I built an armada.

With its stark historical contrasts and surging national sentiments, it instantly ignited the deepest collective memories and pride in the hearts of all Longxia people.

The century of humiliation stands in stark contrast to today's strength.

The Longxia warships that sailed into the waters of Europe were no longer just cold steel structures; they were symbols of washing away national humiliation, monuments to national rejuvenation, and dragon roars that resounded through the sky!

The road home has been paved under the escort of the naval fleet.

History is being rewritten by our powerful motherland.

The steel encirclement on the Eastern Wilderness Sea and the icebreaking maiden voyage in the European waters together proclaim an indisputable fact.

Longxia has returned!
Just as the historic fleet of the Longxia Navy was cutting through the waves and advancing towards the European waters, the international airport in the Longxia capital was also experiencing an unusual peak in passenger traffic.

Luxury private jets painted with the unique logos of oil-rich Middle Eastern countries landed one after another on the wide runway, like flocks of birds returning to their nests.

Before taking off, these special planes had all made contact with the Longxia Tribe's Foreign Affairs Department through formal diplomatic channels. Although the purpose of their visit was not explicitly stated, it was understood by both sides—this was destined to be a highly anticipated military trade event.

Longxia Naval Headquarters Base.

The encrypted information forwarded by Ambassador Chen from the foreign affairs department was quickly presented to General Liu Huaming's desk.

Looking at the long list of special planes that were about to arrive or were already en route on the screen, and the countries and tribes they represented.

Even Liu Huaming, who was used to seeing all kinds of storms, couldn't help but show a hint of surprise in his eyes.

The significance of this list far exceeds expectations.

"These representatives... they really came in a hurry."

Sitting on the left, Qian Wenbing clicked his tongue, his tone filled with disbelief and emotion, "It seems that our navy's appearance in the waters of Europe has had a much stronger effect than expected."

He has always been outspoken and has a fiery temper, so he was naturally very happy about this.

The other senior generals in the meeting room also couldn't hide their excitement, exchanging knowing glances.

Liu Huaming quickly recovered from his initial surprise, a calm smile appearing on his weathered face:

"Anxious? That's exactly right! The more anxious they are, the more popular our equipment is, and the more our previous maritime demonstrations and combat results have truly resonated with them."

He looked around at everyone, his voice strong and clear: "Isn't this perfect? ​​By securing a huge military budget in advance, we have plenty of confidence for next year, the year after, and even longer-term budgets!"

"This means we can accelerate the research and development of a new generation of warships and speed up the pace of naval modernization."

He pointed to several newly listed countries on the list, his tone tinged with excitement: "Look closely, this time it's not just Saudi Arabia and Tka, these are the top-tier oil-rich countries that have always had good relations with us."

He deliberately slowed down his speech so that everyone could see the names clearly. "Even some of the major oil-producing countries in the second tier, such as CNPC and NATO, have sent heavyweight representatives."

"This shows that our arms trade market is expanding from core allies to a wider circle of friends, and our strategic influence is penetrating traditional spheres of influence."

He tapped his fingers lightly on the table, making a judgment: "Auction? Hmph, I estimate it will be even more intense than we initially anticipated. This is both an opportunity and a test for us."

Qian Wenbing nodded, then a shrewd glint flashed in his eyes as he pushed a price quote list for the Type 052C destroyer in front of everyone.

"Sir, I think that in addition to those major customers who are eyeing the aircraft carrier, the representatives of these countries that have shown great interest in our Type 052 series destroyers are also worth paying attention to, and even more so... with greater flexibility."

He lowered his voice slightly, "Especially the 052C, which is relatively old but still has strong performance. Considering that its production cost has decreased with the maturity of technology and economies of scale, should we..."

"Could we consider raising the price appropriately to obtain a higher profit?"

He finally spoke his mind, looking intently at Liu Huaming, waiting for a response.

There was a brief silence in the meeting room.

Raising prices seems perfectly reasonable from a business perspective.

Several officers in charge of finance and equipment production nodded slightly, clearly somewhat tempted.

"Old Qian, I understand your thinking."

