His eyes slowly swept over the various schools of thought and the three dukes and nine ministers below, and finally stopped at the faces of Li Si and Feng Quji.

Yi Huawei raised his mouth slightly and smiled faintly: "Prime Minister Li and Lord Feng, please don't worry. Before that, I want to ask, Lord Li and everyone present, do you know how big this world is?"

Yi Huawei's voice was not loud, but it was clearly heard by everyone. Li Si and Feng Quji looked at each other, and both of them showed a puzzled look in their eyes.

Li Si frowned slightly, bowed and asked, "Lord Zhao, what do you mean?" Feng Quji also nodded, his face full of confusion.

The scholars and other ministers present all looked at each other, confused. Some began to discuss in low voices, speculating on the prime minister's intentions.

"Clap~"

Yi Huawei clapped his hands lightly. The crisp applause echoed in the palace, instantly attracting everyone's attention.

A Da and Xiao Xizi, along with six or seven strong men, carefully carried a huge box and slowly walked towards the side of the palace.

"Be careful!"

A Da and Xiao Xizi directed several strong men to move the things out of the box. They looked like sand maps, but much more realistic. Then they got busy and placed some figures, horses and other objects with different expressions and clothes on the sand maps.

Half an hour later, the arrangements were finally completed. Ada and Xiao Xizi bowed respectfully and left the hall.

Everyone's eyes were fixed on this mysterious sand picture, their eyes full of curiosity and expectation.

The sand map is painted with exquisite patterns and lines, with bright and vivid colors. The territory of the Qin Dynasty is outlined in eye-catching red, with magnificent mountains and rivers and towering cities. The continuous Great Wall winds along the northern border like a giant dragon, guarding the peace of the Qin Dynasty. Xianyang City, as the capital of the Qin Dynasty, is depicted as particularly magnificent, with palaces everywhere and streets crisscrossing.

In the west of Daqin, in addition to the known areas of Dayuezhi, Kangju, Yancai and other countries, there is a mysterious area. There are several snow-capped mountains, and rivers run through the vast plains with green grass on both sides. In the deep canyon.

To the north of Daqin, there is an endless grassland. Everyone knows that this is the territory of the Xiongnu. The vast grassland is dotted with white tents, and groups of horses are galloping on the grassland. The Yuezhi are in the grassland farther to the west, near the edge of the desert, and several caravan dolls seem to be leading camels slowly forward.

South of the Qin Dynasty, there are dense jungles and numerous ethnic groups. The Baiyue land includes tribes such as Minyue, Nanyue, and Xiou. Minyue is located in the southeast coastal area, where the blue ocean and green jungle complement each other, and the sea is densely covered with ships.

In the Lingnan region of Nanyue, there are rolling mountains, crisscrossing rivers, and golden rice fields that indicate the rich land there. To the west, in Xiou, ancient tribes are hidden in the dense forests, and puppet warriors are holding unique weapons.

To the east of Daqin is the vast ocean. North Korea is across the sea from Daqin, with islands scattered all over the place, and the people on them wear strange clothes. Japan is in the more distant eastern seas, with many islands, and in the deeper oceans there are actually several continents that are almost the same size as Daqin...

Li Si frowned and looked at the map carefully. His eyes were full of confusion and shock, and he couldn't believe it and said, "Master Zhao, this... is this true?"

Yi Huawei smiled slightly and said, "Lord Li, this is absolutely true. Our world is much bigger than we think."

Feng Quji also came over, looked at the unfamiliar areas on the map, and asked, "Prime Minister, what do these places look like?"

Looking at everyone's shocked expressions, Yi Huawei cleared his throat and began to introduce this vast world in detail.

"Although the Great Qin Empire we live in is vast and has magnificent mountains and rivers, it is just a drop in the ocean in this vast world. This is the territory of the Xiongnu. They have annexed the Donghu, and their territory is as vast as our Great Qin. They are good at riding and shooting, and they make a living by nomadism, living by following water and grass..."

Yi Huawei's finger slowly moved, pointing to the west: "In this vast desert, there are mysterious countries and ancient civilizations. Those countries have unique architectural styles and cultural customs, and their total population is no less than tens of millions."

Then, Yi Huawei pointed to the south and said, "This is Baiyue. The climate there is hot, the rain is abundant, and the products are rich. There are many precious medicinal herbs and rare woods growing in the jungle. Understanding this jungle and developing its resources is of great significance to the economic development of our Daqin."

Then he pointed to the east: "This is Jizi Korea, this is Yingzhou Island..."

Everyone listened attentively, as if they were brought into a whole new world, their eyes filled with curiosity, surprise and yearning.

Yi Huawei looked at everyone's reactions and nodded slightly:

"The world is much bigger than we think, so we can't rest on our laurels. We should look to the world and learn about the outside world. Only in this way can we continue to grow and develop."

Li Si frowned, staring at an unfamiliar area on the map. His fingers trembled slightly as he pointed at the unfamiliar buildings and asked in confusion, "Where is this?"

Yi Huawei looked up, with a faint smile on his face: "That place is called Rome."

