With Yuan’s wars now so urgent, even if the Rongshan Sect had demanded around thirty or forty percent in compound interest instead of a bit over twenty percent in simple interest, the court would still have had to hold its nose and accept the loan.

“The Rongshan Sect sent me here to inspect the operating conditions of these mines, pastures, and ports.” Put plainly, He Lingchuan and Hu Qin were responsible for determining whether the collateral was truly worth what Yuan claimed. “In addition to this seven-million-tael loan, the collateral pledged against the previous loans must also be reviewed.”

“Ah…” Lord Wang took a moment to collect himself. “Yes, yes. That is only proper.”

“There is one more very important point. The Rongshan Sect must examine and approve every proposed use of this seven million taels!” He Lingchuan said solemnly. “Any expenditure that fails to pass review will not receive funding.”

Lord Wang stared...