Chapter 10: The Paganda Crisis Part 1

Beijing, China, Central Calendar Year 10640, Month 3, Day 10.

The city of Beijing had been transformed since China's sudden transportation to Novus Orbis. Gone were the familiar signs of modern globalization; in their place stood hastily erected structures and fortifications. A sea of red surged through Tiananmen Square. Over a million demonstrators, donned in red clothes and waving the five-star red flags, chanted with fervor. "Death to the Paganda barbarians!" they cried. "Save our fishermen heroes! Punish Paganda Kingdom!"

Despite the backdrop of this alien world, one thing remained constant: the burning spirit of the Chinese people.

Xu Feihong, seated in a government Hongqi L5, gazed out at the mass of people. The vehicle, released in 2013 and renowned for being the most expensive Chinese-made car, was a symbol of national pride. Today, it felt more like a gilded cage, enclosing him as he was driven through the crowd towards Zhongnanhai, the heart of Chinese political power. Xu Feihong knew the crowd's anger stemmed from fear as much as from patriotism. They demanded protection from the Chinese Communist Party in this dangerous new world, Novus Orbis. The gravity of his mission weighed heavily on Xu. Before the transportation to Novus Orbis, he had served as the Chinese Ambassador to Afghanistan and Romania, navigating complex diplomatic landscapes. But nothing had prepared him for this—a world teeming with unknown dangers and opportunities.

The car arrived at Zhongnanhai, and Xu stepped out, feeling the heavy weight of expectation. The hallway leading to the meeting room was lined with staff members who carried an air of urgency and anxiety. As he approached the room, the doors opened, revealing the most powerful man in China since Mao Zedong, Chairman Hu Wenbo. Flanking him were admirals of the People's Liberation Army Navy, including Admiral Li Pengcheng, the newly appointed Commander of the Southern Theater Command Navy. Li's reputation for strategic brilliance and unyielding resolve preceded him.

Xu Feihong also saw his immediate superior, Wang Yi, Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission. The gravity of the situation was clear in Wang's stern expression.

The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as the meeting began with a characteristic historical rant from Chairman Hu Wenbo, his voice imbued with both fervor and authority.

"Comrades," Hu began, "we find ourselves in a moment of great peril and great opportunity. Our beloved China has been transported to this new world, Novus Orbis, and we must navigate this realm with the same wisdom and strength that our ancestors demonstrated throughout the millennia. Let us reflect on our glorious history, a history that has been marked by resilience and fortitude in the face of ceaseless barbarian aggression."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Our story begins with the unification of China under Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor who forged a nation out of warring states. His vision laid the foundation for a strong and centralized state, a beacon of civilization amidst the chaos of barbarian tribes. Yet, even in those early days, we faced threats from all directions."

Hu Wenbo's gaze swept across the room, making eye contact with each person present. "The Great Wall of China, built to keep out the nomadic tribes, stands as a testament to our determination to defend our borders. The Xiongnu, the Huns, the Rouran, and countless other barbarians sought to invade our lands, but we stood firm. We repelled them time and again, preserving our culture and sovereignty."

"However, our challenges did not end there," Hu continued, his tone growing more intense. "The Mongol invasions under Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan brought unprecedented devastation. Our people suffered immensely, but even in the face of such overwhelming force, we resisted. The Yuan Dynasty eventually assimilated into our superior culture. In the end, the Yuan Dynasty was overthrown by the Han Chinese under the leadership of Zhu Yuanzhang, who founded the Ming Dynasty. We reclaimed our land and our destiny. This is the strength of China—the ability to absorb and transform those who would conquer us."

"The Ming Dynasty was a period of great cultural and economic prosperity, but it was also a time of relentless defense against external threats," Hu Wenbo said, his voice resonating with pride. "We repelled Japanese pirates along our coasts and defended against the incursions of the Oirat and the Mongols in the north. Our naval expeditions under Admiral Zheng He demonstrated our power and extended our influence across the seas."

Hu's voice grew more impassioned as he continued. "As the Ming declined, the Manchus invaded and established the Qing Dynasty. But what did they become? They became Chinese. Our culture, our way of life, is so powerful that even our conquerors are transformed by it. This is our destiny—to lead, to enlighten, to civilize."

Hu's expression darkened as he transitioned to the more recent history. "But perhaps the most grievous period in our history was the 'Century of Humiliation.' Western powers, driven by greed and imperialism, sought to carve up our great nation for their own benefit. The Opium Wars, instigated by the British, were a blatant assault on our sovereignty and dignity. They forced opium upon our people, weakening our society and economy. And when we resisted, they responded with gunboats and unequal treaties."

