Sudden Change 6

Orphee's expression did not change in the slightest. He did not even look away from his wineglass. His fingers tapped lightly against the casing of the communicator, producing a steady, rhythmic clicking.

"Continue," he said in a low voice, calm enough to betray no emotion.

"Yes... After we forced the door open, we found clear signs that the living facilities inside had been used. The coffee on the table was still warm. According to the on-site examination, the degree of heat dissipation indicated that the occupants could not have evacuated more than ten minutes before our arrival. All electronic equipment initiated self-destruct procedures the moment we entered. The main computer's hard drive was completely burned out by a high-intensity electromagnetic pulse. We only managed to salvage some insignificant peripheral devices." His subordinate's voice carried barely concealed frustration and disappointment. "There... there were no valuable documents or clues left at the scene. It was as if they had vanished into thin air."

Orphee listened to the report in silence. Ten minutes. The timing had been calculated perfectly: enough to guarantee a safe evacuation, yet not so early that it would expose the source of their intelligence leak. That meant the other side not only possessed an efficient warning system, but also a calm and decisive commander.

He moved the communicator slightly away from his ear and pressed it a few times with his thumb, bringing up the next set of geographical coordinates.

"...Mm." He finally spoke, his voice still flat. "You have the coordinates for the next location, correct? Coordinates 7-gamma-3, in the industrial district of May City. It is one of their important material transfer points. I have already sent you the detailed building layout and the possible escape routes."

"Yes, sir. We will depart immediately."

"For this operation, I