550 Power and Glory (1/2)
”Sure. I can do that, Mr. Shi Dong,” Ye Qingxuan said calmly. As if talking about ordinary things, he described the future. In his tone, there was not any pride or emotion, as if everything he said was guaranteed.
”I'll speed up the industrial revolution. The industrial revolution can be re-started if we put the Stirling Engine II into use. The productivity will be promoted. At the same time, I will re-adopt the Honor System.
”I will promote a new generation of merchants and factory owners and make them the new aristocrats to replace those old-fashioned aristocrats who know only about their land and people. A lot of people will lose their land and choose to work in the factories.
”In two years, productivity will tower up, high taxes will put huge pressure on the civilians, and milk will be poured into the Thames due to lack of customers. Once the merchant aristocrats have their power, the civilians in poverty will yearn for new land and market, and for more opportunities for wealth and status. They will force the country to invade other countries in search of wealth.
”Then, the Crusade will come.
”I can give you that, Mr. Shi. It is super easy. If you want, I can do this better than anyone else.”
He slowly got up, facing the surprised stares of the old men, and said, ”Not only that, but I will seize more power in the name of saving the world and send more men to the battlefield in the name of the Crusade. With war, I will get more power.”
In the silence, only the heavy breath of the old men could be heard.
Their passion for war was lit up. And they were a little shocked to hear this young man's words. Ye Qingxuan suddenly became so strong and powerful their eyes, inspiring unspeakable respect and fear for him.
Big noise was heard from afar. A bell rang from the peak of the mountain, which told everyone that some evil creatures were coming. In the dark sea, numerous shadows came closer and closer in the glimmering fires. They came here following the waves.
There were so many of them. In the wind, one could smell the foul smell of them.
With rushing steps, Carroll came. Half kneeling outside the gate, he reported, ”The current sped up and they are here earlier than expected. Please follow me to the underground shelter.”
No one replied.
The screaming of the evil creatures got closer and closer. Shi Dong was lost in thought, lowering his head like a statute. Only the sound of the operation of the machines was heard in the room.
A long time passed.
”What do you want exactly, Ye Qingxuan?” Raising his head, the old man looked into the eyes of Ye Qingxuan and examined his face. He seemed to be re-evaluating him. He asked, ”If this is so easy for you, then what are you really after?”
”Power, Mr. Shi Dong,” Ye Qingxuan answered with no intention of hiding anything. ”I want power, the power that makes everyone bow down to me.
”If Anglo can give it to me, I will save Anglo. If the Sacred City forbids me, I will fight against them. I will change this world. No one can stop me.