The Blade-Wielding Legend-Chapter 1391 - 718: Divine Artifact of Reform (Part 2)

Shen Kui's face grew increasingly excited at the mention.

He was one of the prominent grain merchants in the Capital.

Unlike the Sea Opening Sect, all his foundation lay on "grain," from the Ministry of Revenue at the court to the Cao Gang in the pugilistic world, from high-ranking court officials to local petty officials; every link needed careful attention. He was unwilling to get involved in the conflict between the Sea Opening Sect and local factions.

If this machine is as useful as claimed, the labor saved is a small matter; the key is it can save time and reduce losses in many processes.

Some of the military leaders were equally filled with curiosity.

"Lord Yuan, can this device, clad in armor, roam the battlefield?"

"Difficult, this thing requires coal and water, the military logistics might not keep up, and the terrain on the battlefield is complex; if accidentally damaged, no one could move it..."

Yuan Feng spared no words, with no holds barred.

In an instant, many people gathered around him, even interrupting the academy's opening ceremony, while Emperor Xiao Qixuan leisurely sipped tea, calmly watching it all.

Of course, not everyone was pleased.

In the ranks of the nobility, an elderly minister with white hair had a livid face, his nostrils flaring, letting out a curt, cold snort from his nasal cavity: "Tricks... obscene skills!"

The voice wasn't loud, yet it was like a golden needle piercing a balloon. 𝐟𝗿𝐞𝚎𝚠𝐞𝚋𝕟𝐨𝚟𝐞𝕝.𝕔𝕠𝚖

The noble in a Python Robe beside him focused his eyes on his nose, and his nose on his heart, only the thumb twisting the honey-colored Buddha Beads in his sleeve suddenly sped up, his knuckles turning white.

Their glances met briefly, filled with deep concern beneath their eyes.

The Emperor held it in such high regard, this thing must be a significant weapon for human reform.

If it were just an ordinary Mystic Sect Magical Artifact, it would be no big deal.

However, judging by the situation, the impact of this object is so vast and hard to gauge.

They didn't understand the technology, but they understood the great trend of human hearts.

The reform of the Human Dao might lead to the downfall of imperial power. Since receiving the news, these noble families have been preparing in secret.

To retreat is to form factions for self-preservation, to advance is to vie for supremacy in the world.

For thousands of years, the Divine Land has always been like this.

If the Xiao Family could be elevated back then, why couldn't they...

But now that the Divine Artifact is under the court's control, if used to exert force, calling the wind and commanding the rain, who knows how many families would fall, with a pack of wolves watching behind.

The Sea Opening Sect is so passionate, their momentum is undoubtedly going to strengthen.

Thinking of this, the elder couldn't resist shaking his head and said:

"When the vessel is full, virtue declines..."

Though the voice was small, it was heard by attentive individuals.

Supervisor Yuan Feng's ears twitched, instantly bristling like a pine in a fierce wind. He stepped to the edge of the steps and patted the massive steam engine, shouting, "The power of the Divine Artifact is beyond the reach of muscles and blood!"

After speaking, he glanced at those nobles in the distance, his voice suddenly rising as loud as clashing swords, "Those who are blind see only smoke and fog blotting out the sun!"

"Those with open eyes see a brand new world!"

The nobles' eyes flared with slight anger, their faces unnatural.

Yuan Feng, like the Mo Sect, was notoriously neutral on the court, not wanting to offend any side, nor get involved in the conflict between the Sea Opening Sect and local factions.

Why now is he acting as if he swallowed gunpowder?

They wanted to act out, but seeing Emperor Xiao Qixuan's composed demeanor, they lost their nerve, not daring to speak further.

"Silence!"

At this moment, Chief Eunuch Zhao Wujiong of Ritual Supervision gave a high-pitched call, followed by a meaningful glance.

Yan Jiuling quickly cupped his hands and spoke loudly: "Gentlemen, matters can be discussed later to avoid delaying the hour."

Emperor Xiao Qixuan finally spoke, "I am weary, let's return to the palace."

"We respectfully see Your Majesty off!"

The crowd, though not understanding the reason, also dared not ask, and collectively cupped their hands in farewell.

Once the Emperor's carriage left, Yan Jiuling spoke loudly to those below the stage: "Ladies and gentlemen, His Majesty is occupied with affairs of state and has returned to the palace early. However, the celebration of the academy's grand opening is not yet over, please follow me to 'Jixian Hall,' where a modest banquet awaits to celebrate this grand millennial event together!"

This was the custom of the academy's opening ceremony, and the people below, with varying thoughts, responded in agreement.

Under the guidance of Yan Jiuling and the Academy Servants, they flowed like water into the "Jixian Hall" located on the right side of the central axis.

On the way to the banquet, Yan Jiuling deliberately slowed his pace, leading everyone through a tour of the academy.

The Hundred Crafts Building was naturally the first stop.

Upon entering again, the craftsmen were still diligently honing their skills, but the atmosphere was even more invigorated than before.

Tao Fengchun's prized disciple was adjusting a gigantic wooden kite model, its wings connected by a complex hinge structure, with a large balloon envelope attached above.

Yan Jiuling introduced: "This is Lu Ban's Wooden Sparrow."

People marveled in wonder, with some military leaders gleaming with anticipation.

On the Southwest Battlefield, the capabilities of Lu Ban's Wooden Sparrow have already been proven; it seems to be headed for mass production...

Similarly, the various devices in the Hundred Crafts Building left everyone dazzled.

Li Yan, however, sharply noticed that it was somewhat different from the last time he visited. Many important items had been hidden, leaving only the well-known Lu Ban's Wooden Sparrow among the flashy items.

He glanced at the foreign emissaries whose faces were heavy.

Undoubtedly, revealing this thing was also for intimidation.

The same was true for the Observing Things Area, Hundred Herbs Residence, and Storage House.

Much had been concealed, yet the gathering of many famous craftsmen from the Divine State left many in awe.

Unknowingly, everyone arrived at "Jixian Hall."

The tall hall was spacious and open, with dozens of tables set up, delicacies steaming and the aroma of Jade Liquid permeating the air, while the sound of silk and bamboo instruments gently resonated, easing the previously heated atmosphere.

Supervisor Yuan Feng's face was rosy, as he went around toasting with Yan Jiuling.

Many officials likewise sought to forge connections, and for a time both hosts and guests were joyful.

Li Yan, on the other hand, discreetly glanced toward the highest seat at the feast.

Some there remained serene and indifferent, engaging in quiet conversation.