“As if that means anything.” But Drake sounded calmer. “Tell me who there could command a satellite-launched attack.”
Ru tried not to turn, but he couldn’t help himself. He had spent his entire career in the PLAAF. The Air Force had been his path to power.
General Liú Zuocheng had commanded the CNSA for years before his ascension to the CMC. The Chinese National Space Agency would certainly oversee any space-based weapon development. And twenty years ago, Zuocheng had made his reputation with the complete reorganization of all of the space defense contractors into a far more effective—and profitable—structure. Gods, thepowerthis man held was staggering.
“Well?” Drake was at least still honoring their agreement to not mention either one’s name.
“Attack?” Zuocheng asked softly.
“What was that?” Drake snapped out.
It was forced upon him. Ru had hoped to dodge this pivotal moment until he had surpassed, or perhaps buried, Zuocheng. Now he must decide in a single instant. Was he Zuocheng’s servant…or his enemy?
“I…have a friend who may be able to help.” His choice was made. He was handing over utterly damning proof to Zuocheng if the man one day decided to erase Ru on a whim.
Ru pulled the phone from his ear to tap it to speaker, but Zuocheng plucked it from his hand and held it up to his own ear.
“Wéi?”