70

KPA HEADQUARTERS
PYONGYANG

Bahn-ni felt the vibration of the cell phone on his chest. He removed it and looked at the screen. It was General Yong-sik.

Bahn-ni was in room 111 at KPA headquarters, mission control, a large room covered in digital screens and filled with workstations where young analysts monitored and controlled all military-related activities of the North Korean government.

“Yes, General,” said Bahn-ni.

“The supreme leader orders the missiles launched,” said Yong-sik.

“Yes, sir. As per protocol, I am required to ask you: What is the code sequence?”

“Eight one nine zero four one.”

“Very good,” said Bahn-ni.

Bahn-ni turned and looked at a young analyst sitting before a workstation.

“Are the targets locked in?” said Bahn-ni.

“Yes, Colonel. Los Angeles and San Francisco.”

“Fire when ready, Lieutenant.”