Chapter 85: The Naval Assistance Program Must Be Temporarily Shelved!

“Legate Commander, is what you’re suggesting truly feasible?” Titz’s voice was laced with barely contained excitement and anticipation; since the sweeping purge within the navy, this was the first time he felt there might be a chance to reverse the Welds Navy’s dire straits.

Jiang Bai was clearly pleased with Titz’s reaction, a faint smile playing at his lips—a smile brimming with confidence in the future. He assured Titz earnestly that their defeat was not irreversible. “My lord Count, I am discussing this matter with you in all seriousness.”

His tone was resolute and sincere, his gaze steady upon Titz, as if to transmit his unwavering conviction.

After Jiang Bai’s detailed explanation, Titz’s expression grew complex. He pondered for a moment before responding gravely and resolutely to Jiang Bai’s proposal.

“Your defeat was chiefly due to Arting being riddled with spies and supporters of the Daying Dynasty.”
“Any attempt to take action there would hardly escape their notice.”
“But our own dynasty is different. Our long coastline is perfectly suited for clandestine operations.”
“The Daying Dynasty has almost no presence here; it’s a relatively safe environment.”
“Moreover, aside from the Japanese navy, which is quite formidable, the surrounding dynasties’ navies are rather weak—making this an ideal place to test new submarines.”
“This would not only help us build a powerful underwater fleet but also preserve your dynasty’s naval technology.”
“It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement for both sides!”

“General, if you can truly offer us a naval base free of charge, then I am willing to share our submarine manufacturing technology with you at no cost.”
“As for the submarines left in Arting, I would also transfer them to you at a very low price.”
“However, you must cover all costs for our military personnel’s training and instruction, and should any issues arise, we reserve the right to withdraw immediately.”

Though a trace of hesitation lingered in Titz’s voice, it was clear he had been moved by Jiang Bai’s determination and forward-looking vision.

Jiang Bai accepted Titz’s terms without a hint of reluctance, his manner unwavering and decisive: “Naturally, the right of soldiers to return home is fundamental.” His words carried the authority of a true leader.

Afterward, Jiang Bai left Shen Honglie behind to work out the details of their future collaboration, while he set off on his next journey—to visit Kepo and Rheinmetall.

There, he signed extensive contracts for the procurement of coastal defense artillery and, incidentally, acquired some steel smelting technology.

As he shook hands with the Kepo representative at the signing, he foresaw the crucial role these coastal guns would play in future conflicts. Should all-out war break out with the Japanese, these shipyards would be the enemy’s primary targets.

Thus, Jiang Bai resolved to deploy robust coastal artillery and build large fortresses around the shipyards.

Additionally, Jiang Bai, through the Welds ambassador Wang Chuan’s organization, hosted a banquet, inviting significant military and political figures from Welds.

Despite knowing he might be met with indifference, his invitations were sincere and enthusiastic; his expression showed no trace of disappointment or discouragement—only genuine gratitude to each guest present and an optimistic expectation for future cooperation.

He pledged free land use and promised maximum tax incentives for the next five years.

For the entrepreneurs attending the banquet, Jiang Bai was not only a gracious host but also a visionary leader. He offered them more than profit—he offered a future brimming with possibilities.

By introducing Welds’ machinery manufacturing industry to Chengyun Province, he would inject a potent stimulus into the region’s industrialization.

The entire trip to Welds left Jiang Bai with a profound sense of accomplishment and pride. He not only secured essential loans but also facilitated the establishment of a complete industrial system in Chengyun Province by Welds, and, moreover, acquired submarine manufacturing technology and a fleet of submarines.

According to Jiang Bai’s projections, this batch of completed and soon-to-be-finished submarines would be combat-ready within half a year, posing a serious maritime threat to the Japanese.

All these developments made his smile even more confident and satisfied.

To this end, Jiang Bai left his Chief of Staff, Wang Xiao, in charge of coordinating the military-industrial projects.

Wang Xiao, responsible for the military-industrial projects, handled what seemed a complex mission with ease thanks to his expertise in machinery and his early years studying in Welds.

Jiang Bai entrusted the naval projects to Shen Honglie. With all matters properly arranged, Jiang Bai boarded a new long-range aircraft bound for Consortium Dynasty.

At this tense, pivotal moment, the newly installed leader, Map, convened an emergency high-level meeting in his office.

Present in the conference room were Map himself, Foreign Affairs Director Nock, Finance Director Mike, Defense Director Lavis, and Navy General George. Their expressions were grave and intent as they deliberated the upcoming military goodwill visit by General Jiang Bai.

“Sir, according to the latest intelligence, the military attaché from distant Chengyun is currently aboard the special flight we arranged, traversing vast expanses of sea,” Lavis reported, his tone urgent. His knitted brows revealed just how seriously he viewed the visit. “He is expected to arrive in seven or eight hours. We must reach a consensus on the Chengyun situation before his arrival.”

Map’s expression grew earnest as he nodded his agreement, his gaze sweeping each person in the room. “Then we must make the most of this time and share our views and recommendations.”

Navy General George rose to speak, his face composed but resolute. “Sir, I must point out that our new dynasty ally is woefully weak at sea.”
“Even if we devote all our strategic support, it will be difficult for them to pose any real threat to the Japanese navy in the short term. For this reason, I believe investing in this area is unwise.”

Map’s thoughtful expression showed he concurred with George’s assessment. “Indeed, the Japanese navy is formidable—almost unbeatable in distant Chengyun, and even the Daying Dynasty’s navy struggles to contend with them.”

His tone was tinged with helplessness, yet it also carried the resolve of decision. “It seems our naval aid program will have to be put on hold for now.”

Turning to the army’s situation, Map’s eyes fell upon Lavis, who immediately stood, a flicker of excitement in his gaze. “By contrast, the Chengyun Army has displayed much greater strength.”

There was admiration in his tone; compared to the frail navy, the army’s prowess gave him hope. “Especially the troops under Jiang Bai’s command, who, in a crucial battle, completely wiped out a Japanese brigade, demonstrating astonishing combat power.”