi's words were full of confidence and unruliness: "The sword energy traverses 90,000 miles, and the fist controls the mountains and rivers between five fingers. When have I, Xia Mi, ever been afraid?"

"Kill less and be careful when killing. Practitioners at a high level are the most precious treasure in the world."

Zhao Qing shook his head and reminded, "According to the information provided by Chu Liuyun at the time, 'Tiangong Pavilion' should be a manor surrounded by water in the southeast corner of Yingdu, covering tens of thousands of acres. It is quite conspicuous from the outside, but after all, it is one of the ten major cultivation sites of the Chu Dynasty, and it is not a place that can be entered casually."

"As a workshop, don't they solicit ideas from outside and welcome customers to purchase?" Xia Mi's mind moved, and she asked, "Could it be that the craftsmen here only receive distinguished guests introduced by acquaintances, in order to create the brand value of 'high-end customization'?"

"That's right. The craftsmen of Tiangong Pavilion have superb skills, 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 commissions from nobles or sects with reputation and strength." "It is said that if you want to get their works, you either have to have a deep background or complete the tests they set to prove your strength and sincerity." Zhao Qing smiled and explained, "This is naturally not a difficult task for us."

"The so-called test should be a two-way thing. When the people in the Tiangong Pavilion consider our qualifications, it is actually a good opportunity for you and me to see their true colors."

Thinking of the exciting scene of playing the pig and eating the tiger, Xia Mi nodded: "Even if someone recommends it, 'Tiangong Pavilion' is not the undisputed number one workshop in Chu. If the other party's craftsmen's skills and morals are not good, it is not a bad idea to change to another workshop."

The two chatted as they sailed forward in the boat, and what they saw along the way were all the unique customs of the capital of Chu.

There are many teahouses and restaurants on the river bank, and the sound of stringed instruments is endless. People are drinking tea and chatting, or drinking and having fun, creating a harmonious scene. Occasionally, a pleasure boat shuttles through, and beautiful women on the boat sing and dance, adding a bit of 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 32 years of this generation of Chu emperor's reign, the Great Chu Dynasty fought wars in the south and the north without suffering any serious losses. The country was already at its peak of strength and prosperity. Even the daily necessities of the Great Chu Dynasty were much more exquisite than those of other dynasties.

Not to mention that Chu weapons had long been the best in the world, even some clothes and furnishings that were popular in the capital of Chu became the objects of imitation in various dynasties.

Just as Zhao Qing and Xia Mi were immersed in the prosperous scenery of the capital of Chu, the waterway ahead suddenly became narrow, with tall buildings on both sides of the river cutting the sky into a line. The boat was like traveling through a canyon, with a unique charm.

Then, after turning a small bend, an exceptionally large and flat open space appeared on the side of the waterway. It was more than ten miles square and much larger than the area of ​​an ordinary city. It was hard to understand why there was such a place in the capital of Chu, where every inch of land was valuable.

"Such a large piece of unplanned land? Are they planning to build a new royal palace? It seems like there will be something exciting to see!" Xia Mi narrowed her eyes and looked at the empty land curiously. With an idea in mind, she started to think: "Shall we go and take a look?"

In the open space, the crowd was bustling, but it did not seem chaotic. Instead, there was an atmosphere of order. It was obvious that they were watching something in an organized manner. Except for a major fan-shaped area in the middle, the surrounding area for several miles was full of onlookers.

These people did not care about etiquette. Some trees were filled with people sitting, and some tall ox carts and horse carriages became good viewing platforms.

Behind two symbolic low fences, there were many Chu soldiers wearing green armor maintaining order, and some signboards and flags were erected at the border.

When the Tao boat slowly approached the shore and the two were about to get off the boat, a deafening roar suddenly sounded, like thunder in the sky, shaking the water surface and even shaking the boat. The noise in the crowd became even louder, mixed with exclamations, praises and discussions.

"It seems that this is a talisman bidding conference jointly organized by the Chu Dynasty military and several medium and large workshops, and they are planning to test the power in public." Zhao Qing saw the clue at a glance.

"A bidding meeting? This is something new." Xia Mi's eyes lit up. She was obviously less interested in the talisman than in the excitement of the event itself. "I didn't expect the Chu people to be so creative. They use this method to encourage competition among workshops and bring forth new ideas."

"Yes, and such an open bidding is also a rare opportunity for the Great Chu Dynasty to demonstrate its strength and 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 innovations, which can attract more customers and orders. It's a win-win situation, so why not do it?"

The two talked as they walked 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 rose from the ground. Dozens of workshop representatives dressed elegantly and meticulously sat upright, with flags representing their workshops fluttering in the wind behind them, colorful and dazzling.

Under the high platform, hundreds of craftsmen in plain short robes were busy with talismans of various shapes. Some were adjusting complex rune arrays, while others were checking whether the various parts of the talismans were intact. A faint light was constantly emitted from the contact points.

In midair, a middle-aged general in cyan-gold armor was floating motionlessly, announcing the rules and procedures of the bidding. His voice was amplified by both his true energy and the megaphone, clearly reaching everyone's ears:

"Dear citizens of the capital of Chu, and distinguished guests who have come from afar, we have gathered here today to witness an unprecedented event - the Chu Military Talisman Bidding Conference!"

The middle-aged general's voice was filled with passion and pride, echoing in the open field and drawing cheers from the people around him.

"Talismans, as important aids for practitioners and the military, are directly related to the peace of our border and the well-being of the people. Therefore, the military is holding this bidding to discover the most creative and practical talismans to strengthen the military power of our Great Chu, defend our homeland, and deter all directions!"

The middle-aged general's words revealed an unquestionable majesty. He swept his eyes over the people present and continued:

"This bidding is divided into three rounds. The first round is a demonstration phase, where each workshop needs to demonstrate the uniqueness and power of its talisman. The second round is a combat simulation. We will set up a variety of battlefield scenarios, including target shooting, to test the actual combat effectiveness of the talisman."

"In the third round, senior military officials and specially invited guests will make a comprehensive assessment based on the test results, taking into account the cost of manufacturing. The final winner will not only receive a large order from the military, but will also receive a personal meeting and commendation from His Majesty, and will become famous all over the world!"

As the general finished speaking, the atmosphere in the crowd became more heated. Countless spectators stretched their necks, trying to get a clear view of the talismans that were about to be tested. There were constant discussions, full of anticipation. Some people were walking around with pamphlets in their hands, trying to sell them to those in luxurious clothes.

Zhao Qing and Xia Mi looked at each other and were both surprised. They didn't expect to encounter such a grand event on this trip.

Xia Mi chuckled and whispered, "It seems that we have to put our trip to the 'Tiangong Pavilion' on hold for now. This bidding conference may bring us some unexpected gains."

Zhao Qing nodded in agreement, and the two of them began to observe the situation on the field more attentively.

At this time, the representative of the first workshop had left his seat on the podium, walked to the front, and began to introduce their works.

……

Don't ask why large-tonnage ships can sail in inland rivers. The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has been drilled through, and it is not easy to dredge the river. In addition, the length and width of the ship are relatively small, and the draft is relatively shallow.