Ansky sat in an armed off-road vehicle, passing through checkpoint after checkpoint as he headed toward the Presidential Palace. Even though they had already begun fighting the Opposition Armed Forces, his face showed only cold indifference, his eyes carrying a decisive, battle-hardened air.
When Dioding died, he had sensed that a conspiracy was unfolding.
Based on Vasoren's performance over the past few years, his reelection had practically been a certainty. Ansky did not believe Vasoren would cling to power and use underhanded means to eliminate his opponents, especially such obvious opponents.
Moreover, he belonged to Vasoren's faction. The two were close friends who understood each other's character, so from the beginning, he had firmly stood by Vasoren.
But some people still held opposing views.
The series of events that followed made the situation increasingly confusing. Once American-style equipment appeared among the Opposition Armed Forces, the truth became obvious: someone was stirring trouble behind the scenes.
But he could do nothing about it.
The public had formed its own preconceived notions. Dioding had considerable prestige among the people and a large number of supporters, so an explanation had to be given.
And the explanation the public wanted was for Vasoren to step down.
Once Vasoren stepped down, the entire situation would fall under the Black Hand's control. Never mind what would happen to him and Vasoren—their country itself might fall into the hands of puppets. That would be even more troublesome.
Unfortunately, the public would not consider such things. They only knew how to express their anger and vent their dissatisfaction with life. Excessive venting, guided by the hidden hand behind the scenes, had made the situation increasingly complicated until it turned into the current avalanche-like collapse.
All signs indicated that the Black Hand behind this was an experienced operator, and