Free Web NovelChapter 479: Chapter 275: Make a Deal (3)
"Of course, before that, we must tend to our wounded and fallen. We need to provide compensation to their families. It was their sacrifice that won us this excellent opportunity for a strategic counterattack."
Everyone present nodded. Although there was some sorrow, their fighting spirit was strong, and their morale was high.
Alexander suddenly spoke.
"We cannot forget the sacrifices of the fallen, but we also cannot forget the contributions of the living. This time, it was plain for all to see. The greatest credit and honor for successfully defending Lanxi City belong to Fang Zhen. I believe everyone agrees with this."
"And while the Whig Society is somewhat short on supplies and a bit lacking in funds, we always remember the contributions of every individual in every struggle."
"Therefore, I want to offer Fang Zhen our highest respect and esteem. But beyond that, we must also do everything within our power to provide him with the most generous material reward."
"I’m sure no one here has any objections?" Alexander said. fгeewёbnoѵel.cσm
Everyone present nodded. Indeed, no one raised an objection.
Everyone there knew full well that without Fang Zhen, Lanxi City would most likely have fallen.
This was the peak of their gratitude, both in heart and spirit. So, even when it came to a material reward—in truth, a far more valuable offering—no one present had any intention of protesting.
Fang Zhen listened and couldn’t help but smile to himself.
’The people of the Whig Society really are something else. They know to repay a favor—and not just that, they do it immediately.’
’The value of gratitude depreciates over time. Repaying it immediately is how you get the most out of it.’
’Alexander has clearly already coordinated with West, the one in charge of the books.’
West looked toward Fang Zhen. "Fang Zhen, is there anything you particularly want? Or, is there some material reward you’d like from the Whig Society?"
"To be frank, the Whig Society has never been a wealthy organization. In terms of pure cash, we don’t have much—just enough to keep things running."
"However, if it’s money you want, we will do our best to provide it."
"If you want other resources, we will do everything possible to help you gather them as a reward for your exceptional service."
Fang Zhen nodded. He suddenly broke into a smile and said, "I’m not one to shy away from talking about money, so let’s have a real discussion."
At Fang Zhen’s words, a few members who didn’t know him well tensed up, assuming he was about to ask for the moon.
Only Alexander and West remained expressionless.
"Tell us what you need," Alexander said.
"Well, it’s like this," Fang Zhen began. "While I’m quite fond of money and have no problem discussing it, I prefer things that are more... long-lasting."
"It’s the difference between having one good meal and being able to eat every day. I understand that principle perfectly. So I don’t want to make things difficult or make a demand that would be like killing the goose that lays the golden eggs for the Whig Society."
Fang Zhen paused. Once the silence had drawn everyone’s eyes to him, he continued.
"Instead of asking for a handout from you all, I’d rather propose a fair trade."
"A trade?" A murmur of surprise rippled through the room at Fang Zhen’s words.
Alexander, too, was surprised. He looked at Fang Zhen and asked, "What kind of trade are you proposing?"
Fang Zhen let out a soft chuckle.
With a wave of his hand, he produced a steel ingot from his King’s Belt.
