Chapter 17: The King of The World
In the year 10639 of the Milishial Calendar, an unprecedented phenomenon occurred: the People's Republic of China was transported to the magical world of Novus Orbis. This world, dominated by civilizations reliant on magic, found itself grappling with the sudden appearance of a technologically advanced nation. China materialized near the Second Civilization Area, a region where the Federation of the Commune of Mu reigned as the foremost superpower. Unlike other nations, Mu had discovered the usefulness of science, integrating machinery and scientific principles into their society, which gave them a significant edge over their magically-dependent neighbors.
By 10641, the island Kingdom of Irnetia, fearing Chinese expansionism, sought protection from the Federation of the Commune of Mu. Mu's People's Parliament, divided on the issue of waging war against China, decided on a less confrontational approach: they invited China's Vice Premier, Ding Xuexiang, to visit La Landon, Mu's largest military base in the west. The aim was to deter Chinese aggression by showcasing Mu's military might.
Technology officer Myrus was assigned the critical task of impressing the Chinese delegation. Upon arriving at the east side of the airport's parking apron, he encountered a large crowd of maintenance workers, aircraft development heads, air traffic controllers, and other base personnel, all eager to witness the unprecedented event.
Pushing through the throng, Myrus's eyes fell upon an extraordinary sight—a massive, black steel box-like aircraft that the Chinese envoys had used to reach the airport. The aircraft hovered above the ground, much like Mu's helicopters, but with a striking difference: it had four rotors.
"What technology…!" he whispered, his voice barely audible over the hum of the crowd.
The complexity of managing aerodynamic lift and balance for four rotors was far greater than that for a single rotor. The rotors needed precise coordination to ensure stable flight in both vertical and horizontal modes. The airframe had to withstand the substantial forces generated by the rotors, as well as the transitions between flight modes, demanding advanced materials and engineering to handle the stress and vibrations. The tilt mechanisms for the four rotors required perfect synchronization to ensure smooth transitions between vertical and horizontal flight. Any discrepancy could lead to instability. This transition system added significant mechanical complexity, increasing the potential for failure and necessitating rigorous maintenance.
Despite its heavy appearance, the aircraft seemed capable of carrying 40 to 50 people while maintaining a size suitable for ship transportation. Even with additional weight, it could generate the necessary lift to get off the ground. The Chinese had created a marvel of engineering—the ZT-90 Quad TiltRotor, designed for operations like an invasion of Japan. With a cargo capacity roughly equivalent to the C-130 Hercules, it could cruise at 250 knots and land at unimproved sites vertically like a helicopter.
Myrus stood in shock, mesmerized by the Chinese Quad TiltRotor aircraft. It was a technological marvel, seemingly impossible to build with Mu's indigenous engines, which lacked the necessary horsepower and advanced materials. The Chinese were clearly ahead in engine technology, posing a significant threat to Mu's technological superiority.
However, Mu still had significant advantages. Their 300-meter tall skyscrapers showcased their architectural prowess. Their fighter technology, with aircraft capable of speeds over 880 km/h, demonstrated their aerial superiority. Mu's pilots were among the best trained in the world. Their naval technology, epitomized by the state-of-the-art 100,000-ton La Kasami-class battleship, underscored their dominance at sea. These factors combined meant that Mu still had a fighting chance against the Chinese threat.
"We have to… Somehow…" Myrus muttered, his mind racing with the implications of the Chinese advancements. The situation was dire, but Mu's technological edge in other areas provided a glimmer of hope.
As Myrus pondered the implications of this technological marvel, he felt a hand on his shoulder. It was General Radon, the base commander, his stern face softened by a rare smile. "Impressive, isn't it? But remember, we have our strengths too."
Myrus nodded, still unable to take his eyes off the aircraft. "Yes, General. But this… this is beyond what we thought possible."
"True," Radon agreed. "But it also means we can learn. If they can build something like this, then so can we. Our engineers are the best in the world. We just need to adapt."
The Chinese envoys were already prepared to set out. The sun hung low on the horizon, casting long shadows across La Landon base. Myrus, with his keen eyes, noted their expressions—calm, confident, perhaps even a touch arrogant.
"Well, since you are probably exhausted from the long journey, I will set aside our real tour for tomorrow. Today will just be a tour of La Landon base, and then after that, I will take you to your hotel in the capital."
Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang nodded curtly, his face betraying little emotion. "That sounds acceptable. Lead the way."
