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But he was confident that the benefits would far outweigh the challenges. These advancements would not only strengthen his domain but also improve the lives of his people, and bring economic benefits as well. As he gathered the scrolls and prepared to leave his study, Lie Fan felt he should discuss these matters with Liu Ye and also began to look for other advisors who were experts in engineering, which could help Liu Ye alleviate the burden he had on him.
After storing the scrolls securely in his system inventory, a place he deemed the only truly safe repository for such sensitive and groundbreaking information, as he felt it was the only safe place even if there were Oriole agents around him, he still felt there was no safe place to store them except to his inventory.
Because these inventions and techniques he had rediscovered and wanted to be implemented were not just tools for progress, they were the seeds to strengthen his domain and future Dynasty more so it could last for as long as possible, even to the end of times.
However, he knew that implementing these ideas would require more than just his own vision as he doesn't have any background in this kind of thing. That was why, the next day, he summoned Liu Ye as planned and also summoned Huang Chengyan as well to his office in the Xiapi Governor's Castle.
Liu Ye and Huang Chengyan arrived promptly, their expressions a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Both men were renowned for their talents in engineering and invention, with Huang Chengyan having much more experience, and due to all of that Lie Fan trusted their judgment implicitly.
As they entered the office, they found Lie Fan seated at his desk, the scrolls filled with schematics and techniques spread out before him. The room was filled with an air of quiet excitement, as if the very walls were aware of what would transpire.
"Thank you for coming, Ziyang and Master Huang Chengyan," Lie Fan said, gesturing for them to take a seat. "I have something important to discuss with you both."
Liu Ye and Huang Chengyan exchanged a glance before sitting down. Liu Ye, who had served Lie Fan for many years, was already familiar with his lord's penchant for innovation seeing the scrolls of schematics and techniques spread out.
Huang Chengyan, though newer to Lie Fan's inner circle, doesn't know of Lie Fan's penchant for innovation and only knew some of the inventions that he introduced were something he gained through luck.
Lie Fan began by explaining the origins of the scrolls. "These schematics and techniques were acquired through the Oriole agents' network," he said, his tone measured. "I gave them orders to purchase any valuable schematics or techniques they encountered during their missions. These are the fruits of their labor."
Huang Chengyan nodded, his expression one of genuine interest. "My lord, your foresight is remarkable and truly blessed with heaven luck. To think that such knowledge could be found and brought to us is truly a blessing."
Liu Ye, however, remained silent for a moment, his sharp eyes studying Lie Fan. He had seen this pattern from his lord before, Lie Fan presenting groundbreaking inventions and techniques, each one more revolutionary than the last.
While he outwardly accepted his lord's explanation, Liu Ye couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. In his mind, his lord was not just a visionary leader, talented warrior, and genius in governance but also once in a lifetime genius inventor, a man whose mind seemed to transcend the limitations of their era. Still, he kept these thoughts to himself, knowing that his lord's secrets were his own.
Lie Fan proceeded to explain each invention and technique in detail, starting with the south pointing chariot. "This device," he said, unrolling a scroll to reveal the schematics, "is a nonmagnetic compass that always points south, no matter how the chariot turns. It will revolutionize navigation for our army and navy, allowing them to traverse long distances with greater accuracy and efficiency."
Huang Chengyan leaned forward, his eyes wide with fascination. "My lord, this is extraordinary. Such a device would not only aid our military but also open new possibilities for exploration and trade."
Liu Ye nodded in agreement, though his mind was already racing with practical considerations. "The construction of this chariot will require skilled craftsmen and precise engineering. We will need to allocate resources and train our workers accordingly."
Lie Fan smiled, pleased with their enthusiasm. "Exactly. That is why I called you both here. Your expertise will be invaluable in bringing these ideas to life."
He then moved on to the blast furnace and cupola furnace, explaining their potential to revolutionize iron production. "These furnaces will allow us to produce high quality iron on a large scale. Stronger weapons, better tools, and more durable agricultural implements, these are just a few of the benefits."
Huang Chengyan's eyes now sparkled with excitement. "My lord, this could transform our entire economy. With improved iron production, we can strengthen our military and boost productivity across all sectors."
Liu Ye, from the side, added, "We will also need to consider the logistics of sourcing materials and training workers. The construction of these furnaces will be a significant undertaking, but the rewards will be worth it."
Lie Fan agreed, his expression one of determination. "I have no doubt that we can overcome these challenges. With both of your expertise and guidance, we will ensure that these technologies are implemented effectively."
Next, Lie Fan discussed the advanced glazing techniques for ceramics and the improved weaving and dyeing techniques for textiles. "These innovations will elevate the quality of our pottery and fabrics, creating new opportunities for trade and craftsmanship. Imagine the markets of Xiapi filled with beautifully dyed silks and finely crafted ceramics."
Huang Chengyan at this time much more calmer, and he could already see the benefits from this. "My lord, this will not only boost our economy but also enhance our cultural prestige. Our artisans will be renowned throughout the land for their techniques, and beautiful crafts."
