Mercenary I am the king

Chapter 1262 Hardliners

One day later, in Bakta, in the Green Zone, at the U.S. military command headquarters conference room.

The thick, multi-layered explosion-proof curtains effectively blocked out the high temperatures outside, while the central air conditioning system continuously emitted a low hum, keeping the indoor temperature constant at a cool 22 degrees Celsius.

However, the atmosphere inside the meeting room was far more somber and oppressive than outside, with an invisible low pressure looming over everyone.

At one end of the long, imitation mahogany conference table sat Colonel Kurt, the U.S. military commander in charge of overall security affairs in northwestern Iligo.

Seated around the table were several U.S. Army colonel-level officers from intelligence, operations, and logistics departments, as well as Karl Hoffman, the senior executive of Thunder Defense in Iligo.

Hoffman, a former Marine and now a senior regional executive at a defense company, looked so grim he could wring water out of his face.

A preliminary damage assessment report, hastily compiled and printed by the team behind the scenes, was spread out in front of Hoffman; the edges of the paper were still warm.

"Colonel, gentlemen,"

Hoffman cleared his throat; his voice was unusually dry from staying up late and anxiety.

"This is our preliminary damage assessment regarding the attack that occurred yesterday morning at checkpoint 4 in the Hurmatu area."

He picked up the report, his gaze sweeping over the numbers as if each one were a thorn, and his brow furrowed involuntarily.

"We have confirmed six dead, four seriously wounded, and six slightly wounded. The total casualties are sixteen, which is more than half of the original garrison. All vehicles that were transported to and deployed at the checkpoint, including two armored M1151 Humvees, one modified Land Cruiser for technical reconnaissance, and three pickup trucks, have been destroyed and are beyond repair."

"Regarding critical equipment, two 30-kilowatt high-power diesel generators, one AN/PAS-13 long-range infrared surveillance system (TWS), two 'Guardian' miniature soldier radars, and multiple sets of communication equipment and observation instruments, including the AN/PRC-117F satellite radio, were directly destroyed in the attack. Preliminary estimates indicate that the direct equipment losses exceed four million US dollars. This does not include the substantial death benefits, disability compensation, and long-term medical expenses that will need to be paid subsequently."

He paused, raised his head, glanced around at the officers present, and finally his gaze settled on Colonel Kurt's expressionless face before he continued:
"More importantly, our key forward outpost and intelligence gathering point, Checkpoint No. 4, located northwest of Hurmatu and leading to the Silja border, has been temporarily 'taken over' by local militia forces controlled by Song Heping. We believe that the attack itself, as well as the subsequent artillery support, is highly suspicious. The timing, coverage, and impact point distribution of the artillery support are extremely abnormal and warrant in-depth investigation. We have every reason to suspect that Song Heping, the head of 'Musician' Defense Company, played a dishonorable role in this incident and is a prime suspect."

A low, restrained murmur rippled through the conference room.

Some people were whispering to each other, while others were frowning in deep thought.

A major, a staff officer from the intelligence analysis department, spoke first:
"Mr. Hoffman, I fully understand your and Thunder Defense's feelings and the losses you've suffered. However, according to the battlefield reports we received at the time, Checkpoint 4 was indeed subjected to an organized and fierce attack by over four hundred heavily armed 1515 militants. Song Heping's militia did provide artillery support when the checkpoint was in danger, following standard procedures. The end result was a tactical defeat of the enemy's main force, helping you hold the checkpoint—although the position is currently under their temporary control. But based on all the 'direct evidence' we currently possess, we cannot definitively prove that Song Heping deliberately carried out hostile actions against Thunder Defense personnel. Perhaps... it really was just an unfortunate friendly fire incident, unavoidable in the heat of battle?"

"No evidence? Accidental injury?"

Another officer, wearing the rank of lieutenant colonel, couldn't help but sneer, his tone filled with undisguised mockery:
"Major, please forgive my bluntness, but you place far too much faith in written reports and those so-called 'standard procedures.' The entire Hurmatu region, from intelligence networks to logistical supplies to the allegiance of local armed forces, is almost entirely under Song Heping's covert control. His intelligence sources are sometimes more sensitive and grounded than our drones."

