Opening a Tavern in the Tang Dynasty

Mickey knew very well that the locust plague was like a flood and a beast. If it was not contained in time, it would inevitably cause serious famine and turmoil.

He was the first to break the silence and elaborated on his views to Prime Minister Zhao: "According to Mickey, to control locusts, we must first understand their habits. Locusts often lay eggs on riverbanks and wastelands. After hatching, they migrate in large swarms, destroying crops wherever they pass."

"Therefore, only in this way can we tailor measures to local conditions and formulate locust control measures. As for manpower allocation, perhaps we can recruit young and strong people from all over the country, offer them a small reward, and then ask the gentry and wealthy families to donate supplies to meet the needs of locust control."

After listening to this, Prime Minister Zhao nodded slightly and said, "Zi Dan's proposal makes some sense. However, the panic of the people should not be underestimated. If we cannot calm the people's hearts, even if we have a plan, it will be difficult to implement." Mickey secretly agreed in his heart. He understood that the people regarded locusts as a punishment from heaven and were afraid of them. If a plan to control locusts was forcibly implemented, it would probably cause many accidents.

As the two were talking, a servant arrived with the news that several local officials had requested an audience. Prime Minister Zhao and Mickey exchanged glances, each seeing a hint of worry in the other's eyes. He straightened his clothes and said, "Please invite them in and see what they have to say."

Several local officials filed in. After exchanging greetings, one of the older officials stepped forward and spoke solemnly, "Prime Minister Zhao, the people in my jurisdiction are suffering terribly from the locust swarms that cover the sky. Recently, some villagers have been saying that the locusts are divine punishment for the heavy sins of humanity. Therefore, they have knelt in prayer and are afraid to hunt the locusts. This situation has left me deeply concerned, yet I am at my wit's end."

Mickey frowned and took over the conversation: "Sir, this is a foolish view. The locust plague is a natural phenomenon and has nothing to do with divine punishment. The most urgent task is to make the people understand this and eliminate their fear." The local officials nodded, but looked embarrassed.

Another official said with a bitter face, "That being said, the people are utterly convinced. How can we easily convince them? Furthermore, catching locusts is labor-intensive. If a large swarm were encountered, human labor alone would be insufficient." Mickey pondered for a moment and then said slowly, "We could start by appealing to the village's respected figures, explaining the rationale, and having them lead the rest of the people. Secondly, we could create an illustrated guide to catching locusts and distribute it throughout the village, teaching the people how to make simple tools so they can work together to catch them."

Prime Minister Zhao stroked his beard and said, "This plan is feasible. But manpower still needs to be properly arranged. Recruiting young and strong people cannot be forced, but must be voluntary, and the rewards must be paid on time. As for donations from wealthy gentry, there must also be corresponding incentives, and they must not feel resistance." Everyone agreed and discussed the specific implementation details.

Mickey added: "Sir, you can set up rewards for catching locusts in various places. Those who catch a large number of locusts can be rewarded with food, cloth, etc. to stimulate the enthusiasm of the people. At the same time, organize personnel to patrol to prevent people from taking the opportunity to hoard locusts and drive up prices." When the local officials heard this, their eyes lit up and they thought this was a very good plan.

Afterwards, everyone engaged in a heated discussion on the follow-up treatment of the locusts and how to prevent locust plagues next year. Mickey, with his knowledge and insights, offered many constructive suggestions, gradually winning the support of everyone.

After some discussion, a preliminary strategy for locust control was finalized. Prime Minister Zhao stood up and said solemnly, "Everyone, the locust plague concerns the country and the people's livelihood, and we cannot afford to lose anything. This strategy requires the concerted efforts of all parties and its swift implementation. Those who slack off or shirk their responsibilities will be severely punished." Everyone agreed in unison and left.

Mickey watched the group leave, feeling a surge of emotion. He knew the road ahead was long and challenging, but as long as the ruler and his subjects were united, and the people worked together, they would surely overcome this disaster.