The Genius System-Chapter 54: Diplomatic Games

Note: Thank you to everyone who has supported this novel. We are only at the beginning — I will not let you down.

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Dawn in Macro painted the sky in shades of pink and gold, reflecting off the modern structures of the capital. This morning was different—it marked the start of a day that could determine the nation’s destiny. A palpable tension hung in the air, visible in the eyes of the citizens, as the official planes from China and Russia landed just minutes apart at Macro’s international airport.

The airport had been transformed for the occasion. Security teams scanned every corner with silent drones, their thermal sensors sweeping the surroundings. Holographic barriers projected deterrent images, clearly marking restricted areas, while facial recognition systems monitored every movement.

Armored vehicles were strategically stationed, and agents in black suits blended into the crowd, communicating through earpieces. Yet, despite these impressive measures, it was evident that Macro lacked the scale and experience of superpowers when it came to diplomatic security.

A royal guard officer supervised screens displaying live feeds from drones and thermal cameras. Behind him, a specialized team monitored radio frequencies, ready to detect any attempts at interception or espionage.

For seasoned observers, this display was anything but accidental. Every detail, from the barriers to the encrypted communication modules, sent a clear message—Macro was not a nation easily intimidated.

Local and international media were already in position, their cameras capturing every movement of the diplomats. Journalists from the "Macro Daily" and CNN International were among the first to document the event, camera flashes sparking like shooting stars. The King of Macro, accompanied by his prime minister and a suite of advisors, waited on the tarmac. The king exuded calm majesty, while his advisors, dressed in tailored suits, bore the weight of the day’s significance. They knew this day could define Macro’s trajectory for decades to come.

The Chinese delegation disembarked first, led by Zhao Liang, the Minister of Technology, a man whose every gesture seemed calculated. He was flanked by engineers specializing in advanced technologies and seasoned diplomats, their expressions betraying only a hint of curiosity and ambition toward NOVA-1. Moments later, Dmitri Ivanov, representing Russia, emerged from his plane with an almost arrogant confidence. His generals and economic advisors followed, scanning the horizon as if every detail might reveal a strategic advantage.

The King of Macro extended his hand to welcome the delegations, speaking with a soft but firm authority. "Welcome to Macro. We hope these discussions will bear fruit for our three nations." The welcoming ceremony was brief but rich in symbolism. Flags fluttered in the morning breeze, and opening speeches spoke of cooperation and innovation. Yet beneath the layer of courtesy, everyone knew this was a diplomatic battlefield.

The negotiation hall was an architectural masterpiece, its décor showcasing Macro’s rich cultural heritage spanning hundreds of years. The walls were adorned with murals depicting the great battles and historic alliances that had shaped the kingdom. Every detail, from the carved patterns in the dark wood to the subtle gold accents framing the columns, told a story of resilience and grandeur.

At the center of the room, a circular table made of polished marble symbolized equality among the participants. Yet, its imposing size and pristine surface gave the impression that those who sat there needed to prove themselves worthy.

Large arched windows allowed natural light to stream in, illuminating tapestries with intricate patterns that depicted scenes of harvests, festivals, and cultural advancements. A massive crystal chandelier, suspended from the ceiling, cast a soft glow that heightened the solemn atmosphere of the hall.

The chairs themselves, upholstered in fine leather embroidered with gold thread, seemed designed as much to command respect as to provide understated comfort. Every detail reflected the kingdom’s intent to impress its guests while reminding them of a legacy forged through trials long before the arrival of these delegations.

A subtle scent of sandalwood lingered in the air, mingling with the aroma of freshly brewed tea served by silent attendants—a quiet reminder that, despite external pressures, Macro controlled its image and remained steadfast in its traditions.

It was here that the real game would be played—without Lassen, who had chosen to remain in the shadows of his laboratory, leaving the government and the king to handle this dance of power.

The prime minister, flawless in his suit, opened the negotiations with a professional yet warm tone. "We are here to explore partnerships that respect our sovereignty and innovations. NOVA-1 is a blessing for Macro, but also an opportunity for the world."