Looking around at everyone, Yi Huawei slowly spoke, his voice clearly reaching everyone's ears:

"Rome, as far as we know, is located in the far west. Its territory is vast and its national strength is strong. The Romans attach great importance to military affairs, and their army is well-organized and well-trained. Rome has powerful infantry and cavalry, and can often defeat a larger force with a smaller one on the battlefield. Their weapons and equipment are also relatively advanced, with sophisticated armor and sharp weapons."

"The city construction of Rome was also quite large. The city had tall and solid walls, wide and straight streets, and magnificent buildings. Their public facilities were also relatively complete, with baths, theaters, arenas, etc., providing a wealth of entertainment and living places for the people."

"In terms of economy, Rome had a very developed trade. They had extensive trade with neighboring countries and exchanged what they had with each other. Rome's handicraft industry was also very prosperous, producing a variety of exquisite items, such as pottery, textiles, metal products, etc."

"Moreover, Rome had a relatively complete legal system. The law regulated people's behavior and maintained social order. This made Roman society relatively stable and provided a guarantee for the country's development."

Yi Huawei paused, looked at the focused expressions of the crowd, and continued: "We in the Qin Dynasty should keep an eye on and understand countries like Rome. Learn from their strengths and make up for our shortcomings. At the same time, we must also be alert to the threats they may bring and be prepared to deal with them." Li Si stepped forward and bowed, "Lord Zhao, the land of Rome is far away in the west, and we know very little about it. And the rumors may not be credible. Is Rome really so powerful? If we rashly contact it, there may be changes. Moreover, although the Qin Dynasty has unified the six countries, there are still many domestic affairs to be dealt with. Is it appropriate to focus on distant countries at this time? I think the top priority should be to stabilize the interior of the Qin Dynasty, rather than dispersing energy to unknown places. And whether Rome is an enemy or a friend is still unknown. If we explore blindly, we may burn ourselves. And the world drawn on this map is hard for me to believe. The world is vast, and we know very little. It may be untrue to assert that the world is like this based on this map alone."

Thinking about what Yi Huawei said about educating the world, Kong Yu's heart was shocked. It was rare for him to stand on the same front with Li Si. He frowned and said, "Prime Minister, I also doubt the authenticity of this map. Everything in the world is unpredictable. We have never heard of the distant country depicted in this map. How do we know that it is not fiction? We Confucians respect classics and learn from history. Such unknown things should be treated with caution and should not be believed. Moreover, if the land of Rome is as powerful as the prime minister said, it is difficult to predict whether it will be a blessing or a curse for Daqin.

Look at this map. Although it is beautifully drawn, there is no solid evidence to prove that what it describes is true. How can we believe that a distant country that we have never heard of is true just based on this map? Moreover, if this map is intentionally misleading, wouldn’t I be in a passive position if I act rashly based on it? Our Confucianism has always advocated that evidence is the basis, and we should not believe in unfounded words. The authenticity of this map must be strictly verified before we can decide whether to use it as a basis for exploring the world. "

Feng Quji said, "What Prime Minister Li and Mr. Kong said is not without reason. However, if we do not understand the vastness of the world, how can we ensure the long-term stability of the Qin Dynasty? Although Rome is far away, only by knowing ourselves and the enemy can we win every battle. As for the authenticity of this map, it does need further verification."

"The authenticity of this map is beyond doubt. At least up to Rome, the content is authentic. Do you know where the silk from Great Qin was sold? It was transported to Rome by merchants from Great Yuezhi."

Yi Huawei smiled and said:

"The silk of our Great Qin, with its delicate texture and gorgeous colors, has become a precious treasure that is sought after by all countries. The Great Yuezhi is located at a key position in the trade between the East and the West, and the merchants there have a keen sense of business. Their caravans crossed the vast desert and crossed the steep mountains to transport the silk of the Great Qin to the West. In the process, the Great Yuezhi merchants not only made huge profits, but also became messengers of cultural exchanges between the East and the West.

Rome was particularly fond of Daqin silk. The Roman nobles were proud to wear clothes made of Daqin silk. Silk was expensive and in short supply in the Roman market. Roman merchants were eager to establish closer trade relations with Dayuezhi merchants in order to obtain more Daqin silk.

In addition to the silk trade, Daqin's porcelain, ironware and other items also flowed to neighboring countries through various trade channels. It also exchanged with the Baiyue through maritime trade routes, and the exquisite handicrafts of the Baiyue flowed into Daqin.

In the west, countries such as Kangju and Yancai also had close trade relations with Dayuezhi and Rome. Spices and jewelry from Kangju, horses, leather and other items from Yancai played an important role in trade. The trade between these countries not only promoted economic development, but also promoted cultural exchange and integration. "

After a pause, Yi Huawei looked at Kong Yu and smiled slightly: "Kong, everyone wants to know the authenticity of this map. It's too simple. I believe that in the near future, the territories of Xiqiang and Xiongnu will be incorporated into the territory of our Great Qin."

Everyone's eyes were focused on Yi Huawei, waiting for his further explanation.

