Chapter 1463: Chapter 1461: The Heart of Energy
Han Dong has already signed his name on the contract.
This contract is advantageous not only for the Holy City, but also for Han Dong himself… As long as Mr. Newton’s true stance is confirmed, sharing technology with him could also significantly contribute to the Holy City’s development.
Moreover, Mr. Newton would provide comprehensive technical support for Han Dong’s estate.
At that time, Swollen Doctor could also engage in in-depth discussions with Mr. Newton.
When it comes to steam machinery, Swollen Doctor is quite skilled, even more so than Han Dong.
As one of the rewards from the London Game, the estate had been reformed under the Grey Old King’s oversight. During the process of acquiring relevant Ghoul-related technologies, there would inevitably be interaction with Swollen Doctor.
The Old King’s involvement, especially with multiple Upper Rank contact,
would undoubtedly serve as an opportunity for Swollen Doctor’s growth, perhaps even leading to a complete transformation.
When Han Dong handed over the signed contract, he casually added:
“As it happens, I have a piece of steam technology transferred out of Fate Space. To be specific, it should be classified as ‘bio-mechanical technology.’
It has already achieved ‘mechanical planting,’ enabling mechanical devices and steam power systems implanted into the body to evolve alongside the biological growth.
Of course, the eventual level of evolution will depend on the material used.”
“I’ve observed changes in the commoners’ district; this technology might have broader applications.”
The unexpected statement made Newton’s eyes light up. What he lacked precisely was the link between machinery and biological entities, and Han Dong happened to fill this gap.
The glow of excitement shone within Newton’s pupils. “Can this truly be accomplished?”
“Yes, although it hasn’t been applied to humans yet, we have successfully integrated it extensively into the Ghoul bodies during real combat. Based on the combat data collected, stability can be ensured at over 95%.
However, this technology is mainly in the hands of Swollen Doctor under my command.
My estate is currently undergoing reform under the oversight of Demons. When the rectification is complete, I will actively reach out to Mr. Newton… Swollen Doctor has far deeper expertise in steam technology than I do; you two will surely have meaningful discussions by then.”
“I truly appreciate it.”
“By the way, there’s something else regarding the Holy City that I’d like to hear from Mr. Newton.”
“You don’t need to be so formal with me anymore. Feel free to ask anything.” Newton had already shed his mask of severity. Though his demeanor remained proper, he treated Han Dong with a particular warmth.
“There is one thing I still don’t quite understand.
Earlier, at the elevator entrance, when I met with the four regiment leaders, the Great Demon Leader’s attitude toward you was notably distrustful.
The other leaders seemed to have varying degrees of opinions as well, which I could tell from their expressions… If their support wasn’t unanimous, how did the Sacred Ring manage to exceed the authority of the council?
It even took proactive initiatives like holding important meetings inside the Treasury?
For the Big Reform to proceed smoothly, it must have garnered the majority’s approval at least, right?”
“You’re absolutely right.
The Great Demon Leader’s dissatisfaction with me stems from my excessive demands for resources.
After negotiations, I proposed extracting 20% of the Holy City’s existing resources.
Additionally, I enacted taxation upon the knights of the Holy City, requiring them to submit 10% of their points obtained during Fate Space expeditions to fund Steam City’s development.
As for the Sacred Ring needing to surpass the council and serve as the Holy City’s new apex,
this was one of my non-negotiable demands.
The reason is simple: I hope for steam technology to become the top priority in future development.
The Sacred Ring’s position at the summit creates an image for all city residents, encouraging widespread adoption of steam reforms across the city.
Of course, I’ve made corresponding compromises here as well. The Sacred Ring is no longer an independent domain of the Mechanical God Sect, but has been transformed into a public administrative area… Important personnel of any Knight Regiment can enter the Sacred Ring to enjoy high-level technical services free of charge.
As for why they agreed to these conditions,
given that you participated in the Big Expedition and witnessed the Gold Lord Body firsthand,
you should have an idea. After all, the Infinite Energy I provided must have played a critical role during the expedition, correct?”
“Mr. Newton truly employs masterful strategies!” Han Dong couldn’t help but give a thumbs up.
Newton continued:
“The Infinite Energy used during the Big Expedition was merely a replica, with a replication degree of less than 30% of the original.
Even so, it was sufficient to propel the Expeditionary Army’s advancements during Eternal Night… I also heard that during the London Campaign in which you participated, Infinite Energy helped ‘turn the tide’ during the final combat phase.
Moreover, the fundamental operation of the Holy City is also inseparable from the steam energy I provide.
Once people experience such benefits, they find it hard to let go.
Additionally, the authentic version of Infinite Energy that I designed is right here. Although my proposed conditions have a degree of personal research interest, as long as they don’t compromise the stability or future development of the Holy City, everyone is willing to agree.”
While speaking, Newton’s gaze subtly drifted toward the Gold Master nearby.
The answer was already evident.
The Gold Master, being the Commander-in-Chief of the Steam Knights, the ruler of Steam City, and the literal embodiment of the infinite energy source, is in a sense the Holy City’s true trump card.
With the Gold Master stationed here, the Holy City has access to inexhaustible energy and maintains an extraordinarily high energy output.
Currently, the Land Deed (Lower Level King) has been bound to the Holy City, supported by the secretive energy supply from the Gold Master. As a result, the entire Holy City has become nearly impregnable, surpassing Demon-controlled cities of the same tier.
“Time is precious! I’ll spare the idle talk.
Once Nicholas’s estate reform is completed, we’ll proceed with technology sharing.
Regarding the matter of the Middleman, I also request you to keep an eye out. I hope to establish connections with the mechanical-savvy Old King as soon as possible.”
“Absolutely no problem. I already have a preliminary candidate in mind.
Do you remember the Old King incident that occurred years ago in Gaine Forest…? That Old King possesses rather peculiar gear technology, which with my current status, I should be able to attempt communication.”
“I’m counting on you! Nicholas!”
“Anything that contributes to the Holy City’s development, I will do my utmost to assist.”
Thus, the technical collaboration, far exceeding Han Dong’s expectations, was successfully finalized.
Newton placed a hand on Han Dong’s shoulder as they returned to the Sacred Ring Area in a manner suggestive of close camaraderie, chatting jovially without a trace of hierarchical disparity.
“Next, I’ll take a trip outside the city. By the time I return, the estate reform should be nearly complete. I’ll contact Mr. Newton then.”
“Excellent. If there’s anything I can assist with, feel free to message me anytime.”
Newton lightly tapped his mechanical wristwatch before bidding Han Dong farewell with a wave.
Meanwhile, Sally, resting in the Sacred Ring’s VIP area, was receiving the highest treatment, so much so that she seemed somewhat reluctant to leave.
“Sally, our work here is almost done. Prepare to head to Mi University.”