Inside Night City's municipal government building, Lucius stared at the intelligence report in his hands, sweat beading on his forehead. The New United States forces stationed outside Night City had already reached twenty thousand.
In its current state, Night City had no hope of resisting an army of that size. If the city wanted to preserve its independence, a powerful force would have to step in and resolve the crisis.
The first name that came to Lucius's mind was… PROJECT.
"Well? Have you made contact with them?"
Lucius looked at his secretary, unable to hide his unease.
Although he had a solid relationship with Arasaka, when it came to this matter, he chose PROJECT Corporation instead.
After all… on this land, PROJECT had demonstrated strength that clearly surpassed Arasaka.
If he asked Arasaka for help, there was no telling how many troops they could actually send. Better to be practical.
"We've made contact! They've agreed to open a channel!"
"Good!"
Relief flashed across Lucius's face. He quickly straightened his suit and steadied his breathing, forcing himself to calm down so he wouldn't appear flustered.
...
At PROJECT Corporation, Roland's expression turned distinctly strange when he received the request for communication from Lucius.
He had assumed Lucius would seek help from Arasaka. He hadn't expected him to come directly to him.
That was genuinely unexpected.
"Councilor Lucius, I have to admit—I didn't think you'd come to me."
Roland looked at him with a faint smile, relaxed and composed.
"Haha, not at all. Mr. Roland, as the head of PROJECT Corporation and Night City's most important supporter, I've long wanted to pay you a visit. I simply never had the time."
Lucius smiled warmly, his tone thick with flattery.
"Let's skip the pleasantries. What do you want?"
Roland didn't bother entertaining small talk and went straight to the point.
Seeing that, Lucius dropped the formal tone. His expression turned bitter.
"Mr. Roland, you're aware of the situation. The New United States forces outside Night City are close to taking Pacifica. This…"
"I know. But what does that have to do with me? If you understand PROJECT at all, Councilor Lucius, you should know our core foundation isn't in Night City."
Roland raised an eyebrow, sounding completely unconcerned.
Lucius fell silent.
It was the truth. Everyone knew PROJECT Corporation's influence in Nevada. The state was practically their backyard. From there, their products radiated outward in every direction. They were even engaged in open conflict with Idaho.
"Mr. Roland, I won't hide it from you. I want to preserve Night City's current independence. That's been my political goal for years. I truly want this city to develop and thrive."
This time, Lucius sighed and spoke with genuine sincerity.
"I don't care about that," Roland replied flatly. "I only care about what you can offer me."
"…Anything you want, I'll give it to you—as long as it's within my power."
"Good. I'll help you. In return, I need you to assist PROJECT Corporation in taking Pacifica and Santo Domingo."
"This…"
"Relax. We'll push you into the position of Mayor of Night City. And Night Corp will back you."
Lucius's pupils contracted sharply.
He was well aware of Night Corp—but he had never imagined they were cooperating with PROJECT at such a deep level.
After another brief exchange, Roland ended the call, a smile tugging at his lips.
Lucius coming to him had been unexpected.
But when meat delivers itself to your doorstep, why wouldn't you eat?
Especially when it's a feast.
Originally, if Lucius had gone to Arasaka as usual, Roland had intended to let things play out and even give Arasaka some face—just to keep Arasaka and Militech fighting each other.
Now?
If Arasaka still wanted to establish a foothold in Night City, they'd have to bleed for it.
As for the supercarrier?
Please.
He'd lay it out plainly for Arasaka: Apocalypse was stationed in Night City. If their supercarrier dared sail in, he'd drop Maine straight onto its deck.
As for Pacifica, his plans had changed.
He had originally considered keeping Hansen around to observe the situation. Now? He might as well flatten the place entirely—and while he was at it, link it up with Santo Domingo for full redevelopment.
That area would become PROJECT's primary industrial zone within Night City.
As for the former Arasaka Waterfront District…
If they wanted it, they could pay.
Negotiating the price down? Impossible.
Original price? Also impossible.
Premium purchase only. Actually—no purchase. At most, they could lease it.
What if Arasaka flipped the table?
Come on. This is Night City, not Tokyo.
Better take a look at who's really in charge here.
"Oh, right. How are the talks with Kang Tao going?"
Roland suddenly remembered the earlier matter and asked.
"We're close to finalizing it. Kang Tao has agreed to let us establish a branch company there. In return, they want us to send technical personnel to guide them in upgrading their electromagnetic technology and smart firearm technology."
Roland scratched his head.
For some reason, a strong sense of déjà vu smacked him in the face.
But he quickly dismissed it. The conditions weren't excessive. They could simply agree.
"Boss, there's movement from the New United States forces outside Pacifica."
"Hm?"
Roland narrowed his eyes.
Vigilant.
...
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