0p0 Chapter 47 'Merit Inscription' Ceremony
Chapter 47 'Merit Inscription' Ceremony
In the days that followed, Ying Wuyou actively prepared for the erection of the 'Merit Inscription'. She personally participated in the design, ensuring that every detail reflected respect and gratitude for the businessmen. At the same time, she also organized a series of promotional activities to let more people know the significance and value of this project.
Finally, the long-awaited day arrived, and people flocked to a spot ten miles west of the city, eager to witness this important moment. There, a stone tablet, ten feet tall, stood majestically. However, what attracted the most attention was that the tablet was covered by a huge red cloth, like a mysterious enigma waiting to be solved.
Everyone was very curious as to why the cloth was covered on the stone tablet. But no one dared to approach and uncover the mystery, for around the tablet stood a group of guards clad in silver armor and wielding longswords. Their postures were upright, their expressions serious, their eyes sharp as eagles, exuding an aura of inviolability. The presence of these guards inspired awe, and no one dared to approach rashly.
People could only stand at a distance, cautiously discussing and speculating about the secrets hidden behind the red cloth. Some believed it was a solemn ceremony, requiring a specific moment to unveil; others thought it was merely a formality to increase mystery and attraction. Regardless, everyone was filled with anticipation and curiosity about this "Merit Inscription," hoping to unveil its veil and learn the truth as soon as possible.
Among those who came were not only merchants, but also many ordinary people who came to join the fun. Some were curious about what the newly built road looked like, while others just wanted to see the spectacle. In addition, some people who had participated in the road construction came to see the fruits of their labor. In short, when Ying Wuyou arrived, he saw the road teeming with people, gathered in groups of three or five, completely blocking the road.
Left with no other choice, Ying Wuyou dismounted and continued on foot. Thanks to the guards' efforts in clearing a path, she quickly reached the front of the crowd. When people saw Ying Wuyou, they made way for her and bowed. Ying Wuyou smiled and nodded in response, expressing her gratitude. Then, she continued walking forward, carefully observing her surroundings.
Ying Wuyou stood quietly before the brand-new stone tablet, seemingly becoming the focus of the entire world. Her appearance instantly silenced the previously noisy crowd, and everyone's gaze focused on her. Curiosity and anticipation were evident on people's faces, as if they couldn't wait to know what would happen next.
Ying Wuyou smiled, her gaze slowly sweeping over everyone present, her eyes filled with confidence and composure. She took a deep breath, then said in a clear and firm voice, "Welcome everyone to this unique 'Merit Inscription' erection ceremony." Her words were as warm as a spring breeze, touching the hearts of everyone present.
As soon as she finished speaking, Ying Wuyou started clapping. Although some were puzzled, everyone followed her lead, and thunderous applause resounded throughout the space. After a few moments of clapping, Ying Wuyou gently raised her hand and made a downward, almost suffocating gesture. Gradually, the applause subsided, and silence returned to the room.
At this moment, Ying Wuyou continued, "The purpose of this ceremony is primarily to express our sincere gratitude to all the generous merchants. It is because of their unwavering willingness to contribute their savings that this smooth road was able to be built. Now, please give a warm round of applause to these selfless merchants and pay them the highest tribute!" As her words fell, applause surged up again like a tide, lasting for a long time.
The merchants were deeply shocked by Ying Wuyou's sudden action. Their emotions were instantly ignited, becoming incredibly passionate and excited. Tears welled in their eyes; they were overwhelmed with emotion, clapping wildly as if trying to convey all their enthusiasm through their applause. Some merchants were so moved that they wept uncontrollably.
Despite their wealth, these businessmen were consistently looked down upon and neglected. In the eyes of the world, they were merely profit-seekers, synonymous with greed and selfishness. They were universally disliked, marginalized, and discriminated against.
Yet, at this moment, they never imagined they would receive such respect and recognition. They saw countless people applauding for them and felt the sincere gratitude of Princess Jiayang, the most esteemed princess of the Qin Dynasty. This unprecedented experience stirred their emotions, leaving them deeply moved. How could they not be excited? How could they not be touched?
In that instant, they seemed to find a sense of belonging, a feeling of being accepted by society. They realized that they were not isolated individuals, but a group with shared goals and values. This gratitude from Ying Wuyou was not only an affirmation of them personally, but also a recognition of the entire business community. At that moment, they felt that their efforts and dedication had finally paid off. They were no longer despised merchants, but had become an important force in the development of the Great Qin Dynasty.
As the applause subsided, a satisfied smile appeared on Ying Wuyou's face. Her gaze swept across the crowd, finally settling on Zhao Fugui, who stood not far away. She announced loudly, "Now, let's invite today's protagonist—the business representative—to come up and cut the ribbon!" As Ying Wuyou's voice faded, Zhao Fugui quickly walked to her side, his face beaming with excitement and pride.
Ying Wuyou smiled and nodded to Zhao Fugui, gesturing for him to stand beside him. Then, Ying Wuyou turned and gestured to the two guards behind him, who immediately stepped forward, each holding a strip of red cloth. Ying Wuyou personally unfurled the cloth and invited Zhao Fugui to the center. Zhao Fugui carefully walked to the center of the cloth and took the delicate little knife Ying Wuyou offered with both hands. He gripped the hilt tightly, took a deep breath, and his eyes were firm and focused. Under the expectant gazes of the crowd, Zhao Fugui gently swung the knife, accurately cutting the ribbon.
In an instant, the ribbon snapped, its ends fluttering to the ground, symbolizing a new beginning and prosperity. Ying Wuyou led the applause, which was quickly followed by enthusiastic applause and cheers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Zhao Fugui gratefully clasped his hands in thanks to everyone, his heart filled with joy and a sense of accomplishment. At this moment, he felt he had become a part of the Great Qin, shouldering a greater responsibility and mission.
Then Ying Wuyou asked Zhao Fugui to pull up a corner of the red cloth on the inscription. As Ying Wuyou nodded, the two of them pulled the red cloth down sharply at the same time, and the stone tablet was fully revealed to everyone.
The stone tablet, entirely crafted from bluestone, exudes a solemn and ancient air. The front is inscribed with the three large characters "富贵路" (Road to Prosperity), the calligraphy vigorous and powerful, flowing like dragons and phoenixes, seemingly imbued with boundless strength and majesty. Every stroke reveals the calligrapher's exquisite skill, inspiring awe and admiration.
Below the monument's name are densely engraved the names of the donors, arranged in descending order of donation amount, highlighting their contributions to the road's construction. Each name embodies love and responsibility, and represents support for Daqin.
As the stone tablet appeared, enthusiastic applause erupted once again. This is not just an ordinary stone tablet, but a symbol of spirit. It bears witness to people's kindness and dedication, and will inspire more people to devote themselves to the construction of the Qin Dynasty.