When the standardized weapon interface parameters provided by Osiris reached Militech Headquarters, it immediately attracted significant attention.
Previous combat observation data relayed by the Wraiths and Lazarus teams, especially the combat records of that red experimental machine, had already caused a stir within relevant departments.
Inside the Technical Analysis Center, the gigantic holographic screen repeatedly played the brief combat footage.
When the power gauntlet turned the upper body of the "oni power armor" into metallic dust, an uncontrollable gasp echoed through the conference room.
"Molecular-level decomposition… this completely exceeds our current understanding of materials science." A senior weapons expert pushed up his glasses, his voice trembling with disbelief. "More importantly, their shield system demonstrated an effectiveness far superior to our imitations.
Based on energy readings, its instantaneous impact resistance is at least three times higher than our simulated models."
Another engineer, specializing in power armor control systems, pointed to the data stream and added: "What's most astonishing is their auxiliary piloting system. Without any direct neural interface, it achieved combat effectiveness close to top-tier neural piloting, purely through sensor fusion and algorithm optimization. If this system could be widely adopted…"
He didn't finish, but everyone present understood what it meant — it would completely revolutionize the selection criteria for power armor pilots and drastically reduce training costs.
When the topic shifted to the newly received weapon interface parameters, the atmosphere in the conference room grew even more fervent.
"The interface standard is quite precise and highly compatible." The project manager carefully examined the technical documents. "We can consider integrating and adapting the laser weapon system validated on the 'centaur' exoskeleton.
While its power might not match their native weapons, we have an advantage in energy consumption and reliability."
"Why not consider multi-functionality?" another young technician suggested. "Install small rocket pods on the shoulders to provide suppressive fire in conjunction with laser weapons. Or integrate electronic warfare modules to disable the enemy's systems before engagement."
"What about the cost?" The representative from the finance department immediately raised an objection. "The R&D expenses for these specialized modules…"
"Cost is not the primary consideration." The project manager interrupted. "Compared to the potential technical returns, these investments are entirely worthwhile! Headquarters has already approved a special budget."
The meeting lasted for several hours, with various proposals being put forward, discussed, and revised.
Just as the debate reached an impasse, an old engineer who had been silent slowly spoke: "Perhaps we should change our approach. Since the other party proactively provided interface standards, it indicates they are also seeking some level of technical exchange.
Why don't we prepare two proposals: one showcasing our most cutting-edge technological capabilities, and another emphasizing practicality and mass production potential?"
This suggestion was immediately met with approval.
Soon, two preliminary proposals were finalized: one was a technology verification model centered on high-performance laser weapons, and the other was a multi-functional configuration combining rocket pods and electronic warfare modules.
When these proposals were encrypted and sent back to the Wasteland Town, Militech's senior executives were awaiting a response.
They knew this was not merely a weapon procurement, but an excellent opportunity to glimpse the technological foundation of that mysterious workshop.
—
As Valerie's combat data from the experimental machine spread within the Wasteland Town, Li Wei, the team leader of Kang Tao CN's temporary outpost, immediately convened his team members for an urgent analysis.
The team's technical expert pointed to the combat footage repeatedly playing on the holographic screen: "This molecular-level decomposition technology is completely beyond our comprehension. More importantly, their shield system and auxiliary piloting algorithms…"
Li Wei silently observed the clean and decisive combat performance of the red power armor on the screen, then made a decision: "Prepare, I will personally visit Mr. Archmagos."
Half an hour later, Li Wei stood alone at the entrance of the workshop.
Morris appeared silently, gesturing for him to follow.
Passing through the heavy metal door, Li Wei was once again led to a side reception room.
Osiris' projection was already waiting there and, upon seeing Li Wei enter, gave him a friendly nod.
"Mr. Archmagos." Li Wei bowed slightly. "Thank you for seeing me."
The projection calmly regarded him: "Kang Tao CN's special envoy, what is your purpose?"
"We witnessed the recent test and hope to cooperate with you." Li Wei went straight to the point. "Kang Tao CN has been deeply involved in the field of intelligent weapons for many years and believes it can offer unique value in certain aspects."
He brought up a technical brief projection: "We have some unique insights in target tracking algorithms for intelligent aiming systems, as well as neural network collaboration for light weapons."
Osiris' projection nodded slightly: "Kang Tao's intelligent weapon guidance systems indeed perform excellently at comparable sizes, especially their predictive algorithms for moving targets.
However, I noticed that your internal situation seems… not entirely harmonious?"
Li Wei's expression stiffened slightly, clearly unwilling to discuss this sensitive topic: "The North America Branch does have some management disagreements, but this is an internal matter for Kang Tao…"
"An unstable partner will bring uncontrollable risks." The projection interrupted him, his tone still calm but carrying an undeniable weight. "Especially a branch that might lean towards Arasaka, which would severely interfere with our cooperation."
Li Wei took a deep breath, realizing that the other party had made his meaning very clear.
He cautiously responded: "Mr. Archmagos, Kang Tao will resolve this issue, and I believe it will not affect our cooperation."
"Morris will assist you in purging your ranks." Osiris' projection directly decided. "Before that, I hope to see your preliminary concepts for intelligent weapon adaptation solutions."
"We will immediately launch the highest priority R&D project." Faced with Osiris' assertiveness, Li Wei could only overlook the issue, and he indeed wanted to deal with those traitors in Night City, so he merely solemnly promised, "Kang Tao CN will certainly present a solution that satisfies you."
The projection was silent for a moment, Osiris' gaze scrutinizing Li Wei, seemingly re-evaluating the potential value of this cooperation.
Finally, he added: "Remember, efficiency is the foundation of cooperation. I hope to see substantive progress in the shortest possible time."
"Understood." Li Wei bowed slightly. "We will prioritize allocating the headquarters' top technical team to ensure the preliminary solution is completed in the shortest possible time."
After the communication ended, Li Wei immediately returned to the outpost to convene the technical team. He deeply understood the importance of this cooperation for Kang Tao CN's market strategy in North America and knew even more clearly that he must seize this critical opportunity to establish a cooperative relationship with "Mr. Archmagos."
Meanwhile, inside the workshop, Osiris issued new instructions to Morris, who stood by: "Assist Kang Tao CN in dealing with their North America Branch. Pay attention to collecting their technical data, especially evidence of cooperation with Arasaka. Prioritize efficiency in the operation, and eliminate this potential destabilizing factor."
"Understood." Morris nodded slightly, her figure silently disappearing into the shadows, beginning preparations for this cleansing operation against Kang Tao's North America Branch.
Her mission was clear and direct: eliminate traitors for Kang Tao CN Headquarters, acquire valuable technical intelligence for her master, and remove a potential source of future trouble.