Chapter 335: Geopolitical Tension Part 1

"Shit...!"

Michael heard the President curse from the other end of the line.

"What happened?" Michael asked curiously, wondering why he'd curse out of the blue.

"The satellite is down. The Chinese shot it out of the sky," Greene responded frustratingly and continued. "That was our best chance and we lost it because of you, Mr. Reyes."

"Woah...calm down, Mr. President. You didn't inform me that you were going to attack China with my weather manipulation satellite."

"Why do we have to consult with you, Mr. Reyes? We have bought your technology. There shouldn't be any restrictions. This is a massive breach on your end."

"You should be grateful that I have delayed World War 3, Mr. President. And a massive breach on my end? Mr. President, you are still going to pay me 50 billion dollars for that satellite. It was not yet bought fully on your end so technically, it is still not your satellite."

"Mr. Reyes...you are fucking insane!" President Greene's voice rose, filled with unrestrained fury. "Do you have any idea what you've cost us? This was our best strategic move, and now it's gone, all because of your interference!"

Michael remained silent, listening to the President's rant. He knew any attempt to interject would only fuel Greene's anger further.

"We trusted you, Reyes! We trusted you to be a part of our national defense strategy. And you've betrayed that trust. Do you even understand the gravity of the situation? China is out there, growing stronger by the day, and we're left vulnerable because of your damn code!"

The tirade continued, with Greene's words becoming increasingly irrational. "You think this is a game, don't you? Playing both sides, holding all the cards! This isn't your tech startup, Reyes. This is the real world with real consequences! People's lives are at stake, and you're acting like some kind of tech overlord who can just pull the strings whenever he feels like it!"

Michael's jaw tightened, but he kept his composure. He knew Greene's frustration stemmed from fear and the loss of control. Yet, the President's failure to understand the bigger picture was maddening.

"You've made a powerful enemy today, Reyes. I hope you're prepared for the fallout. This isn't over. Not by a long shot."

"Yeah...but you still have to pay me 50 billion dollars though," Michael said nonchalantly.

"Fuck you!" President Greene spat.

Michael held the phone away from his ear slightly, letting Greene's anger wash over him. He knew any further response would only provoke the President more. Instead, he remained silent, allowing Greene to vent his frustrations.

"Do it," Greene ordered, his tone resolute. "And keep me updated on every development."

***

In Beijing, the Chinese military command was already in high alert mode. Commander Li Zhi had reported the destruction of the American satellite to the highest echelons of power, and the response was swift.

"Prepare our strategic assets," ordered General Zhang Wei, head of the Central Military Commission. "We cannot allow any further intrusions into our airspace."

The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) began mobilizing its forces, with destroyers and submarines moving into strategic positions. Fighter jets were scrambled, and air defense systems were put on high alert.

***

All those movements were being observed and watched from the Pentagon. Large screens displayed real-time satellite images and radar data, showing the rapid mobilization of Chinese military assets.

"Sir, the Chinese are moving fast," a senior intelligence officer reported. "Their naval and air forces are on high alert. It looks like they're preparing for possible engagements."

General Mark Thompson, the Secretary of Defense, stood at the center of the operations room, his expression stern. "We need to stay one step ahead. What are our current force dispositions in the region?"

Admiral Susan Drake, head of the Pacific Command, replied, "We have the USS Ronald Reagan carrier strike group in the South China Sea. They're on high alert and ready to respond to any provocations. We've also got several destroyers and submarines in the vicinity, and our airbases in Guam and Japan are on standby."

General Thompson nodded. "Good. Increase our aerial patrols and surveillance. We need to know their every move."

Admiral Drake turned to her staff. "Scramble additional reconnaissance flights. I want continuous eyes on their fleet movements."

"Yes, ma'am," a technician responded, immediately relaying the orders.

Thompson turned to the cyber operations unit. "What about our cyber defenses? We need to be prepared for any cyber attacks."

Colonel James Harris, head of the Cyber Command, replied, "We've already activated our highest alert protocols. Our systems are being monitored round the clock, and we're ready to counter any cyber intrusions."

"Excellent," Thompson said. "Now inform the President."