Liu Ye, though equally impressed, remained focused on the practicalities. "We will need to establish workshops and training programs to ensure that our craftsmen can master these techniques. It will take time, but the results will be transformative."
Finally, Lie Fan outlined the improved techniques for building dams, canals, and irrigation systems, as well as the advancements in iron production and bronze casting. "These innovations will strengthen our water infrastructure, improve agriculture, and elevate our metalworking capabilities. Together, they will lay the foundation for a prosperous and resilient domain."
As Lie Fan finished his explanation, the room fell silent, the weight of his vision sinking in. Huang Chengyan was the first to speak, his voice filled with admiration for the young lord in front of him. "My lord, your luck and vision are nothing short of revolutionary. These technologies and techniques have the potential to transform our domain in ways we can only begin to imagine."
Liu Ye, though more reserved, nodded in agreement. "The challenges will be significant, but the rewards are immense. With careful planning and execution, we can bring these ideas to life and secure a brighter future for our people."
Lie Fan leaned back in his chair, his expression one of quiet satisfaction. "I knew I could count on you both. Your expertise and dedication will be crucial in turning these plans into reality."
The three men spent the next several hours discussing the logistics of implementing each invention and technique according to the resources and schematics.
They assigned tasks, set timelines, and allocated resources, ensuring that everything was perfect and safe to be implemented. By the time the meeting concluded, Lie Fan felt a deep sense of fulfillment as the meeting with Liu Ye and Huang Chengyan had gone better than he had anticipated.
Their enthusiasm and expertise had reassured him, that the ambitious plans he had laid out were not only feasible but would also bring about transformative changes to his domain.
Meanwhile to the northwest, at Xiangping, Zhuge Liang and Pang Tong were concluding their mission. They were meeting with Gongsun Gong who had finished dealing with the aftermath of Goguryeo's 'surprise' attack.
Gongsun Gong was telling both of them, about the low casualty numbers, of 5,000 deaths and 10,000 wounded, a testament to their strategic brilliance which he felt grateful for.
Zhuge Liang and Pang Tong, as the humble strategists they were, with Pang Tong tempering his brazenness as he worked alongside Zhuge Liang, accepted Gongsun Gong's gratitude with grace. "We were merely following Lord Lie Fan's orders," Zhuge Liang had said, his voice calm and measured. "It is his vision and leadership that guided us to this victory."
Pang Tong, standing beside him, nodded in agreement. "Our role was to execute his plans. The credit belongs to him and to the brave men who fought on the front lines."
Gongsun Gong, though grateful, could not help but feel a sense of awe at the depth of their humility. He had heard tales of their brilliance, but witnessing it firsthand had left a lasting impression. "The modesty of both masters does you credit," he said, his tone respectful. "But know that your contributions will not be forgotten. Xiangping owes you a great debt."
As the evening wore on, the conversation turned to the fate of Yeon Gaesomun and Kang Saeng, the captured Goguryeo generals who now languished in the dungeons of Xiangping. The question of what to do with them was a pressing one, and Gongsun Gong sought the counsel of the esteemed advisors.
"Bringing them to Xiapi would be a significant move Masters," Gongsun Gong mused, his brow furrowed in thought. "Presenting them to Lord Lie Fan would not only bolster his prestige but also send a clear message to Goguryeo, about the absolute control Lord Lie Fan has over them alongside the establishment of the Lie Clan supervision bureau."
Zhuge Liang nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Indeed. Their presence in Xiapi would serve as a symbol of Lord Lie Fan's victory over them and control. However, we must also consider the logistics of transporting them safely. Yeon Gaesomun, in particular, is a formidable figure, even though old. We cannot afford any mishaps."
Pang Tong, on the side, added, "We should also think about the message it sends to Goguryeo. By bringing them to Xiapi, we are asserting our dominance further, but we must also be mindful of how King Sansang and his court might react, even though Yeon Gaesomun was a traitor in their eyes, he is still one of them by the end of the day. They may see it as a provocation, which could escalate tensions that Zhongda and Li Wei had resolved or at least reduce."
Gongsun Gong considered their words carefully. "You raise valid points, Master Zhuge and Master Pang. However, I believe the benefits outweigh the risks. Lord Lie Fan's court would greatly benefit from such a display of power, and it would reinforce his position further as the only one worthy to unite the fractured land and end this chaos."
After a lengthy discussion, it was decided that Yeon Gaesomun and Kang Saeng would be transported to Xiapi under the guard of Zhuge Liang and Pang Tong elite guards that escort them. The journey would be carefully planned to ensure their safe arrival, and once in Xiapi, they would be presented to Lie Fan.
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Name: Lie Fan
Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains
Age: 33 (200 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 1325
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 951 (+20)
VIT: 613 (+20)
AGI: 598 (+10)
INT: 617
CHR: 96
WIS: 519
WILL: 407
ATR Points: 0