Chapter 2382: Chapter 2379: Emperor Xuanming’s Test

"Alright, go ahead and take the livestock industry plan to Prince Rong’s Mansion first."

"Yes." Gao Yunli left with the booklet.

After he left, someone immediately relayed the news to Minister Qi’s Mansion.

When Gao Yunli came out of Prince Rong’s Mansion.

Someone from the palace arrived to summon Prince Rong.

"Prince, it seems that your recent frequent interactions with the Chu family have made some people uneasy." Su Yun sneered, not having much goodwill towards the Qi family.

Li Chongjin changed into regular attire and said, "First, send someone to understand the situation in the Northwest. Once we have detailed data, we’ll know the value of the business Madam Chu provided."

"Yes." Receiving the task, Su Yun became more serious, shedding his previous laziness.

Li Chongjin soon entered the palace.

He waited at the entrance for a while.

Before Emperor Xuanming called him in.

Upon seeing the pastries beside Emperor Xuanming and the faint incense, Li Chongjin glanced briefly at the side hall before withdrawing his gaze and saluting.

Emperor Xuanming put down the pen in his hand and, while wiping his hand, asked, "How is the cavalry training going?"

"Replying to Father, the cavalry training methods have been sent to the Northern Region and are now being implemented, showing good results. However, the number of cavalry able to persist is less than estimated, primarily due to deficiencies in riding skills. Most soldiers are not tall enough, having a certain disadvantage in physique compared to the People of Beirong. If we use regular horses, we’ll also be at a disadvantage against Beirong."

"Moreover, Beirong restricts the sale of horses. Now, the horses bred in the Northern Region are not as robust as those from the Beirong Grassland, but compared to before, Great Chu’s cavalry has improved significantly." Li Chongjin replied dutifully, fully aware that Emperor Xuanming did not summon him merely to inquire about the cavalry battalion.

Emperor Xuanming scrutinized him a few moments, saying, "So, what you’re saying is that the cavalry battalion has its limitations. A significant amount of military funds has been invested. If this yields no results, would it not be a waste of silver?"

Military expenditure is inherently costly, and even though Great Chu’s fiscal revenue is higher than in previous years, expenses are also hefty.

"Father, I believe that although there are challenges, they are not insurmountable. Military necessities should not be lacking. The reason is simple: with economic reforms and maritime trade, Great Chu’s economy will improve. The Ministry of Revenue will see more silver in the future."

"Previously, Beirong envied Great Chu’s production. If the common people of Great Chu live increasingly prosperous lives, Beirong would be even more unwilling to watch idly. Beirong’s warriors are fierce mainly due to the scarcity of food, driven by necessity."

"Now that Beirong is embroiled in internal strife and too preoccupied with itself, we should seize the time to strengthen our forces. Only with strong forces can we protect our assets, and this silver must be spent." Li Chongjin said earnestly, "Father, I’ve also investigated. The most suitable place for horse breeding is naturally the grassland, but the Northern Region is not vast enough. The horses bred there are suited only for transport. Consider why the Western Regions produce the famous blood-sweating horses; if we select a suitable horse farm within Great Chu, the problem can be solved."

"I’ve selected one area, the Northwest region, with ample grassland. It’s historically known for horse breeding, but due to the harsh cold and the sparse population, breeding isn’t viable, losing its advantage over time."

"I think we can gradually develop the Northwest’s advantages."

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