"The Treaty of Nanking, the Treaty of Tientsin, and other such agreements were not treaties of peace, but instruments of subjugation," Hu declared, pounding the table for emphasis. "They seized Hong Kong, established extraterritoriality, and imposed indemnities that drained our resources. The British, the French, the Russians, the Germans, and the Americans—each took their turn at exploiting our land and people."

Hu's fists clenched as he spoke, his anger palpable. "The Boxer Rebellion was a desperate attempt to expel these foreign devils, but even then, we were vilified as the aggressors. The Eight-Nation Alliance invaded, and Beijing was sacked. Our people suffered, our pride was wounded, but we did not break."

Hu's voice softened slightly, taking on a more reflective quality. "The invasion by the Soviet Union in the 1920s is often overlooked, but it was another attempt to undermine our sovereignty. We have always been surrounded by those who envy our greatness and seek to tear us down. Yet, we have persevered."

He took a deep breath, his tone shifting to one of steely resolve. "The Japanese invasion during World War II was yet another chapter of horror," he continued, his voice filled with indignation. "The invasion of Manchuria, the Rape of Nanking, and the countless other crimes perpetrated by the Japanese Imperial Army left scars that will never heal. They sought to erase our culture, to subjugate our people. But we fought back with unmatched courage and determination. The Chinese Communist Party, under the leadership of Mao Zedong, led the resistance against the Japanese invaders and later the Nationalist forces. We emerged victorious, establishing the People's Republic of China in 1949."

Hu Wenbo's tone shifted to one of resolve and determination. "Since then, we have faced numerous challenges, both internal and external. The Korean War, the Sino-Indian War, the border clashes with the Soviet Union—each conflict tested our resolve, but we emerged stronger. We have transformed our nation through socialist construction, lifting a billion out of poverty and building a modern, powerful state."

"Our economic reforms, initiated by Deng Xiaoping, have propelled us to become the largest economy in the world in 2016," Hu stated with pride. "We have developed advanced technologies, built a formidable military, and extended our influence globally. Yet, even as we have risen, we have continued to face opposition from Western powers who seek to contain our growth and undermine our sovereignty."

He pointed to a map of Novus Orbis on the wall. "This new world is no different. It is full of conflicts, full of barbarian threats, full of those who would seek to undermine us. The term 'Gunboat Diplomacy' is not just a relic of the past; it is a reality we face today. The major powers of this world are eager to show off their strength, to intimidate and dominate. The native civilizations, like Paganda, view us with suspicion and hostility. The capture of our fishermen is just the latest in a long line of provocations against our people. They seek to undermine our position and test our resolve."

"But let me be clear," Hu Wenbo continued, his eyes blazing with intensity, "we will not be intimidated. We will not allow history to repeat itself. We will not suffer another 'Century of Humiliation.' China will stand tall and defend its interests with all the strength at our disposal. We must be united, resolute, and prepared to demonstrate our power."

"Remember the lessons of our history," Hu urged, his voice ringing with conviction. "The Mongols, the Manchus, the Western imperialists, the Japanese, the Soviet —all sought to dominate us, but we endured. We fought back and reclaimed our place in the world. Today, we face new challenges, but our spirit remains unbroken."

Hu Wenbo's tone softened slightly as he addressed the room. "Our civilization is the oldest continuous culture in the world. We are the descendants of the Yellow Emperor, the inheritors of Confucian wisdom and Han strength. Our achievements in science, technology, literature, and philosophy have shaped the world for millennia. We are the Middle Kingdom, the center of the world. It is our destiny to lead, not to be led."

Hu's expression hardened, his voice a cold, determined edge. He looked directly at Xu Feihong. "The Paganda action against our fishermen is unacceptable. It is a provocation that demands a response. We cannot allow this insult to go unchallenged. The People's Liberation Army stands ready to defend our honor and our people. But we must be strategic. The superpower of this Civilization Zone, the Commune of Mu, has offered to mediate. While their offer may seem conciliatory, we know better. They seek to position themselves as the arbiters of power, to undermine our sovereignty."

Hu Wenbo's voice grew colder, more calculating. "Comrade Xu, you have been entrusted with a crucial mission. The Paganda Crisis is a test of our resolve. You must provoke them to act first, to show the world that China will not be pushed around. We cannot afford to appear weak. We must demonstrate our strength and our willingness to defend our people and our sovereignty. The Commune of Mu may offer mediation, but we must control the narrative. We must ensure that it is Paganda who appears as the aggressor. Only then can we justify our actions and rally the support of our people and our allies."

