Urgency (Part Five)

"If even an H-bomb can't solve it—"

President Ellis picked up the thought, his voice carrying a trace of malicious anticipation. "Then Nick Fury and his self-important S.H.I.E.L.D. will become the laughingstock of the world. The Security Council will question their competence, and governments everywhere will lose faith in them—"

"Exactly. And we—" Ross added softly at just the right moment, "only need to sit back and wait for the right time to act. When that happens, we'll be in the strongest possible position, whether we're negotiating terms or gaining political capital."

President Matthew Ellis fell silent for a few seconds. Then he burst out laughing, the sound of long-suppressed satisfaction finally set free.

"Hahaha! Good. Plan first, act later!"

Ellis pointed at Ross, admiration shining in his eyes. "Ross, promoting you was one of the best decisions I've made during this term!"

When his laughter faded, Ellis grew serious again, but this time there was a clear plan behind his expression.

"Notify the Department of Defense. Order every unit stationed in Texas to enter the highest state of readiness, but do not cross the border."

Ellis began issuing orders, his old decisiveness restored. "Have Strategic Command monitor the situation continuously. I want to know every detail of what happens at the Mexico border."

"And—"

He looked at Ross. "Prepare a plan for contacting the Warp Group, but don't approach them yet. Wait for the right moment—"

"Understood, Mr. President." Ross rose and gave a slight bow. "I'll take care of everything."

Ross had turned to leave when Ellis suddenly called him back. "Wait, Ross."

Ross stopped and turned around, confusion on his face.

President Matthew Ellis studied him for several seconds, his gaze complicated. "Is the information you got from the Warp Group reliable? I mean the information about