Xiao Chongjun, however, had a different opinion. He shook his head slightly and said in a calm tone, "However, the reputation of Longxia Military Trade is not only built on the performance of our equipment, but also on the integrity, fairness, and long-term stable cooperation we have built."

"If you raise prices arbitrarily because of temporary shortages, you may earn more money, but you may alienate old friends and leave potential customers with a bad impression of 'raising prices on the spot'."

"This is not in our long-term strategic interests. We want to do long-term business, not one-off deals."

Xu Dongguo, who was sitting next to him, added, "Chief, I think Lao Xiao is right."

"We should not only refrain from raising prices now, but also continue to create a favorable environment for military procurement. We can provide customers with more after-sales services, personnel training, and even joint exercises and training opportunities. Through these value-added services, we can enhance our attractiveness and continue to expand and consolidate the international market."

"We need to take a long-term view. What we need are strategic partners, not just buyers."

His thinking is more open-minded and more conducive to expanding foreign military trade cooperation.

The international arms market is now extremely competitive, and raising prices will only cause potential buyers to turn to other countries for arms.

“I agree with Chong Jun and Dong Guo’s views.”

Liu Huaming made the final decision, his voice firm and resolute: "The price will be implemented according to the previously agreed standard, treating all customers equally, and will never be easily changed due to temporary supply and demand fluctuations."

"We want all our partners to know that when they buy Longxia's equipment, they are not only buying combat power, but also peace of mind and trust!"

"This is the gold standard of our Longxia Military Trade, and we must not waver because of small gains."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over everyone, before adding a more strategic decision: "Furthermore, spread the word that if the total order volume exceeds expectations and reaches a certain threshold, we can consider restarting or adding a new 052C production line."

"This not only meets customer needs but also further reduces our R&D and production line maintenance costs, ensuring the continued viability of our equipment, and maintaining the stability of related industry workers and the supply chain. It's a win-win situation!"

"Yes!" Everyone responded in unison.

Liu Huaming then looked at his capable assistant Zhang Zhaoxin: "Zhaoxin, contact Wang De immediately and have him personally lead a capable reception team to the capital's international airport."

“We must treat these ‘gods of wealth’ well, with high standards and a sincere attitude, but at the same time, we must be neither humble nor arrogant, and show the magnanimity of Longxia.”

"understand!"

Zhang Zhaoxin accepted the order and immediately turned to make arrangements. Beijing Capital International Airport, VIP exit.

Wang De, along with several staff members from the foreign affairs and business departments, were already waiting there.

Previously, he had focused on foreign affairs cooperation in military trade, and he was also in charge of the reception activities for the two previous aircraft carrier auctions. He was very skilled in the whole process.

He stood ramrod straight, a smile on his face, his gaze steadily fixed on the first private plane that slowly came to a stop.

The hatch opened, and Prince Bird-Aidin, the representative of the Tesa tribe, dressed in a traditional white robe, walked calmly down the gangway, surrounded by his entourage. He and Wang De were old acquaintances, and the two shook hands and exchanged pleasantries warmly.

"Your Majesty, it's been a long time. You still look as energetic as ever."

Prince Birdardin said with a smile in fluent English, but his gaze seemed to casually sweep over the crowd behind Wang De, "Where is Zhou? He shouldn't be absent from such an important meeting."

Wang De's smile remained unchanged, and he responded appropriately: "Prince Aiding, welcome back to Longxia. Old Zhou has an important mission to attend to and is unable to come. He specifically asked me to convey his sincerest greetings and apologies to you."

He skillfully avoided specifying the details of the task, demonstrating both respect and maintaining necessary confidentiality.

Bird Edin nodded knowingly and didn't delve into it further.

He gestured, and his attendant presented him with an exquisite gift box.

"It's just a small token of my appreciation, I hope my friends in Longxia like it," Bird Edin quickly said.

Wang De glanced at the gift box but did not reach out to take it. Instead, he maintained a polite smile and bowed slightly, saying, "Your Highness is too kind. Your personal presence is the greatest support and friendship we can show you."

"According to our regulations and foreign affairs discipline, we really cannot accept such a valuable gift. Please understand."

His tone was gentle yet firm, leaving no room for argument.

