One Impossible Technology Per Day

“The Starforge Core, followed by removal of the witnessing civilization.” “Removal to what extent?” “Until this planet produces no further radio emissions.” Beyond the porthole, a million city lights glowed. Food vendors closed their stalls. Container cranes crossed the sky. Drunken sailors sang off-key. To Lan-Zero, all of it might be noise from a “radio civilization.” “Can we win?” “Current probability is below one in a billion.” “If we repair the *Far Tide*?” “Required: 3.2 million tons of refined material, twelve fusion-power stations, and approximately four hundred billion units of local currency.” Lin checked his bank balance: 1,732 yuan. In five days, he would lose even this boat.