From Titan Corporation to the Empire of Man

Chapter 753 Absolute Steadfastness in Executing the Emperor's Will

The perspective shifts to Planet B's near-Earth orbit, enveloped in a dense, acidic atmosphere.

At this moment, more than ten hours have passed since the magnificent portal, spanning over 2.5 million light-years and connecting the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy, was opened.

The six-fleet group, like a loyal swarm of metal bees, hovered densely and orderly outside this planet with its extremely harsh environment.

The Imperial Army's Sixth Regiment, with the Hitoshi Eiji at its core, formed a robust network of surveillance and support.

Meanwhile, the small engineering fleet that came with the main fleet and belonged to the Imperial Engineering Department has become the main character.

These relatively rugged-looking and diverse engineering vessels, like industrious "worker ants," are carrying out their work with difficulty and persistence, braving the violent acid storms and extreme temperatures and pressures on the surface of Planet B.

One after another, massive, heavily armored heavy transport ships, codenamed "Giant Rhinoceros-class," are using powerful traction beams to carefully lift strange metal components, energy core remnants, and various silicon-based civilization artifacts of extremely high research value, excavated from underground ruins, from the planet's surface and transport them to industrial ships in orbit that resemble mobile factories, or directly into the enormous cargo hold of the Human Mighty Everlasting, which is large enough to accommodate mountains and islands.

Although the Sixth Fleet itself is not a professional engineering force and lacks the large, specialized ships with unique functions of the engineering department, its powerful military force has been cleverly transformed into efficient engineering support.

Several Imperial Warrior cruisers and destroyers formed a specific array, their bow guns not aimed at the enemy, but rather coordinated to fire low-power, but extremely wide-ranging, disintegrating force fields at the planetary surface below.

These force fields are not intended for destruction, but rather to act precisely on the Earth's crust, like an invisible giant hand. In conjunction with precise point-to-point blasting, they "tear" and "lift" away large areas of the thick rock layers and solidified lava covering the ruins, exposing the deeper structures buried beneath. This greatly facilitates the engineering team's subsequent excavation and recovery operations.

The entire orbital region around Planet B presents a spectacular scene of imperial power merging destruction and creation into one.

At this moment, inside the magnificent and solemn bridge of the Renwei Yonggu, the atmosphere was completely different from the bustling construction work outside, and was more solemn and focused.

Around the central control console, dozens of hard-light screens emitting a soft white light floated, displaying dense streams of data, complex mathematical formulas that were dazzling to the eye, constantly updated three-dimensional molecular structure diagrams, energy spectrum analysis, and various hypothetical models about silicon-based life forms.

"."

Halsey stood at the center, his brow furrowed, his gaze rapidly shifting between the various screens, sometimes lost in thought, sometimes issuing commands quickly.

Cortana stood beside her, assisting in processing massive amounts of data and performing ultra-high-speed analog calculations, her optical sensors...
That is, her pupils were flashing with a deep blue light, pulsating in sync with the data stream on the hard screen.

Wu Ji is located on the other side, where she is more responsible for integrating the macroscopic environmental data transmitted back by the fleet's sensors, as well as the matrix energy fluctuation information, to provide a realistic reference for Halsey's theoretical model.

"A self-consistent energy cycle and near-perfect quantum-level information storage density completely overturn our traditional definitions of 'life' and 'consciousness'."

Halsey pointed to a set of complex formulas about matrix energy circuits, his tone filled with amazement and bewilderment.

"Doctor, based on the material analysis of the recovered samples, non-natural energy channels with logic gate characteristics are embedded in the basic silicon lattice structure, which confirms that it is highly likely to be a kind of 'living circuit' or 'thought matrix'."

Cortana added to the analysis while pulling up a high-resolution structural analysis diagram.

"But the way their 'consciousness' manifests, and the motivation behind creating the Divine Seal, a creation that clearly leans towards biomass manipulation and spiritual pollution, remains a huge point of contradiction."

Wu Ji calmly raised a question, projecting a comparison diagram of the energy characteristics of the divine seal and the matrix energy characteristics. Although the two were similar, their cores seemed to be completely different.