A hint of appreciation flashed in Birdardin's eyes. He did not insist, waved for his attendants to leave, and laughed, "Very well, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Your Majesty, you know the purpose of my visit."

"I mainly came to take a look. If it's convenient and suitable, I might consider buying one, like the kind you're building."

He spoke casually, but the enormous deal represented by the word "aircraft carrier" was already subtly implied.

Wang De understood immediately and was about to reply when another special plane landed smoothly.

The hatch opened, and Chief Kurmans, the representative of the Teka tribe, stepped out.

He and Bird Edin exchanged a glance, and a subtle spark seemed to fly in the air.

"Browd, you're always so quick."

Colemans stepped forward, shook hands with Wang De, and then turned to Bird Edin, his tone slightly teasing.

Bird Edin shrugged and replied, "Colmans, good things are always in high demand. If you come late, you might not even get a bowl of soup."

Although the two were competitors, they belonged to the same circle, and they maintained a superficial courtesy.

Kurmans snorted, his words carrying a hidden meaning: "That depends on whether you have the appetite to digest it."

He turned to Wang De, his expression becoming much more formal. "Mr. Wang, our Teka tribe is extremely sincere in our desire to strengthen comprehensive strategic cooperation with Longxia."

Wang De responded with a smile and guided the two distinguished guests to the VIP lounge.

Following closely behind, special planes from major oil-producing countries and Qatar also arrived one after another, and five representatives of the world's top energy and capital giants completed a historic "gathering" at the capital airport.

Wang De remained calm and composed, arranging for people to guide these important figures and their entourages to pre-arranged vehicles and then to the state guesthouse where they would be staying.

He knew that the real contest would unfold at the negotiating table.

Meanwhile, in another area of ​​the airport, representatives from oil-producing countries, the second echelon of which were handled by other reception teams, as well as representatives from countries that knew they could not compete for aircraft carriers but were very interested in the cost-effective 052C/D destroyers, also arrived one after another.

The Imperial Capital International Airport suddenly seemed to have become an invisible center for the arms trade on Earth, with a tense yet exciting atmosphere permeating the air.

In stark contrast to the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of the Dragon Xia capital, far to the east, the Eastern Wilderness tribes were mired in a state of utter silence and hardship.

The cabinet meeting room was filled with smoke.

The leader sat in the head seat, his brows furrowed, as if he had aged considerably overnight.

The cabinet ministers below, some dejected, some anxious, all exuded a sense of despair and helplessness.

"A maritime blockade is forming... the economic lifeline is being strangled... the international community is reacting coldly..." A minister reported the latest situation in a low voice, and with each sentence, the atmosphere in the meeting room became heavier.

The cabinet chief's fingertips tapped unconsciously on the table.

His mind raced, trying to find a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos, but every idea that surfaced was shattered by the cold reality. Seeking international mediation?
Should an emergency meeting of the Blue Star Alliance be convened?
He knew perfectly well that these methods, which might have been feasible in the past, were now virtually impossible to implement given the Eagle Tribe's obvious contraction and unwillingness to confront Longxia head-on.

Without the strong backing of the Eagle Tribe, the Eastern Wilderness is like a tiger with its teeth pulled out; many of its previously used diplomatic tricks and strategic blackmail have lost their effectiveness.

Finally, he let out a long, silent sigh, as if he had used up all his strength.

He raised his hand to stop the ministers who were still arguing.

"enough."

The cabinet chief's voice was hoarse and weary: "Continuing this discussion will only be a repetition of these unsolvable problems."

He stood up, straightened his slightly wrinkled suit, and glanced at everyone present with an almost tragic determination: "Prepare the vehicles, we're going to the palace."

"Royal Palace?"

The ministers looked at each other, even more confused.

At this critical juncture of life and death, instead of going to the command center and seeking a final military strategy, the leader went to the Imperial Palace, which symbolizes tradition and spirit.

What is the purpose of this?
No one dared to ask.

Half an hour later, a fleet of black cars quietly drove out of the Cabinet residence amidst a somber atmosphere, speeding towards the imperial palace surrounded by forests, a symbol of the history and spirit of the Eastern Wilderness tribes. (End of Chapter)