The Lord Of Blood Hill-Chapter 199: Touring Peace Haven
In addition to the intriguing clocks, the noble representatives are equally fascinated by Henwell's telescopes. They quickly grasp the military applications of such devices and not only clear out Henwell's existing stock but also place substantial orders.
Even though Henwell has a well-established lens production line, he still shows the original handcrafted method of making these telescopes. Therefore, despite the high pricing, the demand remains insatiable.
After touring around, everyone acknowledges that Henwell's rise is no fluke.
Peace Haven's products are not only diverse but also boast impressive production rates and quality. The pricing is remarkably competitive as well.
It's no wonder Henwell can easily lend five million gold coins to the duchy. The trade deals secured in just one day far exceed that amount, leaving the delegation members astonished.
Henwell offers some discounts for bulk purchases but sets specific conditions. His trade caravans must not face interference within their territories. Additionally, Henwell seeks to establish trade depots and acquire land use rights in their domains.
Instead of outright ownership, Henwell negotiates for usage rights exceeding thirty years. While the land quantity isn't vast, it spans various types, including but not limited to commercial, residential, and agricultural properties.
For commercial real estate, Henwell plans to open some directly managed stores, focusing on pharmaceutical shops, seed and tool stores, without competing with local trade caravans. The goal is to dominate the duchy's civilian market with Peace Haven products.
At the same time, Henwell aims to boost the survival rate of the populace, viewing them as his own future citizens and laying the groundwork now.
Residential properties will primarily serve to train local workers and farmers, facilitating the establishment of factories on-site.
Agricultural lands will be used to study grain crops across the duchy's diverse regions, effectively turning them into experimental fields.
Finally, and most importantly, Henwell plans to tap into the duchy's talent pool. The approach is straightforward: under the guise of worker training, he selects individuals with ambition and a desire to change their circumstances.
Additionally, Henwell opens schools under the pretense of charity, providing education to the children of commoners.
The most enticing aspect? Free meals!
As these educated individuals grow, they become a crucial talent reservoir for Henwell. Admittedly, some may pledge allegiance to local nobles, which is understandable.
However, many will face a harsh reality: the knowledge they've acquired is not valued by the nobility, leaving them with nothing. They have only two choices: remain stagnant or seek change by coming to Peace Haven.
Once people see, know, and think about more possibilities, they become dissatisfied with their current lives.
Given Peace Haven's limited population, why not draw from the duchy's talent pool?
Those overlooked by the duchy are ripe with potential for Henwell. With a population in the tens of millions, the duchy offers a vast talent pool for Henwell to tap into.
Moreover, Henwell's establishments will serve as intelligence hubs, gathering all sorts of information. Even a single investment in map surveying is worthwhile.
As these commercial outposts expand, they can also influence the perspectives of local nobles.
For Henwell, this strategy offers significant benefits, both in terms of short-term economic gains and long-term population growth.
To other nobles, it appears Henwell is merely seeking profit and perhaps gathering some intelligence, neither of which concerns them.
Thus, they readily agree to Henwell's requests. Some generous noble factions even gift Henwell villages and towns to develop.
Witnessing the prosperity of Peace Haven has greatly impacted them. They consider that having a small-scale industrial and commercial area in their own territories might significantly enhance their domains.
On the fourth day of the delegation's visit, Henwell takes them on a tour of his military camp. As they watch the troops on the training grounds seamlessly shift formations and execute rapid assaults, the delegates can't help but express their admiration.
To them, these soldiers, clad in half-armor and wielding spears, appear to be highly elite. The only aspect that seems a bit inexperienced is the cavalry unit of over a thousand riders, yet they still hold Henwell's forces in high regard.
After witnessing the various drills of over ten thousand troops, the delegation offers high praise. Their confidence in Henwell's ability to hold the southwestern front against the Ika Kingdom has significantly increased.
In their eyes, Henwell truly lives up to his reputation as a “War Knight”. Despite his young age, he commands a formidable regiment and has developed his territory exceptionally well, making him a standout among his peers in the duchy.
Some are curious, however, about why Henwell's soldiers only wear armor that protects the front half of their bodies. Henwell's explanation intrigues them.
He argues that soldiers should always advance bravely, and rear protection isn't as crucial. Armies are meant to face the enemy head-on, not turn their backs and flee.
The chest armor they see is an improved version of the original design. The steel strips on the back are no longer exposed but are instead wrapped in fabric and leather. Additionally, the armor's interior is lined with padding to prevent chafing injuries.
Compared to Henwell's main army, the delegates are even more intrigued by the cavalry unit patrolling Peace Haven. They are astonished to learn that this elite force, tasked with securing the trade routes, consists of two thousand riders.
However, they quickly come to terms with it. After all, given Henwell's impressive reputation and extensive holdings, amassing such a formidable cavalry isn't surprising.
In the following days, the various delegations gradually depart, leaving only part of Fabio's delegation behind.
Leading them is Henwell's old acquaintance, Duveen, a commander who collaborated with Henwell during the river assault ten years ago. Duveen's rise from humble beginnings to his current position is partly due to Henwell's recommendation during their escape journey.
At Duveen's request, Henwell accompanies him to the Blood Hill Cemetery.
After a solemn tribute, Duveen reflects, "It's been over ten years, Henwell. Knowing you're still alive brings us great joy. Many hoped you'd return, and before I came, they urged me to bring you back to Iron Wall. But after these past few days, I don't even know how to broach the subject. You've achieved more than any of us could have imagined!"
Henwell chuckles, "Just luck!"
Duveen laughs along, "Hahaha... Henwell, you're still as humble—or perhaps as cunning—as ever!"
Henwell shrugs, "Stay cautious, live longer!"
Duveen presses on, "Come on! Show me your real army! Don't tell me that the troops we saw in the drills are your main force! Others might not see it, but you can't fool me! That army is good, very good! But they haven't tasted battle. They're missing that lethal edge!"
Henwell smiles and shakes his head, "I never intended to hide it from you! Come on, I'll take you to see my personal guard!"
Chapter 199: Touring Peace Haven
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