90: The Only Path to Survival

"Colonel Hansen, preparations are complete."

Listening to the researchers' report, Kurt Hansen glanced at the mechanical clock he had placed beside him, his gaze sweeping over the device. Though old, it was highly accurate precisely because it could not be affected by outside interference.

Fifty minutes left?

That was faster than expected.

In that case.

"Bennett, Gago."

Kurt Hansen reestablished contact with Gago and Chester Bennett. "How is the situation now?"

"Colonel, after you activated the Chimera we had hidden away, the situation improved somewhat. Even New America is having a hard time dealing with Militech's Urban Combat Specialized Robot. Their advance has clearly slowed."

Gago reported in his usual meticulous tone. "However, we received word that Rosalind Myles provided Intelligence Bureau personnel with a Weapon of Mass Destruction for this operation. We are sending people to investigate what it is."

"A Weapon of Mass Destruction?"

After hearing the report, Hansen pondered briefly before speaking. "I think I know what it is. New America has deliberately slowed its advance as a cautious measure to ensure I cannot escape—meaning they possess some kind of weapon that can kill me in a single blow once they complete the encirclement."

He sneered. "Heh, it seems Rosalind Myles and I had the same idea."

There was a trace of surprise in Gago's voice. "Colonel, you mean?"

"Most likely a tactical nuclear bomb. The kind capable of flattening the stadium or Gemini Blue and ensuring not even my bones remain. Once they confirm my death, they can naturally pin the blame on me. The excuse is already there." Hansen paused, his tone dripping with mockery. "In that sense, she and I really did have the same idea."

"They're deploying a nuclear bomb? Then, Colonel, you—"

"Don't worry. That is exactly what I want." Hansen cut