"How could he not know that such a large number of militants were gathering on the edge of his territory? Why wasn't the artillery barrage carried out at the beginning of the engagement, when the enemy had just been exposed, but instead chose the last moment when Sanders and his men were running out of ammunition and their lines were about to be breached? Those near misses that landed within the checkpoint's defensive perimeter, did their dispersion pattern conform to the error of artillery firing data? Or was it more like a calculated deterrence and elimination?"

"Bullshit! This is a carefully designed scheme, a classic case of using someone else to do the dirty work! They used 1515's hand to wear down Thunder Defense, then used artillery fire to eliminate 1515, incidentally 'accidentally' hitting him as well. In the end, he regained control without bloodshed, and we should even thank him for 'saving our lives'! I've seen this trick more than once on other battlefields!"

He was a well-known hardliner in the conference room, advocating for a firm response to any challenge to American authority.

Hoffman immediately seized the opportunity to echo, "The lieutenant colonel's analysis is spot on! Absolutely correct! Song Heping's purpose is now crystal clear: he wants to completely squeeze out our Thunder Defense, and even the United States' influence in the entire northwestern Iligo region, especially the strategic location of Hurmatu."

"That place is not just a transportation hub for a few highways; in the future, it may also involve resource extraction security and regional influence, which are of greater concern to us. If we choose to back down this time and acquiesce to their takeover of Checkpoint 4 under the guise of 'assisting in defense,' it would be tantamount to acknowledging Song Heping's absolute authority there in the face of the international mercenary market and local forces, and admitting that we are powerless to protect our partners and interests. Next time, he may use even more despicable means to deal with us!"

The major staff officer who spoke first attempted to refute:

"However, from a purely military and return-on-investment perspective, is it wise to continue investing heavily in Checkpoint 4, a location that is now fully exposed and has become the focus of attention for all parties? Song Heping and his local allies clearly do not welcome our military presence and approach. This time it could be 'collateral damage,' but what about next time? Should we reassess our presence and strategy in the Hurmatu region? Perhaps we could consider a more discreet and flexible cooperation model, such as exerting influence through training, intelligence sharing, and limited equipment support, rather than directly deploying a large number of military personnel and creating a head-on confrontation?"

"Cooperate? Cooperate with that former PLA special forces soldier who is now a profit-driven war hyena?"

The hardliner lieutenant colonel suddenly raised his voice and slammed his hand on the table with a dull thud.

"He's like a war parasite, initially growing stronger on the military contracts we provided, and once he's fully grown, he immediately turns on us and devours his master! If we back down now because of a single 'collateral damage,' it's not just about losing a checkpoint; it's sending an extremely dangerous and weak signal to all potential partners, swing parties, and adversaries in Iligo and the entire Middle East! They'll think the United States can't even protect its own contractors, and doesn't dare respond to the provocation of a mercenary leader! Who will believe our promises in the future? Who will take us seriously? We must respond forcefully and without hesitation!"

Both sides have their own arguments, and the focus of the dispute is clearly on whether and how to maintain the military presence in the Hurmatu region.

The atmosphere in the meeting room became even more tense.

Finally, Colonel Kurt, who had been listening silently all along, made a move.

He raised his right hand and tapped the table three times with his index finger knuckle.

“Knock, knock, knock.”

All the arguments and discussions immediately subsided.

Everyone instinctively focused their attention on the highest-ranking commander on site.

Colonel Kurt's gaze slowly swept over everyone present, finally settling on Hoffman.

He said in a deep voice, "Gentlemen, I believe that the concerns and judgments of the Lieutenant Colonel and Mr. Hoffman are closer to the truth."

He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle, before continuing:

"No matter how cleverly Song Heping's actions were packaged, they were essentially a carefully planned provocation against us. His core objective was to exploit the complex local security situation and the gray areas of rules to create a fait accompli, forcing us to withdraw from the Hurmatu region due to concerns about risks and political pressure after suffering certain casualties and losses."

He stood up and walked steadily to the large military map of northwestern Iligo hanging on the wall. He picked up the laser pointer next to him, and the red dot landed precisely on Hurmatu's position.

"here,"

He pointed forcefully at the symbol representing the town:
"This is far more than just an ordinary transportation hub. Controlling this place means having immense influence and control over the vast desert regions of the northwest, several key cross-border smuggling routes, and numerous influential tribal areas. We cannot, and will never, allow a private military company outside our control to grow powerful here and form an independent sphere of influence. This is completely contrary to our long-term strategic interests in Iligo and the entire region."