He leaned slightly on the table.

"NOVA-1 is built on a revolutionary architecture. It’s a processor based on optical neural networks, using photonic transmission for speeds and efficiencies that your industries have yet to achieve."

Zhao Liang furrowed his brows.

"You claim to have integrated room-temperature superconductors into a commercially viable model. Where did you source these materials?"

The Prime Minister smiled.

"They were developed here, using hybrid compounds and nanostructured designs optimized for quantum signals."

One of the Chinese engineers spoke up.

"But this type of design requires extreme thermal management. Did you use passive cooling integrated into the silicon?"

"No." The Prime Minister slid a projected diagram onto the screen. "We abandoned traditional silicon. NOVA-1 uses a polymerized superconducting alloy and modular organometallic circuits."

The engineers exchanged stunned glances.

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Ivanov broke the silence.

"If your components are this advanced, why haven’t we seen any international patents filed for these technologies?"

"Because there’s no need," the Prime Minister replied calmly. "Every step of the process is protected by proprietary encryption and hardware-locked systems."

Zhao Liang responded with measured words. "The Kingdom of Macro has demonstrated its ability to innovate, and China wishes to be part of this progress. We propose a technological alliance where we share production resources, markets, and expertise. In return, we request shared control over NOVA-1’s patents." His words sent ripples of tension around the table, revealing a clear intention to tie Macro’s technological power to China’s influence.

Dmitri Ivanov, radiating impatience, spoke next. "Russia admires your technological boldness. We offer military and energy support, along with security agreements. In exchange, we seek exclusivity on certain aspects of NOVA-1’s production. With our support, Macro could become a technological hub protected from external pressures."

The proposals were clear—China aimed for economic integration, while Russia pursued a strategic alliance. But Macro, under the leadership of the king and the prime minister, was prepared to navigate these turbulent waters with caution.

"We appreciate your offers," the prime minister replied, "but Macro intends to maintain its technological independence. We are open to joint ventures for specific projects, but we will not relinquish control over NOVA-1. We seek partners, not overseers."

A heavy silence fell as each party assessed the other. "We propose licensing agreements," the prime minister continued, "but these must come with direct investments in our infrastructure and diplomatic guarantees of non-aggression." The discussions shifted into technical details, with economic projections analyzed and benefits debated, but compromise remained elusive.

Behind closed doors, advisors met privately, negotiating secondary agreements. Macro’s security forces, led by Adrian, stayed vigilant, aware of the constant threat of industrial espionage.

At one point, Zhao approached the prime minister during a break. "You know, Macro could benefit greatly from direct access to the Chinese market. We could even offer protection against… certain external threats." The prime minister replied with a smile, "We appreciate the offer, but Macro isn’t looking for a protector. We’re looking for partners who understand our value."

The negotiations resumed, growing more intricate. The king, observing every exchange, finally intervened. "We have much to consider. These discussions are the beginning of a relationship, not the end. We will review your proposals and come back with our own suggestions."

The day ended without an agreement but with promises to continue talks. The Chinese and Russian diplomats left with expressions of frustration. In the quiet halls of the palace, the king and his ministers reflected. "They thought that without Mr. X, we’d be more pliable," the prime minister noted. "But we showed them that Macro is more than just its inventor."

The king nodded. "We must remain vigilant. Mr. X followed the negotiations, didn’t he?"

"Yes, through the cameras and real-time reports," the prime minister confirmed. "And Alex has contacted us with suggestions."

"We’ll review them," said the king. "But for now, we must prepare for our next step. China and Russia aren’t the only ones looking toward Macro."

A messenger arrived with urgent news. "Your Majesty, it appears the United States has announced potential sanctions against anyone cooperating with Macro without their involvement."

The king and the prime minister exchanged a look, the complexity of the situation deepening. Macro stood at the center of a global power game, and every move had to be calculated with precision. The day had ended, but the diplomatic game had only just begun, with Macro determined to play its cards carefully in a world where ambitions ran as high as the stakes.