Myrus led the envoys to the air force's runway, where no fewer than 500 F-51 Gyrik air superiority fighters were parked in neat rows. Each gleaming in the fading light, they were a testament to Mu's engineering prowess. The golden hues of the setting sun reflected off the polished metal surfaces, creating a dazzling spectacle that seemed to blend the mechanical with the ethereal.
"This iron dragon is a mechanical aircraft we in our nation call a 'warplane,'" Myrus began, his voice brimming with pride. He stood tall, his uniform crisp and his demeanor that of a proud warrior presenting his finest weapon. "This warplane is our latest fighter model, the F-51 Gyrik. Its top speed is 1000 km/h, equal to a storm dragon, and mounted in front are two 30mm autocannons. Mounted on the wings are eight 203mm radio-guided rockets. It can also carry two 800kg bombs. In terms of combat capabilities, it is the equal of a storm dragon."
Myrus finished his explanation with confidence, expecting to see awe or at least interest on the faces of the Chinese delegation. Instead, he saw something quite different. Ding Xuexiang, with a faint smirk, looked at the Gyrik as though it were a relic from a bygone era.
"It looks like a more armored oversized Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star," Ding remarked with a dismissive wave of his hand. "An interesting design, but quite... retro."
The other envoys chuckled, nodding in agreement. One of them, a younger engineer named Zhang Wei, added, "The retro feel is absolutely great! They even did it justice with the shine and straight wings."
Myrus was taken aback. Retro? How could they see Mu's premier, state-of-the-art fighter as anything less than a marvel of modern technology? He had expected admiration, even envy, not this casual dismissal.
"What do you mean by that?" Myrus asked, trying to keep the irritation out of his voice. His heart pounded with a mix of confusion and anger, his pride wounded by their nonchalance.
Ding Xuexiang turned to face him, his expression one of condescension. "Your Gyrik is impressive, certainly. But it reminds us of aircraft from our world's mid-20th century. We have moved beyond such designs. Our fighters, like the J-20, are stealth-capable, with advanced avionics, supercruise capabilities, and cutting-edge weaponry. This—" he gestured towards the Gyrik "—while formidable, seems outdated in comparison."
Myrus felt a flush of frustration. "Outdated? This aircraft can hold its own against the fiercest magical creatures in our world. Its speed, firepower, and durability are unmatched."
"Perhaps in your world," Ding replied smoothly. "But in ours, technology has advanced significantly. We have drones, stealth bombers, hypersonic missiles. What you see as cutting-edge, we see as a step back."
The words stung. Myrus had always taken great pride in Mu's technological achievements, and to hear them belittled so casually was a blow. He looked around at the rows of fighters, symbols of his nation's strength, and wondered how they could seem so insignificant to these outsiders.
"Let me assure you," Myrus said, his voice tight with barely contained anger, "that Mu is not a nation to be underestimated. Our technology may differ from yours, but it is no less effective."
Ding Xuexiang raised an eyebrow, a slight smile playing at his lips. "We shall see. But for now, let us continue with the tour."
The rest of the tour passed in a blur for Myrus. He showed the Chinese delegation the base's various facilities, the maintenance hangars, the pilot training simulators, and the control towers. Each demonstration was met with polite, but detached, interest. The Chinese envoys took notes, asked questions, but there was always an air of superiority about them, a sense that they were indulging the backward technology of a lesser nation. When they visited the hangars showcasing Mu's latest bombers, Ding barely glanced at them before making a snide remark about their resemblance to outdated models from Earth's mid-20th century.
By the time they reached the end of the tour, Myrus was seething inside. The arrogance of the Chinese delegation was infuriating. He had hoped to impress them, to show them that Mu was a force to be reckoned with. Instead, he felt as though they had looked down on everything they had seen.
As they reached the terminal where the vehicles waited to take the envoys to their hotel, Ding Xuexiang turned to Myrus. "Thank you for the tour, Officer Myrus. It has been... enlightening."
Myrus forced a smile. "The pleasure is ours, Vice Premier. I hope you enjoy your stay in our capital."
"We shall see," Ding replied, his tone implying that he expected little. He turned and walked towards the waiting cars, his entourage following close behind.
As the vehicles drove off, Myrus stood on the tarmac, watching them go. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The Chinese had not been impressed, but they had not seen everything. Tomorrow, he would show them more—Mu's skyscrapers, its naval power, its advanced scientific research facilities. He would make them see that Mu was not to be dismissed so easily.
With renewed determination, Myrus turned back towards the base. There was much to prepare for tomorrow. The Chinese might be arrogant, but Mu would rise to the challenge. They had always thrived on adversity, and this would be no different.