The three individuals, each a leading figure in their respective fields, are engaged in a heated discussion that transcends the frontiers of silicon-based and carbon-based life forms, touching upon many profound areas such as quantum consciousness, silicon-based life forms, and ancient civilization technologies.

Sui Meng and his adjutant, who was wearing Terminator armor, stood quietly a little further away.

Even as a progenitor of genes, possessing extraordinary wisdom and strategic vision, he wisely chose to listen and observe when faced with such professional and cutting-edge technical discussions, leaving professional matters to professionals.

His gaze occasionally swept over the dazzling array of formulas and data, but he focused more on the core conclusions of the discussion—

The nature of this silicon-based civilization, and the methods to fully understand and resolve the threats it poses.

Just then, the adjutant turned slightly to face Sui Meng and gave a low report, his voice sounding somewhat muffled through the heavy helmet:
"Father, the engineering department reports that due to the continued deterioration of the surface environment of Planet B, with increased acidity and geological activity, it is estimated that it will still take at least two hours to fully complete the recovery operation of all marked high-value targets."

Sui Meng's gaze remained fixed on the flickering screens. He nodded slightly to indicate that he understood, and then asked:
"What about progress in other areas?"

The adjutant immediately pulled up another strategic briefing and began his presentation fluently:

"The main force of the legion continues to strictly follow the 'integration plan' approved by you. Of the seventeen remaining major colony planets of the Earth Federation, eleven have declared unconditional submission, and the resistance forces of the remaining six are being rapidly eliminated."

Meanwhile, the 16th and 17th Companies have also launched sweeping operations against star systems controlled by rebels who were originally hostile to the Earth Federation and were in a state of division. The operations are progressing smoothly and no resistance that poses an effective threat has been encountered.

The restoration of order and the handover of administration in all occupied territories are proceeding in an orderly manner with the assistance of advance personnel from the Ministry of the Interior.

The overall situation is under control and everything is proceeding in an orderly manner.

"very good."

Sui Meng gave a brief response, his tone conveying his approval of the legion's efficiency.

The empire's war machine continues its relentless march along its established course, undeterred by archaeological discoveries in some distant galaxy.

The Primarch's attention quickly returned to the heated discussion in the center of the bridge concerning the future strategic direction of this universe.

The recovery of Planet B is nearing completion, and a new "chapter" is about to begin in-depth research into the silicon-based consciousness that has retreated into the Matrix.
Before long, Halsey ended his heated discussion with Cortana and Wu Ji, and turned to Sui Meng, who had been standing quietly observing.

Her face showed a hint of fatigue, but even more so, the focus and excitement unique to researchers.

“Child,” she began, her voice slightly hoarse from prolonged intense thinking, “Based on our preliminary analysis, the structure of this metal matrix is ​​extremely unique. It is not only a massive energy source, but also possibly a colossal interface for a hybrid of biological, mechanical, and consciousness entities.”

Once the engineering department completes the dismantling and transportation of its main structure and safely transfers it inside the Renwei Yonggu, we can attempt to establish more stable and in-depth communication channels.

At that time, we may be able to bypass its 'clumsy' defense mechanisms and truly engage with the silicon-based civilization consciousness hidden within it.
"Exchange." She paused, then added an important piece of intelligence that had just arrived from the rear:
"Furthermore, shortly after you successfully broke free from that prison of consciousness and we began a large-scale transfer of metal matrix components, the fleet stationed in the system where Aegis 7 is located reported that an unusual number of blood moon entities had suddenly appeared in that region of space."

They appear to be making an emergency return from distant deep space, with a clear objective of impacting Planet Aegis 7, especially the one on its surface that was opened and maintained by the Emperor, connecting to different universes.

Halsey's eyes flashed with a sharp light: "However, the Imperial Warrior fleet that remained behind reacted quickly and had strong firepower. These hastily attacking Blood Moons did not pose a real threat and were all successfully intercepted and destroyed."

But this act itself is highly symbolic.

This is almost a clear indication that our actions have touched upon the most fundamental and inviolable core interests of this silicon-based civilization.

Otherwise, they would never allow these blood moons to risk being 'swept away' again by our large device 01 by forcefully returning to defend themselves and trying to interrupt our operation.

This undoubtedly confirms, from another perspective, that there is a direct and crucial connection between this metal matrix and the Blood Moon, and even to the creation of the Divine Seal.

