Chapter 0072: Give What is Desired

"Mr. Lilienthal, I apologize; my current circumstances only permit me to meet you here." In the hospital room, upon seeing Gustav Lilienthal, Qintian immediately expressed his regrets. 

"Your Highness, it is I who should apologize for disturbing your convalescence," Gustav replied. 

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, their conversation turned to the main topic. 

"Mr. Lilienthal, I am deeply interested in and admire your research. Your brother, Otto Lilienthal, is someone I hold in high esteem. He sacrificed his life for the advancement of flight," Qintian said with utmost respect. 

"If my brother were to hear your words, Your Highness, he would be greatly comforted," Gustav reflected, a hint of sadness in his voice. 

"Mr. Lilienthal, the Wright brothers in America developed the first airplane several years ago. What are your thoughts on this?" Qintian inquired. 

"Your Highness, the Wright brothers indeed accomplished the monumental feat of humanity's first flight. Although their initial flights were brief, subsequent research has extended their flight durations. I believe their efforts will ultimately yield success," Gustav stated. 

Qintian nodded, recognizing that the myriad pioneers in aviation had paved the way for future triumphs in the field. Although the industry was still in its nascent stages, he was confident that true success was on the horizon. 

"Mr. Lilienthal, have you considered the application of aircraft in military contexts?" Qintian asked. 

"Military application?" Gustav furrowed his brow. Current aircraft had only just solved the problem of flight; their air time was minimal, altitudes were low, and speeds were slow. It seemed premature to discuss military uses. 

"Yes, indeed, sir. Although this mechanical invention is just emerging, I perceive it as a transformative weapon. Future warfare will undergo a radical transformation as a result. Therefore, Germany must not lag behind other nations in this regard; we must be at the forefront. Only in this way can we ensure our national security and interests," Qintian stated earnestly. 

Gustav was struck by a sense of reverence. Though he had not considered such implications, Qintian's urgency compelled him to strive for Germany's benefit. 

"Your Highness, although the Wright brothers have made strides, our technological foundation is equally robust. If necessary, we can swiftly catch up to them," Gustav assured. 

Qintian nodded. "I have faith in your capabilities. However, current aircraft performance is still inadequate for military use; further research is essential. Imagine a future battlefield filled with aircraft dropping bombs on enemies, tearing them to shreds, while countless fighters engage in fierce aerial combat amidst gunfire and booming cannons. What an exhilarating scene that would be!" 

Indeed, Gustav was stirred by Qintian's vivid portrayal of the future. They had only been contemplating basic research on aircraft, never envisioning its vast military potential. 

"Mr. Lilienthal, if you do not object, I would like to support your research from this point forward. All funding, equipment, and other necessities will be provided by me. My only stipulation is that your research projects must align with my directives," Qintian proposed. 

Gustav hesitated but eventually nodded. He recognized that acquiescing to Qintian's request would likely steer their research toward military applications. However, as a German, how could he refuse such a demand? Moreover, their lack of funding had indeed placed them in a precarious position. Without Qintian's support, their very livelihoods were at stake, let alone any further research. 

"Your Highness, I accept your proposal. We are willing to contribute our efforts for the strength of the German Empire," Gustav stated. 

"Mr. Lilienthal, I look forward to a fruitful collaboration," Qintian said, a smile illuminating his face.

Gustav's acceptance of his proposal was undoubtedly the best outcome. He had previously feared that researchers might resist limitations, potentially forcing him to resort to drastic measures to ensure compliance, which would diminish efficiency. Gustav's willingness to cooperate was, therefore, a welcome relief. 

"Here's to a successful partnership!" Gustav echoed. 

"Mr. Lilienthal, in developing aircraft, the engine is paramount; it is the very heart of the machine.

Only with a superior engine can aircraft achieve greater altitudes and speeds while increasing their payload capacity. The German Engine Manufacturing Company is currently enhancing aviation engines based on their automotive models. So far, they have made significant breakthroughs. I will ensure their full cooperation with your efforts," Qintian explained. 

"Excellent, Your Highness. If the engine issue can be resolved, our development will proceed more smoothly," Gustav affirmed. 

"I expect you to develop an aircraft capable of flying at speeds exceeding one hundred kilometers per hour, with a practical altitude of over two thousand meters, accommodating one pilot and carrying an aviation machine gun, with a range exceeding two hundred kilometers within three years. This will bring us closer to operational deployment," Qintian declared. 

The parameters Qintian outlined presented a formidable challenge for Gustav. Yet he believed that with adequate support, such goals were indeed attainable.