The night was falling as Myrus walked back to his office, the lights of La Landon base flickering on around him. The air was cool, and he took a deep breath, letting the calmness of the evening soothe his frayed nerves. He had work to do, and he would not let the arrogance of a few foreign envoys undermine his confidence in Mu's strength and potential.
Tomorrow would be another day, and Mu would stand tall.
As Myrus stood on the docks, the cool evening air mixed with the scent of saltwater, drawing his attention to the imposing silhouette of La Kasami against the backdrop of the setting sun. The ship, a marvel of Mu's naval engineering, was an embodiment of pride and strength, a stark contrast to the comparatively modest Type 55 destroyer of the Chinese fleet.
Myrus's thoughts drifted back to the recent skirmish in Paganda. Photographs from the conflict had captured the stark differences between the two vessels. The Chinese Type 55 destroyer was notably shorter and less heavily armed. It featured a front-mounted rotating turret housing two cannons, likely no more than 150mm or 155mm in caliber. Its design, while functional, paled in comparison to the advanced firepower and sheer scale of La Kasami.
The flagship of Mu's fleet was a behemoth, stretching over 300 meters in length and displacing an astonishing 100,000 tons. Its sheer size was enough to inspire awe, but it was the ship's armament and defenses that truly set it apart. Myrus had studied the technical specifications, and even now, standing on the docks, he found it hard to comprehend the sheer destructive potential of La Kasami.
The battleship was armed with nine 51cm guns, arranged in three triple-gun turrets. Each turret was a fortress of steel, housing weapons capable of firing armor-piercing capped (APC) projectiles weighing up to 2,000 kilograms. The energy released by a single shot from one of these guns was immense, the destructive power increasing exponentially with the cube of the caliber.
Recent breakthroughs in naval artillery had significantly enhanced the performance of these weapons. The integration of Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) projectiles, coupled with base bleed technology, dramatically improved range and accuracy. The ERFB shells featured elongated ogives and stabilizing fins, reducing drag and ensuring a more consistent trajectory over long distances. Additionally, base bleed technology, which utilized a secondary propellant charge to fill the low-pressure zone behind the shell, further minimized aerodynamic resistance and maintained velocity over greater distances.
Complementing these advances in projectile design, the 51cm guns were engineered with extended barrels 70 calibers in length. This design allowed for significantly higher muzzle velocities, ensuring that projectiles maintained kinetic energy even at extreme ranges. High-energy propellants, formulated for optimal combustion efficiency, further contributed to this improvement. These new propellants burned with consistent force over an extended period, increasing projectile velocity while reducing barrel wear—a critical consideration for sustained combat effectiveness.
Perhaps the most revolutionary advancement was the integration of rudimentary guidance systems within the projectiles themselves. These early guided artillery shells featured electronic guidance modules, enabling them to adjust their trajectory mid-flight and home in on designated targets with unprecedented accuracy. This innovation ensured that even at extreme distances, La Kasami's guns could deliver devastatingly precise firepower.
With these combined technological advancements, the effective range of La Kasami's main battery had been extended to over 90 kilometers. This meant that enemy forces could be engaged well beyond conventional naval artillery limits, striking at key targets before they could even mount a response.
But La Kasami was more than just its main battery. The battleship's secondary armament was equally formidable. Eighteen 155mm dual-purpose guns, mounted in six triple-gun turrets, provided robust anti-aircraft and anti-surface capabilities. These guns could engage both airborne and naval threats with deadly accuracy, their shells bursting into a lethal spray of shrapnel. Complementing these were forty 57mm automatic anti-aircraft twin-gun turrets, designed to provide a layered defense against fast-moving targets. While less effective against high-speed jet aircraft, these light AA guns were a critical component of the ship's defensive network.
The superstructure of La Kasami was a testament to modern naval design, crowned with advanced radar and communication systems that gave the vessel a sleek, futuristic appearance. But it was the ship's three-layer composite armor system that truly set it apart.
The outermost layer of the armor was composed of high-strength steel, an alloy of nickel, chromium, and molybdenum optimized for hardness and tensile strength. Modern metallurgical techniques, such as vacuum arc remelting and precise heat treatment, ensured that the steel had a uniform crystalline structure, minimizing weak points that could lead to catastrophic failure under impact. This steel layer served as the primary barrier, designed to deform projectiles upon impact and dissipate a portion of their kinetic energy. Critical areas, such as ammunition magazines and reactor compartments, were protected by steel plates exceeding 350 millimeters in thickness.
