Chapter 921: Chapter 921 Building Materials
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Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
The next day, during the morning court session, the Emperor summoned Grand Scholar Sun. He took out what he considered the simplest book on geography. After letting the scholar read it once, he asked, “Father-in-law, what are your thoughts on this?”
“Though it bears no resemblance to the Four Books and Five Cla.s.sics we’ve studied, it is still a great book,” Grand Scholar Sun replied.
“May I inquire where Your Majesty obtained this book?” he asked hesitantly.
“Mother G.o.d suddenly bestowed a large number of books upon me. This one contains the most easily understood knowledge,” the Emperor explained.
“Then I…” Grand Scholar Sun’s eyes lit up.
“Follow me,” the Emperor commanded. After speaking, he led the scholar into his study.
Upon seeing the books piled halfway up the room, Grand Scholar Sun stammered, “This is…”
“Yes, there are many,” the Emperor replied frankly. “To be blunt, they are all about building bridges, riverbanks, and houses. One book even claims that houses can be built up to 30 stories tall, with different materials involved.” “Thirty floors! Building such a structure would be incredibly difficult, not to mention transporting materials to such heights,” the scholar exclaimed.
The Emperor smiled but did not respond. He probably wouldn’t believe it if not for Mother G.o.d’s gift.
However, this gift meant there was potential for such a building, and it simply depended on their abilities.
“You can study them here and see if you can understand them,” the Emperor offered. “Then, explore how these books can be used.”
“I understand,” the scholar replied. “However, I suggest we copy or print some of these books for safekeeping. In case of any mishap, these precious texts could be destroyed.”
“Indeed,” the Emperor agreed. “I have already entrusted Zhou Huaiming with finding suitable individuals. Once found, they will be tasked with studying these books in seclusion.”
After finishing his conversation with the Grand Scholar, the Emperor called two young eunuchs to a.s.sist him and went about his duties.
However, the Empress’s heart remained unsettled. After two days, he finally summoned Gu Chengrui.
Gu Chengrui immediately understood what was happening. “Your Majesty, do you wish for me to study these books as well?”
“Yes. You mentioned this knowledge before, so you may have some understanding. Please see if you can grasp any of it.”
“I will do my best.” Gu Chengrui nodded.
However, he had never learned such specialized skills in his previous life. At most, he could offer some a.s.sistance in the fields of mathematics, physics, or even chemistry. He would have to dedicate himself to studying these new subjects.
Half a month later, Gu Chengrui returned home in a daze. When he saw Mr. Gu and Gu Chengye, he was surprised. “Father, Second Brother, when did you arrive? Why didn’t you let me know beforehand?”
“We’re here to deliver some goods,” Mr. Gu explained. “However, your second brother plans to stay in the capital and partic.i.p.ate in next year’s general exams. Therefore, I wanted to inquire if you could find a small house in the eastern or western part of the city. It doesn’t need to be large, just enough to accommodate a family.”
“What is the budget?” Gu Chengrui asked.
“Ten thousand taels, or possibly a bit more if the location is ideal,” Mr. Gu replied.
Gu Chengye elaborated, “We are more concerned about the location.”
“Then I will help you look around,” Gu Chengrui concluded. “Are you the only two here?”
“No,” Mr. Gu said. “Your Aunt Liu and Madam Sun are here as well. The group is quite large this time, so I asked your second uncle to rent a small courtyard near their house.”
“I understand.” Gu Chengrui nodded. “I will find out about the house as soon as possible. Oh, have you all eaten?”