Convince

"Father, please take a look at these," Li Xuan presented the cups containing the different oil products to Li Changming.

Li Changming furrowed his eyebrows, puzzled by the sight before him. The only thing that appeared somewhat familiar was the cup containing asphalt, due to its similar color to what he had seen before. "What are these?" he asked.

"These are the liquids that come from the oil we extract from the ground. Li Ming has separated them based on their characteristics and uses," Li Xuan explained, proceeding to share everything she had learned from Li Ming, including the parts where they couldn't take immediate advantage.

Li Changming contemplated the information. On one hand, he could see the immense benefits for their clan. On the other hand, the deal seemed too good to be true.

"This kerosene," Li Changming examined the cup, "you're saying that we were only supposed to burn it for lamps, but due to our lack of understanding, we end up burning it together with the other components?"

Li Xuan nodded confidently and pointed to the cup of lubricating oil. "That's correct. The same goes for this one. We only needed the lubricating oil for our machinery, but the lack of knowledge made us waste the rest."

Li Changming pondered for a moment. "I understand the benefits this could bring to our clan, but are you sure you don't plan to marry Li Ming? I'm concerned that he could become a target for assassination or someone who might be lured away by another clan. So, Li Heng's suggestion may not be entirely wrong."

"If that is what Father wishes, your daughter shall comply. However, Father must consider two things," Li Xuan responded. "First, Li Ming currently sees us as business partners. While we may be able to force him into this, there's a chance he could escape and use his knowledge against us. Second, rushing into this may raise suspicions. I don't know if I can accomplish it, but I will put in the effort."

Li Changming finally understood why Li Xuan had requested time. "I see. However, you must also remember that when these products enter the market, Li Ming's name will inevitably become known. Time is not on our side."

Li Xuan nodded, fully aware of the time constraint. "I understand. But if we can produce these products on a large scale, we will have enough money to increase our power. According to Li Ming, there are even more discoveries to be made. Although I don't fully grasp everything he said, it's enough for now."

Li Changming sensed something amiss in her words. "Is it truly enough?"

Li Xuan smirked, raising a finger. "If we don't fully understand it, the workers won't either. So, even if other influences send spies to learn about these new products, they won't be able to replicate them immediately."

"I see," Li Changming mused. After a moment of contemplation, he asked, "What do you plan to do about Li Heng?"

The fact that Li Changming mentioned Li Heng meant he was already aware of Li Heng's intentions in proposing the marriage. Li Xuan had never been interested in his position, but it didn't change the fact that others perceived her as a threat.

Li Xuan replied, "I simply hope that Father can restrain Li Heng for a month. I need to make some initial progress so that we can finally market our products."

"That won't be a problem," Li Changming agreed. "But you should be aware that your brother, Li Heng, may be petty and shallow, but he is by no means a fool. He has been establishing connections. Once I personally intervene, he may cause trouble for you in one way or another."

"I will handle it personally. However, with your permission, I would like to hire workers and recruit craftsmen from other cities. There will be a lot of construction and tasks ahead," Li Xuan requested.

"Very well. You have my permission to utilize the Green Dragon, Blue Dragon, and Yellow Dragon Houses," Li Changming granted her request.

Li Xuan's eyes widened in surprise. The Li Clan consisted of seven Houses, reflecting the colors of the rainbow. The first three colors represented the strength of the Li Clan, housing the clan's martial artists. The Yellow Dragon House was one of them.

The next three houses were occupied by workers who carried out various tasks assigned by the clan. These three houses contributed to at least half of the city's buildings. Finally, the Purple Dragon House was an elite squad exclusive to the patriarch.

Her first and second brothers had the Red Dragon and Orange Dragon Houses, respectively. Yet, her father had granted her three Houses. It showed how highly he valued Li Ming.

"Father... I have already informed you, but..." Li Xuan raised three fingers and made a solemn oath. "I, Li Xuan, have no intention of participating in the fight for the patriarch position. All I wish to do is contribute to the family while living the way I want."

Li Changming smiled and said, "Despite saying that, you still accepted my suggestion to marry Li Ming. Are you truly living the way you want?"

Li Xuan's body trembled, unsure of how to respond.

Li Changming chuckled. "Life is not that simple, my daughter. Not everything can be within your control, but that doesn't mean you're completely powerless. Even if it's only a portion of freedom, you should seize it. Once you let it go, you may regret it for the rest of your life."

Li Xuan took a deep breath. "I still can't surpass you, Father. Since I've shared everything with you, I will return these cups to Li Ming, as he needs them for further study."

"Hmm? You're not giving them to your father so that I can devise a development plan for the clan?" Li Changming teased.

"As much as I would like to, I can't give them to you just yet. I will make sure to ask Li Ming to spare some for you. It's still in the early stages of development, you see," Li Xuan explained, awkwardly smiling.

Li Changming burst into laughter. "Hahaha. I already knew that. Just go."

Li Xuan clasped her hands and left the room, while Li Changming savored his tea, speaking in a profound tone to himself, "A Martial Art Master can use a technique to accomplish many things. Li Ming is similar. He can utilize oil for various purposes. Whether this will be beneficial or detrimental to our clan, only time will reveal. After all, the greater the benefits, the greedier people become."