Beneath the steel layer lay the intermediate layer of steklotekstolit, a fiberglass-reinforced plastic material that represented a significant advancement in composite armor design. The steklotekstolit layer was composed of woven glass fibers embedded in a polymer resin, providing exceptional energy absorption and deformation capabilities. When a projectile struck the armor, this layer absorbed and dispersed the energy of the impact through localized deformation and delamination. The glass fibers acted as a series of energy-absorbing barriers, while the polymer matrix distributed the force over a broader area. This made the steklotekstolit layer particularly effective against armor-piercing projectiles, which relied on concentrated impact forces to penetrate armor. Additionally, the material was highly resistant to environmental degradation, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the armor system.
The innermost layer of the composite armor consisted of advanced ceramic plates, typically manufactured from boron carbide or silicon carbide. These ceramics were characterized by their extreme hardness and low density, making them ideal for naval armor applications. The ceramic plates fractured upon impact, absorbing and dissipating a substantial amount of the projectile's remaining energy. Their high hardness disrupted the penetrative capability of armor-piercing rounds and shaped charges, often causing the projectiles to fragment or deflect before they could reach the ship's critical systems. The ceramic plates were mounted in a modular configuration, backed by a thin layer of elastomeric material to absorb shock waves and prevent damage to the underlying structure.
The integration of these three layers—steel, fiberglass, and ceramics—resulted in a synergistic armor system capable of withstanding the diverse array of threats encountered in modern naval warfare. Computational modeling and live-fire testing had ensured that the armor's design was optimized for maximum efficiency and reliability. This advanced protection, combined with the ship's formidable armament, made La Kasami a nearly invincible force on the high seas.
But the battleship's capabilities extended beyond its armor and guns. La Kasami was powered by an advanced propulsion system, featuring four turbocharged steam turbines that drove massive propellers, allowing the vessel to reach speeds of over 33 knots. This was a remarkable achievement for a ship of its size and weight, ensuring that it could outmaneuver most adversaries. The ship's defensive systems were equally impressive. It was the first vessel in Mu's fleet to be equipped with the SAM-3 Terrier, a medium-range naval surface-to-air missile system. Each Terrier missile was housed in a sleek launch canister, capable of engaging both aerial and surface targets with great accuracy. The missile's radar beam-riding guidance system, coupled with its forward aerodynamic controls, ensured it could track and intercept incoming threats at speeds up to Mach 2. The Terrier's warhead, a 140-kilogram continuous-rod high-explosive, was designed to neutralize heavy armored targets, with a range of approximately 15 nautical miles.
In addition to its air defense capabilities, La Kasami was armed with over two dozen SSM-A-1 Madona surface-to-surface cruise missiles. The Madona was a technological marvel, featuring a turbojet engine that allowed it to cover distances just under 1,000 kilometers. Its guidance system, which included a radio command module for in-flight course corrections, ensured exceptional accuracy over long ranges. The missile was capable of carrying a 2,000-pound chemical weapon warhead, giving it a terrifying potential for destruction. The combination of the Madona's long-range strike capabilities and the Terrier's defensive prowess made La Kasami a potent force in naval warfare.
Myrus led the Chinese envoys to the port where La Kasami was docked. The battleship stood majestic against the evening sky, its massive guns and advanced systems bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun.
"Look! It's a real battleship!" one of the younger envoys exclaimed, his voice tinged with a boyish excitement that betrayed his professional demeanor. He pointed at La Kasami's towering superstructure and the nine 51cm gun barrels that protruded menacingly from the turrets. "It resembles the Japanese Yamato-class battleships—an A-150-Class Super Yamato, if you will! Battleships are undeniably a man's romance!"
Myrus couldn't help but smile at the envoy's enthusiasm, though he noted the subtle condescension in the man's tone. "Indeed, La Kasami is a marvel of engineering," Myrus replied, his voice carrying a note of pride. "It represents the pinnacle of Mu's naval capabilities, a symbol of our strength and ingenuity. Every inch of this ship is a testament to what we can achieve."
Ding Xuexiang, the senior Chinese envoy and a high-ranking official in the People's Liberation Army Navy, stepped forward. His sharp eyes scanned the battleship with a calculating gaze, his expression unreadable. "Impressive," he said, though his tone was flat, almost dismissive. "But battleships… they are relics of a bygone era."
Myrus's smile faltered, his jaw tightening. "A relic? La Kasami can unleash a barrage of firepower unlike any other vessel. Its armor can withstand even the heaviest attacks. In a direct confrontation, La Kasami would dominate any adversary, save for the Milishial."
