193: Chapter 193 Warm-up

The Chinese officials began preheating for this grand ceremony half a month in advance. Before the ceremony even started, the entire online world was already boiling with excitement.

Web portals and major news media headlines and trending topics were all about the upcoming commissioning of the kunpeng. Under every news report, netizens were frantically clicking 'like'.

Soon, this news was no longer just China's top trending story, but quickly spread to become headlines for the entire world.

"Wait, it's about to take off? Is the speed really that fast?"

"Probably fake news again!"

"There's a live video broadcast this time, and they've invited heads of state and celebrities from many countries. There's even a grand concert on the day of the broadcast. Do you still think it can be faked?"

"Wait and see!"

"Impossible. The Republic of Korea's technology is much more advanced than theirs. Why can they build a spaceship? I don't believe it; it's just fake news!"

"There are people from the Republic of Korea everywhere. In terms of aerospace, you guys are trash! A country that has failed to even launch a rocket until now—what right do you have to criticize others?"

"Exactly. To dare criticize the Great Suzerain State... I suggest China fly the spaceship directly over the Republic of Korea on the day of the broadcast and just crush them. It's truly embarrassing to have such a neighbor!"

"Waiting for the live broadcast in three days. You guys can save it up and argue on that day instead, haha."

"..."

Compared to the chaotic excitement online, the conference room of the Intelligence Department at the Pentagon in the United States was much quieter.

In the conference room, all officials responsible for Asian intelligence gathering were present, along with the Director of Central Intelligence, Rodriguez.

None of them spoke; they were all flipping through the documents in their hands. The oppressive atmosphere in the office was suffocating, and Rodriguez's brow was furrowed deeply.

"Speak up, everyone. You are all elites responsible for Asian intelligence. I'll need to report upward later."

"I'll go first. Aside from the internal movements within China, their actions in space are also extremely abnormal."

"Satellite monitoring shows they have launched over 20 satellites into lunar orbit within six months. This is simply ridiculous!"

"You have to realize this number is far more than all other countries combined over several decades. We have reason to suspect their next plan is likely centered around the Moon."

John Wilson was the first to stand up and speak with a face full of worry.

"Regarding the satellites, I have already requested the relevant departments to prepare a press release. We must severely condemn them. The United States must take the lead on this and then pull in as many other countries as possible to pressure them together."

"The core focus of the statement will be on the protection of the space environment and resources. The Moon belongs to all of humanity, not just China alone."

"We must pressure them to clarify their purpose. Do they actually want to build a space base? To use it to independently develop lunar resources? That's impossible! The United States expresses its firm opposition!"

As Rodriguez spoke with excitement, his face turned bright red, and the intelligence officials in attendance nodded one after another.

"As for their aerospace carrier, I have learned through secret channels that many countries will send high-level representatives."

"Let me reiterate the decision of the U.S. State Department: the United States will not send any official teams or organizations to observe."

"We have also coordinated with major allies. Except for a few individual countries, basically everyone will stand with us to protest their lack of military transparency!"

The Americans were now left with nothing but stubborn talk. After the probe in Japan half a year ago, they no longer had the confidence to suppress them militarily.

In the past, when encountering such a situation, they would have symbolically sent a few carrier strike groups to show off their might. For this grand ceremony, the military brass hadn't failed to suggest such a plan.

However, the proposal was suppressed by the U.S. Military Commission. It was too risky; they couldn't afford the consequences right now.

While the Americans were having their meeting, Chu Ge and the others were also in a meeting. Compared to the oppressive atmosphere over there, it was quite cheerful and pleasant here. It wasn't a formal work meeting, so everyone seemed relaxed.

"Quiet down, everyone. I've gathered you all today mainly for some matters related to the kunpeng ceremony in three days."

As usual, the meeting was hosted by Academician Chen. Seeing that the heads of all departments had arrived, Academician Chen spoke.

"The main personnel from the Research Institute involved in the development of the aerospace carrier will be arranged to travel to D City starting tomorrow. There will be a special plane for transport. This is the result of everyone's hard work and an honor. So, I assume none of you are taking leave?"

"Are you joking, Old Chen? You'd have to be crazy to take leave at a time like this, haha."

"Exactly!"

The people below began to respond enthusiastically.

"On the day of the ceremony, news media and some overseas media will attend. It will be broadcast simultaneously on TV and the internet. Pay attention to your image; don't embarrass the Research Institute."

"There will also be many socialites, foreign government observation groups, military leaders, and domestic and international film stars attending. Everyone sitting here is a high-tech talent of China. Mind your manners; there are some things I don't need to spell out for you to understand."

"If there's anything else you don't understand, you can ask now. If there's nothing else, the meeting is adjourned. Everyone, go back and get ready."

"Old Chen, how is the kunpeng scheduled? Will there be a maiden flight show?"

Li Gang was quite interested in this. As soon as Academician Chen finished speaking, he followed up.

"Yes. Although the primary and secondary engines underwent simulated tests before installation, the day of the ceremony will be its true ignition. The kunpeng will circle China at a very low speed. Before the test flight, some areas will be open for a few VIPs to visit."

"After this period of full-capacity production, the carrier-based aircraft fleet—drones and manned aircraft combined—already exceeds 100. They will also make an appearance at the ceremony site."

"Old Chen, I think you shouldn't keep things hidden. Just tell everyone all the military arrangements. The ceremony schedule will be out tomorrow anyway."

Chu Ge looked at the expectant eyes of the crowd below and simply exposed Academician Chen's secrets.

"Haha, Academician Chu is still the one looking out for you. Alright, another highlight of the ceremony is the Mecha Warriors led by [Soul Blade]. They will make their grand appearance as the finale on the day of the ceremony."

"At that time, the Mecha Warriors will fly directly from the Northwest Base. However, not the whole team will come. [Soul Blade] will lead the way, followed by two subordinates, [Red Armor] and [Moteng]."

As soon as Academician Chen finished speaking, the room immediately erupted. The legendary Mecha Team could finally be seen.

Ever since these ten mechas were completed, they had been training at the Hive Base in the Northwest and rarely made public appearances.

Chu Ge hadn't seen them either; this was the first time he had heard these names.

"During the ceremony, I hope that fellow [Soul Blade] won't blame me for neglecting it, haha." Thinking of this, Chu Ge laughed.