He turned around, switched off the laser pointer, placed his hands on the edge of the table, and scanned the room with a sharp, piercing gaze:
"Withdrawal, or any form of weakness, is tantamount to admitting defeat at this moment. This will only embolden Song Heping and his potential supporters, making him more unscrupulous and allowing him to use more drastic measures to squeeze our space in the future. Therefore, we not only cannot withdraw, but we must immediately strengthen our forces there and make a clear and unambiguous response."

His gaze shifted to Hoffman: "Mr. Hoffman."

"Yes! Colonel!"

Hoffman immediately stood up.

"Notify Thunder Defense Headquarters that I need you to immediately send additional troops to the Hurmatu region. I want you to deploy no fewer than 600 experienced contract workers there within two weeks, no, ten days. Equip them with appropriate heavy equipment, including but not limited to more armored vehicles, mortars, anti-tank missiles, and effective battlefield surveillance systems."

Colonel Kurt spoke slowly, but every word was firm and decisive.

"The mission is: First, immediately rebuild and significantly strengthen the defenses of Checkpoint 4. I want it to become a fortified stronghold capable of withstanding an attack by a battalion-level force, equipped with comprehensive air defense and artillery protection facilities. Second, using the strengthened Checkpoint 4 as the main forward base, radiate outwards to capture and effectively control at least three other key road checkpoints or tactically valuable high ground positions within a week. I want you to be like nails, firmly wedged there, forming a powerful barrier. This operation is to show Song Heping and all the forces watching in the shadows that the presence and determination of the United States in northwestern Iligo cannot be shaken by Song Heping's petty tricks and underhanded maneuvers!" "Yes, Colonel! Mission accomplished!"

Hoffman answered in a loud voice, a look of relief at being supported flashing across his face.

This is exactly the strong response he and his company were hoping for.

Colonel Kurt nodded slightly and said, “I will immediately coordinate with my superiors to resolve the required list of additional equipment and budget authorization. Remember, Mr. Hoffman, what I want to see is swift, effective action and clear results. I will provide you with the resources, but you must guarantee the results. We must let that self-important 'musician' defense boss, Song Heping, know who is in charge on this land.”

At the same time, in Hurmatu in the northwest, at the headquarters of the "Musician" defense company.

In stark contrast to the tense and cold atmosphere permeating the meeting room in the Green Zone of Bakta, this place was filled with the warmth of a long-awaited reunion.

The base was converted from an abandoned manor of a local wealthy businessman who had close ties with Song Heping. The outer perimeter was surrounded by a reinforced concrete wall with barbed wire and surveillance cameras. There were sturdy watchtowers at the four corners, equipped with general-purpose machine guns and sniper positions, making it heavily guarded.

But once you pass through the main entrance guarded by double iron gates and sandbag fortifications and enter the living and command area inside, you'll find a completely different world.

The original Arabic-style courtyard has been preserved and even renovated, with lush greenery creating a relatively comfortable and safe environment.

When Song Heping's command vehicle drove into the compound, dusty and tired, and came to a stop in front of the main building's arcade with its strong Arabic style, several figures were already standing there waiting for a long time.

The car had barely come to a stop, and the engine's hum hadn't even faded, when a two-meter-tall, muscular figure, as robust as a humanoid main battle tank, strode over with thumping footsteps.

Without a word, "White Bear" Andrei yanked open the car door, reached in with his large, fan-like hand, and pulled Song Heping, who was just about to get out of the car, out. Then, without further ado, he gave Song Heping a tight bear hug, the force of which made Song Heping feel his joints cracking.

"Song! Haha! My dear brother! I've missed you so much!"

The polar bear's roar is like muffled thunder in the Siberian primeval forest, carrying a thick and scorching Russian accent that makes your eardrums itch.

Song Heping finally managed to break free from his "death hug," rubbing his slightly numb shoulders, and punched his rock-hard chest hard, laughing and scolding:

"Go easy, Andrei! My bones can't take this much roughing down, you Siberian bear! Looks like you've been eating well in Africa, your strength has increased again!"

At this moment, "Queen" Yulia appeared behind Andrei.

"I'm glad to see you're still alive, Song."