"."

Sui Meng listened quietly, his golden pupils seemingly lost in thought.

“Exchange.” He repeated the word in a low voice, then asked the key question, “Doctor, in what specific form will this ‘exchange’ take?”

How do we communicate with someone who remains holed up in their data fortress?

Must I, like I did before, forcefully intrude into their territory with my consciousness?

Then, the Primarch shook his head slightly, his tone revealing obvious caution: "Within the Matrix, they are the absolute rulers, and the rules are set by them."

Even for me, rashly committing my full consciousness would involve bearing enormous and unpredictable risks, tantamount to placing myself at the mercy of the enemy.

As soon as he finished speaking, Wu Ji and Cortana spoke up almost simultaneously.

“Primarch.” The image of the Primarch flickered slightly, her voice as calm as ever, “As intelligent agents based on silicon-based logic and data flow, we may be able to try to access the matrix in data form and make initial contact as your agents. We are more adaptable to similar environments.”

Cortana chimed in, "Yes, Doctor, from an informatics perspective, this might be a relatively low-risk solution. We can also build firewalls and isolation protocols."

"No." Sui Meng interrupted them without hesitation, his tone resolute and carrying an unquestionable protective intent:
“I will never let you take this risk. The other side is a civilization capable of creating such bizarre existences as divine seals. Their data-level attack methods may far exceed our imagination. You are a valuable asset of the Empire and cannot easily venture into such an unknown and dangerous place.”

Halsey looked at Sui Meng, then at the two AIs who had volunteered, and a knowing look appeared on his face, along with a slightly sly smile.

"Alright, no need to argue. If they don't show up on their own, there's no need for us to go to their 'home turf' as guests."

She waved her hand, her tone relaxed yet powerful, "We can completely change our approach—for example, by creating some 'noise' that they can't ignore."

Halsey walked to a screen displaying a complex energy structure diagram of the matrix and tapped a few key nodes with his finger:

“We can try to write specific information bombs or logic viruses, not to completely destroy it, which would ruin valuable research samples, but to disrupt its core processes and force it to realize the cost of silence and confrontation.”

We can clearly convey a message to them: the weapon they rely on to harvest civilizations—the blood moon—is ineffective in the face of us.

The existence of these large devices renders their greatest threat a joke.

Halsey’s tone became confident and firm: “So, it is they, not us, who should be afraid and seek dialogue to avoid total destruction. We have the methods and patience to play along with them.”

Thump, thump!

Just as the initial contact strategy was determined inside the bridge, Sui Meng's adjutant strode closer, his magnetic boots making a heavy sound on the smooth deck.

He faced Sui Meng, raised his right fist to his chest, bowed respectfully, and then reported in a deep voice:

"Father, we have just received a direct instruction from the Empire's superiors, transmitted via the highest-priority quantum-encrypted channel. The source of the instruction has been confirmed to be His Majesty the Emperor himself."

The entire bridge fell silent instantly, even Halsey stopped what he was doing and turned his gaze over.

The adjutant continued, "His Majesty decrees: Once the target 'Metal Matrix' has been recovered, your department is ordered to immediately transfer the entire object, along with all relevant research data and samples, to Planet Aegis 7."

His Majesty emphasized the need to ensure the relative integrity and dynamism of the matrix structure.

The edict was brief, yet it contained a wealth of information.

The Emperor not only closely monitored the progress here, but also issued a clear direct order to move the stage of this "exchange," or rather, "confrontation," to Aegis 7—

That crucial juncture connecting two universes, and which had just repelled the Blood Moon's counterattack.

"."

Sui Meng's gaze suddenly became profound.

He nodded slightly to indicate that he understood.

The father's will cannot be disobeyed, and moving the Matrix to Aegis 7 may have deeper strategic considerations.

Then he looked at Halsey and the two AIs; the new action plan needed to be adjusted according to this sudden decree.

"Notify the engineering department to speed up the process. Objective changed: ensure the integrity of the main matrix structure and prepare for intergalactic transfer to Aegis 7."

Sui Meng's voice echoed in the bridge, carrying an absolute determination to carry out the emperor's will.
(End of this chapter)