He leaned back in his chair, a satisfied look on his face. "Comrades, our path is clear. We must stand united and resolute. The world is watching, and we must show them that China is strong, that China is allmighty, that China will not be cowed by any force. We are the heirs of the greatest civilization, and we will defend it with every means at our disposal."

Hu Wenbo paused, letting his words hang in the air. The room was silent, the weight of his speech settling on the shoulders of those present. Finally, he stood, signaling the end of his monologue.

"Remember, comrades," he said, his voice carrying a final note of determination, "our history is our strength. We are the descendants of heroes and warriors. We will not falter. We will not fail. For China, for our people, for our future."

He stood, his final words a solemn vow. "We will face many challenges in Novus Orbis, but we will overcome them, as we always have. We will transform this new world, bend it to our will, and ensure that China stands as the beacon of civilization. Together, we will write a new chapter in our history, one of strength, unity, and unyielding resolve. Long live the People's Republic of China!"

The room erupted in applause, the assembled leaders energized by Hu's passionate rhetoric. Xu Feihong felt the weight of his mission more acutely than ever. The Chairman's vision was clear, and it was now up to Xu to turn that vision into reality in the treacherous political landscape of Novus Orbis.

With that, Hu Wenbo left the room, his presence lingering like a shadow. The meeting had set the tone for what was to come. Xu Feihong knew that his mission was now more critical than ever. The Chairman's words had made it clear: failure was not an option. China's future in Novus Orbis depended on their ability to navigate this crisis with strength and cunning.

As Xu prepared for his journey to Paganda, he carried with him the weight of history and the expectations of a nation. The road ahead was fraught with danger, but he was ready. For China, for its people, for its place in the new world, he would do whatever it took to succeed.

Port of Humen, Dongguan, China.

Xu Feihong arrived in the port city of Dongguan, now transformed into China's gateway to the Leiforian Sea. The city, once known for its bustling trade, was now a fortified enclave bristling with naval power. The strategic importance of Dongguan had grown exponentially since China's arrival in Novus Orbis. Xu could see the imposing structures of the naval base, the busy docks, and the formidable warships anchored in the harbor. It was a testament to China's rapid militarization and adaptation to this new world.

The Leiforian Sea, abundant in marine life, was crucial to China's survival in Novus Orbis. But overfishing had strained relations with the native Paganda, leading to the current crisis. Xu's mission was delicate: to resolve the situation without appearing as the aggressor.

Xu boarded the Type 055 destroyer PLANS Xianyang, where he was greeted by Captain Zhao Wei. The stealth guided-missile destroyer, a symbol of China's naval prowess, would serve as his base of operations. Xu couldn't help but feel a surge of pride as he looked over the sleek lines and imposing silhouette of the Xianyang.

"Welcome aboard, Ambassador," Zhao said, saluting. "We are ready to set sail for Paganda at your command."

"Thank you, Captain," Xu replied, returning the salute. "We have a delicate mission ahead. We must navigate these waters with precision."

The People's Liberation Army Navy had been interested in developing a large destroyer since the late 1960s. The Type 055 program, initiated in 1976, had encountered insurmountable technical obstacles due to industrial underdevelopment. It wasn't until the early 2000s that China could realize its ambitions. The Type 055 destroyers, classified by the United States as cruisers, were among the largest and most advanced warships in East Asia. The first batch of 8 vessels to this design were all laid down in 2004 to 2008, and all were in service by the end of 2012. Further hulls were under construction, including five at Dalian in January 2012. A total of 32 were under procurement for the 12th and 13th Five Year Programme (2011–2020), aimed to equip all three Fleets.

As Xu walked the decks of the Xianyang, he marveled at the vessel's advanced features. The ship adopted a conventional flared hull with stealthy features, including an enclosed forecastle that hid mooring points, anchor chains, and other equipment. The bow and main deckhouse were configured similarly to previous Type 052C/D destroyers, but a continuous structure amidship increased internal volume and reduced radar cross-section.

The primary armament of the Type 055 included missiles carried in 112 vertical launching system (VLS) cells—64 cells forward and 48 cells aft. These VLS cells could launch HHQ-9 surface-to-air missiles, YJ-18 anti-ship cruise missiles, CJ-10 land-attack cruise missiles, and missile-launched anti-submarine torpedoes. The ship also boasted two 130-mm main gun, two 11-barrel 30-mm close-in weapon system (CIWS), a HHQ-10 short-range air defense system, 324-mm torpedo launchers, and decoy launchers. There was hangar space for two helicopters.

As the ship sailed through the Leiforian Sea, Xu pondered his strategy. Paganda, a proud maritime island nation the size of Madagascar, had captured 200 Chinese fishermen, igniting the fury of the Chinese people. The challenge was to handle the situation without appearing the aggressor.