Ding chuckled, a dry, humorless sound that grated on Myrus's nerves. "Your pride in your battleship is understandable. It is indeed a formidable vessel. However, the concept of the battleship is outdated. Modern naval warfare has evolved beyond such behemoths."
Myrus felt a flicker of irritation but kept his voice calm. "What do you mean?"
Ding gestured toward La Kasami with a wave of his hand, as if swatting away an inconsequential object. "In today's world, the focus has shifted to aircraft carriers, submarines, and missile destroyers. Battleships, with their heavy armor and massive guns, are vulnerable to long-range missile attacks, torpedoes, and air strikes. They are expensive to build and maintain, and their role in naval strategy has diminished."
Myrus bristled, his pride in La Kasami flaring into defiance. "This ship is not merely a symbol of firepower. It embodies our national pride and engineering prowess. It represents our ability to defend our shores and project power across the seas."
Ding's smile was thin, almost patronizing. "And yet, it is a symbol of an era that has passed. Modern naval battles are rarely about direct confrontations. They are about striking from a distance, using precision and speed to outmaneuver and outgun the enemy. Our Type 55 destroyers, for example, may be smaller, but they are equipped with advanced missile systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and superior radar technology. They can engage targets at much greater distances with pinpoint accuracy."
Myrus felt his frustration mounting, but he forced himself to remain composed. "You underestimate the power of La Kasami. Its guns can obliterate targets with a single salvo. Its armor can withstand the heaviest bombardments. And its presence alone is a deterrent to any would-be aggressor."
Ding's smile widened, but it lacked warmth. "Perhaps in a direct confrontation, your battleship would indeed be formidable. But modern warfare favors agility, stealth, and versatility. Your battleship, while impressive, is a lumbering giant in a battlefield that values speed and maneuverability."
Myrus clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. The Chinese delegation's dismissive attitude was infuriating. They belittled Mu's greatest achievements as relics of a bygone era. But Myrus knew the truth. He understood the power of La Kasami and what it represented.
"You may believe what you wish," Myrus said, his voice steady despite his anger. "But La Kasami is a testament to our strength and resilience. It is a reminder that we will not be easily defeated."
Ding's smile turned almost pitying. "We shall see, Officer Myrus. We shall see."
The tour continued, but the mood had shifted. Myrus led the delegation up the gangway and onto the battleship's deck, where the sheer scale of La Kasami became even more apparent. The deck stretched out like a steel plain, dotted with hatches, vents, and the imposing structures of the secondary gun turrets. Myrus gestured toward the forward turret, its three 51cm gun barrels pointing skyward like the fingers of a giant.
"These are the main guns," Myrus explained, his voice carrying a note of pride. "Each barrel is over 20 meters long, capable of firing a 2,000-kilogram shell over 90 kilometers. The Base Bleed Extended Range Full Bore technology reduces drag, allowing the shells to maintain velocity and accuracy at extreme ranges."
Ding raised an eyebrow, his expression unimpressed. "Impressive range, but modern missiles can strike targets from hundreds of kilometers away. Why invest in such large guns when missiles can do the job more efficiently?"
Myrus's jaw tightened, but he kept his tone even. "Guns provide a level of reliability and firepower that missiles cannot match. A single salvo from these guns can devastate an enemy fleet or shore installation. And unlike missiles, which can be intercepted or jammed, these shells are unstoppable once fired."
Ding nodded, but his expression remained skeptical. "And yet, the cost of maintaining such a weapon system is astronomical. The resources spent on this battleship could have been used to develop more modern, versatile platforms."
Myrus ignored the jab and led the delegation toward the superstructure, where the ship's advanced radar and communication systems were housed. "La Kasami is equipped with state-of-the-art radar arrays and fire control systems," he said, gesturing toward the towering mast. "These systems allow us to track and engage multiple targets simultaneously, with pinpoint accuracy."
Ding glanced at the radar arrays, his expression thoughtful but still unimpressed. "Our Type 55 destroyers have similar capabilities, but they are smaller, faster, and more cost-effective. They can perform the same tasks without the need for such a massive platform."
Myrus felt his frustration boiling over but forced himself to remain calm. "La Kasami is more than just a weapon. It is a symbol of our nation's strength and determination. It represents our ability to defend our sovereignty and project power across the seas."
Ding's smile was thin, almost mocking. "Symbols are important, but they do not win wars. Modern naval warfare is about adaptability and innovation. It is about striking from a distance and outmaneuvering the enemy. Your battleship, while impressive, is a relic of a time when brute force was enough to secure victory."
