"A set of data for a mechanical weapon, in exchange for a quote," Fu Qingyang said.
"That simple?" Zhang Yuanqing was taken aback.
Fu Qingyang braced his elbows on the desk and gave a short laugh.
"Of course it's not that simple. In Xiahou Aotian's name, I sent a cooperation proposal to headquarters, offering to provide the Five Elements Alliance with mechanical weapons. I promised that within six months, four mechanical weapons would become standard equipment for official garrison squads, with a fifty-percent discount on the price.
"Once mechanical weapons become widespread, they can greatly strengthen the lower-level official members, reduce casualties in battle, and enhance the Five Elements Alliance's authority. Those ten old geezers at headquarters had no reason to refuse.
"I also told them that the four mechanical weapons were only the beginning. There would be more functions and more types of mechanical weapons in the future. Do you know what that means?"
"Equipment upgrades. A great revolution." Zhang Yuanqing spread his arms.
"Calling it a revolution is a bit much, but equipment upgrades are very real." Fu Qingyang looked at him and explained, "You may not know this, but back then, the officials joined forces with the three Scholar families to establish a research fund called 'Promoting Ancient Arts.' Its purpose was to use mechanical arts to drive equipment upgrades, improve the combat power of low- and mid-level Spirit Realm Walkers, and allow the Five Elements Alliance to quickly narrow the gap with Heaven's Punishment—or even catch up entirely.
"It was a highly far-sighted strategy. Those ten old geezers at headquarters may be irritating, but they do have some ability. Unfortunately, mechanical arts depend on accumulated technical expertise. That isn't something money alone can solve.
"It's like advanced engines or high-performance chips. If you can't make them,