Brigadier was startled. Searching frantically for polite enough words he mumbled, “Sir? But, what about our plan regarding Indians?” What will Admiral say to that?”
Chan snapped back, “You need not worry about them, Colonel. I'll talk with the Admiral and even the President myself. We need to consolidate our resources not spread them thin. They are the nearest. And most capable to search and defend our remaining bases. I want them to form an impenetrable wall around west of Spartlys. “
“Yes sir.” Brigadier replied and then spoke with nervous voice again, “Sir. There is one more bit of news that you need to know.”
“What is that Comrade?”
“Vietnam has announced test launch of a ballistic missile tomorrow.”
General Chang almost jumped to the roof, “Vietnamese have announced what?”
Brigadier thought that he was beginning to enjoy the sound of panic in his senior officer's voice. “They have announced that they'll test launch a short range ballistic missile tomorrow.”
“What the hell they think they are doing? Testing a missile at this time when so much shit is flying around! When and how did they develop that missile? It's impossible.”
Brigadier Haw agreed. “We'd have known if they were actually developing it themselves. This sudden announcement is very suspicious.”
Chan asked “Have Americans or anybody else issued a statement yet?”
“No sir. It's too soon for that. We'll hear something in a few hours, hopefully.”
Chang took in a deep breath and exhaled, “Let others take care of this missile business Comrade Haw. You need to concentrate on my orders. One more thing, news of this attack should not be leaked out anywhere “
Brigadier thought of letting hot shot General know what he actually thought of feasibility of the order, but wisely decided to keep quiet about that. He took his leave with a small reply. “I understand sir. “