Myrus clenched his fists, his pride in La Kasami clashing with the envoys' dismissive attitude. He wanted to argue, to defend the battleship's capabilities and the ingenuity of its design. But he knew it would be futile. The Chinese delegation had already made up their minds.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the port, Myrus felt a surge of defiance within him. The Chinese might have their advanced technology and modern strategies, but Mu had its pride, its strength, and its determination. They would not be so easily dismissed.
"Thank you for the tour, Officer Myrus," Ding said, his tone polite but distant. "It has been… enlightening."
Myrus nodded, his jaw tight. "You're welcome. I hope it has given you a better understanding of what Mu is capable of."
Ding's smile was faint, almost imperceptible. "Indeed. We shall see what the future holds."
As the delegation turned to leave, Myrus stood on the deck of La Kasami, his hands clenched at his sides. The battleship loomed behind him, a silent sentinel of steel and firepower. The Chinese might see it as a relic, but to Myrus, it was a symbol of Mu's resilience and determination. And as long as La Kasami sailed the seas, Mu would remain a force to be reckoned with.
Tomorrow, he would show them more—Mu's advanced research facilities, their thriving cities, their unyielding spirit. The Chinese might be arrogant, but they had not seen everything. Myrus was determined to prove that Mu was not a nation to be underestimated.
With renewed resolve, he turned and walked back toward the base. There was much to prepare for tomorrow. The challenge was clear, and Myrus was ready to meet it head-on. Mu would rise to the occasion, as it always had, and show the world that they were a force to be reckoned with.
The night deepened, and the lights of La Landon base glowed brightly in the darkness. Myrus took a deep breath, feeling the cool air fill his lungs. The Chinese had given him much to think about, but they had also ignited a fire within him. He would not let their arrogance overshadow Mu's achievements.
Tomorrow would be another day, and Mu would stand tall.
The morning sun bathed La Landon Base in a warm, golden hue as Myrus prepared for the third day of the Chinese delegation's visit. With a steely resolve, he aimed to showcase Mu's technological prowess by taking them to their most advanced computer center and unveiling their latest invention.
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as Myrus led the delegation towards the National Computational Research Facility. The building's sleek, contemporary architecture stood as a testament to Mu's commitment to progress and innovation. Its glass façade shimmered under the sun, reflecting the promise of technological advancement.
"Welcome to our National Computational Research Facility," Myrus announced with a proud smile. "Today, you'll witness the pinnacle of our technological achievements—the MSC 7090."
The delegation, a mix of curiosity and skepticism on their faces, followed Myrus into the facility. Inside, the MSC 7090 loomed large, a marvel of mechanical engineering surrounded by a team of scientists and engineers. The room hummed with the sound of the machine's operation, and the air was tinged with the sharp scent of ozone and metal.
"The MSC 7090," Myrus began, gesturing to the imposing machine, "was introduced in 10639 as part of our 700/7000 series of scientific computers. It represents our transition from vacuum tube technology to transistors, significantly enhancing reliability, performance, and energy efficiency."
He paused, allowing the delegation to take in the sight of the MSC 7090. The computer's chassis was a robust, metallic behemoth with a brushed steel finish, standing over two meters tall and spanning several meters in width. Its numerous blinking lights and whirring components gave it an almost living quality.
"The MSC 7090 features a clock speed of approximately 500 kHz," Myrus continued, his voice imbued with pride. "It boasts magnetic core memory with a capacity of 32,768 36-bit words—about 144 kilobytes. This allows it to perform approximately 100,000 floating-point operations per second, or 100 kiloflops. It supports a variety of I/O operations through punched cards, magnetic tapes, and line printers."
Myrus's eyes scanned the faces of the Chinese envoys, hoping to see a flicker of admiration. Instead, Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang burst out laughing, the sound echoing through the high-tech facility.
"This is your crowning achievement?" Ding Xuexiang's laughter was laced with incredulity. "I'm sorry, Myrus, but your computer seems... hopelessly outdated."
Myrus's pride was visibly bruised. "Outdated? The MSC 7090 is a marvel of modern engineering. It represents a significant leap forward for our technological capabilities."
Ding Xuexiang shook his head, his amusement barely contained. "Let me show you what real modern technology looks like."
With a theatrical flourish, Ding produced an iPad from his briefcase. The device's screen lit up, displaying images and specifications of China's latest supercomputer. The contrast between the two machines was stark and humiliating.
