A Hongmen Banquet, Huh! You Never Gave Us Room to Negotiate! (Please Subscribe and Send Monthly Votes)

At morning court the next day, Li Chen had the eunuchs carry a pile of exquisite models into the imperial court, instantly causing an enormous stir.

They were models of a train, accompanied by railway design drawings, and they delivered an unparalleled shock to the people of this civilization.

Chancellor Zhao Wenyuan watched in astonishment as Li Chen explained the designs, while the assembled ministers crowded around and began discussing them.

The Minister of Works could hardly tear his eyes away. He could not help exclaiming, "Your Majesty, these railways benefit both the nation and its people. This is a truly great invention!"

Even the notoriously stingy Minister of Revenue, Liu Minghan, could not help nodding in praise. "If developed vigorously, this will surely bring enormous returns to the Heavenly Strategy Dynasty.

"However, the Heavenly Strategy Dynasty is currently at war with the Sasanian Dynasty, and our expenditures are considerable. Building an extensive network might require higher taxes, leaving the people suffering beyond endurance."

Liu Minghan's words astonished the ministers nearby.

After all, Liu Minghan was famous for his stinginess. For even him to say such a thing was clearly an immense endorsement of the project.

Li Chen smiled faintly and waved a hand. "Actually, you are all overthinking this. We do not need to build an extensive network from the outset. We can choose a pilot route first, such as a railway from the Imperial Capital to Cloudsea City in the Central Heavenly Strategy Dynasty.

"The major lineages along the route, particularly the merchant lineages and major sects, can all invest in its construction. Since they stand to profit, they will naturally be willing to participate.

"This will ease the court's burden while benefiting the people. Moreover, railway construction will create a great many jobs. Those cultivators who usually