Yi Huawei's gaze once again fell on the Confucian scholars headed by Kong Yu, and his expression became serious:
"Dear Confucian scholars, if our dynasty has just accepted the Western Regions, and if the people here are not enlightened and their customs are not changed, it will become a hidden danger in the long run. Confucianism is profound and can guide people to be kind and know etiquette and righteousness. If the people of the Western Regions are influenced by Confucianism, they will respect the king's rule like the people in the mainland, and the country will be stable and peaceful. This will benefit the present and future generations. You are famous for your profound knowledge and concern for the world. Now is the time to step forward and do your part for the country."

Yi Huawei's words were like a heavy hammer, hitting the hearts of Confucian scholars.

"ah?!!"

"What does this mean?"

After hearing what Yi Huawei said, the Confucians looked at each other in bewilderment, each thinking in their own mind. Kong Yu frowned slightly, stroked his beard, and said slowly: "Prime Minister, the Western Regions are far away and difficult. It may not be easy for us to go there to educate them."

Yi Huawei nodded, his expression revealing understanding: "I know that this trip is difficult, but we cannot retreat in the face of national justice. Your Majesty attaches great importance to this education and will give you full support."

"Although the conditions are difficult when you go to the Western Regions, this is an unprecedented opportunity. Once you succeed in educating people, you will become people who go down in history. Not only will you be rewarded by His Majesty and promoted to higher positions, you will also be respected by the people. In the Western Regions, you will be the disseminators of culture and have supreme prestige. You can cultivate talents according to your own ideas and expand the territory for Confucianism."

Yi Huawei's words are full of temptation, trying to inspire the ambitions of Confucian scholars.

Some young Confucian disciples showed longing in their eyes and began to discuss this tempting proposal. However, some people were still hesitant. They were worried about the harsh environment in the Western Regions and were afraid that they would not be able to complete this difficult task.

Seeing this, Yi Huawei's face darkened and his eyes became sharp, as if he could see through everyone's mind: "The court is determined to promote civilization in the Western Regions. If you are unwilling to go, His Majesty will think that you are only seeking comfort and ignoring the country. In the future, I am afraid that you will no longer have a foothold in the court. Moreover, Confucianism has always advocated sharing the worries of the monarch. If you retreat at this time, His Majesty may also question the practicality of Confucianism, which will affect the status of Confucianism in the court and your future. Don't hesitate for a moment and regret it. "

The faces of the Confucianists became more solemn, and they began to realize the seriousness of the problem. Kong Yu looked at Yi Huawei and wanted to refute, but he couldn't say a word.

"If you disobey orders, your majesty will not let you off easily. At the very least, you will be expelled from the capital, and your family, teachers, and friends may be implicated. If you follow the court's will and head to the Western Regions, when you return with your mission accomplished, wealth, honor, and status will follow. I hope you will think carefully and don't choose the wrong path."

Yi Huawei spoke in a serious tone, staring intently at the Confucianists, waiting for their response.

After hearing what Yi Huawei said, the Confucians had different expressions. Some looked terrified and began to worry about the fate of themselves and their families; some fell into deep thought, weighing the pros and cons; and some looked unwilling, unwilling to leave the comfortable capital and go to the distant and difficult Western Regions.

Li Si stood up, raised his chin slightly, a hint of imperceptible pride flashed in his eyes, and the corners of his mouth rose slightly, as if he was gloating: "Master Zhao is right. Confucianism has always been highly respected by Your Majesty. Now is the time for Confucianism to serve the country. All Confucian scholars should put the interests of the country first and bravely shoulder this responsibility."

There was a hint of sarcasm in Li Si's words, as if he was laughing at the Confucian scholars. He just said why Yi Huawei wanted to reuse Confucianism. If this was the way to reuse it, he would fully support it! !
When the scholars of other schools of thought saw Confucianism in such a situation, they also showed different expressions. Although the disciples of Mohism were calm on the surface, their eyes revealed a hint of watching the fun, as if they were waiting to see how Confucianism would make a decision. The Taoists crossed their arms and shook their heads slightly, looking as if they had nothing to do with it, but their eyes also revealed their scrutiny of Confucianism...

Feng Quji also nodded and said, "Yes, the education of the Western Regions is crucial to the stability and development of the country. Confucian scholars should give full play to their advantages and make contributions to the country."

The three dukes and nine ministers also chimed in, persuading the Confucian scholars to accept this task. Some of them looked serious, as if to emphasize the importance of this matter; others curled their lips slightly, as if they felt that the Confucianists were in a difficult situation this time.

A Confucian scholar standing behind Kong Yu bowed and said, "Mr. Prime Minister, we are fully aware of the righteousness of the country and dare not refuse. We are willing to go to the Western Regions."

Although his voice was firm, there was a hint of helplessness in his eyes.

No wonder this thief Zhao Gao was so kind that he brought their family to Xianyang and provided them with good food and drink. It turned out that he was waiting for them here!
Yi Huawei showed a satisfied smile and said, "Very good! All the Confucian scholars really care about the world and live up to your majesty's expectations. I believe that with your efforts, the Western Regions will surely become another prosperous place for our Great Qin Empire. To be honest, if it were not for the fact that your majesty is still young and cannot leave his original appearance, I really want to go with you scholars. The world is so big, I also want to see it!"

(End of this chapter)

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