"This," Ding began, his voice dripping with superiority, "is New Frontier, located at the National Supercomputing Center of Tianjin. It is the pinnacle of our Exascale Computing Project, designed to deliver systems capable of at least ten exaflop—10^19 floating-point operations per second. It is crucial for tackling the most complex scientific problems, from climate simulations to advanced molecular research."
The screen shifted to detailed schematics of New Frontier. The supercomputer's sleek, modular design was a far cry from the clunky, industrial MSC 7090. New Frontier's processors were housed in a series of high-density racks, each equipped with cutting-edge AMD EPYC CPUs and AMD Radeon Instinct GPUs. These were connected through high-speed interconnects that resembled a web of glowing, intricate circuitry.
"New Frontier boasts clock speeds in the GHz range," Ding continued, his tone one of unbridled triumph. "It features several dozens petabytes of high-bandwidth memory, achieving over ten exaflop of processing power. Its architecture utilizes a sophisticated network of NVMe storage solutions, providing vast, rapid data access. The I/O capabilities of New Frontier are exceptional, with high-speed storage and data handling technologies."
Myrus felt a rush of frustration as he compared the two supercomputers. The MSC 7090, once a symbol of Mu's technological prowess, now seemed almost primitive in the shadow of New Frontier. The stark disparity highlighted the enormous leap that had been achieved in supercomputing.
"Your supercomputer is indeed impressive," Myrus admitted, struggling to maintain his composure. "But our MSC 7090 represents a significant advancement for us. It is a crucial tool for our scientific research."
Ding Xuexiang's smile broadened, revealing a hint of condescension. "I understand your pride in your accomplishments, Myrus. But it's clear that you are playing catch-up. While you are advancing from vacuum tubes to transistors, we are already exploring the boundaries of quantum computing."
Myrus clenched his fists, his pride wounded by Ding's dismissive remarks. "We may be behind in some areas, but we are making strides. Our progress, though incremental, is meaningful to us."
Ding Xuexiang's eyes glinted with amusement. "Progress, yes. But at this rate, it will take decades for you to catch up to where we are now. And by then, we will have moved even further ahead."
Myrus's frustration reached a boiling point. The Chinese delegation's arrogance was infuriating. They dismissed Mu's achievements as insignificant relics, failing to appreciate the hard work and dedication that had gone into creating the MSC 7090.
"We will not be underestimated," Myrus said firmly, his voice carrying a note of defiance. "Our advancements may seem modest compared to yours, but they represent monumental strides for us. We are committed to continuing our innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible."
Ding Xuexiang's expression grew serious, though his demeanor remained inscrutable. "I hope you do, Myrus. For the sake of your nation's future, I truly hope you manage to bridge the gap."
The mood inside the National Computational Research Facility was noticeably somber as Myrus led the Chinese delegation through the labyrinthine halls. The MSC 7090 supercomputer, once a source of national pride for Mu, now seemed overshadowed by the shadows of its more advanced counterparts. The sleek, polished floors of the facility reflected the gleam of the delegation's disinterest, their enthusiasm having waned to a distant echo.
As they moved past rows of workstations and computational consoles, one of the engineers at the facility switched on a large color TV mounted on the wall. The screen flickered to life, casting a sharp contrast against the sterile environment. The vivid logo of Milishial Channel 10 filled the screen, drawing everyone's attention.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the newscaster announced, his voice steady and authoritative, "we interrupt our regular programming to bring you a momentous announcement from the Holy Milishial Empire. Today, the Empire proudly unveils its latest technological marvel: the Imperial Thinking Machine Model 1031, a magical supercomputer based on revolutionary Eidos tube technology."
The camera cut to an expansive, futuristic facility bathed in a soft, otherworldly light. The centerpiece of the room was the Imperial Thinking Machine Model 1031, a towering, almost mythical structure. Its design was an ethereal blend of arcane artistry and advanced technology, seamlessly integrating intricate runes and shimmering crystals into its architecture. The machine was housed in a semi-circular chamber adorned with ancient, glowing symbols that pulsated in a rhythmic dance of blue and silver.
The Imperial Thinking Machine Model 1031 was a marvel of Milishial engineering. It stood at an imposing height of 10 meters, its exterior a polished amalgamation of dark obsidian and radiant crystal panels. These panels were interspersed with runic etchings that emitted a soft, pulsing light, their glow shifting in color from a deep cerulean to a bright sapphire. The supercomputer's core was visible through a transparent, force-field barrier, allowing observers a glimpse of its inner workings—an array of interlocking Eidos tubes and enchanted conduits.