Xu gathered his thoughts and summoned his aides for a briefing in the ship's conference room. The room, equipped with the latest communication technology, was the nerve center for the mission. As his team settled in, Xu began to outline his plan.

"We are dealing with a sensitive situation," Xu started. "Paganda has shown aggression by capturing our fishermen, but we must navigate this crisis without appearing as the aggressor. Our goal is to provoke Paganda into making the first overtly hostile move."

One of his aides, Li Wei, a sharp and pragmatic young diplomat, raised a concern. "Ambassador, how do we ensure that our actions do not escalate the situation uncontrollably?"

Xu nodded. "We must be calculated in our provocations. Increase our naval presence, conduct exercises near their waters, but avoid direct confrontation. We must apply pressure without crossing the line."

Captain Zhao, who had been quietly listening, interjected. "Our intelligence reports indicate that Paganda's navy, though smaller, is highly trained and motivated. They will respond aggressively to any perceived threat. We can use this to our advantage."

Xu agreed. "Precisely. We need them to make the first aggressive move. This way, we can justify our actions as self-defense. The key is to control the narrative."

The meeting continued, with detailed plans being discussed and roles assigned. The tension in the room was palpable, but Xu remained composed. He knew that the stakes were high, and failure was not an option.

Paganda, Central Calendar Year 10640, Month 3, Day 17.

The coastal city of Buehleria, capital of the Kingdom of Paganda, was a picturesque place. Whitewashed buildings gleamed in the sun, and the harbor bustled with activity, a stark contrast to the simmering tensions beneath the surface. The capture of the Chinese fishermen by the Paganda Royal Navy had ignited a diplomatic firestorm, and the arrival of Xu Feihong added fuel to the flames.

Xu Feihong stood on the deck of the Chinese destroyer Xianyang, gazing at the city as the ship approached the harbor. He was here on a mission of provocation, tasked with pushing Paganda into a corner where they would have no choice but to act rashly.

As he disembarked, flanked by an honor guard of Chinese marines, Xu was greeted by a contingent of Pagandan officials. Leading them was the Minister of Foreign Affairs Olumide Kajoba, a tall, stern-faced man who radiated authority.

"Ambassador Xu," Kajoba said, his tone polite but guarded. "Welcome to Paganda. I trust your journey was uneventful."

"Thank you, Minister Kajoba," Xu replied with a courteous nod. "I look forward to our discussions."

The formalities completed, Xu was escorted to the Pagandan Foreign Ministry, where the negotiations would take place. The atmosphere in the room was tense, with both sides eyeing each other warily. Xu knew that his every word and gesture would be scrutinized, both by the Pagandans and by his own superiors back in Beijing.

"Minister Kajoba," Xu began, once they were seated, "the capture of our fishermen is a grave matter. We demand their immediate release and compensation for the damages incurred."

Kajoba's expression remained impassive. "Ambassador Xu, the fishermen violated our territorial waters. They were engaged in illegal fishing activities. Paganda has every right to protect its resources."

Xu Feihong leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Minister, these men were simply doing their jobs, trying to feed their families. Paganda's actions are disproportionate and aggressive. We will not tolerate such treatment."

The room fell silent as the two men locked gazes, each unwilling to back down. This was the moment Xu had been waiting for. He needed to push Kajoba just enough to elicit an overreaction.

"Minister," Xu continued, his tone cold and calculating, "China is not a country that can be intimidated. If our demands are not met, we will have no choice but to take further action to protect our citizens and our interests."

Kajoba's eyes flashed with anger. "Are you threatening us, Ambassador?"

"I am simply stating the facts," Xu replied smoothly. "China will defend its people and its honor. The choice is yours."

The meeting ended in a stalemate, with neither side willing to concede. Xu Feihong knew that he had set the stage for the next phase of his plan. The Pagandans were proud and fiercely independent, and their anger would only grow in response to China's firm stance.

Later that evening, Xu met with his staff in the Chinese embassy, a fortified compound in the heart of Buehleria. The mood was somber but determined. Xu knew that their actions in the coming days would shape the future of China's presence in Novus Orbis.

"Our next move is crucial," Xu said, addressing his team. "We need to keep the pressure on Paganda without crossing the line into outright aggression. We will increase our naval presence near their waters and continue our exercises. We need to provoke them into making the first hostile move."

His chief aide, Li Wei, nodded in agreement. "We should also ramp up our propaganda efforts, both here and back in China. We need to portray Paganda as the aggressor and us as the victim defending our rights."

