Natalia Sokolov closed the file and set it gently on her desk, eyes focused on nothing in particular. The idea was still settling in her mind, carefully considering the implications of the next steps.
Kidnapping a billionaire CEO was far from routine. But Matthew Borja wasn't just any executive. His technology represented a shift in global military power—too critical to ignore and too powerful to resist.
"Anton," Natalia said quietly, gesturing toward her aide who waited silently nearby.
"Yes, Major?"
"Call General Volkov's office. Tell him it's urgent." She paused, lips pursed. "We need official authorization before proceeding."
Anton hesitated briefly. "You think they'll approve?"
Natalia's gaze sharpened. "We're running out of choices. If we don't seize this opportunity, Beijing might."