"The Imperial Thinking Machine Model 1031," the newscaster continued, "is capable of achieving a staggering 100 zettaflops of processing power. This leap represents a quantum advancement in computational capability, far surpassing any known system."
As the camera zoomed in, the intricate details of the machine came into sharper focus. The Eidos tubes, resembling crystalline stalagmites, were arrayed in a complex, three-dimensional lattice. Each tube was inscribed with glowing runes that pulsed with an inner light, channeling arcane energy into the core processor. The supercomputer's processing units, embedded within the lattice, were surrounded by shimmering fields of energy, their operation almost hypnotic in its precision.
The broadcast cut to an enthusiastic engineer standing beside the machine. His expression was one of unbridled pride as he gestured to the intricate machinery.
"This supercomputer," the engineer said, "operates at an unprecedented speed, processing data and running simulations at rates that were once thought to be the stuff of fantasy. From climate modeling to advanced molecular dynamics, the potential applications are boundless."
The camera captured the engineer's hands tracing over a holographic display that hovered above a control console. The display showcased the machine's immense computational capabilities, including its ability to handle exabytes of data per second and maintain near-zero latency in processing.
Ding Xuexiang's face had turned an ashen shade as he absorbed the broadcast. The reality of the Milishial Empire's technological leap was striking. The MSC 7090, which had once represented Mu's cutting-edge advancement, now seemed like a relic compared to the Milishial's magical computing prowess.
"We had anticipated zettascale systems might be achieved around 2050," Ding Xuexiang muttered, his voice laced with disbelief. "But this—this is decades ahead of what we expected."
The supercomputer's capabilities were beyond the realm of traditional mechanical systems. The energy consumption required to reach zettascale performance with conventional technology was enormous, a challenge that China had only begun to address. The Holy Milishial Empire, however, had sidestepped these obstacles with their unique fusion of magic and technology.
Myrus, feeling a profound mix of awe and frustration, watched the broadcast in silence. The MSC 7090, once a symbol of national pride, now seemed almost quaint in comparison to the Imperial Thinking Machine. The gap between Mu's achievements and those of the Milishial Empire was staggering, highlighting a chasm that seemed insurmountable.
"We now turn to our correspondent at the unveiling ceremony," the newscaster said, and the scene shifted to a live feed of a grand ceremony where officials and scientists celebrated the unveiling of the Imperial Thinking Machine.
"This machine," the correspondent said, her voice filled with excitement, "represents not just a technological triumph but a testament to the Milishial Empire's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. With the Model 1031, we are entering a new era of computational power and efficiency."
As the camera panned over the jubilant crowd, Ding Xuexiang's earlier confidence was replaced by a sense of defeat. The Milishial supercomputer was not just a leap forward—it was a chasm that China would have to bridge if they hoped to maintain their technological edge.
"Those damn elves," Ding Xuexiang muttered under his breath, a rare admission of vulnerability slipping through his facade of composure. "They may be the only ones who can truly challenge our supremacy."
The Chinese delegation's departure was marked by a resolute determination. "We will not be outdone," they declared. "We will push the boundaries of our technology and achieve zettascale performance. Our nation's future depends on it."
With the Chinese officials gone, Myrus was left to reflect on the visit. The day had not gone as planned, but it had provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Mu had a long road ahead, but the determination and innovation that characterized their approach would drive them forward.
The news of the Holy Milishial Empire's computing superiority had reverberated through the scientific community, sparking discussions and debates about the future of technology. China's National University of Defense Technology proposed an ambitious plan to develop a zettascale system within ten years, with the following metrics:
Power Consumption: 50 MW
Power Efficiency: 20 teraflops/watt
Peak Performance per Node: 10 petaflops
Communication Bandwidth Between Nodes: 1.6 terabits/second
I/O Bandwidth: 10 to 100 petabytes/second
Storage Capacity: 1.0 zettabyte
Floor Space: 1000 square meters
These ambitious goals reflected a recognition of the formidable challenge posed by the Milishial advancement. The path to achieving these metrics would require breakthroughs in technology and innovation, as well as a concerted effort to overcome the physical and logistical barriers inherent in building such a powerful system.
Myrus, though disheartened, remained resolute. The MSC 7090 might have seemed overshadowed today, but it was a testament to Mu's progress and resilience. The world was changing rapidly, and Mu Commune was determined to adapt and innovate, carving out their place in the future of technological advancement. The journey ahead would be challenging, but with determination and ingenuity, they would strive to meet the demands of an ever-evolving landscape.