After saying that, she extended her right hand and shook hands firmly with Song Heping's hand, the movement clean and efficient, without any unnecessary movements.

"He's not missing any limbs, and he looks pretty good."

"TOEFL, I'm not going to die anytime soon."

Song Heping responded with a smile: "Although there are quite a few troubles in this place, they haven't reached the point where they could kill me."

Finally, a man wearing gold-rimmed glasses walked slowly out of the porch.

Ferrari, the vice president of "Musician" defense company, is actually the CFO, business development manager, and chief negotiator. He is Song Heping's most trusted right-hand man and "money bag".

"Song, my brother."

Ferrari stepped forward and gave him a hug, the strength just right, expressing enthusiasm without being inappropriate.

"You look good. It seems the sandstorms and smoke in northwestern Iligo haven't done much to you, a seasoned veteran of the battlefield."

His gaze swept meticulously over Song Heping's face and clothing, then seemingly casually glanced at the surrounding vehicles, guard positions, and the maintenance of the courtyard. It was as if, the moment he set foot on this land, he had already formed a preliminary assessment of the operation, security level, and resource consumption of this place.

"It's thanks to you guarding our base in Africa that I can stay here and deal with the Americans and those brainwashed lunatics with peace of mind."

Song Heping patted Ferrari's elbow hard as a way of expressing his gratitude.

Between men, words are sometimes superfluous.

A subtle movement or glance can reveal everything.

"Was the journey smooth? Did you encounter any unexpected trouble?"

“Some minor troubles, such as a tribal militia wanting to charge a toll, or airport customs wanting to find fault and ask for more ‘handling fees’.”

Ferrari pushed up his gold-rimmed glasses, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes behind the lenses, but his tone remained nonchalant.

"Everything was resolved according to the 'standard procedure.' The efficiency was pretty good. But this place is really chaotic, haha, the mess left by the Americans is getting worse and worse the more we try to clean it up."

The four stood under the porch, the atmosphere of their long-awaited reunion warm and sincere.

We hadn't seen each other for more than half a year, and we had so much to talk about.

The polar bear shouted loudly, eager to see the "new toy" that Song Heping had made here—

This mainly refers to the increasingly elite local militia force that he personally trained and equipped, as well as the new equipment he might acquire, such as the D-30 howitzers that had made "great contributions"; Yulia was more concerned with the specific terrain around Hurmatu, potential sniper positions, the possible activity patterns of hostile forces, and the impact of the local climate on long-range shooting, and she had already entered combat mode; while Ferrari had begun to exchange views with Song Heping in low voices and quickly about recent cash flow, the details of the security contract signed with the local tribal chief, and possible new business opportunities, with numbers and terms flowing smoothly from his mouth.

"Alright, stop standing here like we're having a meeting."

Song Heping smiled, put his arm around Bai Xiong's broad, thick shoulder, and said to everyone, "I've already had a welcome feast prepared in the restaurant behind the house. Although the conditions in Hurmatu are simple and can't compare to our bases in Africa or Eastern Europe, there's plenty of vodka and whiskey! And all the freshly slaughtered lamb is delicious! Let's eat and chat and relax!"

He paused, his gaze sweeping over his three travel-worn but energetic old brothers. The smile on his face faded slightly, and his tone became a little more serious as he said:
"The reason I called you here today isn't to get involved in the business in Iligo. More importantly, it's about the new logistics support contract I negotiated with the US military in Afghanistan. It's time for me to take over. I can't leave Iligo right now, so I need your help with this. We'll have to discuss it in detail later."

Upon hearing the keywords "Afghanistan" and "US military logistics contract," a glint flashed behind Ferrari's gold-rimmed glasses. He knew this meant a larger-scale operation, a more complex adversary, and greater rewards.

They all understood that the "detailed discussion" Song Heping mentioned was far more than just a casual chat during a meal with old friends.

That will be an internal strategic meeting that will determine the next strategic focus, resource allocation, and even the development direction of "Musician" defense company in the coming years.

This welcoming banquet will determine the future direction of the company's global defense business, as it not only firmly establishes itself in Iligo, but also successfully extends its reach to the more challenging and profitable battlefield of Afghanistan, further expanding its global defense business amidst fierce competition.

　Asking for a monthly ticket! Asking for a monthly ticket!

　　
　
(End of this chapter)