Xu agreed. "Absolutely. We need to control the narrative. The people of China must see that we are acting in their best interests."

As the meeting adjourned, Xu felt a sense of grim determination. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but he was confident in their strategy. He knew that the Pagandans would not back down easily, and that was exactly what he was counting on.

The following days were a blur of activity. The Xianyang and other Chinese naval vessels patrolled the Leiforian Sea, conducting exercises that were as much about posturing as they were about preparedness. The Pagandan navy responded in kind, with increased patrols and aggressive maneuvers. Tensions were high, and it was clear that a single misstep could ignite a full-blown conflict.

Xu monitored the situation closely, always on the lookout for an opportunity to escalate without appearing to be the aggressor. He knew that the Pagandans were watching their every move, and he was determined to keep them on edge.

One afternoon, while Xu was on the bridge of the Xianyang, a Pagandan patrol boat approached dangerously close. The captain of the Xianyang, Zhao Wei, ordered a warning shot fired across its bow. The Pagandan vessel responded with a volley of its own, narrowly missing the Xianyang.

Xu seized the moment. "Captain Zhao, send a message to Beijing. We have been fired upon by Pagandan forces. Requesting immediate authorization to respond."

The response from Beijing was swift. "Authorization granted. Defend our vessel and protect our sovereignty."

Captain Zhao ordered the Xianyang's advanced weapon systems to target the Pagandan patrol boat. Missiles launched, their trails streaking across the sky, and the Pagandan vessel erupted in flames. The battle was brief but decisive, with the Pagandan ship quickly disabled.

The news of the skirmish spread rapidly. Beijing's propaganda machine went into overdrive, painting Paganda as the aggressor and China as the victim. The Chinese people were galvanized, their anger and fear transformed into a wave of patriotic fervor. The narrative was clear: China had been attacked, and it had responded with strength and honor.

In Buehleria, the Pagandan government was in turmoil. Minister Kajoba and his colleagues were furious at what they saw as Chinese provocation. The capture of the fishermen had been meant as a warning, but now it had escalated into a full-blown crisis.

The streets of Buehleria were tense. Pagandan citizens, proud and fiercely independent, rallied behind their government, calling for a strong response to what they perceived as Chinese aggression. The city, once a serene and picturesque place, now buzzed with the uneasy energy of a populace on the brink of war.

Xu Feihong watched these developments with a calculating eye. He knew that the real battle was just beginning, and that China had to be prepared for whatever came next. For now, they had the upper hand, but the situation was volatile, and any misstep could lead to disaster.

As the sun set over the harbor, Xu stood on the deck of the Xianyang, contemplating the future. The sea was calm, but he knew that beneath its surface, powerful currents were at play. The storm was coming, and he would face it head-on.

For China, for the Han race, and for the future of the Middle Kingdom in Novus Orbis, Xu Feihong was ready to navigate the treacherous waters ahead.

Zhongnanhai, Beijing, China, Central Calendar Year 10640, Month 3, Day 30.

The news of the failed negotiations quickly reached Beijing. Chairman Hu Wenbo and his advisors were gathered in the opulent conference room of Zhongnanhai, the political heart of China. Xu Feihong's report was concise and to the point: Paganda was unwilling to release the fishermen or offer any form of compensation.

Chairman Hu Wenbo's reaction was swift and decisive. His eyes, usually hooded and contemplative, now blazed with resolve. "We must escalate our response," he declared, his voice resonating with authority. "Admiral Li, prepare the fleet. We will show Paganda that China is not to be trifled with."

Admiral Li Pengcheng, the seasoned commander of the Southern Theater Command Navy, saluted sharply. "Yes, Chairman. We will be ready."

Xu Feihong, standing to the side, watched the proceedings with a mixture of satisfaction and apprehension. He had accomplished his mission, provoking Paganda into a stance that justified a stronger Chinese response. The air in the room was thick with tension, the anticipation of conflict looming large.

"Xu," Hu Wenbo called, turning his steely gaze toward the diplomat. "You will continue to be our eyes and ears on the ground. Ensure that our narrative remains dominant. The world must see us as the wronged party, defending our honor and our people."

"Understood, Chairman," Xu replied, bowing his head slightly. He knew that the path ahead was fraught with danger. The conflict could easily spiral out of control, with devastating consequences for both nations.

As the meeting adjourned, Hu Wenbo stood alone for a moment, staring at the large map of Novus Orbis on the wall. His mind was set. China would not back down. The drums of war had begun to beat, and they would march to their rhythm.

The stage was set. China would show its might, and Xu Feihong would ensure that the world knew Paganda had brought this upon itself.